The BMW N47 D20 D is a 1,995 cc, inline-four turbo-diesel engine produced between 2008 and 2013. It features DOHC, 16-valve configuration with common rail direct injection, a variable geometry turbocharger (VGT), and double-VANOS variable valve timing. Rated at 105 kW (143 PS) and 320 Nm of torque, this engine delivers strong low-end pulling power ideal for compact and mid-size applications.
Fitted primarily to the E84 X1 and E88 1 Series, the N47 D20 D was engineered for responsive driving and improved fuel efficiency in BMW's entry-level SUV and hatchback lineup. Emissions compliance was achieved through exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) and a diesel particulate filter (DPF), meeting Euro 5 standards across its production run. Its all-aluminum construction and VGT technology provided refined throttle response and reduced turbo lag.
One documented reliability concern is premature timing chain wear, particularly in early production units before 2010. This issue, highlighted in BMW Service Information Bulletin 11 02 17, is attributed to inadequate lubrication at the chain tensioner during cold starts. In 2010, BMW introduced revised chain guides and tensioner components, significantly improving durability in later models.
Production years 2008–2013 meet Euro 5 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/4721).
The BMW N47 D20 D is a 1,995 cc inline-four turbo-diesel engineered for compact SUVs and hatchbacks (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 1,800 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
| Compression ratio | 16.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single variable-geometry turbo (Garrett GT1544V) | |
| Timing system | Chain (rear-mounted; wear-prone) | |
| Oil type | BMW Longlife-04 (SAE 5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 150 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 models (2008–2013) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/4721).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output consistent across fuel qualities (BMW TIS Doc. A26015).
BMW Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A24681, A25143, A25632, SIB 11 02 17
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/4721)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The BMW N47 D20 D was used across BMW's E84/E88 platforms with longitudinal mounting and no licensed external applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced mounts in the E84 and shortened intake paths in the E88-and from 2011 the facelifted E84 LCI adopted the N47TU variant with dual-mass flywheel revisions, 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 N47N: Original N47 D20 D has Bosch EDC17CP09 ECU with round diagnostic port under hood, while N47N uses EDC17C49 with trapezoidal port. 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 N47 D20 D's primary reliability risk is timing chain wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in stop-start urban use. Internal BMW data from 2010 reported a notable share of pre-2010 engines requiring chain repair before 120,000 km, while UK DVSA records link 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 (2008-2013) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2010-2018). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about BMW N47D20D.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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