What are your opinions?

[CrawlerTagz]

I am planning to acquire a new vehicle this year and have been considering BMW models, specifically the 3 Series and 5 Series, namely the 2.0L 320d and 520d from the 2012 model year and later. Both options appear satisfactory; however, I believe they are equipped with the N47 engine, which reportedly requires significant maintenance, particularly concerning the timing chain. Would it be prudent to opt for a higher mileage 3.0L 330d or 530d instead?

[Starat]

It is advisable to choose for the 2.0 engine and maintain it frequently, including servicing the timing chain at 100,000 miles. While the six-cylinder engine performs well and has an appealing sound, it may present more significant and costly problems compared to the timing chain replacement of a four-cylinder engine.
They experience bottom end failure, which, if not detected promptly, results in the scrapping of the block.

[CrawlerTagz]

Are there any other considerations I should review before acquiring a vehicle, apart from the standard inspections?

[Starat]

Conduct the standard inspections of service and MOT histories, and listen for any chain sounds, particularly during cold starts.

[CrawlerTagz]

Thank you for the reminder.

[Finestey]

Examine the maintenance records and identify further oil changes, namely those scheduled for every 12 months or between 7,000 to 10,000 miles.
Locating a vehicle that has undergone maintenance indicates that the owner valued it and did not just use it.

[CrawlerTagz]

I should examine the frequency of oil changes, with the optimal interval being either 12 months or 7,000 to 10,000 miles.

[Finestey]

Affirmative.
The BMW two-year or 20,000-mile service interval is just a strategy to present maintenance expenses as reduced, which, in my view and that of many others, is detrimental to the engine.