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BMW 4 Series
Coupe · Gas · 125 versions · owner report
Ranked #10 of 17 luxury compact cars on owner data, price and fuel economy
Every generation
Power
0–62 mph (0–100 km/h)
Top speed (250 km/h)
Combined, EPA 2027
What owners say
Our take, from owner reports
Sentiment is mixed and heavily dependent on the specific model, engine, and generation.
9 problems reported (1 very frequent, 5 recurrent, 3 isolated) · medium confidence
Problems owners report
- Very frequentHigh cost of ownership and unexpected repairs
Budgeting $1,000-$3,000+ annually for maintenance and repairs is frequently mentioned, with major services (e.g., timing chain) potentially costing $4,000-$5,000.
- RecurrentN55/B58 engine oil filter housing cracking
A well-known issue on certain engines, particularly noted on the N55.
- RecurrentTiming chain rattle on cold start (4-cylinder engines)
Specifically mentioned for the 2.0L petrol engines, a sign of potential wear.
+ 6 more issuesShow fewer
- RecurrentxDrive transfer case reliability
Described as "chocolate" (prone to failure), can cause judder at low speeds.
- RecurrentStandard audio system quality
Criticized as dreadful and a significant downgrade from the optional Harmon Kardon system.
- RecurrentElectrical and sensor gremlins
General concerns about failing redundant sensors and electrical issues as the car ages.
- IsolatedWeak horn
Noted as a common fault on several examples.
- IsolatedWindow washer jet blockages
Described as a known and annoying issue.
- IsolatedSOS battery failure
The battery for the emergency system, located in the headlining, can fail in cold weather.
The version owners recommend
Models equipped with the B58 inline-six turbocharged engine (e.g., 435i, 440i, M440i) receive the most consistent praise for performance, smoothness, and being a "great drivetrain." The M440i with its mild-hybrid system is specifically noted for its refined start-stop and improved low-end response. For the F-generation, the 435i is frequently mentioned as a desirable and reliable powertrain choice. Trims with the M Sport package, adaptive suspension, and Harmon Kardon audio are recommended over base configurations.
Competitors to consider
Owners compare it most often with the Audi A4/A5, Mercedes-Benz C-Class/CLK/CLE, Lexus RC, Alfa Romeo Giulia and BMW 2 Series.
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Overall sentiment
Sentiment is mixed and heavily dependent on the specific model, engine, and generation. For the F-generation (e.g., 428i, 430i, 435i, 440i), owner feedback is generally positive regarding driving dynamics, styling, and the overall package of technology and comfort. These cars are frequently described as "amazing," "solid," and "great all-rounders" that offer a satisfying blend of performance and luxury features. However, this positivity is tempered by widespread and significant concerns about long-term cost of ownership, reliability of certain components, and the financial risk of owning an out-of-warranty vehicle. The consensus indicates high satisfaction among owners who prioritize driving experience and can absorb maintenance costs, but strong caution for those on a tight budget or expecting Toyota-like reliability.
Positioning vs competitors
Positioned as a sportier, more driver-focused coupe/gran coupe compared to its direct rivals. Within the BMW lineup, the 4 Series is often compared to the 3 Series sedan, with some owners noting the 4 Series offers superior styling and a more engaging drive, while the 3 Series may offer better practicality and rear passenger space. Compared to Audi and Mercedes, the BMW is consistently described as the sportiest and most engaging to drive of the three, with Mercedes leaning more toward comfort and Audi positioned in between. The Lexus RC is noted for superior interior refinement and reliability but less engaging dynamics. The vehicle is seen as offering strong performance value, especially models with the B58 engine (e.g., 440i, M440i), which are highlighted as "best bang for your buck grown up performance vehicles."
Recommended configurations
B58 engine (435i, 440i, M440i) strongly recommended for performance and reliability. M Sport package for improved aesthetics and handling. Harmon Kardon audio system, as the standard audio is criticized as poor. Technology package with heads-up display is valued. For all-wheel drive models (xDrive), checking the transfer case for judder at low speeds is advised before purchase. For used models, a Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) warranty is highly recommended due to potential repair costs. A thorough pre-purchase inspection, including a cold start to listen for timing chain rattle on 4-cylinder models, is essential.
