Models · BMW
BMW 4 Series F32/F33/F36 buying guide
The first 4 Series, built from 2013 to 2020 as a coupé (F32), convertible (F33) and five-door Gran Coupé (F36). Engines changed partway through, so the engine code matters more than the badge for several checks.
The versions
- Petrol to 2016: 420i and 428i (N20 2.0 turbo, 184PS and 245PS), 435i (N55 3.0 straight six, 306PS)
- Petrol from 2016: 418i (B38 1.5 three-cylinder, 136PS), 420i and 430i (B48 2.0, 184PS and 252PS), 440i (B58 3.0, 326PS)
- Diesel: 418d, 420d and 425d (N47 to 2015, then B47), 430d and 435d (N57 3.0 straight six, 258PS and 313PS)
- Coupé, convertible with a folding metal roof, and Gran Coupé; xDrive four-wheel drive on many versions
- 6-speed manual or 8-speed automatic
What to check on a F32 4 Series
3 model-specific things to look at when you view one. They're a starting point, not the full inspection.
Timing chain noise on the N20 petrols
What to look for: On a 420i or 428i built before 2015, listen to the engine at idle and on the test drive. A whine that builds around 4,000rpm, or a clatter or rattle at idle, is the thing to note.
Why it matters: The N20's original plastic chain guides can wear and break. BMW redesigned them in January 2015, so the build date tells you which you have. Many early cars have had the updated guides fitted, so ask for the invoice.
Chain rattle on the early diesels
What to look for: On a 418d, 420d or 425d built before 2015, start the engine from cold and listen at the back of the engine, near the bulkhead. A rattle there that doesn't settle is the thing to note.
Why it matters: The N47 diesel's timing chain sits at the gearbox end of the engine, and wear is a known weakness of the engine family, worst on engines built well before this car. The later B47, recognisable by 150PS, 190PS or 224PS outputs, replaced it in 2015.
Which diesel engine is fitted
What to look for: Look at the logbook or the service book for the power output. A 420d with 184PS has the earlier N47; 190PS means the B47. On a 418d, 143PS is the N47 and 150PS the B47.
Why it matters: The power figure is the quickest way to tell the engines apart without a code reader, and it decides whether the chain check above applies.
Also in the full guide
- Oil leaks on the 435i
- Diesel particulate filter on low-mileage diesels
- Convertible roof operation
- The cold start, test drive and paperwork checks for the exact version you're viewing
The full guide to the F32 4 Series
The CrankSight guide walks you round the car on your phone at the viewing, with every check for the exact version you're looking at: what to look for, where to find it, and what anything you find is likely to cost. As you go it builds an assessment of that car, and if you view more than one, it lines them up side by side.
£29 for the model, used on as many cars as you like, delivered within 72 hours or your money back.
Other generations
General points for the model, last checked October 2026. Every car is different, so treat this as a guide to what to look at, not a verdict on any car. CrankSight is independent and has no connection with BMW.