The entry-level diesel in BMW's first rear-wheel-drive hatchback range. Introduced in January 2009 as a late addition to the E87 lineup, the 116d uses the same N47D20 2.0-litre engine as the 118d but detuned to 115 hp, delivering excellent fuel economy around 4.4 l/100 km. Being a 2009-2011 model, it benefits from revised timing chain components compared to the earlier N47 engines, though the fundamental rear-mounted chain design remains a concern.
Outstanding fuel economy (4.4 l/100km)
Engaging rear-wheel-drive handling
N47 timing chain risk persists
Rear subframe prone to corrosion
Buy if: You want a fuel-efficient BMW commuter and can find one with regular oil changes (every 10,000 km) and no cold-start rattling.
Avoid if: You only drive short urban trips (DPF clogging) or you hear any rattling from the rear of the engine on cold start.
Expected Annual Maintenance Costs
Common Problems
Rear-mounted timing chain stretches over time, rattles on cold start, and can snap causing catastrophic engine damage · more· less
The N47D20 engine positions its timing chain at the rear, between the engine and gearbox. The chain, guides, and tensioner were prone to premature wear on early N47 engines (2007-2008), causing a distinctive rattling on cold start lasting 1-30 seconds. The 116d E87 (2009-2011) benefits from BMW's revised chain components introduced in mid-2009, with further improvements in 2011, significantly reducing but not eliminating the risk. The production date after April 2010 is considered the safest. Replacement requires gearbox removal and costs €1,200-1,800 at an independent specialist. If the chain snaps, catastrophic valve-piston contact occurs, requiring engine replacement at €3,500-6,500. Shorter oil change intervals (every 10,000 km rather than BMW's recommended 25,000 km longlife interval) substantially reduces chain wear. The lower 115 hp tune also places less stress on components than the 143 hp 118d.
Swirl flap actuator rod detaches or flaps seize from carbon buildup, causing limp mode · more· less
The N47 intake manifold contains swirl flaps that control airflow at low engine speeds. Over time, the metal rod connecting the actuator motor to the flap mechanism can work loose, or the flaps themselves seize from carbon buildup. Symptoms include the engine feeling flat and sluggish, struggling on inclines, and the car going into limp mode — often without triggering the engine warning light. Fault code 2C3200 is typical. A preventive swirl flap delete kit costs €20-40 for parts, but requires intake manifold removal. If the actuator needs replacement, specialist repair is €200-500. Full intake manifold replacement runs €600-1,200 including labor. Many owners opt for a swirl flap delete combined with a remap to avoid recurrence.
Diesel particulate filter blocks on cars driven primarily in urban traffic at low speeds · more· less
The 116d has a DPF that requires sustained driving above 60 km/h to regenerate. Cars used mostly for short urban trips accumulate soot faster than the filter can burn off. A yellow DPF warning light appears when back pressure reaches approximately 250 mbar, requiring the owner to drive at highway speed for 20-30 minutes. If regeneration repeatedly fails, the filter becomes blocked. Professional DPF cleaning costs €200-400. If the filter is ash-saturated beyond cleaning, replacement costs €1,000-1,800. The 116d's lower power output means it takes longer to reach regeneration temperatures than the 118d or 120d, making it more susceptible to clogging when driven gently.
Exhaust gas recirculation valve clogs with soot, causing rough running and power loss · more· less
The EGR valve recirculates exhaust gases into the intake manifold and gradually accumulates carbon deposits, particularly on cars driven predominantly on short trips where the engine rarely reaches full operating temperature. Symptoms include rough idle, hesitation under acceleration, increased fuel consumption, and the engine management light. Cleaning is recommended every 80,000-100,000 km and costs €100-200 at an independent workshop. If the valve needs replacing, an aftermarket unit runs €200-400 plus labor. At a BMW dealer, the total can reach €600-800 due to the valve's awkward location on the N47. Regular motorway driving helps keep the valve cleaner.