General recommendations
Suitable for driving enthusiasts who prioritize handling, performance, and styling and have a dedicated annual budget for maintenance and repairs. Not recommended as a daily driver for buyers with tight finances or low tolerance for unexpected repair bills, as costs align with the car's original MSRP, not its depreciated used price. Strongly consider purchasing a Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) model to mitigate repair risk, even if it costs a few thousand dollars more than a similar non-CPO car. Avoid financing very high-mileage examples (e.g., 75,000+ miles) without a significant repair fund. Test drive extensively, focusing on highway merging power if considering a 4-cylinder model. Verify all technology features and check for common faults like weak horns, blocked window washer jets, and xDrive transfer case issues during the inspection.
Remarks
Owner discussions heavily focus on the F-generation (model codes F32, F33, F36), with some references to the newer G22/G26 generation. Feedback for the newer generation includes criticism of its interior design and infotainment, described as "utterly lazy, uninspiring and flat out hideous" and plagued by a "terrible human interface and buggy software." The B58 engine (in 440i/M440i) is repeatedly singled out as a high point for performance and reliability, forming the basis for its strong value proposition against competitors. The financial advice within the community is unanimous: never purchase a high-mileage German performance car without a warranty or a substantial repair fund, as the potential repair costs can quickly equal or exceed the vehicle's value. Analysis based on approximately 24 substantive owner discussions and queries.
Generation by generation
Owner insights per generation and US complaint/recall records (NHTSA).
4 Series (G26)2021–202664 complaints · 2 recallsmoderate confidenceRead report
Most-reported areas (NHTSA): electrical system (20) · power train (12) · engine (9)
Our take, from owner reports
Owner sentiment on the G26 generation is sharply divided, with styling dominating nearly every discussion.
5 problems reported (1 very frequent, 2 recurrent, 2 isolated) · medium confidence
Problems owners report
- Very frequentPolarizing front grille design
Owners across numerous threads criticize the large vertical kidney grille as ugly, disproportionate, or a departure from BMW design heritage.
- RecurrentPoor rear visibility with convertible top up
Multiple convertible owners report limited visibility when turning to look behind, though they note the blind spot monitoring system helps.
- RecurrentSoft-top convertible instead of hardtop
Several owners express disappointment that the G26 convertible uses a soft top rather than the previous generation's folding hardtop.
+ 2 more issuesShow fewer
- IsolatedFake exhaust tips
One owner criticizes the fake exhaust tips on the M440i.
- IsolatedLow-profile run-flat tire and rim damage on poor roads
One owner warns of frequent tire replacements and cracked rims on bad roads.
Is a 2021–2026 4 Series right for you?
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4 Series (G23)2020–202670 complaints · 2 recallsmoderate confidenceRead report
Most-reported areas (NHTSA): electrical system (20) · power train (12) · engine (9)
Our take, from owner reports
Owner sentiment on the G23 generation is sharply divided along two axes.
8 problems reported (1 very frequent, 3 recurrent, 4 isolated) · medium confidence
Problems owners report
- Very frequentPolarizing oversized front grille design
- RecurrentNo manual transmission option
- RecurrentLimited rear visibility with convertible top up
+ 5 more issuesShow fewer
- RecurrentConvertible switched from hardtop to soft top, criticized by some owners
- IsolatedFake exhaust tips
- IsolatedGauge cluster with reverse-sweep tachometer criticized
- IsolatedLow-profile run-flat tires and rims vulnerable to pothole damage
- IsolatedBrake rotors with surface rust on CPO vehicles
Is a 2020–2026 4 Series right for you?
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4 Series (G22)2020–202670 complaints · 2 recallsmoderate confidenceRead report
Most-reported areas (NHTSA): electrical system (20) · power train (12) · engine (9)
Our take, from owner reports
Owner sentiment on the G22 is sharply divided.
7 problems reported (1 very frequent, 3 recurrent, 3 isolated) · medium confidence
Problems owners report
- Very frequentFront grille design widely disliked
- RecurrentPoor rear visibility with convertible top up
- RecurrentSoft top replaces previous hardtop, seen as a downgrade
+ 4 more issuesShow fewer
- RecurrentLow-profile run-flat tires and rims vulnerable on bad roads
- IsolatedNo manual transmission option
- IsolatedFake exhaust tips criticized
- IsolatedGauge cluster layout criticized (tachometer orientation)
Is a 2020–2026 4 Series right for you?
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4 Series (F36)2014–2021389 complaints · 11 recallshigh confidenceRead report
Most-reported areas (NHTSA): electrical system (127) · engine and engine cooling (85) · engine (84)
Our take, from owner reports
Owners of the 2014-2021 F36 4 Series generally express strong satisfaction, frequently describing the car as a driver's vehicle that is practical, especially in Gran Coupe form.
