[sahara]

On Friday I bought a 2015 328xi Wagon. I knew about the N20 timing chain issues but I thought I would be safe by purchasing a 2015. Turns out, however, that my car was built in July 2014 so the engine is in the danger zone. My car has 60,500 miles on it and the extended warranty will expire in November 2021.

I have a couple of questions:

1) if the timing chain fails and grenades my motor while under the 7/70,000 warranty, do I get a whole new motor, or do I have to detect the problem and have it corrected before it gets that bad? Obviously I'll be listening for the noise at all times and being careful, but some have said it can occur without warning.

2) Should I buy an extended warranty for extra protection when the 7/70,000 expires or simply pay (about 50% of the cost an extended warranty) to have the timing chain done preemptively at that time?

Finally, how worried should I be overall? I'm pretty dismayed that I bought what I figured should be a relatively (it's still a BMW) reliable car compared to my previous daily, a '97 Z3, and now have to contend with this.

[GreyF30]

Hello! You might want to read here for further information and post there get more attention on your concern:
https://f30.bimmerpost.com/forums/sh....php?t=1614899

[sahara]

Originally Posted by GreyF30

Hello! You might want to read here for further information and post there get more attention on your concern:
https://f30.bimmerpost.com/forums/sh....php?t=1614899

Thanks, I reviewed that thread. Looks like people aren't getting their engines replaced if the timing chain leads to engine failure while under warranty. Hopefully I'm misreading.

[Arcturus]

Originally Posted by sahara

Thanks, I reviewed that thread. Looks like people aren't getting their engines replaced if the timing chain leads to engine failure while under warranty. Hopefully I'm misreading.

From my understanding there aren’t a huge amount of people with the problem.

If you are worried, you could preemptively replace the chain and tensioner at an Indy - I’m told it’s about 2k. You could also take a chance and drive the car and cross that bridge when and if you come to it. If it does grenade, by that time you could probably put a used motor with a new chain in it for about the same price as the warranty.

I wouldn’t worry too much personally. Change the oil at reasonable intervals and enjoy your new car.

[JosephLTS]

Hey I just had my car fixed under the 70k/7 year warranty because of whining issues. If you have any questions or want to know my experience PM me and I'll try my best to help you out

[PhizzurpF]

I've seen other do this successfully:

Go to dealer and complain of whining noise upon startup. They're more than familiar with the TC. If it truly is showing even the slightest sign of wear they'll replace it.