BMW M42 engine

This page is a draft. It has not been approved yet, so read it with care.

Watch out for

Reputation: what owners and the press report. Tap one to see what to check.

Early timing chain wear M42 One source so far

What to check: Listen for chain rattle at start-up and ask whether the guides were updated.

Wikipedia says early engines wore their timing chains, and BMW updated the tensioner, guides and lower chain case. From September 1993 a nylon guide rail replaced the idler gear, and its retaining bolt could break away.

Sources ¹
Leaking profile gasket M42 One source so far

What to check: Look for coolant in the oil under the filler cap.

Wikipedia says the early gasket between the lower chain case and the head failed, letting coolant into the oil and ruining main bearings. BMW updated the gasket and offered warranty repairs.

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