12 problems reported (1 very frequent, 2 recurrent, 9 isolated) · high confidence
Problems owners report
- Very frequentDoor handle soft-touch plastic degrading and becoming sticky
- RecurrentRun-flat tires causing harsh ride and burning through tire and rim packages
- RecurrentOil leaks, with one owner reporting a leak fixed free under warranty that would have cost a grand
+ 9 more issuesShow fewer
- IsolatedRear door rattle requiring door card removal to investigate
- IsolatedBrake rotors with deep surface rust from sitting, failing to pass safety inspections
- IsolatedB58 oil filter disintegrating with 10,000-mile oil change intervals
- IsolatedCoolant tank cap leaking
- IsolatedPCV valve membrane failure indicated by white exhaust smoke
- IsolatedValve cover gasket leaking
- IsolatedConvertible models requiring drain/gutter cleaning and rubber seal replacement on aging cars
- IsolatedBluetooth media display issues with newer Spotify versions
- IsolatedCar going through tires
Is a 2014–2021 4 Series right for you?
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4 Series (F33)2014–2020374 complaints · 11 recallshigh confidenceRead report
Most-reported areas (NHTSA): electrical system (121) · engine and engine cooling (85) · engine (81)
Our take, from owner reports
Owners generally view this generation as a stylish, engaging daily driver with strong engines, particularly praising the B58-equipped models and the Gran Coupe's practicality.
7 problems reported (1 very frequent, 2 recurrent, 4 isolated) · high confidence
Problems owners report
- Very frequentDoor grip soft-touch plastic degrading, melting, or becoming sticky
- RecurrentBrake rotor surface corrosion on CPO vehicles, potentially failing safety inspections
- RecurrentB58 engine issues
Oil filter disintegration with extended oil change intervals, coolant tank cap leaks, PCV valve membrane failure, valve cover gasket leaks.
+ 4 more issuesShow fewer
- IsolatedRear door rattle requiring door card removal
- IsolatedBad fuel injector requiring replacement
- IsolatedBluetooth media display issues with newer Spotify versions not showing track information
- IsolatedConvertible drain/gutter clogging and rubber seal deterioration on older examples
Is a 2014–2020 4 Series right for you?
Get an answer for your year, mileage and budget.
4 Series (F32)2013–2020374 complaints · 11 recallshigh confidenceRead report
Most-reported areas (NHTSA): electrical system (121) · engine and engine cooling (85) · engine (81)
Our take, from owner reports
Owners generally view the F32 4 Series as a stylish, engaging driver's car that balances performance with daily usability.
12 problems reported (1 very frequent, 1 recurrent, 10 isolated) · high confidence
Problems owners report
- Very frequentDoor handle soft-touch plastic degrading, melting, or becoming sticky
- RecurrentRun-flat tires causing harsh ride and premature wear
- IsolatedOil leaks (specifically noted on 430d models, covered under warranty in one case)
+ 9 more issuesShow fewer
- IsolatedRear door rattle requiring door card removal
- IsolatedBluetooth media connectivity issues with newer Spotify versions
- IsolatedBrake rotor surface corrosion on CPO vehicles
- IsolatedTiming chain concerns on diesel models (N47/B47 engines)
- IsolatedCoolant tank cap leaks (B58 engine)
- IsolatedPCV valve membrane failure indicated by white exhaust smoke (B58 engine)
- IsolatedValve cover gasket leaks (B58 engine)
- IsolatedAir conditioning blockage requiring system flush
- IsolatedConvertible roof drains/gutters requiring cleaning and rubber seal replacement
Is a 2013–2020 4 Series right for you?
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Complaints and recalls by model yearWorst year: 2015. Years to avoid: 2015, 2014Source: NHTSA (US)Show table
Each year graded against the model's other years: Year Score. See all BMW 4 Series years to avoid
| Year | Complaints | Recalls | Most-reported area |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | 2 | 0 | tires |
| 2025 | 7 | 1 | electrical system |
| 2024 | 6 | 0 | unknown or other |
| 2023 | 18 | 1 | seat belts |
| 2022 | 16 | 0 | engine |
| 2021 | 15 | 0 | electrical system |
| 2020 | 6 | 0 | air bags |
| 2019 | 16 | 0 | engine |
| 2018 | 34 | 0 | engine |
| 2017 | 23 | 0 | engine |
| 2016 | 49 | 0 | electrical system |
| 2015 | 178 | 5 | electrical system |
| 2014 | 68 | 6 | engine |
Complaint counts come from owner reports filed with the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Higher-selling years naturally accumulate more complaints.
