QuestionTino, I'm not familar with "CPO", are you referring to an extended warranty? Also, if I am considering putting 150k miles on this car, do you recommend a guideline mileage where the 4.4L should have the timing chain replaced? Thanks for the help.
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The text above is a follow-up to ...
-----Question-----
Tino, my question is more general in nature about timing chains in the E39 4.4L engines. I own a 2000 540i that has just hit 75k mileage and was hoping you could shed some light on BMW's history with this motor's timing chain. Is there any history of high incidence of failure past any particular mileage in this engine. I haven't experienced any problems but am thinking of trading out to a lower mileage E39 (hopefully M5) before I do start "gambling" with my current high mileage engine. Thanks, David
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Hello David,
I know of no recall or even a simple service bulletin addressing timing chain problems on an E39. Personally, I think that the E39 is the most durable and reliable BMW of currently running models. The same can be said about its engines, in your case the 4.4 L M62.
Your particular vehicle is not like timing belt equipped cars that require scheduled replacement of timing belts at approximately 60,000 miles. Timing chains across the board last indefinitely, but they also have finite lives, become noisy with age, and also need to be replaced at some point in time (usually when noisy; repairs require more parts replacements therefore higher costs).
All things equal, a lower mileage car would be better than a higher mileage one. But being used, even a low mileage car could be a ticking bomb. CPO's could reduce your risk though.
An M5 is a really good car. But a used M5 probably has a greater chance of having been abused than a regular E39.
But then again, there are no hard and fast rules when buying used cars. Usually they are OK. Sometimes you get unlucky.
Good luck.
Tino
AnswerGood morning David,
CPO is certified pre-owned this is relevant when buying a used car. Of course, extended warranty is also great provided you are aware of its limitations in the fineprint.
I may be mistaken, but I know of no BMW guideline on when to replace timing chains.
Personally, I would go for 80,000 to 120,000 miles or when the chains start to be noisy whichever comes first. Take note that the tensioner and the chain guides are made of hard plastic and also have to be replaced. But then this time frame is only my opinion. Some people use their cars for much longer periods before replacing their timing chains. Get a second or third opinion on this matter if you like.
Regards,
Tino
