Page 1 of 15

SI B11 16 14
Engine

February 2016
Technical Service

This Service Information bulletin and attachment supersedes SI B11 16 14 dated May 2015.
designates changes to this revision
SUBJECT

N63 Engine: Check the Timing Chain
MODEL

F01 and F02 (7 Series Sedan) produced from 9/2008 to 6/2012
F04 (ActiveHybrid 7) produced from 4/2010 to 6/2012
F07 (Gran Turismo) produced from 9/2009 to 6/2012
F10 (5 Series Sedan) produced from3/2010 to 7/2013
F12 (6 Series Convertible) produced from 3/2011 to 7/2012
F13 (6 Series Coupe) produced from 7/2011 to 7/2012
E70 (X5) produced from 3/2010 to 6/2013
E71 (X6) produced from 7/2008 to 6/2014
E72 (ActiveHybrid X6) produced from 9/2009 to 9/2011
INFORMATION

This bulletin outlines the procedure for checking the engine timing chains for wear, and should be
completed in conjunction with SI B11 06 14, “N63 Customer Care Package.”
The N63CCP and N63 Engine Check the Timing Chain are NOT mandatory Technical Campaigns
or Recalls.
They should be completed only based on parts availability, workshop capacity, and the
customer’s schedule.
Performing the test plans identified in the procedure below will detect wear at an early stage and, if
necessary, provide a repair solution. To avoid future valvetrain wear, the vehicle must be
reprogrammed and a shorter oil service interval must be retrofitted via ISTA/P.
Finally, drain and replace the engine’s oil and filter.
After completing all necessary repairs included in the N63 Customer Care Package and the
Timing Chain Check, the vehicle must be test driven for up to 30 minutes to ensure that the

https://www.bmwtis.net/tiscode/cgi-bin/bulletin.aspx?sie_path=/tsb/bulletins/htm_store/300... 3/3/2016

Page 2 of 15

repairs were performed to the highest standard.
AFFECTED VEHICLES

This Service Action applies to E70, E71, E72, F01, F02, F04, F07, F10, F12, and F13 vehicles with
the N63 engines corresponding to the production dates listed above.
PROCEDURE

1. Perform a vehicle test. If the vehicle already has faults stored for the VANOS or camshaft
position, perform the recommended test plans for the faults stored before checking the timing
chain. A defective component (VANOS actuator or solenoid) can affect the outcome of the
timing chain check.
2. Perform the applicable test plan to measure the timing chain’s elongation, using ISTA/D 3.47
or higher.
F01, F02, F04, F07, F10, F12, and F13 Timing Chains Test Plan path:
1. Select “Troubleshooting”
2. Select “Function structure”
3. Select “Drive”
4. Select “Engine electronics, quality control valve (MSV)”
5. Select “Valve gear”
6. Select “Start Search”
7. From the list of available test plans, select “VANOS solenoid valve, exhaust”
8. Select “Continue”
9. Select “Timing chain test” and follow the steps to complete the test plans.
10. Test plan will conclude with the statement “Timing chain is OK” or “Timing chain is not
OK”.
11. If the test plan results indicate the timing chains are stretched (“not OK”), replace both
timing chains per Repair Instruction 11 31 052 “Replacing both timing chains \ PREMIUM”
after completing the remaining portion of the vehicle evaluation procedure from SI B11 06
14.
IMPORTANT - Before starting the engine for the first time, and after replacing the timing
chains:
1. Fill the engine with the specified amount of engine oil.
2. Connect a battery charger to the vehicle.
3. Remove the electric fuel pump fuse. Refer to the applicable wiring diagram using the VIN of
the vehicle in ISTA/D.

https://www.bmwtis.net/tiscode/cgi-bin/bulletin.aspx?sie_path=/tsb/bulletins/htm_store/300... 3/3/2016

Page 3 of 15

4. Crank the engine for 10 seconds.
5. After 10 seconds have elapsed, stop the starter, and allow the starter to cool for 20 seconds.
6. Repeat steps 4 and 5 two additional times.
7. Reinstall the electric fuel pump fuse and start the engine. Verify proper engine operation.
Important: Repair Instruction 11 31 052 for “Replacing both timing chains \
PREMIUM” describes the “replacement” of the engine oil pan gasket (seal).
Failure to replace this gasket (seal) as outlined in the repair instruction can result in an
engine oil leak and an unnecessary return visit to your workshop. Also, using liquid
sealer to substitute the required replacement of this gasket (seal) on the engine is “not
a proper” repair.
A repair to correct engine oil leakage that results from not replacing the engine oil pan
gasket (seal) as required during a previous repair is not a Warranty issue.
Do not discard the replaced parts. These parts will be requested by the Warranty Parts
Return Center (WPRC).When the defective timing chains are removed from the engine label
them with cylinder head bank (1 or 2) they were removed from.
Important Note:
The current ISTA repair manual RA11
31 052 “Replacing both timing chains \
PREMIUM” instructs to release
tension on four bearing bolts (indicated
as #1 for cylinders 5 to 8; and #2 for
cylinders 1 to 4) on the engine block.
IT IS NOT NECESSARY TO DO
THIS.
DO NOT release these bolts, because
the bearing bolts are microencapsulated and they would have to
be replaced if loosened up.
The repair instructions will be updated
soon.
8. Terminate the diagnostic session so that FASTA data will be transmitted.
9. Program the vehicle using ISTA/P 3.55.1 or a more recent version and retrofit the new
engine oil service interval. The engine oil service interval of the vehicle must be retrofitted to
a shorter service interval of 12 months or 10,000 miles. ISTA/P will automatically reprogram
and code all programmable control modules that do not have the latest software. Perform the
programming, coding and engine oil service retrofit during the same ISTA/P session.
Important note: For F01, F02, F04, and F07 vehicles, check the operation of the trunk release
with the remote. If the trunk does not open with the remote, refer to the special procedure in
SI B66 04 15. Leave the ICOM connected to the vehicle.

