The BMW N47D20B is a 1,995 cc, inline-four turbo-diesel engine produced between 2008 and 2013. It features DOHC, 16-valve architecture, common rail direct injection, and a variable geometry turbocharger (VGT), delivering 105 kW (143 PS) at 4,000 rpm and 320 Nm of torque between 1,750–2,750 rpm. This engine was engineered for balanced performance, efficiency, and Euro 5 emissions compliance.
Fitted to models such as the E84 X1 sDrive18d, E60 520d, and E87 120d, the N47D20B was designed for drivers seeking responsive low-end torque and strong fuel economy. Emissions compliance was achieved through exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), a diesel particulate filter (DPF), and precise common rail injection control, allowing it to meet Euro 5 standards across its production run.
One documented reliability concern is premature timing chain wear, particularly in early production units. This issue, highlighted in BMW Service Information Bulletin 11 02 17, is linked to lubrication inefficiencies at the chain tensioner during cold starts. In 2010, BMW introduced revised chain guides and tensioners, improving long-term durability.
Production years 2008–2013 meet Euro 5 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5681).
The BMW N47D20B is a 1,995 cc inline-four turbo-diesel engineered for compact and mid-size models (2008–2013). It combines common-rail direct injection with a single variable-geometry turbocharger to deliver strong low-rpm torque and efficient cruising. Designed to meet Euro 5 standards, it balances everyday performance with economy.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,995 cc | |
| Fuel type | Diesel | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 84.0 mm × 90.0 mm | |
| Power output | 105 kW (143 PS) @ 4,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 320 Nm @ 1,750–2,750 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch CP3 common-rail (up to 1,600 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
| Compression ratio | 16.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single variable-geometry turbo (BorgWarner) | |
| Timing system | Chain (rear-mounted; wear-prone) | |
| Oil type | BMW Longlife-04 (SAE 5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 152 kg |
The single VGT turbo provides strong low-RPM torque ideal for urban driving but requires strict adherence to 10,000–15,000 km oil change intervals to prevent timing chain wear and turbo degradation. BMW Longlife-04 (5W-30) oil is critical due to its specific formulation protecting the rear-mounted chain system. Cold-start idling should be minimized to reduce oil starvation at the upper chain guide. The Bosch CP3 fuel pump demands ultra-low-sulfur diesel (ULSD) meeting EN 590 standards to prevent high-pressure pump seizure. Post-2010 models feature revised chain guides; pre-2010 units should have the tensioner upgrade per BMW SIB 11 02 17. EGR/DPF systems require periodic cleaning to maintain emissions compliance and prevent limp-mode events.
Oil Specs: Requires BMW Longlife-04 (5W-30) specification (BMW SIB 11 02 17). Supersedes ACEA C3 requirements.
Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to all 2008–2013 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5681).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output assumes ULSD (EN 590) fuel quality (BMW TIS Doc. A24681).
BMW Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A24681, A25143, A25632, SIB 11 02 17
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5681)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The BMW N47D20B was used across BMW's E8x, E9x, and E84 platforms with longitudinal mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—reinforced mounts in the E60 and revised cooling routing in the E84—and from 2013 was succeeded by the B47D20 in facelifted models, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped vertically on the right-side engine block near the oil filter housing (BMW TIS A24891). The 7th VIN digit indicates engine family ('D' for N47 series). Pre-2010 models have silver valve covers with black plastic timing covers; post-2010 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from N47D20A: N47D20B is tuned for Euro 5 compliance with revised EGR/DPF calibration. Service parts require production date verification—timing kits for engines before 03/2010 are incompatible with later units due to guide rail redesign (BMW SIB 11 02 17).
The N47D20B's primary reliability risk is timing chain wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in stop-start urban use. Internal BMW data from 2009 reported a notable share of pre-2010 engines requiring chain repair before 120,000 km, while UK VCA field data links a significant portion of emissions-related MOT failures to EGR clogging in city-driven vehicles. Cold-start cycles and extended idling increase chain and guide stress, making oil quality and interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from BMW technical bulletins (2008-2014) and UK VCA failure statistics (2012-2018). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about BMW N47D20B.
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