A BMW mechanic for Algeciras who knows these engines inside out is what most people are after when they message us about a 1 Series, 3 Series or X3 from across the bay.
BMW faults tend to follow the engine. The N47 diesel in 1 and 3 Series cars of a few years back has its timing chain at the rear of the engine, and once it starts rattling it needs doing before it lets go. The N20 petrol has its own history with chain guides. On the straight-sixes, oil leaks from the oil filter housing gasket and tired plastic cooling parts are classics. None of this is unusual on a car with miles on it, and a BMW doing the A-7 every day racks them up quickly.
At the sporty end, the B58 straight-six in the M140i, M240i and M340i is one of the turbo engines that takes a remap best. If you've got an M3 or M4, we'll fabricate a stainless exhaust to suit as well.
We'll tell you what we find, with photos if it helps, and give you a price before we start.
≈ 20 min
by car
≈ 18 km
Driving route to the workshop
From Algeciras
Out on the A-7 towards Málaga, past Palmones and Los Barrios, then the La Línea turn-off at San Roque: about 20 km and about 20 minutes by car. If the chain is already rattling loudly, it's best not to drive far: ask about collection and delivery, which depends on where you are.
Common BMW jobs
N47 and N20 timing chains
Diagnosing chain rattle and replacing the kit before it turns into an engine failure.
Oil leaks
Oil filter housing gasket and rocker cover leaks, typical on older six-cylinder engines.
Cooling system
Water pump, thermostat, expansion tank and plastic hoses that crack with heat and age.
B58 and B48 remaps
Maps for the M140i, M340i or 330i, after a health check and set up to suit you.
Models we see
- 1 Series (F20)
- 3 Series (F30 and G20)
- 5 Series
- X1
- X3
- M140i
- M340i
- M3 and M4
Frequently asked questions
My BMW diesel makes a metallic rattle from the back of the engine. Is it the chain?
On the N47 that's the first thing to rule out, because the chain sits at the rear. Don't keep using it more than you have to: if it snaps, the repair is far more expensive. Message us and we'll look at it as soon as we can.
How much does an N47 timing chain replacement cost?
It depends on the model and what needs replacing with it. Send us the car's details on WhatsApp and we'll give you a fixed quote.
Can you remap an M340i or M140i?
Yes, the B58 responds very well. We check plugs, coils, cooling and stored faults first. What you gain depends on the car's condition, so we don't quote figures before seeing it.
Do you work on older BMWs like the E46 or E90?
Yes. We work on all makes and ages. Plenty of older BMWs are still on the road with overdue maintenance, and they're good cars once they're caught up.