Which BMW Has the B47 Engine?

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BMW B47D20A COMPLETE ENGINE SINGLE TURBO 22K MILES

Image source: BMW B47 Engine For Sale at mtautoparts.com for only £3,099.99.

If you're into BMW diesels, you’ve probably heard of the B47 engine. It’s the brand’s 2.0-litre, four-cylinder turbo-diesel that’s been powering BMWs since 2014. Smooth, efficient and torquey. It became the workhorse of BMW’s lineup. From compact hatchbacks to executive saloons and SUVs, the B47 has been everywhere in Europe, including the UK.

What makes this motor such a talking point is that it replaced the infamous N47 engine, which was plagued with timing chain issues. The B47 was built to be cleaner, more reliable, compliant with Euro 6 standards. In short, it’s the diesel that saved BMW’s reputation in this segment.

But exactly which BMWs came with this engine and what should owners know about it today? Let’s check it all out in this article.

Why the B47 Matters

Launched in 2014, the B47 is part of BMW’s new modular engine family, meaning its design is shared across petrol and diesel units. This makes production cheaper and reliability stronger.

Key Features:

  • 2.0-litre capacity, four cylinders.

  • Single or twin turbocharger depending on the BMW model.

  • Outputs between 116 hp and 231 hp with torque figures up to 500 Nm in higher trims.

  • Available in front-wheel drive (BMW B47C20B) and rear-wheel drive (B47D20A) layouts.

  • Built to meet Euro 6 emissions, reducing NOx and CO₂ compared to the N47.

The B47 BMW engine wasn’t just about all about performance. It was about efficiency and compliance. BMW needed a diesel that could keep selling in stricter markets like the UK and bigger European cities, while avoiding the reputation damage caused by N47 timing chain failures.

Which BMWs Use the B47 Engine?

The B47 appeared across multiple models from 2015 onwards. Here’s a breakdown of the most common UK BMWs with this engine:

1 Series (F20/F21, F40)

  • 116d, 118d, 120d

  • Popular as a fleet and private car thanks to low emissions and strong economy.

2 Series (F22, F45, F46)

  • Coupés and Active Tourers.

  • Includes 218d, 220d, and xDrive models.

3 Series (F30/F31, G20/G21)

  • Huge presence in the UK market, including 316d, 318d, 320d, 325d.

  • The 320d with the B47 is arguably one of the UK’s most sold BMW diesels. It’s reliable, has low fuel consumption and looks…

4 Series (F32, G22)

  • 418d, 420d, and some 425d trims.

  • Blended performance and economy for coupe buyers.

5 Series (F10, G30)

  • 518d, 520d, 525d.

  • Perfect for long-distance drivers looking for refinement and MPG.

SUV Lineup

  • X1 (F48) – 18d, 20d.

  • X3 (F25, G01) – 20d and 25d trims.

  • X4 (G02) – Used in smaller diesel versions.

Basically, if you bought a diesel BMW in the UK between 2015 and 2021 (before hybrids really took over), chances are it had a B47 under the bonnet. And if you are unsure, just check the list we just gave!

Reliability: Did BMW Fix the N47 Problems?

Yes! Mostly. The B47 BMW engines addressed the timing chain failures that was the main problem of the N47. The chain was moved to the front of the engine for easier access, and the design was strengthened. 

Common Issues Still Found:

  • EGR Cooler Failure – The Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) cooler can crack or leak, sometimes leading to coolant loss and in rare cases a fire risk. BMW even issued recalls in the UK to replace faulty coolers, so it’s worth checking if your car has had the recall work done.

  • DPF Blockages – Like many modern diesels, the Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) can clog if the car is used mainly for short trips. This prevents the DPF from reaching the high temperatures needed to regenerate. Symptoms include poor fuel economy, warning lights and reduced power.

  • Carbon Build-up – Over time, carbon deposits can build up in the intake manifold and EGR system. This restricts airflow and causes rough idling or power loss. Walnut blasting or professional cleaning is often needed after higher mileage.

Despite these, the B47 is widely considered one of BMW’s most reliable diesels, as long as you service it regularly and give it proper motorway runs to clear out the DPF.

BMW B47 Engine in the UK Market, Shortly

In the UK, the BMW B47 engine​ became the backbone of BMW’s sales, especially for company cars and long-distance drivers.

  • The 320d with B47 was one of the best-selling premium diesels between 2015–2019.

  • Company car drivers loved it for low Benefit-in-Kind tax, thanks to efficient CO₂ numbers.

  • Even after diesel’s reputation took a hit post-2017, the B47 continued strong until hybrids took over.

What Replaced the B47 Engine?

BMW is slowly phasing out diesels in favour of plug-in hybrids and EVs. But the B47 is still in production in some models. For higher-powered diesels, BMW uses the B57 (six-cylinder), and for petrol, the equivalent is the B48 2.0 turbo.

Where to Find B47 Engines for Sale in the UK

If you need a replacement engine or are planning a swap, here are the best routes:

1. Specialist BMW Breakers

Trusted BMW Breakers in the UK, like MT Auto Parts supply tested and warrantied complete BMW engine and engine spares, starting from 2012+ models. Many customers choose breakers not just for complete engines but also for affordable BMW parts and supporting components.

2. Reconditioned / Rebuilt Engines

Some garages and suppliers offer rebuilt B47s with new components, ideal for high-mileage cars.

If you’re searching for a BMW engine for sale, going with a specialist rather than a generic seller will save headaches in the long run.

Conclusion: Why the BMW B47 Engine Still Matters

The B47 engine is one of BMW’s success stories—cleaner, more reliable, and far better than the N47 it replaced. It powered a huge chunk of BMW’s UK lineup, from the 1 Series to the 5 Series and popular SUVs.

For UK drivers, the B47 balanced performance, economy, and reliability—a rare mix in the diesel world. And with good maintenance, these engines can easily surpass 200,000 miles.

So if you’re looking for a BMW diesel that won’t give you sleepless nights, a B47-powered engine model is still one of the best bets.

FAQs

1. Which BMW models use the BMW B47 engine?

Everything from the 1 Series to the 5 Series, plus X1 and X3 SUVs, mainly from 2015–2021.

2. Is the B47 reliable?

Yes. It fixed the N47’s timing chain issue, though owners should watch out for EGR and DPF problems.

3. How much power does it make?

Between 116 hp and 231 hp depending on the version.

4. Can I still buy a B47 engine?

Yes. Breakers and suppliers like MT Auto Parts stock tested and warrantied B47 engines and spares in the UK. If you are looking for a B47 engine for sale​, they are one of the best options.

5. What’s replacing the B47?

BMW’s push into hybrids and EVs means fewer diesels, but the B47 is still in use in some models.

Location: United Kingdom

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