The reliability of the BMW B47 engine: a reliable diesel with a few weaknesses
The BMW B47 engine , introduced in 2014 to succeed the N47, is now one of the most widespread diesel engines in the BMW range. Appreciated for its fuel efficiency, it remains, overall, a reliable engine provided it is meticulously maintained.
However, like any modern engine, it's not without its problems, particularly with the exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system . In this article, we'll break down the B47's main weaknesses and explain why it remains a viable option for BMW diesel enthusiasts.
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Models equipped with the B47 engine
B47D20 (116 hp)
2015–2019 BMW 3 Series (F30/F31) 316d
B47C/D20 (150 hp)
2014–2016 BMW 5 Series (F10) 518d
2014–2021 BMW 2 Series Active Tourer (F45) 218d
2014–2021 BMW 2 Series Gran Tourer (F46) 218d
2015–2019 BMW 1 Series (F20) 118d
2015–2021 BMW 2 Series Coupé (F22) 218d
2015–2017 BMW X3 (F25) sDrive18d
2015–2019 BMW 3 Series (F30/F31/F34) 318d
2015–2020 BMW 4 Series (F32/F36) 418d
2015–2022 BMW X1 (F48) sDrive18d
2015–2024 MINI Cooper D Clubman (F54)
2017–2023 BMW X2 (F39) sDrive18d
2017–present MINI Cooper D Countryman (F60)
2018–2023 BMW 5 Series (G30) 518d
2019–present BMW 3 Series (G20) 318d
2019–2024 BMW 1 Series (F40) 118d
B47C/D20 (163 hp)
2015–2024 MINI Cooper SD (F56)
2015–2018 BMW 3 Series (F30) 320d EfficientDynamics Edition
B47C/D20 (190 hp)
2014–2016 BMW 5 Series (F10/F11) 520d
2014–present BMW X4 (F26) xDrive20d
2014–present BMW 2 Series Active Tourer (F45) 220d
2014–present BMW 2 Series Gran Tourer (F46) 220d
2015–present BMW 1 Series (F20) 120d / 120d xDrive
2015–present BMW 2 Series Coupe/Convertible (F22/F23) 220d
2014–2017 BMW X3 (F25) sDrive20d/xDrive20d
2015–2019 BMW 3 Series (F30/F31/F34) 320d
2015–present BMW 4 Series (F32/F36) 420d
2015–present BMW X1 (F48) sDrive20d
2015–present MINI Cooper SD Clubman (F54)
2016–present BMW 5 Series (G30/G31) 520d
2017–present BMW X2 (F39) xDrive20d
2017–present MINI Cooper SD Countryman (F60)
2017–present BMW X3 (G01) xDrive20d
2018–present BMW X4 (G02) xDrive20d
2018–present BMW 6 Series Gran Turismo (G32) 620d
2019–present BMW 3 Series (G20) 320d
2019–present BMW 1 Series (F40) 120d xDrive
2019–present BMW 2 Series Gran Coupé (F44) 220d
2021–present BMW 2 Series Coupé (G42) 220d
B47C/D20 (224 hp)
2015–2019 BMW 1 Series (F20) 125d
2015–2019 BMW 2 Series Coupé (F22) 225d
2015–2018 BMW 3 Series (F30/F31/F34) 325d
2016–2020 BMW 4 Series (F32/F33/F36) 425d
B47C/D20 (231 hp)
2018–present BMW X5 (G05) xDrive25d
2015–2018 BMW X5 (F15) sDrive25d/xDrive25d
2016–present BMW X1 (F48) xDrive25d
2017–2019 BMW 5 Series (G30/G31) 525d
2018–present BMW X2 (F39) xDrive25d
2016–2019 BMW 7 Series (G11) 725d / 725Ld
The recurring problem of the EGR and the EGR cooler
Symptoms :
- Loss of power
- Increased fuel consumption
- Engine warning light on
- Irregular slowdown
- Black smoke emissions
Cause :
The EGR system, designed to reduce emissions by recirculating a portion of the exhaust gases, is prone to fouling over time. Soot deposits can clog the valve, leading to malfunctions. Even worse, the EGR cooler can develop cracks, causing coolant leaks and increasing the risk of engine overheating.
BMW even issued a recall on certain versions due to a risk of fire linked to this problem.
Solution :
- Shift gears regularly (once the engine is warm)
- Use a fuel additive every 5,000 km to limit fouling.
- Check if the vehicle is affected by BMW recalls
Other problems to watch out for
1. Timing chain wear
- Symptoms: rattling noise when cold, unstable idle, loss of power
- Cause: chain tension loosens over time
- Solution: Regular inspection after 200,000 km and replacement if necessary
2. DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter) clogged
- Symptoms: loss of power, engine warning light, limp mode
- Cause: short journeys not allowing for regeneration
- Solution: drive regularly on the motorway to clean the DPF
A reliable engine with proper maintenance
Despite these few weaknesses, the BMW B47 remains a reliable and durable engine provided that rigorous maintenance practices are followed:
- Frequent oil changes (every 12,000 km instead of the 20,000 km recommended by BMW)
- Monitor the condition of the EGR and EGR cooler
- Drive on the motorway to preserve the DPF
- Use quality fuel and anti-fouling additives
With these precautions, the B47 can easily achieve high mileage without major problems. It offers an excellent compromise between performance and fuel economy, and proves more reliable than its predecessor, the N47.
For a potential buyer, checking the service history and visiting a BMW specialist before purchase are highly recommended.
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Conclusion
The BMW B47 engine is an excellent option for those looking for a powerful and economical diesel, but it requires appropriate maintenance.
EGR problems remain its main Achilles' heel, but with regular maintenance, they don't compromise its longevity. For BMW diesel enthusiasts, the B47 remains a reliable choice in the world of modern engines.
