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BMW · Known Issues

2019 BMW M2 Problems: 8 Known Issues

2019 model year · 220+ owner reports · Updated September 2026

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Issue summary

According to Au7o's analysis of 220+ owner reports, the 2019 BMW M2 has 8 documented known issues, with 4 rated critical. The most serious are DCT (M-DCT) Mechatronics Unit Failure ($2,500-$6,000 repair), Missing Fuel Injector Damping Element Causing Fuel Rail Leak (Recall 20V-666) - M2 Competition ($0-$0 repair), Improperly Folded Knee Airbag May Not Deploy (Recall 19V-352) - 2019-2020 M2 Competition ($0-$0 repair) and S55 Crank Hub Failure (CATASTROPHIC) - M2 Competition ($1,200-$2,500 repair). The most commonly reported issue is DCT (M-DCT) Mechatronics Unit Failure with 220 owner reports. Across all issues with published estimates, repair costs range from $400 to $8,000. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.

In This Article

  • M2 Transmission2
  • M2 Engine2
  • M2 Fuel System1
  • M2 Safety/Recalls1
  • M2 Cooling1
  • M2 Drivetrain1
  • Recalls4
  • FAQ
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In This Article

  • Transmission2
  • Engine2
  • Fuel System1
  • Safety/Recalls1
  • Cooling1
  • Drivetrain1
  • Recalls4
  • FAQ

All 8 Known Issues

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Community reported
220 owners

On the 2016-2021 BMW M2, the 7-speed M-DCT dual-clutch transmission in F87 M2 models can develop mechatronics unit failures, causing harsh shifting, failure to engage gears, or transmission fault warnings. The issue is related to the solenoid pack and hydraulic valve body within the mechatronics sleeve.

This issue also affects: BMW 3 Series, BMW 6 Series, BMW M5

Common Symptoms

  • Harsh or delayed shifts
  • Transmission malfunction warning
  • Failure to engage gear
  • Grinding noise during shifts
  • Limp mode activation
  • Check engine light
  • Jerking at low speeds

How to Fix

Replace or rebuild the mechatronics unit. In some cases, a transmission adaptation reset via ISTA can resolve early-stage symptoms. Severe cases require full mechatronics replacement, which involves dropping the transmission. Fluid change every 30k miles helps extend life.

Typical repair cost:$2,500 - $6,000

Research This Issue

Based on 220 owner reports

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Community Reported
High Confidence220 owner reportsLast reported by owners Mar 2026Reviewed Mar 2026

On the 2016-2020 BMW M2, the Getrag DCT (dual-clutch transmission) in the M2 and M2 Competition experiences clutch pack wear from aggressive driving, launches, and track use. The DCT has two clutches (odd and even gears) that wear over time. Symptoms include shuddering during low-speed acceleration, rough shifting, and slipping under hard acceleration. Track use and repeated launch control engagements accelerate wear. DCT fluid degradation also contributes to poor shift quality. This transmission is shared with M3/M4 and has similar failure patterns.

This issue also affects: BMW 3 Series, BMW 6 Series, BMW M5

Common Symptoms

  • Shuddering or judder when accelerating from a stop
  • Rough or harsh shifting between gears
  • Slipping sensation under hard acceleration
  • Burning smell from transmission
  • Check engine light with transmission codes
  • Clutch slip warnings on iDrive

How to Fix

Replace DCT clutch pack ($4,000-6,000 parts + labor). Change DCT fluid every 30,000 miles with BMW-approved fluid to extend clutch life. Avoid excessive launch control use. Transmission adaptation reset via BMW software often improves shift quality temporarily. Some performance shops offer upgraded clutch packs for track use. Extended warranty coverage highly recommended for DCT-equipped M2s.

Typical repair cost:$5,000 - $8,000

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Community Reported
Medium Confidence

On the 2019-2020 BMW M2, the M2 Competition shares the S55 engine with M3/M4 and inherits the catastrophic crank hub failure issue. The crank hub (harmonic balancer) is press-fit onto the crankshaft and can slip under high load, especially with upgraded software or track use. When the hub slips, timing is lost and valves contact pistons, destroying the engine. This is the same critical failure point as the F80 M3 and F82 M4. The OEM crank hub has inadequate interference fit. Most failures occur on tuned cars or during hard track use between 30,000-70,000 miles.