Recall notices13 on record · Source: NHTSA (US)Show recalls
2025 · electrical system:starter assemblycampaign 25V202000
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2025 330i, 330i xDrive, 530i, 530i xDrive, 4 Series Coupe (430i, 430i xDrive), 4 Series Convertible (430i, 430i xDrive), 4 Series Gran Coupe (430i, 430i xDrive) and X3 30 xDrive vehicles. The electrical connection between the starter-generator and battery may come loose.
2023 · power train:automatic transmission:control module (tcm/pcm/tecm)campaign 23V821000
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2023 Toyota GR Supra, 3 Series Sedan (330i xDrive, M340i xDrive, M3), 5 Series Sedan (530i, 530i xDrive, M5), 4 Series Gran Coupe (430i, 430i xDrive), 4 Series Coupe (430i, 430i xDrive, M440i xDrive), 4 Series Convertible (430i, 430i xDrive, M440i xDrive), 8 Series Coupe (840i, M850i xDrive, M8), 8 Series Convertible (840i, M850i xDrive, M8), 8 Series Gran Coupe (850i xDrive, M8), X3 SAV (X3 xDrive30i, X3M), X4 SAV (X4 xDrive30i), X5 SAV (X5 xDrive40i, X5 M50i, X5M), X6 SAV (X6 xDrive40i, X6 M50i, X6M), and Z4 sDrive30i, Z4 M40i vehicles. The weld seam of the integrated transmission control unit's cover may not have been manufactured properly, which could allow automatic transmission oil to leak into the transmission control unit.
2015 · air bagscampaign 15V148000
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain model year 2015 428i Convertible, 428i xDrive Convertible, 435i Convertible, and 435i xDrive Convertible vehicles manufactured October 22, 2014, to February 27, 2015. Due to a programming error, the driver's front air bag deployment timing may be incorrect. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) No. 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."
2015 · fuel system, gasoline:delivery:fuel pumpcampaign 15V189000
BMW of North America LLC (BMW) is recalling certain model year 2014 228i Coupe, M235i Coupe, 320i, 320xi, 328i, 328xi, 335i, 335xi, ActiveHybrid 3, 328xi Sports Wagon, 428i Coupe, 428xi Coupe, 435i Coupe, 435xi Coupe, 428i Convertible, 428xi Convertible, 435i Convertible, 328xi Gran Turismo, 335xi Gran Turismo, and 2015 428i Gran Coupe, 428xi Gran Coupe, and 435i Gran Coupe vehicles. Improper nickel plating of components within the fuel pump may result in the fuel pump failing.
2015 · air bags:side/windowcampaign 24V288000
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2014-2015 2 Series Coupe (228i, 228i xDrive, M235i), 3 Series Sedan (320i, 320i xDrive, 328i, 328i xDrive, 335i, 335i xDrive, M3, 328d, 328d xDrive), 4 Series Coupe (428i, 428i xDrive, 435i, 435i xDrive, M4), and 2015 4 Series Gran Coupe (428i, 428i xDrive, 435i, 435i xDrive) vehicles. The head air bag inflator may fail at the weld joint, which can cause gas to leak from the inflator or result in an inflator rupture.
2015 · air bags:frontal:driver side:inflator modulecampaign 24V527000
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2015 6 Series Gran Coupe, 2014 5 Series Gran Turismo, 2014 5 Series Sedan, 2015 6 Series Convertible, 2015 6 Series Coupe, 2014 X5, 2013-2014 X3, 2014-2015 3 Series Sedan, 2014 4 Series Coupe, 2014 4 Series Convertible, 2014 3 Series Gran Turismo, and 2015 4 Series Gran Coupe vehicles. Please see the recall report for the complete list of models. The driver's air bag inflator may explode during deployment, due to a manufacturing defect.
2015 · engine and engine cooling:cooling system:pumpcampaign 24V608000
BMW of North America, LLC. (BMW) is recalling certain 2012-2015 X1 sDrive28i, X1 xDrive28i, 2012-2016 Z4 sDrive28i, 528i, 528i xDrive, 328i, 328xi, 2016-2018 X5 xdrive 40e, 2014-2016 228i, 228xi, 428i, 428i xDrive, 328xi Gran Turismo, 2013-2017 X3 sDrive28i, X3 xDrive28i, 2015-2018 X4 xDrive28i, 2015-2016 428xi vehicles. An improperly sealed electrical connector on the water pump may be exposed to water and short circuit.
