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BMW N47C16 engine: specs, problems and prices

BMW N47C16: 1.6 L diesel, 112 hp, 2007–2014. Which cars use it, common problems, fitment answers and prices from 832,00 €.

BMW F20 120d N47D20C Engine 2014, 191,800 km — photo 1

BMW built the N47C16 from 2007 to 2014. It is a 1.6 L turbocharged diesel inline-4 with 112 hp and 270 Nm, part of the N47 family. You will find it in the MINI R56 Cooper D and MINI R55 Cooper D.

This guide is about the N47C16 specifically: its specification, the cars that use it, how it differs from the other N47 versions, what to check, prices from our stock and fitment answers for each model. For the history of the whole family, read our N47 guide.

  • Capacity and layout: 1.6 L, inline-4, turbocharged
  • Output: 112 hp and 270 Nm
  • Production: 2007–2014
  • Fitted to: 2 models across 2 chassis generations
  • In our stock: 3 units from 832,00 € — N47C16 engines for sale
BMW E84 X1 20d N47D20A Engine 2010, 142,200 km — photo 1
BMW E84 X1 20d N47D20A Engine 2010, 142,200 km — 1.545,00 €

N47C16 specifications

N47C16 technical data
ItemValue
Engine codeN47C16
FamilyN47
Capacity1.6 L
LayoutInline-4
FuelDiesel
AspirationTurbocharged
Power112 hp
Torque270 Nm
Specific output70 hp per litre
Production2007–2014
Models2

N47C16: 1.6 L, inline-4, diesel, turbocharged. Output is 112 hp with 270 Nm of torque, and production ran from 2007 to 2014. That is about 70 hp and 169 Nm per litre, a relaxed tune aimed at torque, durability and economy. Within the N47 family, the N47D20A (116 hp), N47D20C (143 hp) and N47D20 (184 hp) are more powerful. It was fitted to the MINI R56 Cooper D and MINI R55 Cooper D.

What the code N47C16 means

  • N marks an N-series code, the generation of BMW engines introduced from 2001.
  • 47 is the family number.
  • C stands for diesel, transverse installation for front-drive cars.
  • 16 is the capacity in decilitres, so 1.6 litres.

Which BMW models use the N47C16

ModelGenerationBuilt
MINI R56 Cooper Dsecond-generation MINI hatch2006–2013
MINI R55 Cooper DMINI Clubman2007–2014

In the R56 second-generation MINI hatch (2006–2013), the N47C16 powered the Cooper D. We have 1 N47C16 unit from R56 donor cars. All R56 engines

In the R55 MINI Clubman (2007–2014), the N47C16 powered the Cooper D. We have 1 N47C16 unit from R55 donor cars. All R55 engines

N47C16 compared with other N47 versions

CodeCapacityPowerTorqueYears
N47C161.6 L112 hp270 Nm2007–2014
N47D20A2.0 L116 hp260 Nm2007–2015
N47D20C2.0 L143 hp320 Nm2007–2015
N47D202.0 L184 hp380 Nm2007–2016
N47D20D2.0 L184 hp380 Nm2007–2015
N47D161.6 L116 hp260 Nm2010–2015
N47C202.0 L143 hp305 Nm2010–2015
N47D20T12.0 L218 hp450 Nm2011–2015

N47C16 or N47D20A?

The N47D20A has 4 hp more than the N47C16 (116 against 112 hp), from 2.0 L instead of 1.6 L, and was built 2007–2015. A different capacity means a different crankshaft, pistons or head, and different software. It can be fitted as an upgrade with the matching engine control unit and wiring, but it is a conversion rather than a straight replacement.

N47C16 or N47D16?

The N47D16 has 4 hp more than the N47C16 (116 against 112 hp), from the same 1.6 L, and was built 2010–2015. Versions of the same size share the block and most mounting points, but the turbo or intake, injectors, software and sometimes the sump differ. Fitting one in place of the other usually means transferring parts and coding the engine control unit, so the simplest choice is the code your car left the factory with.

N47C16 or N47D20C?

The N47D20C has 31 hp more than the N47C16 (143 against 112 hp), from 2.0 L instead of 1.6 L, and was built 2007–2015. A different capacity means a different crankshaft, pistons or head, and different software. It can be fitted as an upgrade with the matching engine control unit and wiring, but it is a conversion rather than a straight replacement.

