How much did you pay for timing chain kit + labor?
on the N20, 2017 x3?

I know it's 10+ hours labor and the timing chain kit is $2kCAD.

I got quoted by BMW Toronto at $9.6kCAD (yes, almost $10kCAD)

Since my dad and I want to keep our x3, we will go ahead with this install BUT not at the STEALERSHIP (DEALERSHIP). Lol. Even if we have $500,000.00 CAD sitting in a bank account, nope, not happening.

I'm curious to see what you guys spent on timing chain jobs, at a indy shop or dealership.

I know it's A LOT cheaper than buying a NEW N20 BMW engine.

you can try to do it your self.

here the guide how to:

heticor wrote

you can try to do it your self.

here the guide how to:

Thank you.

I don't have the time (don't want to make time), space, patience, tools, to tackle this job by myself.

I will bring it to a BMW specialized shop. Staying away from dealerships.

I got quoted anywhere from $2.4k - $6.3k by BMW indy shops.
(CAD dollars)

dealerships quoted me wayyy higher.

I'm curious to see how good a BMW indy shop on this timing chain job as my X3 2013 may need to replace the timing chain in future.

Tommy68 wrote

I'm curious to see how good a BMW indy shop on this timing chain job as my X3 2013 may need to replace the timing chain in future.

I'm taking my X3 2017 to a BMW M specialist, these guys work on M cars mostly and they tackle big jobs (rod bearings, crank hub, engine rebuilds, etc). Located in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.

So I am confident in their work and ability to properly replace the timing chain on my X3.

I follow them on Instagram and I see the work they do

These guys worked on my X3 already and they have gained my trust as well as my dad's trust

So we will spend our hard earned money at this BMW M specialist indy shop as they are 10/10.

Only downside is I might be waiting couple weeks if not months for an appointment.... the good shops are ALWAYS busy year-round... run from shops that are NOT busy and tell you to show up the next day....

Doesn't the class action settlement cover the some or all of the install cost? Curious, because I just purchased a 2017 X3 2.8i MSport w/ 72,000 miles...
How much did they quote you?
Good luck!

slowblackx3f25 wrote

How much did you pay for timing chain kit + labor?
on the N20, 2017 x3?

I know it's 10+ hours labor and the timing chain kit is $2kCAD.

I got quoted by BMW Toronto at $9.6kCAD (yes, almost $10kCAD)

Since my dad and I want to keep our x3, we will go ahead with this install BUT not at the STEALERSHIP (DEALERSHIP). Lol. Even if we have $500,000.00 CAD sitting in a bank account, nope, not happening.

I'm curious to see what you guys spent on timing chain jobs, at a indy shop or dealership.

I know it's A LOT cheaper than buying a NEW N20 BMW engine.

Just wondering, how do you know your timing chain is bad?

Hangpilot1 wrote

Doesn't the class action settlement cover the some or all of the install cost? Curious, because I just purchased a 2017 X3 2.8i MSport w/ 72,000 miles...
How much did they quote you?
Good luck!

I am not sure if the class action settlement is covered by BMW Canada.
I will check this out. Thank you!

So far, what I've found is that only the BMW x3 models from 2011 to 2015 (some 2016) are affected by the timing chain snapping off.

I spoke to multiple BMW indy shops, they mentioned all the x3 timing service jobs were performed on BMW x3's dating back to 2011 - 2015. Some 2016's and rarely a 2017...

BMW Toronto dealership quoted me $10kCAD (USD$7,567.55).

I will not be taking it to the dealership as I have found a BMW M specialist that will tackle this job for a FAIR price and his work is solid. No issues. No running back and forth to the shop, all his work is 10/10. his work speaks for itself.

I understand the 2017 x3 28i N20 is not mainly affected by the timing chain malfunction. However, my dad and I plan to keep our x3 for the long run so we decided to get the timing chain service completed. Even though the 2017 models aren't mainly affected.

Some claim ALL x3's are affected and timing chains need to be replaced. So there's that.

Bottom line is I don't want my dad to be worried about this nor do I want to be worried about this when I'm driving the x3 so for peace of mind, I am getting this done.

I call this entire issue..... Volkswagen problems!!!!!! BMW hired engineers from the VW group lol

slowblackx3f25 wrote

So far, what I've found is that only the BMW x3 models from 2011 to 2015 (some 2016) are affected by the timing chain snapping off.

I spoke to multiple BMW indy shops, they mentioned all the x3 timing service jobs were performed on BMW x3's dating back to 2011 - 2015. Some 2016's and rarely a 2017...

I understand the 2017 x3 28i N20 is not mainly affected by the timing chain malfunction. However, my dad and I plan to keep our x3 for the long run so we decided to get the timing chain service completed. Even though the 2017 models aren't mainly affected.

Some claim ALL x3's are affected and timing chains need to be replaced. So there's that.

Bottom line is I don't want my dad to be worried about this nor do I want to be worried about this when I'm driving the x3 so for peace of mind, I am getting this done.