This issue also affects: BMW 1 Series, BMW 2 Series Active Tourer, BMW 3 Series

Common Symptoms

  • Sudden catastrophic engine failure with no warning
  • Rough idle or vibration (early warning if hub is starting to slip)
  • Check engine light with timing correlation codes (P0016, P0017)
  • Misfire codes across all cylinders
  • Metal-on-metal noise from front of engine

How to Fix

MANDATORY preventive replacement with upgraded pinned or keyed crank hub. Pure Turbos, VTT, and S55 Crank Hub Fix all sell upgraded solutions with mechanical retention (pin or keyway). Installation requires crankshaft pulley removal and careful torque specs. This is considered essential maintenance for any S55-powered car, especially if tuned or tracked. Many M2 Competition owners perform this upgrade immediately after purchase.

What you need to fix it

Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.

  • FCP Euro comprehensive pinned S55 crank-hub installation kit 11237574827KT1
    OEM11237574827Cross-refKIT-11237574827KT1

    Fitment: 2019-2020 BMW M2 Competition F87 with S55 within this issue's scope and after FCP vehicle-selector confirmation; verify transmission/drivetrain, kit contents and special-tool requirements before ordering..

    FCP Euro

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.

Typical repair cost:$1,200 - $2,500

Research This Issue

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Community Reported
Medium ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Aug 2026

On the 2019-2021 BMW M2 S55B30, the S55 in the 2019-2021 M2 Competition and M2 CS uses a plastic valve cover with an integrated, non-serviceable crankcase-ventilation (PCV) diaphragm. Two failures come from the same part. The plastic cover warps or cracks from heat cycling and weeps oil down the back of the head onto the hot exhaust manifold. Separately, the PCV diaphragm tears, which lets the crankcase pull excessive vacuum - the giveaway is a high-pitched whistle or squeal at idle that stops the moment you crack the oil filler cap. Because the diaphragm is integral to the cover, neither failure can be fixed with a gasket alone. Owners report leaks starting before 60,000 miles, with the bulk of cases in the 80,000-100,000 mile range. This is an S55 characteristic - the N55 F87 M2's equivalent oil leak is at the filter housing.

Common Symptoms

  • High-pitched whistle or squeal at idle that stops when the oil cap is opened
  • Burning oil smell with the heater or A/C running
  • Visible oil seepage down the back or side of the cylinder head
  • Smoke from the valve cover area on a warm engine
  • Rough idle and oil consumption

How to Fix

Replace the complete valve cover assembly with the gasket - a gasket-only repair does not address a cracked cover or a torn PCV diaphragm. Confirm the PCV diagnosis with the oil-cap test (whistle stops when the cap is loosened) before ordering parts. Clean the oil off the exhaust manifold heat shielding during the repair, since oil dripping onto hot exhaust is a genuine fire risk. No recall applies.

Typical repair cost:$600 - $1,500

Research This Issue

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Community Reported
Medium ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Aug 2026

On the 2019-2021 BMW M2 S55B30, nHTSA recall 20V-666 covers 2019-2021 F87 M2 Competition and 2020 M4 coupes built after BMW relocated part of the engine assembly line. Before the move, the damping element on each fuel injector was fitted by an automated process; afterwards it was fitted manually, and on some engines it was omitted. Without the damper, injector vibration is transmitted into the joint between the fuel line and the high-pressure fuel rail. Over time that connection is damaged and can leak fuel in the engine bay, where an ignition source makes it a fire risk. This is a build-defect recall specific to certain S55 engines, not a general S55 fuel-system wear item - do not confuse it with the diesel HPFP recall 21V-586, which does not cover the M2.

Common Symptoms

  • Fuel smell in or around the engine bay
  • Visible fuel wetness at the fuel rail / fuel line connection
  • Rough running or misfire
  • Check engine light

How to Fix

Free recall remedy. Dealers inspect the fuel injectors and, where a damping component is missing, replace the injectors and the high-pressure fuel rail at no charge under NHTSA campaign 20V-666 (owner notification began 18 December 2020). Check the VIN on nhtsa.gov or with BMW of North America (1-800-525-7417); the repair remains available regardless of vehicle age or mileage.