Common N47C16 problems

The N47C16 shares its weak points with the rest of the N47 family. These are the faults to check on a used unit and on your own engine. The full explanation of each is in the N47 guide.

Known faultWhat to check
Timing chainListen for a rattle at the gearbox end on a cold start and ask whether the chain has been replaced.
Swirl flapsCheck the intake for damage.
EGR coolerCheck the recall status and for coolant loss.
Diesel particulate filterRead the soot load and DPF fault codes.
InjectorsRead injector correction values.

Injectors. Injectors leak or fail.

N47C16 maintenance

  • 5W-30 BMW Longlife-04, about 5.25 litres.
  • Oil every 10,000 to 15,000 km.
  • Timing chain at the rear (gearbox end).

Will the N47C16 fit my car?

Will the N47C16 fit my MINI R56 Cooper D?

The N47C16 is the original engine for the MINI R56 Cooper D, which makes it the straightforward choice. The second-generation MINI hatch was built 2006–2013, and the N47C16 was produced 2007–2014, so check that your car's build date falls inside that window. Confirm the drive type (front-drive or ALL4), the gearbox (manual or automatic) and the emissions standard, because these can change the sump, the flywheel and the software. Send us the VIN and we check all of it for you.

How much is a replacement engine for an MINI R56 Cooper D?

We have 2 N47C16 engines from R56 donor cars, priced from 832,00 € to 1.041,00 €. Delivery to your door is included, and the engine carries a 12-month warranty when fitted by a qualified workshop. Add fitting labour and the parts you replace at the same time — seals, cooling parts and mounts — to estimate the total.

Will the N47C16 fit my MINI R55 Cooper D?

For the MINI R55 Cooper D, the N47C16 is the factory engine and the one to order. The MINI Clubman was built 2007–2014, and the N47C16 was produced 2007–2014, so check that your car's build date falls inside that window. Confirm the drive type (front-drive or ALL4), the gearbox (manual or automatic) and the emissions standard, because these can change the sump, the flywheel and the software. Send us the VIN and we check all of it for you.

How much is a replacement engine for an MINI R55 Cooper D?

We have 1 N47C16 engine from R55 donor cars, priced from 841,00 €. Delivery to your door is included, and the engine carries a 12-month warranty when fitted by a qualified workshop. Add fitting labour and the parts you replace at the same time — seals, cooling parts and mounts — to estimate the total.

N47C16 prices

We currently hold 3 N47C16 engines. The cheapest is 832,00 €, the most expensive 841,00 €, and half of them cost less than 838,00 €.

Prices depend on the exact version, the donor's mileage, how complete the engine is and the demand for that code. Higher-output versions, low mileage and dressed engines with turbo, injectors and ancillaries cost more; long blocks and higher mileage cost less.

N47C16 engines in stock

Here is a selection of N47C16 engines currently on our shelves, photographed in the yard. Click any of them for the full photographs, mileage and specification.

BMW R55 Cooper D N47C16 Complete Engine — 841,00 €, reduced from 1.300,00 €. It comes from a recorded donor car, and 30 units are available. We can confirm fitment against your VIN the same day.

BMW R56 Cooper D N47C16 Complete Engine — 832,00 €, reduced from 1.300,00 €. It comes from a recorded donor car, and 30 units are available. We can confirm fitment against your VIN the same day.

BMW N47C16 Engine — 838,00 €, reduced from 1.300,00 €. It comes from a recorded donor car, and 23 units are available. The listing shows every side of the engine and the fitted parts.

