Buying A 320D

[Joejeans23]

Hi all I'm new to this

I am possibly buying a 2000 320D this weekend but someone mentioned to me that there are problems with the timing chain and that it can wreck the engine if it goes..

Can anyone tell me if this is correct and if so then give me more info on what to look for?

Many thanks

[IanIOM]

well yes if the timing chain goes it would do a lot of damage, It is however very very rare.

[Joejeans23]

well yes if the timing chain goes it would do a lot of damage, It is however very very rare.

he said to me that i need to check online for an engine number or something because there are certain ones that are prone to this..

also is there anything i need to check that is important when it comes to the 320d i.e manifold flaps

thanks

[IanIOM]

Yes, You need to remove the swirl flaps(google away). If these fail it can cause a lot of damage also, but this is a cheap mod and can be done in a afternoon.

I haven`t heard of different Diesel engines suffering from Cam chain problems(but I may be wrong)

However i cannot stress how robust these engines are,they are one of the best Diesels on the market. Go on ebay and type in BMW spares or repair, then go type in Vectra or Mondeo Spares or repair, Not many knackered Diesels BMWs around!

[Joejeans23]

Yes, You need to remove the swirl flaps(google away). If these fail it can cause a lot of damage also, but this is a cheap mod and can be done in a afternoon.

I haven`t heard of different Diesel engines suffering from Cam chain problems(but I may be wrong)

However i cannot stress how robust these engines are,they are one of the best Diesels on the market. Go on ebay and type in BMW spares or repair, then go type in Vectra or Mondeo Spares or repair, Not many knackered Diesels BMWs around!

Okay thanks very much for your help and hopefully the car is decent

[Guest DazH]

Hi all I'm new to this

I am possibly buying a 2000 320D this weekend but someone mentioned to me that there are problems with the timing chain and that it can wreck the engine if it goes..

Can anyone tell me if this is correct and if so then give me more info on what to look for?

Many thanks

Exactly what Mr.Ian has said.

Yes, if the chain goes the result is catastrophic. But......... That is the same with ALL engines. IF the belt or chain goes, its really really bad.

There is no MORE risk buying the 320d you like over any other car in that department :) promise

Daz

[G4VHD]

I'm on my second 320d, amazing little engines.

Do get the swirl flaps taken out though, can be an expensive fx if they go wrong, I know!!!

If the timing chain goes, I'll give you my 330ci, that's how confident I am.

Just make sure is been serviced regular, and swirl flaps have been blanked and t will last you a very long time mate.

You won't be disappointed

[G4VHD]

Did you get one?

[Joejeans23]

I didn't get it as the guy previously mentioned it was smoking a lot when he started it from cold.. So I looked at it anyway and the bottom line was he was going to fix it an then get in contact but everytime we have spoke he said he hasn't found the solution to the problem so not looking good at the moment.. But will keep hunting!!

[G4VHD]

Gutted, good luck with the search though mate

[Aruffell]

Whats your budget Joe? I'm selling mine soon, but it's a 2004 so may be a bit rich for you if you was looking at a 2000?

Andy