Typical repair cost:$0 - $0

Research This Issue

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Community Reported
Low ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Aug 2026

On the 2019-2020 BMW M2, nHTSA recall 19V-352 covers 2019-2020 BMW M2 (M2 Competition) among other M models. The knee airbag module was improperly folded and assembled at the supplier, so in a crash where the knee airbag is commanded to fire it may not deploy as intended, reducing lower-body occupant protection. There is no dashboard warning for this defect - the airbag system self-test passes because the fault is mechanical folding, not electrical, so an affected owner has no way to detect it without checking the VIN.

Common Symptoms

  • No driver-detectable symptom - airbag warning light does not illuminate for this defect

How to Fix

Free recall remedy under NHTSA campaign 19V-352: dealers replace the affected knee airbag modules at no cost. Check the VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls or with a BMW dealer - because there are no symptoms, the VIN check is the only way to know whether the car was repaired.

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Typical repair cost:$0 - $0

Research This Issue

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Community Reported
High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Aug 2026

On the 2016-2020 BMW M2 S55, the F87 M2 and M2 Competition have marginal cooling capacity for sustained track use. The small grilles and compact engine bay restrict airflow to the radiator, oil cooler, and intercooler. On track, oil temperatures commonly exceed 280°F and coolant temperatures spike, leading to heat soak and power loss. The M2 Competition with S55 engine runs even hotter. Extended track sessions can cause cooling system component failure or engine damage from overheating. This is well-documented on M2 track forums and affects all F87 M2 models when pushed hard.

This issue also affects: BMW M3, BMW M4

Common Symptoms

  • Oil temperature exceeding 280°F during track sessions
  • Coolant temperature warning on track
  • Noticeable power loss after 3-4 hot laps (heat soak)
  • Limp mode activation from overheating
  • Intercooler heat soak (reduced power on turbocharged models)
  • Fan running constantly after track session

How to Fix

Install aftermarket cooling upgrades for track use: CSF radiator (higher core density), aftermarket oil cooler (Mishimoto, CSF), upgraded intercooler (Wagner, CSF), and coolant reroute kit. Remove kidney grille blockage for better airflow. Install oil temperature and pressure gauges to monitor. Limit track sessions to 15-20 minutes with cool-down laps. Many serious track M2 owners install full cooling system upgrades ($2,500-4,000 total). For street use, stock cooling is adequate.

What you need to fix it

Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.

  • CSF 8355 F87 M2 N55 left auxiliary coolant radiator
    OEM17118625447Cross-ref8355

    It does not fit M2 Competition S55, and the right-side N55 cooler is an engine-oil cooler rather than a second copy of this part..

    BimmerWorld
  • CSF 8258 F87 M2 Competition S55 auxiliary radiator
    OEM17112284603 / 17112284604Cross-ref8258

    S55 left engine-cooling or right charge-air-cooling auxiliary-radiator replacement/upgrade. One modular unit fits either side; order one for a single diagnosed circuit or two only when replacing/upgrading both sides..

    BimmerWorld

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.

Typical repair cost:$2,500 - $5,000

Research This Issue

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Community Reported
Medium ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Aug 2026

On the 2016-2021 BMW M2, the F87 M2 carries its rear differential on rubber-bonded mounts that BMW specified for comfort rather than the torque the M2 makes. The bonded rubber separates from the metal sleeve, letting the differential move under load reversal. The signature symptom is a hard clunk or click from the rear when shifting between reverse and drive, when getting on and off the throttle, or at low-speed manoeuvring, sometimes with a droning vibration at cruise. BMW addressed the complaint through service information rather than a recall, and NHTSA holds a bulletin covering knocking noise and vibration/droning from the rear axle with instructions to replace the rear differential suspension mount. The complaint appears on both manual and DCT cars and is aggravated by track use and tuning.