Buying a used N47C16: checklist

  1. Gearbox and flywheel match. Manual and automatic engines differ at the flywheel or flexplate, and sometimes at the crankshaft spigot. Make sure the engine you buy matches your gearbox or that you transfer the right parts.
  2. Warranty terms in writing. Read what the warranty covers, how long it runs and what fitting conditions apply. Most warranties require a qualified workshop, new fluids and filters, and replacement of the cooling parts that caused the original failure.
  3. Confirm the exact engine code. Read the code stamped on the block and compare it with the code for your car. Send us the last seven characters of the VIN and we confirm the match before anything is paid.
  4. Why your old engine failed. Before fitting a replacement, find out why the original failed. An overheating radiator, a blocked intercooler or a failed turbo can destroy a second engine if they are not fixed.
  5. Compression or leak-down figures. Even compression across all cylinders tells you more than mileage. Ask for the figures, not just a pass or fail, and compare the highest and lowest readings: a spread above 10 to 15 percent deserves a question.
  6. Turbocharger shaft play and oil. Rotate the compressor wheel by hand. A small amount of side play is normal; in-and-out play or wheel contact with the housing is not. Oil pooled in the intake or intercooler pipes points to worn seals.
  7. Injector correction values. On a diesel that can be run before removal, the injector correction values show whether one injector is delivering more or less fuel than the others. Large deviations mean an injector is on its way out.
  8. Particulate filter and EGR history. Short-trip diesels clog their DPF and EGR systems. The engine may be fine, but ask whether the donor car had DPF warnings, and plan to clean or check your own filter before fitting.
  9. Swirl flaps. Check whether the swirl flaps are in place, blanked or removed. Broken swirl flaps are a known cause of engine failure on several BMW diesels, so many owners fit blanking plates when the intake is off.
  10. Timing chain noise. Listen for a rattle at the front of the engine for the first seconds after a cold start. On an engine that cannot be run, look at the chain guides through the oil filler or with the valve cover off.
  11. Gearbox-end timing chain. On this engine the timing chain sits at the gearbox end, so replacing it normally means removing the engine. If the chain has not been replaced, the time to do it is before the engine goes into your car.

Questions about the N47C16

What is the difference between the BMW N47 engines?

BMW N47 2.0 turbo diesel engines for E90, F30, F10, F20 and X1. We list 2 versions: N47D20C (2.0 liter (1,995 cc), 135 kW (184 HP), 2010 to 2015); N47D20A (2.0 liter (1,995 cc), 130 kW (177 HP), 2007 to 2012).

The versions share the same basic design, but the power, the turbo or injection set-up, the electronics and the emission standard change. The right one for you is the one your car was built with.

The N47 family was used in chassis F30, F31, F10, F11, F20, E84, E90, E91, E60 and E87. Before a unit is listed, the yard checks the engine code against the listing, writes down the parts fitted to it, seals every opening and photographs the real engine you will receive.

Not sure? Send us your VIN and your gearbox code. We match the engine family, the year window and the parts on the engine before anything is reserved, and the check is free.

See all N47 Engines

Can you check if an N47D20C fits my car with my VIN?

Yes, and it is free. Send the 17-character VIN of your car and, if you have it, the gearbox code. We check the engine family, the build year window and the parts your car needs.

For the N47D20C, we confirm that your car was built with this code or with a version that can take it. BMW used it in the BMW F30 320d, BMW F31 320d, BMW F10 520d, BMW F11 520d and BMW F20 120d and more.

We only reserve an engine once the match is confirmed, so you never pay for the wrong unit. You can reach the Hamburg desk by email at autowerkeengines@gmail.com, or by phone and WhatsApp on +49 15510 030835, Monday to Friday, 9:00 to 16:00 CET.

You can also use the VIN check on our site. It reads the year, the make, the model and the engine from the public vehicle register.

See all N47 Engines · Search N47D20C in the shop

Will the N47D20C engine fit my BMW F10 520d?

Yes, if your BMW F10 520d was built with the N47D20C. BMW used this 2.0 liter (1,995 cc) diesel engine with 135 kW (184 HP) in the F10 520d from about 2010 to 2015.

In our records the N47D20C is the engine for the F10 520d, which makes the match simple. Still, check the code on your old engine or send us your VIN.

Also tell us if your F10 has a manual or an automatic gearbox. The flywheel or the flex plate and some sensors depend on it.

Not sure? Send us your VIN and your gearbox code. We match the engine family, the year window and the parts on the engine before anything is reserved, and the check is free.

See all N47 Engines · Search N47D20C in the shop

Can you check if an N47D20A fits my car with my VIN?

Yes, and it is free. Send the 17-character VIN of your car and, if you have it, the gearbox code. We check the engine family, the build year window and the parts your car needs.

For the N47D20A, we confirm that your car was built with this code or with a version that can take it. BMW used it in the BMW E90 320d, BMW E91 320d, BMW E60 520d, BMW E87 120d and BMW E84 X1 20d.

