I had my timing chain changed today and can already tell the difference. My 2010 Cooper Graphite has covered 75k miles and been well looked after with regular (5k) oil changes but I had recently been experiencing engine stall at traffic lights, roundabouts etc. with the code P0015. I changed the exhaust vanos solenoid which worked for a while but after 1k miles it started appearing again. So today my mechanic friend changed the chain, guides, tensioner and all bolts etc. (All FEBI or BMW parts) and on first test drive I can totally hear and feel the difference. The engine is ticking over at a regular rate without hunting as before, the P0015 code has gone and the Start/Stop function is working again.

I have been reading on forums for several months about the N16 engine not experiencing the problem of chain stretch but in my opinion, it does happen and it's definitely worth changing. My old chain was at least a link longer than the new one which is quite worrying considering it's been so well looked after.

I have added some pictures of engine, parts etc. Most interesting is the one of the new chain sat on top of the old one, notice the difference!

So all in all, I spent the best part of £500 on parts and labour but it's so worth it for the peace of mind that my engine is in great condition. Looking forward to the next 70k miles!