316d N47 - Timing Chain Failure / Engine Malfunction

[TechnoTrailblazer]

Greetings everyone,

In summary: Acquired a 2013 316d six months ago in a private transaction. Two prior owners, comprehensive service history. Presently has 55,000 miles.

- Last Tuesday and Wednesday, I undertook a round journey to Birmingham, covering 200 miles, without any issues. On Thursday morning, my vehicle only cranks but fails to start.

- Diagnosed yesterday at a BMW-approved expert; probable timing chain problem. They have estimated £7000 for the engine replacement.

This brings me to this point.

I am investigating possibilities for BMW to cover the repair costs (in part or in whole) since I believe the vehicle's performance has significantly declined below acceptable standards for its age, mileage, ownership, and service history.

BMW has informed me that I must pay to have the problem assessed at one of their service centres, which is £220 per hour. They will thereafter evaluate the potential for pursuing any goodwill, taking into account factors such as age, mileage, ownership, and service history.

I am somewhat concerned that the previous owner neglected service for two years. Furthermore, although I scheduled a service for the vehicle within the week of purchase, it was conducted at my local garage, which is not BMW authorised.

Has anybody previously engaged in this matter with BMW? If you possess any proof demonstrating that BMW has established a precedent, I may be able to use it for my case.

Thank you very much!

[nickoyster4]

I believe the unfulfilled services will place you in a difficult situation and provide them with a convenient excuse. Johnny Rooer is well regarded and may be able to reconstruct your engine at a far lower cost than your current estimates. I am certain he will provide feedback shortly.
Salutations

[TechnoTrailblazer]

Indeed, it is my primary concern as well. I want to ascertain if BMW would provide written confirmation of their criteria for pursuing goodwill, for instance, if a one-year deficiency in service history results in case closure. I doubt they will explain their stance, but I remain optimistic!

[diablos_carcv5]

There is no possibility of BMW providing assistance due to the vehicle's age of 11 years and its history of skipped servicing. They will charge you £220 for the investigation, after which they will provide a repair estimate.

In my perspective, charging £7,000 for an engine replacement is excessive; in 99% of cases, the repair is simple, often involving the rockers and cam carrier at worst. There is a little possibility that the chain may have been entangled and destroyed the block; nevertheless, I have personally never seen this happen.
Despite block damage, I have reconstructed these engines using a pre-owned block at a little cost.

[TechnoTrailblazer]

I am aware and apprehensive that this will likely occur. I have a plan for my future moves, however I could phone you tomorrow for a discussion.

[diablos_carcv5]

It is advisable to postpone till the afternoon, since I have poor signal in the morning.

[CelestialSeeker]

Deliver it to diablos_carcv5; task completed.
And appropriately.

[motorman3]

I concur and would not hesitate to use his services if necessary.
salutations