We only reserve an engine once the match is confirmed, so you never pay for the wrong unit. You can reach the Hamburg desk by email at autowerkeengines@gmail.com, or by phone and WhatsApp on +49 15510 030835, Monday to Friday, 9:00 to 16:00 CET.

You can also use the VIN check on our site. It reads the year, the make, the model and the engine from the public vehicle register.

See all N47 Engines · Search N47D20A in the shop

What should I replace when I fit a used N47D20A engine?

A used engine lasts longest when it starts life in your car with fresh fluids and new seals. Fit a new oil filter and fresh oil of the grade BMW lists for this engine, and refill the coolant with the correct BMW antifreeze mix. Change the drive belt, the thermostat and the water pump seals if they look tired, because they are cheap while the engine is out. Use new gaskets for the exhaust manifold, the intake and the sump plug, and check every hose clip before the first start.

Look at the engine mounts and the clutch or the torque converter while the engine is out. Old mounts can crack a new engine's brackets, and a worn clutch is much easier to change now.

Before the first start, turn the engine over without fuel until the oil pressure light goes out. Then let it idle, check for leaks, and drive gently for the first few hundred kilometres.

The warranty asks for fitting by a qualified mechanic and the correct oil, coolant and filters. Keep your receipts in case you ever need to make a claim.

See all N47 Engines · Search N47D20A in the shop

BMW F31 320d N47D20C Engine 2014, 159,800 km — photo 1
BMW F31 320d N47D20C Engine 2014, 159,800 km — 1.666,00 €

How much power and torque does the BMW N47D20C have?

From the factory the BMW N47D20C makes 135 kW (184 HP) and 380 Nm of torque. It is a 2.0 liter (1,995 cc) inline 4, DOHC, 16 valve diesel engine with a variable-geometry turbocharger.

Because it is turbocharged, the torque comes in low in the rev range, which makes the car feel strong in everyday driving. A healthy turbo, a clean intercooler and tight boost pipes are key to getting the full figure.

A used engine reaches its factory numbers when it is fitted with the matching engine computer and software, and serviced with the right oil and filters. If the engine computer from your car is a different version, a specialist may need to code it.

Every N47D20C on our site lists its year and mileage. Ask the desk for more pictures of any listing. We are happy to show the stamp, the ports and the ancillaries before you decide.

See all N47 Engines · Search N47D20C in the shop

How much is a replacement N47D20C engine for a BMW F11 520d?

A used N47D20C for the BMW F11 520d costs from about 1.400 € to 2.350 € in our yard. The price depends on the year, the mileage and the parts that come with the engine.

Shipping is a flat 249 € per order. It is added once at checkout and printed on the invoice, so there is no extra fee later. Inside the EU there is no import duty. Outside the EU, the receiver pays local duty and VAT.

A replacement engine is often much cheaper than rebuilding a damaged one, and much faster. The N47D20C you buy is photographed and checked in Hamburg before it is listed.

Eligible engines come with a 12 months warranty from the delivery date. It covers internal mechanical failure under normal use and correct fitting by a qualified mechanic or workshop. Not sure? Send us your VIN and your gearbox code. We match the engine family, the year window and the parts on the engine before anything is reserved, and the check is free.

See all N47 Engines · Search N47D20C in the shop

How much is a replacement N47D20C engine for a BMW F30 320d?

A used N47D20C for the BMW F30 320d costs from about 1.400 € to 2.350 € in our yard. The price depends on the year, the mileage and the parts that come with the engine.

Shipping is a flat 249 € per order. It is added once at checkout and printed on the invoice, so there is no extra fee later. Inside the EU there is no import duty. Outside the EU, the receiver pays local duty and VAT.

A replacement engine is often much cheaper than rebuilding a damaged one, and much faster. The N47D20C you buy is photographed and checked in Hamburg before it is listed.

Eligible engines come with a 12 months warranty from the delivery date. It covers internal mechanical failure under normal use and correct fitting by a qualified mechanic or workshop. Not sure? Send us your VIN and your gearbox code. We match the engine family, the year window and the parts on the engine before anything is reserved, and the check is free.