Common Symptoms

  • Clunk or click from the rear when shifting reverse to drive
  • Knock from the rear axle on throttle on/off transitions
  • Droning or vibration from the rear at cruising speed
  • Rear-end looseness felt through the seat during hard launches

How to Fix

Inspect the differential mounts and the rear subframe bushings before chasing the noise elsewhere - a failing exhaust hanger or a worn driveshaft flex disc produces a similar clunk. Replace the rear differential suspension mount per BMW's service instructions. Many owners fit polyurethane or aluminium-insert mounts, which cures the clunk permanently at the cost of some added driveline noise into the cabin. Cars still under the BMW new-vehicle warranty have had this covered; there is no recall.

Typical repair cost:$400 - $1,200

Research This Issue

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Community Reported
High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Aug 2026
NHTSA Recalls4 recalls

AIR BAGS:KNEE BOLSTER

BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2019-2020 230i, 230i xDrive, M240i, M240i xDrive, M2 Competition Coupe, 430i, 430i xDrive, 440i, 440i xDrive, M4, and 2019 330i xDrive Sportswagon vehicles. The driver and passenger knee air bag assemblies may have been improperly folded and assembled.

Campaign #19V35200009/05/2019

SEAT BELTS

BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2021 2 Series (230i, 230i xDrive, M240i, M240i xDrive), 330e, 330e Xdrive, 4 Series Coupe (430i, 430i xDrive, M440i xDrive) M4 Coupe, M4 Competition Coupe, BMW 4 Series Convertible (430i, M440i), BMW X1 sDrive28i, xDrive28i, 2 Series Gran Coupe (228i, 228i xDrive, M235i xDrive), M2 Competition Coupe, 330i, 330i xDrive, M340i, M340i xDrive, M3, M3 Competition, 530i, 530i xDrive, 540i, 540i xDrive, MINI Hardtop 2 Door (Cooper, CooperS, JCW), X2 sDrive28i, X2 xDrive28i, X2 M35i, Z4 sDrive30i, Z4 M40i, MINI Hardtop 2 Door (Cooper SE), MINI Convertible (Cooper, Cooper S, JCW), MINI Clubman (Cooper S, Cooper S All4, JCW), MINI Countryman (Cooper, Cooper All4, Cooper S, Cooper S All4, JCW All4), Rolls Royce Ghost, MINI Countryman (Cooper S E All4), Rolls Royce Phantom, Rolls Royce Cullinan, and Toyota Supra vehicles. The passenger seat belt Automatic Locking Retractor (ALR) may deactivate early, before the webbing fully retracts. As such, these assemblies fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common BMW M2 problems?

According to Au7o's analysis of 220+ owner reports, the 2019 BMW M2 has 8 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: DCT (M-DCT) Mechatronics Unit Failure, Missing Fuel Injector Damping Element Causing Fuel Rail Leak (Recall 20V-666) - M2 Competition, Improperly Folded Knee Airbag May Not Deploy (Recall 19V-352) - 2019-2020 M2 Competition. Of these, 4 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.

Is the BMW M2 reliable?

The 2019 BMW M2 has 8 known issues documented across 220+ owner reports. 4 issues are rated critical: DCT (M-DCT) Mechatronics Unit Failure and Missing Fuel Injector Damping Element Causing Fuel Rail Leak (Recall 20V-666) - M2 Competition and Improperly Folded Knee Airbag May Not Deploy (Recall 19V-352) - 2019-2020 M2 Competition and S55 Crank Hub Failure (CATASTROPHIC) - M2 Competition. 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 M2 problems?

Repair costs for known BMW M2 issues range from $0 to $8,000, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, DCT (M-DCT) Mechatronics Unit Failure, typically costs $2,500-$6,000 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.

What is the 2016-2021 BMW M2 DCT (M-DCT) Mechatronics Unit Failure?

The 7-speed M-DCT dual-clutch transmission in F87 M2 models can develop mechatronics unit failures, causing harsh shifting, failure to engage gears, or transmission fault warnings. The issue is related to the solenoid pack and hydraulic valve body within the mechatronics sleeve. Repairs typically run $2,500-$6,000. Severity: high.

What is the 2019-2021 BMW M2 Missing Fuel Injector Damping Element Causing Fuel Rail Leak (Recall 20V-666) - M2 Competition?

