What are the most common BMW 4 Series problems?
According to Au7o's analysis of 740+ owner reports, the 2014-2025 BMW 4 Series has 9 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: N20 Timing Chain Guide Failure (428i), N20 Timing Chain Premature Failure - 428i F32/F33/F36, B58 Charge Pipe Pop-Off Under Boost. Of these, 2 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.
Is the BMW 4 Series reliable?
The 2014-2025 BMW 4 Series has 9 known issues documented across 740+ owner reports. 2 issues are rated critical: N20 Timing Chain Guide Failure (428i) and N20 Timing Chain Premature Failure - 428i F32/F33/F36. Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.
How much does it cost to fix common BMW 4 Series problems?
Repair costs for known BMW 4 Series issues range from $150 to $4,500, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, N20 Timing Chain Guide Failure (428i), typically costs $2,000-$3,800 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.
What year BMW 4 Series is the most reliable?
Reliability varies across model years of the BMW 4 Series. Based on documented issues, problems are most commonly reported in earlier model years. Au7o recommends checking the specific known issues for your target year before purchasing, and having a pre-purchase inspection performed by a qualified mechanic. Our known issues database covers the 2014-2025 BMW 4 Series with 9 documented issues documented across 740+ owner reports.
What is the 2014-2016 BMW 4 Series N20 Timing Chain Guide Failure (428i)?
The 428i models equipped with the N20 four-cylinder turbo engine suffer from the same timing chain guide failure as other N20-powered BMWs. The plastic chain guides crack and disintegrate, allowing chain slack that leads to timing correlation faults and potential engine damage. T… Repairs typically run $2,000-$3,800. Severity: high.
What is the 2014-2016 BMW 4 Series N20 Timing Chain Premature Failure - 428i F32/F33/F36?
The N20 2.0L turbocharged engine in 428i models suffers from premature timing chain stretch and guide failure, typically occurring between 40,000-80,000 miles. The single-row timing chain design is inadequate for the engine's power output. Chain stretch causes the timing to jump,… Repairs typically run $2,500-$4,500. Severity: high.
What is the 2017-2025 BMW 4 Series B58 Charge Pipe Pop-Off Under Boost?
The plastic charge pipe (intercooler to throttle body) on B58-powered 440i and M440i models can pop off or crack under high boost pressure, especially in warm weather or during spirited driving. The OEM plastic pipe uses a pressed-on connector that weakens over heat cycles. When… Repairs typically run $200-$500. Severity: medium.
What is the 2014-2020 BMW 4 Series Valve Cover Gasket Leak and PCV Failure?
The valve cover gasket on N20 (428i) and N55 (435i) engines develops leaks typically between 60,000-90,000 miles. The integrated PCV valve within the valve cover can also fail, causing excessive crankcase pressure, oil consumption, and rough running. Oil seepage from the valve co… Repairs typically run $500-$1,200. Severity: medium.
What is the 2014-2020 BMW 4 Series Turbo Charge Pipe Failure - 428i/435i/440i F32/F33/F36?
BMW uses a plastic charge pipe (boost pipe) to route pressurized air from the turbocharger to the engine intake. The plastic becomes brittle over time due to heat cycles and boost pressure. The pipe commonly cracks or the connection points fail, causing a sudden loss of boost pre… Repairs typically run $150-$600. Severity: medium.
What is the 2014-2020 BMW 4 Series Fuel Injector Failure - 428i/430i/435i/440i F32/F33/F36?
Direct injection fuel injectors on N20 and N55 engines commonly fail between 60,000-100,000 miles due to carbon buildup and high-pressure operation. Injector internal seals wear out, causing fuel leaks or inconsistent spray patterns. Failed injectors cause rough running, misfires… Repairs typically run $800-$2,500. Severity: medium.
What is the 2014-2018 BMW 4 Series N55 Electric Water Pump Failure - 435i/440i F32/F33/F36?
The N55 engine uses an electric auxiliary water pump (in addition to the mechanical pump) that commonly fails between 60,000-100,000 miles. The electric pump circulates coolant when the engine is off to prevent heat soak and during cold starts. Pump bearing wear and seal failure… Repairs typically run $400-$900. Severity: medium.
What is the 2014-2020 BMW 4 Series Convertible Top Hydraulic Pump & Motor Failure - F33 Convertible?
The F33 4 Series convertible uses a complex hydraulic folding hardtop system that commonly experiences pump and motor failures. The hydraulic pump motor burns out from overheating or seal leaks cause hydraulic fluid loss. Top becomes stuck in partially open/closed position. Micro… Repairs typically run $1,200-$3,500. Severity: medium.
What is the 2014-2018 BMW 4 Series N55 VANOS Solenoid Failure - 435i/440i F32/F33/F36?
The N55 3.0L turbocharged inline-6 engine in 435i and early 440i models experiences VANOS (Variable Valve Timing) solenoid failures. These solenoids control oil flow to the VANOS system for variable valve timing. Internal wear causes them to stick or fail, leading to rough runnin… Repairs typically run $250-$800. Severity: medium.