See all N47 Engines · Search N47D20C in the shop

What should I check on a used BMW N47 engine?

Start with the basics: the engine code on the block, the recorded mileage and the photos. Make sure the code matches your car and the parts you need are on the unit.

On an N47 diesel, a fitter usually checks the turbo for shaft play, the intake for heavy oil or soot, the injector seals and the glow plugs. These parts are easy to check before fitting and easy to change if needed.

Ask the desk for more pictures of any listing. We are happy to show the stamp, the ports and the ancillaries before you decide. An inspection certificate can travel with the order on request.

Once fitted, change the oil and filter early and drive gently at first. Report any problem right away so the warranty stays valid.

See all N47 Engines · Inspection certificate

What is the BMW N47D20A engine?

The BMW N47D20A is a 2.0 liter (1,995 cc) diesel engine from the N47 family. It has an inline 4, DOHC, 16 valve layout with a variable-geometry turbocharger, and makes 130 kW (177 HP) with 350 Nm of torque. BMW built it from 2007 to 2012 and it meets the Euro 5 emission standard.

You find the N47D20A in the BMW E90 320d, BMW E91 320d, BMW E60 520d, BMW E87 120d and BMW E84 X1 20d. What we list: BMW N47 2.0 turbo diesel engines for E90, F30, F10, F20 and X1.

At Autowerke Engines every N47D20A is a real used engine from our yard in Hamburg. The photos on each listing show the actual engine, not a stock picture. The yard checks the code, records what is bolted on, and seals the openings before the engine is offered. Each listing shows the year, the mileage and the price, so you can compare units side by side.

Not sure? Send us your VIN and your gearbox code. We match the engine family, the year window and the parts on the engine before anything is reserved, and the check is free.

See all N47 Engines · Search N47D20A in the shop

Which cars use the BMW N47D20C engine?

BMW fitted the N47D20C to the BMW F30 320d, BMW F31 320d, BMW F10 520d, BMW F11 520d, BMW F20 120d, BMW E84 X1 xDrive20d and BMW E90 320d. These cars were built with this engine from about 2010 to 2015.

The badge on the boot is not enough to be sure. The same model name can hide two different engines, for example after a facelift or a change in emission rules. Always read the engine code stamped on the block, or look it up with your VIN.

Other engines in the same N47 family are the N47D20A (177 HP). They look alike but differ in power, parts and electronics, so they are not always a direct swap.

Not sure? Send us your VIN and your gearbox code. We match the engine family, the year window and the parts on the engine before anything is reserved, and the check is free.

See all N47 Engines · Search N47D20C in the shop

BMW E84 X1 20d N47D20A Engine 2009, 102,700 km — photo 1
BMW E84 X1 20d N47D20A Engine 2009, 102,700 km — 1.332,00 €

How much is a replacement N47D20A engine for a BMW E87 120d?

A used N47D20A for the BMW E87 120d costs from about 1.250 € to 2.100 € in our yard. The price depends on the year, the mileage and the parts that come with the engine.

Shipping is a flat 249 € per order. It is added once at checkout and printed on the invoice, so there is no extra fee later. Inside the EU there is no import duty. Outside the EU, the receiver pays local duty and VAT.

A replacement engine is often much cheaper than rebuilding a damaged one, and much faster. The N47D20A you buy is photographed and checked in Hamburg before it is listed.

Eligible engines come with a 12 months warranty from the delivery date. It covers internal mechanical failure under normal use and correct fitting by a qualified mechanic or workshop. Not sure? Send us your VIN and your gearbox code. We match the engine family, the year window and the parts on the engine before anything is reserved, and the check is free.

See all N47 Engines · Search N47D20A in the shop

Delivery, warranty and payment

Before an N47C16 leaves our Hamburg yard it is drained of oil and coolant, every opening is sealed, and it is strapped to a pallet and wrapped. We send photographs of the packed unit and the tracking details.

Delivery is door to door and included in the price. Most European addresses receive the engine within five to ten working days; Germany and its neighbours are usually faster.

A 12-month warranty covers eligible internal failure when the engine is fitted by a qualified workshop with new fluids and filters. You can pay by card, bank transfer or crypto and receive the invoice by email straight away.

N47 engine guide · N47C16 engines for sale · All N47 engines · Send us your VIN