https://www.bmwtis.net/tiscode/cgi-bin/bulletin.aspx?sie_path=/tsb/bulletins/htm_store/300... 3/3/2016

Page 4 of 15

For information on programming and coding with ISTA/P, refer to Centernet / Aftersales Portal /
Service / Workshop Technology / Vehicle Programming.
Engine Oil Service Interval Retrofit Procedure (F01, F02, F04, F07, F10, F12, and F13):
1. From the ISTA/P start screen select “Start a new session”
2. Select “ISTA/P Server Automatically”
3. Select “Connect”
4. Select “Vehicle”
5. Select “Conversion, oil service 12months/15,000km/10,000 miles” from the retrofit list.
6. Select “Determine Measure Plan”
7. Select “Accept Measure Plan”
8. Select “Continue
9. Select “OK”
10. Select “End Session”
The retrofit of the engine oil service is complete.
Important note: For F01, F02, F04, and F07 vehicles, check the operation of the trunk release
with the remote. If the trunk does not open with the remote, refer to the special procedure in
SI B66 04 15. Leave the ICOM connected to the vehicle.
E70, E71 and E72 Timing Chain Test Plan Path:
1. Select “Troubleshooting”
2. Select “Function structure”
3. Select “Drive”
4. Select “Engine electronics, quality control valve (MSV)”
5. Select “Valve gear”
6. Select “Start Search”
7. From the list of available test plans select “Exhaust camshaft”, and then follow with the
“Display” and then “Continue” buttons
8. Select “Bank 1” and Continue
9. Select “Timing chain test” and follow the steps to complete the test plans
If the test plan results indicate the timing chains are stretched (“Timing chain is not OK”), replace
both timing chains per Repair Instruction 11 31 052 “Replacing both timing chains \ PREMIUM”
after completing the remaining portion of the vehicle evaluation procedure outlined in SI B11 06

https://www.bmwtis.net/tiscode/cgi-bin/bulletin.aspx?sie_path=/tsb/bulletins/htm_store/300... 3/3/2016

Page 5 of 15

14.
IMPORTANT - Before starting the engine for the first time and after replacing the timing
chains:
1. Fill the engine with the specified amount of engine oil.
2. Connect a battery charger to the vehicle.
3. Remove the electric fuel pump fuse. Refer to the applicable wiring diagram using the vin
number of the vehicle in ISTA/D.
4. Crank the engine for 10 seconds.
5. After 10 seconds have elapsed, stop the starter, and allow the starter to cool for 20 seconds.
6. Repeat steps 4 and 5 two additional times.
7. Reinstall the electric fuel pump fuse and start the engine. Verify proper engine operation.
Important: Repair Instruction 11 31 052 for “Replacing both timing chains \
PREMIUM” describes the “replacement” of the engine oil pan gasket (seal).
Failure to replace this gasket (seal) as outlined in the repair instruction can result in an
engine oil leak and an unnecessary return visit to your workshop. Also, using liquid
sealer to substitute the required replacement of this gasket (seal) on the engine is “not
a proper” repair.
A repair to correct engine oil leakage that results from not replacing the engine oil pan
gasket (seal) as required during a previous repair is not a Warranty issue.
Do not discard the replaced parts. These parts will be requested by the Warranty Parts
Return Center (WPRC).When the defective timing chains are removed from the engine label
them with cylinder head bank (1 or 2) they were removed from.
Important Note:
The current ISTA repair manual RA11
31 052 “Replacing both timing chains \
PREMIUM” instructs to release
tension on four bearing bolts (indicated
as #1 for cylinders 5 to 8; and #2 for
cylinders 1 to 4) on the engine block.
IT IS NOT NECESSARY TO DO
THIS.
DO NOT release these bolts, because
the bearing bolts are microencapsulated and they would have to
be replaced if loosened up.
The repair instructions will be updated
soon.

https://www.bmwtis.net/tiscode/cgi-bin/bulletin.aspx?sie_path=/tsb/bulletins/htm_store/300... 3/3/2016

