116d 2.0d (N47)

2011–2012 · diesel · 1995cc · 116hp

Engine codes: N47D20

History-Dependent

Reliability, common problems and owner reviews for the Bmw 1 Series F20 116d 2.0d (N47). Check this before you buy used.

The 116 hp N47 in the early F20 116d (2011–2012). These are mostly the later N47s built after BMW revised the rear timing chain parts around 2011, so the catastrophic chain failures of 2007–2011 engines are much rarer here — but the chain still sits at the gearbox end, and a failure is still an engine-out job. The other recurring costs are the EGR cooler (subject of BMW's 2018 recall), DPF and injectors. Buy on a quiet cold start and documented history.

Known Issues

Timing chain at the gearbox endcritical

The N47's timing chain sits at the back of the engine against the gearbox. Chains and guides wear and the chain can snap, destroying the engine; replacing it means removing the engine or gearbox. The peak failure period was engines built roughly 2007–2011; later units received revised parts and fail far less often, but not never.

Fix / Workaround: Listen at the back of the engine (by the bulkhead) on a cold start — a whirring or rattle is the warning. Replace chain, guides and tensioner before it breaks.

Repair cost: €1500–€3500

Typically appears after: 120,000 km

EGR cooler — 2018 recallcritical

BMW recalled a wide range of 2010–2017 four- and six-cylinder diesels in 2018 because the EGR cooler could leak coolant; glycol deposits in the EGR system could, in rare cases, ignite. Even after the recall the EGR valve and cooler clog on short-trip cars.

Fix / Workaround: Check that the EGR recall has been carried out (BMW dealer VIN check). Clean or replace a clogged EGR valve; drive regularly on the motorway.

Repair cost: €300–€1200

DPF, swirl-flap actuator and injectorsrecurring

DPF clogs on city driving; the intake swirl-flap actuator and the injectors are other common wear points at high mileage.

Fix / Workaround: Regular motorway runs, correct low-ash oil; diagnose injectors by correction values before replacing.

Repair cost: €300–€1500

Typically appears after: 150,000 km

Year Cutoffs

2011: Before — Highest chain-failure rate (2007–2011 builds). After — Revised chain parts — much lower, not zero, risk.

Mileage Thresholds

After 150,000 km: Chain inspection or replacement window.

Pre-Purchase Checklist

☐Cold start: listen at the gearbox end for chain whine/rattle
☐Chain replacement invoice or build date after 2011
☐EGR recall done (VIN check)
☐DPF soot load and regeneration history

Frequently asked questions

Is the Bmw 1 Series F20 116d 2.0d (N47) reliable?

History-Dependent — The 116 hp N47 in the early F20 116d (2011–2012). These are mostly the later N47s built after BMW revised the rear timing chain parts around 2011, so the catastrophic chain failures of 2007–2011 engines are much rarer here — but the chain still sits at the gearbox end, and a failure is still an engine-out job. The other recurring costs are the EGR cooler (subject of BMW's 2018 recall), DPF and injectors. Buy on a quiet cold start and documented history.

What are the common problems and reviews for the Bmw 1 Series F20 116d 2.0d (N47)?

The most commonly reported problems: Timing chain at the gearbox end, EGR cooler — 2018 recall, DPF, swirl-flap actuator and injectors.

Is a used Bmw 1 Series F20 116d 2.0d (N47) worth buying?

The engine itself is OK; condition is everything. Unknown or patchy history = walk away.