Electronic turbo actuator sticks from carbon buildup, causing limp mode and power loss · more· less
The N47 turbocharger uses a Garrett GTB1749VK with an electronically controlled wastegate actuator. Carbon deposits cause the actuator to stick, particularly on gently driven cars or those used only for short trips. Symptoms include the EPC warning light, limp mode, and significant power loss. BMW does not sell the actuator separately from the turbocharger, so dealer quotes include full turbo replacement at €1,500-2,500. However, specialist actuator repair services can rebuild the unit for €400-600 with a warranty. Regular spirited driving and highway use helps prevent carbon buildup.
Clutch judder and flywheel vibration typically appear between 80,000-130,000 km on manual cars · more· less
Manual-equipped 116d models develop clutch judder when moving off, especially on inclines and when cold. The dual mass flywheel wears and develops excessive play, producing vibration felt through the pedal and drivetrain. Combined clutch and DMF replacement costs €800-1,500 at an independent specialist, with parts (flywheel approximately €300-400, clutch kit approximately €150-250) plus approximately 4-6 hours labor as the gearbox must be dropped. This typically becomes necessary between 80,000-130,000 km depending on driving style. Urban stop-start driving accelerates wear significantly. The lower 115 hp output means slightly less stress on the clutch than the 118d.
Rear subframe corrodes on lower edges, can fail inspection if severe · more· less
The E87 rear subframe is prone to corrosion on its lower, exposed edges where it catches stone chips, salt, and spray from the wheels. The problem is well documented on BMW forums, with some owners reporting subframes corroded so severely they cracked, potentially damaging brake lines. Surface rust can often be treated with a wire wheel and rust converter followed by protective wax coating (€300-500 professionally), which should be repeated every two years. If the subframe is too far gone, sourcing and fitting a replacement costs €800-1,500. Finding a rust-free used subframe is increasingly difficult. Cars from coastal areas or regions with heavy road salt use are most affected.
Water enters boot through rear light seals and vent panels, corroding the PDC module · more· less
The E87 boot area is prone to water ingress through poorly sealed rear light housings and rectangular vent panels behind the trim. Water accumulates in the boot corners and soaks the PDC (parking distance control) module on the right side. A waterlogged PDC module sends corrupted signals on the CAN bus, causing cascading electrical faults including instrument cluster failure, loss of speedo and rev counter, and random warning lights. The fix involves resealing the vents and light housings (€10-20 DIY). If the PDC module is corroded, replacement costs €150-300. If other CAN bus modules are affected, diagnosis and repair can reach €500. Drilling small drainage holes in the boot grommets prevents future water pooling.
Improved over earlier N47 models, but timing chain remains the key concern
The BMW 116d E87 benefits from being a late-production N47 (2009-2011) with revised timing chain components and a lower 115 hp tune that places less stress on the drivetrain. The most severely affected N47 engines were built between March 2007 and early 2009, so the 116d avoids the worst period. However, the fundamental rear-mounted chain design means preventive replacement or at least regular inspection remains advisable. Beyond the timing chain, issues are typical for any N47 diesel of this age: swirl flap wear, DPF clogging on short trips, EGR buildup, and the E87-specific body concerns of rear subframe rust and boot water ingress. With disciplined 10,000 km oil changes, regular highway driving, and proactive maintenance, the 116d can deliver reliable high-mileage service.
Recalls and Technical Service Bulletins
Timing chain crankshaft sprocket revision (N47 diesel, 2007-2011 production)
Verify completed
Fuel filter heater moisture ingress (diesel models)
Verify completed
Takata airbag inflator (various production dates)
Verify completed
Battery cable connector degradation (2009-2011)
Verify completed
Contact BMW with the VIN to verify all recalls and service campaigns have been completed. The timing chain quality enhancement campaign is particularly important — ask specifically whether revised chain components have been fitted. The fuel filter heater recall affects diesel models specifically.
Warranty Status
Factory warranty (2 years)
Expired on all 116d E87 models
Rust perforation warranty (12 years)
Expired (last built 2011 + 12 = 2023)
All BMW 116d E87 models are well outside their original 2-year factory warranty and 12-year rust perforation warranty. No extended warranty programs remain available from BMW for this generation. Third-party warranty providers may offer coverage but typically exclude known problem areas like timing chains.
This report is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. Estimates may be inaccurate. Always have a qualified specialist inspect the vehicle before purchase. We accept no liability for decisions made based on this information.