Page 6 of 15

8. Terminate the diagnostic session so that FASTA data will be transmitted.
9. Program the vehicle using ISTA/P 3.55.1 or a more recent version, and retrofit the new
engine oil service interval. The engine oil service interval of the vehicle must be retrofitted to
a shorter service interval of 12 months or 10,000 miles. ISTA/P will automatically reprogram
and code all programmable control modules that do not have the latest software. Perform the
programming, coding and engine oil service retrofit during the same ISTA/P session.
10. For information on programming and coding with ISTA/P, refer to Centernet / Aftersales
Portal / Service / Workshop Technology / Vehicle Programming.
Engine Oil Service Interval Retrofit Procedure (E70, E71 and E72):
1. From the ISTA/P start screen select “Start a new session”
2. Select “ISTA/P Server Automatically”
3. Select “Connect”
4. Select “Vehicle”
5. Select “Conversion, oil service 12months/15,000km/10,000 miles” from the retrofit list.
6. Select “Determine Measure Plan”
7. Select “Accept Measure Plan”
8. Select “Continue
9. Select “OK”
10. Select “End Session”
The retrofit of the engine oil service is complete.
PARTS INFORMATION

The part numbers in the parts table below are no longer blocked. Do not send emails requesting the
release of the parts identified in this document.
Only order the necessary parts, in the quantities needed, for customers’ vehicles that have
confirmed failures or that failed the customer care package inspection.
Also, refer to ETK and the repair instructions for one-time use fasteners and component
information regarding additional and/or replacement screws, gaskets, and seals that need to be
installed and claimed.
Part Number

Description

Quantity

11 31 8 655 427

Timing chain with tensioner rail

2

11 36 8 655 424

VANOS adjustment unit, inlet camshaft

2

https://www.bmwtis.net/tiscode/cgi-bin/bulletin.aspx?sie_path=/tsb/bulletins/htm_store/300... 3/3/2016

Page 7 of 15

11 36 8 655 423

VANOS adjustment unit, outlet camshaft

2

11 31 7 574 397

Guide rail

2

11 31 7 565 242

Slide rail

2

11 21 8 655 426

Sprocket gear

1

11 31 8 655 425

Timing chain tensioner

2

11 35 7 564 346

VANOS collar screw

4

11 31 7 550 461

Seal

2

11 42 7 583 220

Oil filter

1

Refer to EPC

Cylinder Head Gasket (Set)

1

Sublet – Materials
83 21 2 365 946

5W30 BMW Engine Oil 1 liters

Up to 9.5
(E72, F04 8.5)

All parts from these repairs are subject to 100% return and inspection at the WPRC to
ensure appropriate usage of parts. Returned parts which do not meet the correct replacement
criteria, as described in the procedure, will be debited.
Any damage that occurs to the vehicle and/or towing charges as a result of an improper
repair will be the responsibility of the dealer.
WARRANTY INFORMATION

Reimbursement for this repair will be via normal claim entry utilizing the following information:
Defect Code:

00 13 48 02 00

No Timing Chain Replacement is Necessary
In conjuction with labor operations 00 62 111 to 00 62 118 (SI B11 06 14)
Labor Operation:

00 62 913

Labor Allowance:

Description:

Refer to KSD2

Performed with labor operations 00 62
111 to 00 62 118: Check the timing chain
(no replacement necessary), change engine
oil and filter. Modifying the oil service
interval programming/encoding is
reimbursed via a different Technical
Campaign or repair (all)

https://www.bmwtis.net/tiscode/cgi-bin/bulletin.aspx?sie_path=/tsb/bulletins/htm_store/300... 3/3/2016

Page 8 of 15

Or:

00 62 914

Refer to KSD2

Performed with labor operations 00 62
111 to 00 62 118: Check the timing chain
(no replacement necessary), change engine
oil and filter and modify the oil service
interval (programming/encoding, all and
E7x without CAS)

Refer to KSD2

Performed with labor operations 00 62
111 to 00 62 118: Check the timing chain
(no replacement necessary), change engine
oil and filter and modify the oil service
interval (programming/encoding, E7x
with CAS only)

Or:

00 62 915

Timing Chain Replacement is Necessary
In conjuction with Labor Operation 00 62 111 (SI B11 06 14)
Labor Operation:

00 62 916

Labor Allowance:

Description:

Refer to KSD2

Performed with labor operation 00 62
111: Check and replace the timing chain
(includes removing and installing cylinder
head), change engine oil and filter.
Modifying the oil service interval
programming/encoding is reimbursed via
a different Technical Campaign or repair
during the same workshop visit (all)

Refer to KSD2

Performed with labor operation 00 62
111: Check and replace the timing chain
(includes removing and installing cylinder
head), change engine oil and filter and
modify the oil service interval
(programming/encoding, all and E7x
without CAS)

Refer to KSD2

Performed with labor operation 00 62
111: Check and replace the timing chain
(includes removing and installing cylinder
head), change engine oil and filter and
modify the oil service interval

Or;

00 62 917

Or:

00 62 918

https://www.bmwtis.net/tiscode/cgi-bin/bulletin.aspx?sie_path=/tsb/bulletins/htm_store/300... 3/3/2016

Page 9 of 15

(programming/encoding, E7x with CAS
only)
In conjuction with Labor Operation 00 62 112 (SI B11 06 14)
Labor Operation:

00 62 954

Labor Allowance:

Description:

Refer to KSD2