ExhaustHigh
EGR cooler recall and DPF blockage on diesels
- Typically appears
- 70,000+ miles
- What to inspect
- Confirm the recall against the VIN and run the car up to temperature
2014–2025 BMW 4 Series · common problems & known faults
A style-led coupe, convertible and Gran Coupe range. Cosmetic condition matters as much as mechanical health here.
Compiled & reviewed by the VehicleFaults Research Team · last reviewed August 2026
Quick answer
The most commonly reported faults on the 2014–2025 BMW 4 Series are EGR cooler recall and DPF blockage on diesels, Convertible roof mechanism and hydraulic faults and Oil leaking from the oil filter housing gasket (OFHG), which can drip onto the auxiliary belt and cause catastrophic engine failure if ingested. 4 of the documented issues are rated high severity · inspect these first. Full inspection points, onset mileage and what to check are listed below.
Reliability snapshot
Based on the documented faults on this page for the BMW 4 Series.
3.4/ 10
- Critical
- 0
- High
- 4
- Medium
- 4
- Low
- 0
Guidance only · reflects reported patterns, not a specific car's condition.
BMW 4 Series problems by year
Which faults an average example has usually reached depends on its age. Pick a model year for the faults that matter on that build.
Known faults to check
BodyHigh
Convertible roof mechanism and hydraulic faults
- Typically appears
- Any
- What to inspect
- Cycle the roof fully twice and check for damp in the boot
SuspensionMedium
Bush and drop link wear plus kerbed alloys
- Typically appears
- 60,000+ miles
- What to inspect
- Listen for knocks and inspect all four wheels
ElectricalMedium
iDrive, camera and comfort access faults
- Typically appears
- Age-related
- What to inspect
- Test iDrive, cameras and keyless entry
Engine / CoolingMedium
Coolant loss and overheating due to a failing expansion tank or water pump on B-series engines.
- Typically appears
- 40,000-70,000 miles
- What to inspect
- Shine a torch down the front of the engine block and around the expansion tank seams to check for dried, chalky white coolant residue.
Engine / LubricationHigh
Oil leaking from the oil filter housing gasket (OFHG), which can drip onto the auxiliary belt and cause catastrophic engine failure if ingested.
- Typically appears
- 60,000-80,000 miles
- What to inspect
- Run a clean white tissue under the lip of the oil filter housing. Inspect the serpentine belt for any signs of oil contamination or fraying.
Drivetrain / xDriveHigh
Hesitation, shunting, or juddering under moderate acceleration or cornering due to transfer case wear.
- Typically appears
- 50,000-90,000 miles
- What to inspect
- Perform a tight figure-of-eight manoeuvre at low speed on full lock. Feel for any skipping, binding, or juddering through the seat and steering wheel.
SteeringMedium
Clunking or knocking noise from the front end caused by wear in the EPS steering rack thrust piece.
- Typically appears
- 40,000-80,000 miles
- What to inspect
- With the engine switched off, rapidly rock the steering wheel left and right by a few degrees. Listen for a distinct metallic clunk from the rack.
Inspecting a BMW 4 Series?
Get a full, tickable pre-purchase checklist for this exact car · what to look at, what it costs and how serious it is. Free preview, full report $9.
Check this exact carFrequently asked questions
Are convertibles worth stocking?
Seasonally yes, but only test the roof yourself. A failed mechanism destroys the profit.
What do buyers notice first?
Wheel condition. Refurbished alloys pay for themselves on this type of car.
Diesel or petrol?
Diesel Gran Coupes still sell to commuters; petrol coupes suit weekend buyers.
Does the M Sport trim significantly impact resale value and turnaround time?
Yes. In the UK market, M Sport models are vastly more desirable than SE or Sport variants. They command a noticeable premium and spend less time on the forecourt. Buyers specifically seek the aggressive styling, larger alloys, and M Sport steering wheel.
Should we actively source xDrive models over standard rear-wheel drive variants?
xDrive models hold strong appeal due to unpredictable UK weather, often selling faster. However, they require strict tyre maintenance; mismatched tread depths can destroy the transfer case. Ensure any xDrive stock has four evenly worn, premium tyres before retailing to prevent expensive warranty claims.
Are timing chain failures still a major concern on this generation of 4 Series?
Early F32 models from 2014 to 2015 using the N20 petrol or N47 diesel engines still carry a risk of timing chain stretch. From late 2015 onwards, BMW introduced the B-series modular engines, which largely resolved these catastrophic chain issues. Always verify the engine code.
Sources & further reading
Faults are compiled from documented recalls, technical bulletins, owner reports and mechanic sources, then reviewed for accuracy. This is guidance only · not a substitute for a professional inspection.