Cam belt changes?new car

Question

looking at buyin a bmw 5 series- 523ise 2.5ltr 98 r reg, the milage is 138k and apparently it has a chain belt unlike the ordinary cam belt is it true they need changing about every 200k? cheers oh and is there anything we should look out for when we go to view it tommorow? cheers

Answer 1

138k on this engine is not a lot! In theory, the timing chain should last the life of the engine. But, they  can wear, and hook the sprockets but if this happens they get very noisey so it is not like a belt that will just snap.

There are no particular touble spots with these cars so it is really a case of giving  it a good looke over, does it look well cared for. Then the test drive, there should be little in the way of rattles and squeaks on this car, check the suspension on a couple of tight bends and a roundabout, try an emergency stop to check the brakes. usual things really. Do make sure the engine looks oil tight though.

Answer 2

In short, they don't need regular replacement at any interval.

The 5 series is a great car, just check for a service history, overall condition & tyres - they can be seriously expensive.

Use an independent garage for your servicing, BMW dealers will rob you blind!

Even at ten years old & that mileage, it should be tight, rattle free & smooth. There should be absolutely no odd noises or behaviours at all. If there are, walk away.

Answer 3

Jamie,

The BMW 5 series comes with a chain drive in place of a cam belt. As a result the chain should outlast the engine, however there are a couple of things to do to make sure the chain is in tip top condition. First make sure you service the engine at the required intervals, the condition of the engine oil has a huge effect on the wear on the chain. Secondly make sure you allow the engine to warm up before you hammer it.

Before the chain fails the first thing to give problems will be the wear guides that run around the chain. They are made from plastic and are designed to wear before the chain, normally the chain will make a noise before you have any problems.

Ja.