2014 · service brakes, hydraulic:power assist:vacuum:hoses, lines/piping, and fittingscampaign 14V627000
BMW of North America LLC (BMW) is recalling certain model year 2014 BMW 328i xDrive Sports Wagon, 2012-2014 BMW 320i Sedan, 328i Sedan, 320i xDrive Sedan, 328i xDrive Sedan, 2012-2013 BMW 528i Sedan, 528i xDrive Sedan, 2013-2014 BMW X1 sDrive28i, X1 xDrive28i Sports Activity Vehicle, 2013-2014 BMW X3 xDrive28i Sports Activity Vehicle, 2012-2014 BMW Z4 sDrive28i Roadster, and 2014 BMW 428i Coupe, and 428i xDrive Coupe. Due to insufficient lubrication, the vacuum pump that supplies brake power assistance may fail. Note: This recall is an expansion of recall 13V-454.
2014 · fuel system, gasoline:delivery:fuel pumpcampaign 15V189000
BMW of North America LLC (BMW) is recalling certain model year 2014 228i Coupe, M235i Coupe, 320i, 320xi, 328i, 328xi, 335i, 335xi, ActiveHybrid 3, 328xi Sports Wagon, 428i Coupe, 428xi Coupe, 435i Coupe, 435xi Coupe, 428i Convertible, 428xi Convertible, 435i Convertible, 328xi Gran Turismo, 335xi Gran Turismo, and 2015 428i Gran Coupe, 428xi Gran Coupe, and 435i Gran Coupe vehicles. Improper nickel plating of components within the fuel pump may result in the fuel pump failing.
2014 · air bags:side/windowcampaign 24V288000
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2014-2015 2 Series Coupe (228i, 228i xDrive, M235i), 3 Series Sedan (320i, 320i xDrive, 328i, 328i xDrive, 335i, 335i xDrive, M3, 328d, 328d xDrive), 4 Series Coupe (428i, 428i xDrive, 435i, 435i xDrive, M4), and 2015 4 Series Gran Coupe (428i, 428i xDrive, 435i, 435i xDrive) vehicles. The head air bag inflator may fail at the weld joint, which can cause gas to leak from the inflator or result in an inflator rupture.
2014 · air bags:frontal:driver side:inflator modulecampaign 24V527000
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2015 6 Series Gran Coupe, 2014 5 Series Gran Turismo, 2014 5 Series Sedan, 2015 6 Series Convertible, 2015 6 Series Coupe, 2014 X5, 2013-2014 X3, 2014-2015 3 Series Sedan, 2014 4 Series Coupe, 2014 4 Series Convertible, 2014 3 Series Gran Turismo, and 2015 4 Series Gran Coupe vehicles. Please see the recall report for the complete list of models. The driver's air bag inflator may explode during deployment, due to a manufacturing defect.
2014 · engine and engine cooling:cooling system:pumpcampaign 24V608000
BMW of North America, LLC. (BMW) is recalling certain 2012-2015 X1 sDrive28i, X1 xDrive28i, 2012-2016 Z4 sDrive28i, 528i, 528i xDrive, 328i, 328xi, 2016-2018 X5 xdrive 40e, 2014-2016 228i, 228xi, 428i, 428i xDrive, 328xi Gran Turismo, 2013-2017 X3 sDrive28i, X3 xDrive28i, 2015-2018 X4 xDrive28i, 2015-2016 428xi vehicles. An improperly sealed electrical connector on the water pump may be exposed to water and short circuit.
2014 · air bags:side/window:headcampaign 25V871000
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2014 4 Series Coupe (428i, 428i xDrive, 435i, 435i xDrive), 3 Series Sedan (320i, 320i xDrive, 328i, 328i xDrive, 335i, 335i xDrive), and 2014-2015 2 Series Coupe (228i, 228i xDrive, M235i, M235i xDrive) vehicles. The head air bag inflator may fail at the weld joint, which can cause gas to leak from the inflator or result in an inflator rupture.
Specifications
Enthusiast code: G26
M440i Mild Hybrid xDrive
3.0L 6-cylinder · 392 hp · AWD · automatic
Built 2025–2026