NHTSA recall 20V-666 covers 2019-2021 F87 M2 Competition and 2020 M4 coupes built after BMW relocated part of the engine assembly line. Before the move, the damping element on each fuel injector was fitted by an automated process; afterwards it was fitted manually, and on some en… Repairs typically run $0-$0. Severity: high.

Content on this page was compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, owner reports, and public automotive data. While we strive for accuracy, this information may contain errors. Always verify repair procedures and specifications with your vehicle's service manual or a qualified mechanic.

Data sourced from 220+ owner reports, NHTSA recalls, TSBs, and automotive forums.

Campaign #21V55400021/07/2021

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:FUEL INJECTION SYSTEM

BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2020-2021 M2 Coupe and 2020 M4 Coupe vehicles. Fuel injectors may have been installed without a damping component which is used to reduce vibration. If a damping component is not present, vibration will increase at the connection between the fuel line and the fuel rail, which over time, can result in damage at the connection.

Campaign #20V66600029/10/2020

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: INSTRUMENT CLUSTER/PANEL

BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2018 230i, 230i xDrive, M240i, M240i xDrive, M2, and X3 xDrive 30i SAV vehicles. These vehicles may have an error in the software for the instrument panel, causing the display to not properly illuminate. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 101, "Control and Displays."

Campaign #17V71900015/11/2017

Enter your VIN at NHTSA.gov to check recalls specific to your vehicle.

What is the 2019-2020 BMW M2 Improperly Folded Knee Airbag May Not Deploy (Recall 19V-352) - 2019-2020 M2 Competition?

NHTSA recall 19V-352 covers 2019-2020 BMW M2 (M2 Competition) among other M models. The knee airbag module was improperly folded and assembled at the supplier, so in a crash where the knee airbag is commanded to fire it may not deploy as intended, reducing lower-body occupant pro… Repairs typically run $0-$0. Severity: high.

What is the 2019-2020 BMW M2 S55 Crank Hub Failure (CATASTROPHIC) - M2 Competition?

The M2 Competition shares the S55 engine with M3/M4 and inherits the catastrophic crank hub failure issue. The crank hub (harmonic balancer) is press-fit onto the crankshaft and can slip under high load, especially with upgraded software or track use. When the hub slips, timing i… Repairs typically run $1,200-$2,500. Severity: high.

What is the 2016-2020 BMW M2 Cooling System Inadequacy Under Track Use - F87 M2/M2C?

The F87 M2 and M2 Competition have marginal cooling capacity for sustained track use. The small grilles and compact engine bay restrict airflow to the radiator, oil cooler, and intercooler. On track, oil temperatures commonly exceed 280°F and coolant temperatures spike, leading t… Repairs typically run $2,500-$5,000. Severity: medium.

What is the 2019-2021 BMW M2 S55 Valve Cover Cracking and Non-Serviceable PCV Diaphragm Failure - M2 Competition/CS?

The S55 in the 2019-2021 M2 Competition and M2 CS uses a plastic valve cover with an integrated, non-serviceable crankcase-ventilation (PCV) diaphragm. Two failures come from the same part. The plastic cover warps or cracks from heat cycling and weeps oil down the back of the hea… Repairs typically run $600-$1,500. Severity: medium.

What is the 2016-2021 BMW M2 Rear Differential Mount Bushing Deterioration Causing Rear-End Clunk - F87 M2?

The F87 M2 carries its rear differential on rubber-bonded mounts that BMW specified for comfort rather than the torque the M2 makes. The bonded rubber separates from the metal sleeve, letting the differential move under load reversal. The signature symptom is a hard clunk or clic… Repairs typically run $400-$1,200. Severity: medium.

What is the 2016-2020 BMW M2 DCT Dual-Clutch Transmission Shudder & Clutch Wear - F87 M2/M2C?

The Getrag DCT (dual-clutch transmission) in the M2 and M2 Competition experiences clutch pack wear from aggressive driving, launches, and track use. The DCT has two clutches (odd and even gears) that wear over time. Symptoms include shuddering during low-speed acceleration, roug… Repairs typically run $5,000-$8,000. Severity: medium.