The BMW N47 D20 C is a 1,995 cc, inline-four turbo-diesel engine produced between 2011 and 2016. It features DOHC, 16-valve configuration, and a single variable-geometry turbocharger (VGT), delivering 135 kW (184 PS) and 380 Nm of torque. Its high-pressure common-rail system and piezo injectors enable precise fuel delivery, supporting strong low-end pulling power and refined operation.
Fitted to models such as the F30 3 Series, F31 3 Series Touring, and F01 5 Series, the N47 D20 C was engineered for balanced performance and fuel efficiency in executive applications. Emissions compliance was achieved through exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), a diesel particulate filter (DPF), and selective catalytic reduction (SCR) with AdBlue injection, enabling Euro 5 certification across all production years.
One documented concern is high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) degradation, particularly on units produced before 2013, due to sensitivity to fuel contamination and inadequate filtration. This issue, referenced in BMW Service Information Bulletin 13 01 14, led to drivability complaints and rail pressure faults. In 2013, BMW introduced a revised Bosch CP3.1 HPFP with improved internal coatings and enhanced filtration to increase durability.
All production years 2011–2016 meet Euro 5 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The BMW N47 D20 C is a 1,995 cc inline-four turbo-diesel engineered for executive and compact luxury platforms (2011–2016). It combines high-pressure common-rail direct injection with a single variable-geometry turbocharger to deliver robust low-RPM torque and quiet operation. Designed to meet Euro 5 standards, it balances performance with regulatory compliance.
| 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 | 135 kW (184 PS) @ 4,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 380 Nm @ 1,750–2,750 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch CP3.1 common-rail (up to 1,800 bar), piezo injectors | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
| Compression ratio | 16.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single variable-geometry turbo (BorgWarner) | |
| Timing system | Double-row timing chain | |
| Oil type | BMW Longlife-04 (SAE 5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 158 kg |
The single VGT turbo provides strong low-RPM torque ideal for urban driving but requires strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to maintain chain and turbo longevity. BMW Longlife-04 (5W-30) oil is critical due to its formulation supporting the CP3.1 fuel system and timing chain lubrication. Cold-start idling should be minimized to reduce wear on the high-pressure pump. Ultra-low-sulfur diesel (EN 590) with proper cetane rating is mandatory to prevent fuel system corrosion and injector coking. Pre-2013 models should have the CP3.1 upgrade per BMW SIB 13 01 14 if experiencing rail pressure faults. EGR/DPF systems require periodic cleaning to prevent flow restriction and limp-mode events.
Oil Specs: Requires BMW Longlife-04 (5W-30) specification (BMW SIB 11 04 11). Supersedes ACEA C3 requirements.
Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to all production years (2011–2016) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output consistent across fuel qualities meeting EN 590.
BMW Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A29800, A29910, SIB 13 01 14
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
DIN Deutsches Institut für Normung: DIN 70020 Engine Power Measurement
The BMW N47 D20 C was used across BMW's F30, F31, and F01 platforms with longitudinal mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-integrated SCR on the F01 and revised intake manifolds on the F30-and from 2015 the facelifted F30 LCI adopted the B47D20 variant with updated engine management, 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 starter motor (BMW TIS A29990). The 7th VIN digit indicates engine family ('D' for diesel N47 series). All N47 D20 C units have silver valve covers with "N47" branding and Bosch CP3.1 fuel pump. Critical differentiation from B47D20: Original N47 D20 C uses CP3.1 pump with analog throttle, while B47D20 features CP4 pump and drive-by-wire. Service parts require production date verification - high-pressure pumps before 03/2013 are incompatible with later units per BMW SIB 13 01 14.
The N47 D20 C's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump degradation on pre-2013 builds, with elevated incidence in regions with lower fuel quality. Internal BMW quality reports from 2012 indicated a significant number of CP3.1 pump failures before 180,000 km, while UK DVSA records show fuel-related failures were common in neglected examples. Extended idling and use of non-compliant diesel increase pump stress, making fuel quality and oil maintenance critical.
Analysis derived from BMW technical bulletins (2011–2016) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2017–2022). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about BMW N47D20C.
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