Models · BMW
BMW M4 F82/F83 buying guide
The F82 M4 coupé and F83 convertible were built from 2014 to 2020 with the S55 3.0 twin-turbo straight six. They share their engine and most mechanical parts with the F80 M3 saloon, and the Competition became the core model after 2016.
The versions
- M4: 3.0 twin-turbo straight six (S55), 431PS
- M4 Competition (from 2016): 450PS, with revised suspension, wheels and exhaust
- M4 CS (2017 to 2019): 460PS; M4 GTS (2016): 500PS with water injection and carbon ceramic brakes
- Coupé (F82) with a carbon roof, or convertible (F83) with a folding metal roof
- 6-speed manual or 7-speed M DCT dual-clutch, rear-wheel drive
What to check on a F82 M4
3 model-specific things to look at when you view one. They're a starting point, not the full inspection.
Signs of tuning, and the crank hub
What to look for: Ask whether the car has been remapped, and look for non-standard intake parts, metal charge pipes, a downpipe or an aftermarket exhaust. Ask for paperwork for any crank hub upgrade.
Why it matters: The S55's crankshaft hub relies on a friction fit and can slip on a small minority of engines, throwing the valve timing out. It's rare, and mostly reported on cars with added boost. BMW revised the engine in 2016, though later cars aren't immune. An unmodified car with a clear history is the lower-risk buy.
Oil leaks from the gaskets
What to look for: With a torch, look for wet oil around the rocker cover on top of the engine, the oil filter housing at the front, and the sump from underneath. A burning oil smell after the drive is a clue.
Why it matters: These three gaskets harden with heat and are the S55's usual leaks, most often from around 50,000 miles. The rocker cover and filter housing are routine. The sump gasket needs the front subframe lowered, so it's the one to price into a decision.
A hiss or flat spot under boost
What to look for: Accelerate firmly in second and third gear on the test drive. A sudden hiss, a loss of pull or a drivetrain warning points at a boost leak.
Why it matters: The plastic charge pipe from the turbos can crack under boost. Aluminium replacements are a common, permanent fix, but they're also a reason to ask whether the car has been tuned.
Also in the full guide
- A rattle from the turbos
- Convertible roof operation
- The cold start, test drive and paperwork checks for the exact version you're viewing
The full guide to the F82 M4
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.