Reference figures for the BMW M47 2.0-litre diesel engine, fitted across Freelander 2, Evoque and various BMW applications. No opinions, no verdicts — just the numbers, correctly sourced and verified against variant differences.
The BMW M47 (2.0-litre diesel) takes approximately 5.5 litres of engine oil with a filter change. The recommended grade is 5W-30 or 5W-40, meeting BMW Longlife-04 specification. [PLACEHOLDER — confirm vs OEM workshop data]
Full specification table, variant differences, common mistakes and the critical caveat around oil specification explained below.
| Spec | Value |
|---|---|
| Capacity with filter change | ~5.5 litres [PLACEHOLDER] |
| Capacity without filter change | ~5.2 litres [PLACEHOLDER] |
| Recommended viscosity | 5W-30 / 5W-40 [PLACEHOLDER — confirm] |
| BMW specification | Longlife-04 [PLACEHOLDER — confirm exact spec] |
| Service interval | 12,000 miles / 12 months [PLACEHOLDER] |
| Oil filter type | Spin‑on canister, side‑mounted |
| Oil grade (alternative) | 10W-40 (older engines, moderate climates) |
Figures marked [PLACEHOLDER] require confirmation against the OEM workshop manual before this page goes live — flagged here deliberately rather than guessed.
The M47 was produced in several power outputs across different applications, with minor differences in sump capacity and oil filter location.
| Application | Engine Code | Capacity with Filter | Filter Type | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Freelander 2 (L359) | M47D20 | ~5.5 litres [PLACEHOLDER] | Spin‑on (side‑mounted) | Used in early FL2; 2.2-litre later replaced it |
| Range Rover Evoque (L538) | M47D20 | ~5.5 litres [PLACEHOLDER] | Spin‑on (side‑mounted) | Early Evoque diesel; later replaced by Ingenium |
| BMW 3 Series (E90) | M47D20 | ~5.5 litres [PLACEHOLDER] | Spin‑on (side‑mounted) | Various power outputs; same base capacity |
| BMW X3 (E83) | M47D20 | ~5.5 litres [PLACEHOLDER] | Spin‑on (side‑mounted) | Same oil capacity across M47 family |
The M47 is a robust 2.0-litre diesel, but it has a well‑known vulnerability: the timing chain tensioner on later variants. Oil quality and change intervals directly affect tensioner longevity. The recommended 5W-30 or 5W-40 grade with BMW Longlife-04 approval is essential for maintaining oil pressure and protecting the chain tensioner. [EM-INTERVIEW]
In Land Rover applications (Freelander 2, early Evoque), the M47 was often replaced by the Ford‑sourced 2.2‑litre diesel or the later Ingenium family. Using the correct oil specification is particularly important in these applications due to the heavier vehicle weight and different operating conditions. [EM-INTERVIEW]
This engine is also known for timing chain issues on high‑mileage units, and regular oil changes with the correct spec are the single most effective prevention.
The M47 dipstick is located on the driver's side of the engine (right‑hand side in RHD vehicles). The oil filler cap is on the cam cover. The oil filter is a spin‑on canister, usually mounted on the side of the engine block. Confirm your exact engine code via the engine number stamp (e.g. M47D20) using our Engine Number Location guide before assuming these figures apply — early and late production runs occasionally carry minor running changes.
The M47's hydraulic valve lifters and timing chain tensioner rely on oil pressure and viscosity. Using an oil that doesn't meet BMW Longlife‑04 approval can lead to increased wear, noisy lifters, and premature timing chain tensioner failure — a well‑documented issue that can result in a catastrophic engine failure if left unaddressed. [EM-INTERVIEW]
In Land Rover applications, the M47 often sees heavier use than in BMW saloons, which makes oil quality even more critical. Regular oil changes with the correct spec are a relatively low‑cost way to avoid a £2,000+ timing chain repair or a £4,000+ engine replacement. [EM-QUOTE]
Every Figure SourcedUnverified numbers are flagged, never guessed.
Last Verified August 2026Reviewed on a regular schedule, not left to go stale.
12 Vetted JLR SpecialistsReal workshop insight behind the caveats, not just the spec sheet.
100% IndependentNo sponsors, no manufacturer influence.
If you're unsure about oil choice or have noticed timing chain rattle or low oil pressure, get an honest diagnosis from our vetted specialist network.
COMPARE QUOTES NOW USE THE OIL FINDER TOOL →