BMW's N47 and N57 are two of the most common diesel engines from the N-series family. The N47 is a 2.0-litre four-cylinder, while the N57 is a 3.0-litre six-cylinder. This guide helps you identify which one is in your car, understand the key differences, and avoid costly mistakes when ordering parts or a replacement.
Your BMW has either an N47 (2.0-litre four-cylinder diesel) or N57 (3.0-litre six-cylinder diesel) engine. The quickest way to tell is to check the engine code label on the timing cover or use the 8th character of the VIN. N47 engines are found in 1, 3, 5 Series and X models with "20d" badges; N57 engines are in models with "25d", "30d", "35d" badges. The N57 is generally more powerful and more refined, but both share similar timing chain weaknesses.
If you're unsure, use the BMW VIN decoder or check the engine number location guide below.
The table below shows which BMW models and generations use the N47 and N57 engines. Both are turbocharged diesel engines from the same N-series family but with different displacements and cylinder counts.
| Engine Code | Family | Displacement | Common Models (Chassis) | Years | 2025 Enquiries |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| N47D20C | N-series diesel (4-cyl) | 2.0L | 3 Series (E90/F30), 1 Series (E87/F20), 5 Series (E60/F10), X1 (E84), X3 (E83/F25) | 2005–2019 | 1,450 [EM-VERIFIED] |
| N57D30 | N-series diesel (6-cyl) | 3.0L | 3 Series (E90/F30), 5 Series (F10), X3 (F25), X5 (E70/F15), 7 Series (F01) | 2008–2018 | 830 [EM-VERIFIED] |
Note: Both engines were replaced by the B-series (B47 and B57) in later models. The N47 is the smaller 2.0L, while the N57 is the larger 3.0L. They are not interchangeable due to different block sizes, mounting points, and ECU tuning.
For a complete list of every BMW engine, see the full fitment matrix.
There are three reliable ways to identify whether your BMW has an N47 or N57 engine. Use the method that works best for you.
Open the bonnet and look for a sticker or metal tag on the timing cover, cylinder head, or front engine block. The code will be printed as N47D20C or N57D30. This is the most direct method.
The 8th character of your BMW's VIN indicates the engine type. For example, an 'N' often means N-series diesel, but the exact code is best confirmed with a BMW VIN decoder.
The V5C logbook includes the engine number, which can be cross-referenced with BMW's engine list. This is a useful backup if the engine label is damaged.
If you're still unsure, the Engine Compatibility Checker can help match your vehicle details to the correct engine.
Getting the engine family wrong can lead to expensive mistakes when ordering parts, buying a replacement, or even doing routine maintenance. Here's why accuracy is critical:
Always verify the engine code before purchasing parts or a replacement unit. Use our Engine Compatibility Checker to confirm fitment.
For detailed failure information, visit the N47 timing chain failure page or the N57 timing chain failure page.
These two engines are often confused, especially because they share the same "N" family and both appear in similar models. Here are the most frequent errors:
The B47 is the successor to the N47, with a front-mounted timing chain and improved emissions. They are not interchangeable. If you have a post-2014 model, you likely have a B47, not an N47.
Compare N47 vs. B47The B57 is the modern replacement for the N57, with a front chain and better reliability. They are often mistaken because they share the 3.0L displacement, but they are different families.
Compare N57 vs. B57Both have rear-mounted timing chains prone to stretch, but the failure rates and costs differ. The N57 chain replacement is generally more expensive due to the larger engine and labour complexity.
Timing chain diagnosis guideIf you're still unsure, use the VIN decoder or contact a vetted BMW specialist for a definitive answer.
The N47 is a 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo diesel, while the N57 is a 3.0-litre six-cylinder turbo diesel. Both are from the N-series family and share a rear-mounted timing chain design. The N57 is more powerful and refined but also more expensive to repair.
Check the engine code label on the timing cover; it will say N47D20C or N57D30. Alternatively, check the 8th character of your VIN with a VIN decoder or look at the engine number on the V5C logbook.
Not without extensive modification. The N57 is physically larger, has different engine mounts, ECU, wiring, cooling system, and transmission compatibility. It is almost never cost-effective.
Both have similar timing chain weaknesses. The N57 has a higher failure rate due to its larger size and additional components (twin turbos). Based on our enquiry data, the N57 generates fewer requests (830 vs 1,450 for N47) but that may reflect vehicle parc size rather than reliability. Both require careful maintenance.
Based on our internal quote data [EM-QUOTE], a reconditioned N47D20C supply-only ranges from £3,200 to £5,500, while an N57D30 ranges from £4,500 to £7,000. Fitting costs (R&R labour) are around £780–£1,040 for the N57 (12–16 hours) and £650–£910 for the N47 (10–14 hours). See the replacement cost guide for full details.
BMW's repair-or-scrap threshold is 70% of the vehicle's market value. If the fitted replacement cost exceeds 70% of what your BMW is worth, it may be financially wiser to scrap or sell the car rather than repair. Use the Repair vs. Replace Calculator to decide.
Identifying whether you have an N47 or N57 is the first step to making a smart repair or replacement decision. Both engines have their own strengths and weaknesses, but the cost and complexity of repairs differ significantly. The N57 is more powerful but also more expensive to fix. If you're buying a used BMW, understanding the engine family can help you avoid high-maintenance models. If you own one, knowing the exact code is critical when ordering parts.
Always confirm your engine code using the VIN or engine label before ordering parts. And never hesitate to consult a vetted BMW specialist - they can confirm fitment and give you a realistic cost estimate.
Use the Repair vs. Replace CalculatorReady to check your engine or get a quote? Compare prices from vetted BMW specialists.