Second Hand BMW X6 Timing Chain

Yes, every BMW X6 across all generations uses a timing chain rather than a timing belt, so this is a genuine part you can source from a breaker. This applies to both petrol and diesel variants of the X6 — none of the engines fitted to this model use a rubber cam belt. The chain is an internal engine component, so the exact part you need depends almost entirely on the engine fitted to your car rather than the body style or trim level.

The engine code is the single most important detail when matching a timing chain, as BMW used several different straight-six and V8 engines across the X6 range and each has its own chain configuration. Your engine code will be on your V5C registration document or can be retrieved from a VIN check, and it typically looks something like N57, N55, S63, or B57 depending on the generation and variant. Give this code to the breaker rather than just the year or badge name, as two X6s from the same year can have different engines and incompatible chains.

Almost certainly not directly, as the E71 (first generation, 2008–2014) and the F16 (second generation, 2014–2019) used different engine families — for example, the E71 used the N57 or N55, while the F16 introduced updated variants and different configurations. Even where engine codes look similar, there were internal changes between generations that can affect chain and tensioner specifications. Name both registration plates to your breaker and let them cross-reference the exact engine codes to confirm compatibility before buying.

Yes, it matters significantly because these badges indicate different engines — the 30d and 40d are diesel variants (typically straight-six units such as the N57 or B57 in various states of tune) while the 50i is a petrol V8, and all of these have different timing chain arrangements. Even within the diesel range, a 40d with its twin-turbo setup may have a different chain specification to the 30d despite sharing a broadly similar engine family. Always lead with the engine code rather than the badge when speaking to a breaker.

No, trim level has no effect on the timing chain whatsoever, as this is a purely mechanical internal engine component. M Sport, xLine, and SE versions of the X6 with the same engine code will take an identical timing chain, so you do not need to worry about matching trim badges when sourcing from a breaker. The only cosmetic difference you might encounter is that an M Sport car has different styling parts externally, but none of that affects the engine internals.

A 2018 X6 is an F16, as the third-generation G06 was introduced in 2019. The F16 ran from 2014 to 2019, so your 2018 model falls within that generation. That said, engine specifications can still vary within the F16 production run, so confirm the exact engine code from your V5C or a VIN check and give that to your breaker to ensure you get the right chain and associated tensioners.