I call this entire issue..... Volkswagen problems!!!!!! BMW hired engineers from the VW group lol

It's not the actual chain that fails, rather the tensioner where it pivots would fail/crack causing the chain to become loose therefore effecting cam/crank timing/valve interference and sometimes the broken pieces can fall into the oil pan and restrict oil flow. The failure prone part was revised on the later models therefore dramatically reducing the likelihood of the tensioner failing.

IMHO, replacing a perfectly healthy timing chain system for "peace of mind" is a waste of money, but if it lets you sleep at night, have at it, I'm sure the service shop will appreciate the business

pungo wrote

It's not the actual chain that fails, rather the tensioner where it pivots would fail/crack causing the chain to become loose therefore effecting cam/crank timing/valve interference and sometimes the broken pieces can fall into the oil pan and restrict oil flow. The failure prone part was revised on the later models therefore dramatically reducing the likelihood of the tensioner failing.

IMHO, replacing a perfectly healthy timing chain system for "peace of mind" is a waste of money, but if it lets you sleep at night, have at it, I'm sure the service shop will appreciate the business

How can I tell if my x3 has a perfectly healthy timing chain system?

There's absolutely zero misfires, idling sounds OK to me, other than the vibration during cold start and once the RPM needle settles.

Oil change is done on time (every 5,000 miles).
Stock, we do not abuse it.

A buddy of mine inspected the timing chain through the engine oil cap and he felt it up with his finger and he mentioned there is no slack and it feels fine...

I somewhat believe it's healthy but deep down I want the timing chain service completed with the tensioner and any other related components.

I just don't want anything to happen and I have to rebuild the engine or worse, buy a used/brand new BMW engine which will cost 10x more than the timing chain service...

I will record my N20 engine turn-over and idling sound on my phone and post it here later tonight. I should already have it on my phone, I will find it and post it here for review and comparison.

slowblackx3f25 wrote

How can I tell if my x3 has a perfectly healthy timing chain system?

There's absolutely zero misfires, idling sounds OK to me, other than the vibration during cold start and once the RPM needle settles.

Oil change is done on time (every 5,000 miles).
Stock, we do not abuse it.

A buddy of mine inspected the timing chain through the engine oil cap and he felt it up with his finger and he mentioned there is no slack and it feels fine...

I somewhat believe it's healthy but deep down I want the timing chain service completed with the tensioner and any other related components.

I just don't want anything to happen and I have to rebuild the engine or worse, buy a used/brand new BMW engine which will cost 10x more than the timing chain service...

I will record my N20 engine turn-over and idling sound on my phone and post it here later tonight. I should already have it on my phone, I will find it and post it here for review and comparison.

It doesn't make sense to dig into an engine and replace the timing chain and guides if it doesn't need it. The timing chain issue does not effect your model year. To do it just to do it is inviting problems where none exist currently. Leave it alone and spend the money on something that will improve the car.

383vett wrote

It doesn't make sense to dig into an engine and replace the timing chain and guides if it doesn't need it. The timing chain issue does not effect your model year. To do it just to do it is inviting problems where none exist currently. Leave it alone and spend the money on something that will improve the car.

So you have a very good point and I understand your POV. I said the same to my BMW mechanic, he says ALL BMW x3's with timing chains are effected.

Here is a video of my BMW x3 2017 N20 cold start.

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1H-zPnuEhp5MXBmeKxh44aYnrAvRCFbk8/view

I hope it sounds healthy to you all. Please review.

The engine turn over occurs at 0:26

slowblackx3f25 wrote

So you have a very good point and I understand your POV. I said the same to my BMW mechanic, he says ALL BMW x3's with timing chains are effected.

Here is a video of my BMW x3 2017 N20 cold start.

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1H-zPnuEhp5MXBmeKxh44aYnrAvRCFbk8/view

I hope it sounds healthy to you all. Please review.

The engine turn over occurs at 0:26

Sounds like a normal cold engine. Find another mechanic and get a second opinion.

slowblackx3f25 wrote

I said the same to my BMW mechanic, he says ALL BMW x3's with timing chains are effected.

First, all X3s have timing chains, and no, only the early 4 cyl ones are effected. Your mechanic is clueless or just had a child and needs additional funds

slowblackx3f25 wrote

I just don't want anything to happen and I have to rebuild the engine or worse, buy a used/brand new BMW engine which will cost 10x more than the timing chain service...

You said earlier the job is $10k (does that include the $2k parts you also mentioned?) Even at a 3rd party shop you said $2.4k - $6.3k

A refurb or used engine will not cost 10x (or $24k-63k) that amount.

thenew3 wrote

You said earlier the job is $10k (does that include the $2k parts you also mentioned?) Even at a 3rd party shop you said $2.4k - $6.3k

A refurb or used engine will not cost 10x (or $24k-63k) that amount.

yes, the dealership quoted me CAD$10k (CAD$9.2k) including parts + labor.

