525d / xDrive25d 2.0d Twin Turbo (N47S)
2013–2015 · diesel · 1995cc · 218hp
Engine codes: N47D20, N47S1
Reliability, common problems and owner reviews for the Bmw X5 525d / xDrive25d 2.0d Twin Turbo (N47S). Check this before you buy used.
The 218 hp N47 in the F10 525d (2011 on) and F15 X5 25d (2013–2015). 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. This twin-turbo version adds a second turbo and more heat to an already stressed small diesel. Buy on a quiet cold start and documented history.
Same engine, other cars
This is the same physical engine (N47D20) sold under different names across brands. Reliability is broadly shared — cross-check these:
Known Issues
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
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 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
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 X5 525d / xDrive25d 2.0d Twin Turbo (N47S) reliable?
History-Dependent — The 218 hp N47 in the F10 525d (2011 on) and F15 X5 25d (2013–2015). 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. This twin-turbo version adds a second turbo and more heat to an already stressed small diesel. Buy on a quiet cold start and documented history.
What are the common problems and reviews for the Bmw X5 525d / xDrive25d 2.0d Twin Turbo (N47S)?
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 X5 525d / xDrive25d 2.0d Twin Turbo (N47S) worth buying?
The engine itself is OK; condition is everything. Unknown or patchy history = walk away.