320d / 520d 2.0d (M47, VP44)
1998–2001 · diesel · 1951cc · 136hp
Engine codes: M47D20
Reliability, common problems and owner reviews for the Bmw 3 Series E46 320d / 520d 2.0d (M47, VP44). Check this before you buy used.
The original 136 hp M47 (E46 320d 1998–2001, E39 520d 2000–2003) predates common rail: it uses a Bosch VP44 distributor pump and has no intake swirl flaps, so it escapes the flap failure that wrecks later BMW diesels. Its weak points are the VP44 pump electronics, the turbo, a soot-clogged EGR and intake, and the MAF. Simple and strong, but at this age every car is different — only the history decides.
Same engine, other cars
This is the same physical engine (M47D20) sold under different names across brands. Reliability is broadly shared — cross-check these:
Known Issues
The early 136 hp M47 (E46 320d 1998–2001, E39 520d) is not common rail; it uses the Bosch VP44 distributor pump, whose control electronics fail — cutting out, no start, ECU pump-communication faults.
Fix / Workaround: Rebuild or exchange the pump with a specialist; check the lift pump and fuel filter first.
Repair cost: €600–€1200
Typically appears after: 180,000 km
The turbo is the classic M47 failure (oil starvation, stretched oil intervals, worn bearings); the EGR valve and intake manifold clog with soot; the mass air-flow meter drifts and the car goes into limp mode.
Fix / Workaround: Short oil intervals with the correct oil, clean the intake and EGR, replace the MAF with a genuine unit. A new turbo without finding the oil-feed cause fails again.
Repair cost: €400–€1200
Typically appears after: 180,000 km
On manual cars the dual-mass flywheel rattles at idle and judders when pulling away.
Fix / Workaround: Replace DMF and clutch together.
Repair cost: €600–€1100
Typically appears after: 180,000 km
Mileage Thresholds
After 200,000 km: Expect the VP44 and turbo to be original only on a low-mileage car.
Fault Codes to Scan
Pre-Purchase Checklist
- ☐Hot restart — VP44 faults show when warm
- ☐Turbo shaft play and oil in the intercooler hoses
- ☐Smoke and pull under full load
- ☐DMF rattle at idle (manual)
Frequently asked questions
Is the Bmw 3 Series E46 320d / 520d 2.0d (M47, VP44) reliable?
History-Dependent — The original 136 hp M47 (E46 320d 1998–2001, E39 520d 2000–2003) predates common rail: it uses a Bosch VP44 distributor pump and has no intake swirl flaps, so it escapes the flap failure that wrecks later BMW diesels. Its weak points are the VP44 pump electronics, the turbo, a soot-clogged EGR and intake, and the MAF. Simple and strong, but at this age every car is different — only the history decides.
What are the common problems and reviews for the Bmw 3 Series E46 320d / 520d 2.0d (M47, VP44)?
The most commonly reported problems: VP44 injection pump (early 136 hp M47), Turbo, intake soot and EGR, Dual-mass flywheel and clutch.
Is a used Bmw 3 Series E46 320d / 520d 2.0d (M47, VP44) worth buying?
The engine itself is OK; condition is everything. Unknown or patchy history = walk away.