I did shop around and I asked other shops which are BMW specialized, and they quoted me anywhere from $2.4k to $6.3k (CAD$) which includes parts + labor.

pungo wrote

First, all X3s have timing chains, and no, only the early 4 cyl ones are effected. Your mechanic is clueless or just had a child and needs additional funds

right, that is what I told my mechanic and he was like nope, all x3's are effected and need timing chain service. However, the internet says otherwise, so I'm hesitant on getting the service done and even if I do get it done, it's for peace of mind.

I asked several BMW specialized shops and they mentioned it's VERY rare a 2017 N20 comes in for timing service jobs, maybe one or two a year.

All the other N20's are 2016,2015,2014 and older that get the timing chain service done. I took note of this.

Lol ya I thought of that too... the best way to make money is based off fear or the need... so I really don't know what to do, I'll leave it up to my dad to decide.

I gave him the facts and both sides of the story. It's his BMW.

383vett wrote

Sounds like a normal cold engine. Find another mechanic and get a second opinion.

excellent, let's use this video as an example of a healthy BMW N20 engine

I did ask other BMW specialized mechanics, they mentioned it's only the older N20 engines in the older x3's (2011-2015, some 2016's, rarely 2017's).

Most seem to say to get it done anyway... I'm going to let my dad decide.

I'd like to keep this x3 for a long, looong time.

I am reading through this thread now, as a recent 2014 F25 owner (1 day ago) with a 105k miles.

I know that is "dead man walking territory" but this car will get ~4k miles on it per year for the next year and future years.

My question is: Should I pay for the work now ($4,000) quote from a BMW indy, or is it possible that the timing chain slips, vehicle shutdown.. and then I have a clear sign that yes its time to spend. Another way to ask the question, is how bad is the damage when it breaks? I asked an Indy mechanic this, and he said "oh its fine, I do the repair timing work all the time, and get the customers back up and running". Which to me this is the average American reality. A normal person with 90k miles is not pouring over these forums to see what preventative maintenance they should invest in, instead they wait for it to break, and then decide. The mechanic told me "its a crap shoot" he has seen them slip at 70k, and has a customer whos never slipped and shes at 190k miles. he recommended changing oil frequently which I agree with (10k is BS, but its marketing that sells cars)

BohMotorWorks wrote

Another way to ask the question, is how bad is the damage when it breaks?

You can search previous postings.
Many reported total engine replacement was necessary, when the timing chain break.

BohMotorWorks wrote

I am reading through this thread now, as a recent 2014 F25 owner (1 day ago) with a 105k miles.

I know that is "dead man walking territory" but this car will get ~4k miles on it per year for the next year and future years.

My question is: Should I pay for the work now ($4,000) quote from a BMW indy, or is it possible that the timing chain slips, vehicle shutdown.. and then I have a clear sign that yes its time to spend. Another way to ask the question, is how bad is the damage when it breaks? I asked an Indy mechanic this, and he said "oh its fine, I do the repair timing work all the time, and get the customers back up and running". Which to me this is the average American reality. A normal person with 90k miles is not pouring over these forums to see what preventative maintenance they should invest in, instead they wait for it to break, and then decide. The mechanic told me "its a crap shoot" he has seen them slip at 70k, and has a customer whos never slipped and shes at 190k miles. he recommended changing oil frequently which I agree with (10k is BS, but its marketing that sells cars)

Playing Russian roulette, is your mechanic going to pay for another engine if yours self destructs due to a timing system failure

pungo wrote

It's not the actual chain that fails, rather the tensioner where it pivots would fail/crack causing the chain to become loose therefore effecting cam/crank timing/valve interference and sometimes the broken pieces can fall into the oil pan and restrict oil flow. The failure prone part was revised on the later models therefore dramatically reducing the likelihood of the tensioner failing.

IMHO, replacing a perfectly healthy timing chain system for "peace of mind" is a waste of money, but if it lets you sleep at night, have at it, I'm sure the service shop will appreciate the business

My son has a 2015 x3 xdrive 28i - been in the family since new… true these things make a lot of noise… but thought that noise was increasing (rattle)… so started with cam follower… thought play was excessive, soaked in lucas oil… and put back in while grabbing another. Inspection the chain through the oil filler cap… things seemed ok.

In the mean time, decided to do the timing chain job… vehicle is a Nov 14 build… with 145,000km.

The initial look through the oil filler cap, at the chain a couple weeks ago, things seemed fine…How wrong was I.

Today started the Timing job… with valve cover off… I now know the source of the increasing tattle… the chain itself……it has stretched significantly (see pic).


So no I don’t agree with you… this vehicle had been babied and this still happened. I think the junk chains are a massive part of BMWs problem… besides filling the engine bay with cheap Chinese plastics and rubber… My thought is that the chains themselves are the issue, taking out the guides when it skips the sprocket…Massive fail BMW. There's a better chain on our ebikes…these are light weight cheap crap…