Original BMW Timing Chain Tensioner Rail for N20 and N26 BMW 228i, 320i, 328i, 428i, 528i, X1, X3, X4, X5, and Z4 (2012–2018)

For the four-cylinder N20 and N26 turbo engines, Original BMW part 11-31-7-592-877 is the chain tensioner and guide rail, fitted to 2012–2018 BMW 228i, 320i, 328i, 428i, 528i, X1, X3, X4, X5 xDrive40e, and Z4 sDrive28i models. BMW calls it the chain tensioner and guide rail. It is made in Germany, weighs 246 grams, and went into production in March 2011. A timing chain links the crankshaft to the camshafts, and its rails guide the chain over the sprockets and limit slack and vibration so valve timing stays correct.

Original BMW Parts carry a 24-month parts warranty.

BMW's timing diagram lists a separate timing chain guide for these engines, so match by part number. BMW's timing diagram for these engines shows a separate timing chain guide, 11-31-7-592-850, alongside it, together with the timing chain 11-31-7-516-074, the chain tensioner 11-31-7-567-680, and its gasket 11-31-7-631-972. Three guide bolts appear in the same drawing: 07-12-9-903-192, 11-31-7-592-878, and 11-31-7-584-170. Timing chains are semi-permanent parts meant to last well into hundreds of thousands of miles, and rails are usually replaced during high-mileage rebuilds or when parts are damaged or missing.

Technical Details

• Manufacturer: BMW (Original BMW part)
• Part number: 11-31-7-592-877
• BMW part name: chain tensioner and guide rail
• Engines: N20 and N26
• Weight: 246 g (0.5 lb)
• Production start: March 2011
• Made in Germany
• Sold individually as one rail
• Warranty: 24 months on Original BMW Parts

Common Questions

What are the signs of a worn chain rail?
A rattling or clattering noise at startup or idle is the most common sign. Severe wear can let the chain slip, causing misfires, hard starting, or stalling.

Is this the same part as the fixed guide rail?
No. The separate timing chain guide is a different number, 11-31-7-592-850.

PMB can supply the full N20 timing parts set alongside this rail.

Fitment & Compatibility

Confirm your model year and submodel against the table below before ordering. Send your VIN and PMB Performance will confirm the fit, drawing on more than 20 years in the trade.