After selling over 40,000 examples of the fourth-generation BMW M3, the launch of the new M3 Sedan and M4 Coupe in 2014 carried the automaker’s performance car philosophy into a pair of new, fifth-generation machines.
Now some 80 kilograms lighter than the outgoing unit, the latest M3 Sedan and M4 Coupe (and subsequent convertible) were engineered for improved output, performance, and efficiency. Case in point: the new S55 3.0-litre straight-six turbo engine developed 40 per cent more torque than the outgoing V8, while using about 25 per cent less fuel to do it. Look for about 430 horsepower and over 400 lb-ft of torque from this high-revving engine, as well as 0-100 km/h in about 4 seconds.
Drivers could specify a six-speed manual transmission with automatic rev matching, or a 7-speed M Double-Clutch transmission with launch control. Like the engine and its turbocharger system, the 7-speed transmission was also treated to track-proven cooling system implements designed to keep the heat down for more consistent performance in a motorsports setting.
Lightweight suspension, a high-precision active rear differential, and a motorsport-validated cooling and oiling system helped deliver the machine’s highest-performing drive yet, all with the latest safety, convenience and connectivity features on board for everyday enjoyment and peace of mind.
In exchange for relatively high purchase, fuel, and insurance costs, this generation M3 and M4 serve up one of the most thrilling BMW driving experiences yet.
Follow the links below for additional features, news, reviews, and specifications on the BMW M3 and M4, and read on for five tips to help make sure you find the best used model possible for your dollar.
Software and firmware
Model-year 2016 saw a software and firmware update that optimized the operation of the vehicle’s traction and stability control system, iDrive infotainment, adaptive suspension, throttle management, and transmission. According to some owners, the updated software makes the car more pleasing to drive spiritedly by reducing the abruptness, intervention, and recovery of the stability and traction control system, while also smoothing out the operation of the throttle and transmission.
Many drivers consider this software upgrade a good improvement to the car’s ‘fun factor’.
Elsewhere, software updates may be applied by dealers to correct or prevent possible issues with other electronic systems including the stereo, infotainment, navigation, climate control, alarm, and more. A regularly dealer-serviced M3 or M4, or a unit sold as part of a Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) program is more likely to have had all applicable software updates applied, resulting in a more pleasing and reliable driving experience.
- 2016+ software updates can improve performance.
- Dealer service history is best.
- Improved reliability of other electronic systems.
- Fun-to-drive factor improved.
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Air conditioning
Some owners of M3 and M4 models from this generation complain of poor performance from the air conditioner; many do not.
Start your test drive with the AC turned off. While the engine idles and the vehicle is parked, quiet the cabin and turn on the AC. Listen closely for a hissing sound, and take note of how quickly cold air arrives from the selected vents. A hissing sound accompanied by poor (or non-functional) air conditioner performance is an invitation to have the system checked out, ideally by a professional in a dealership setting, with a refrigerant recharge being a likely starting point for repair. Remember that needing a recharge usually means a leak somewhere in the system, which could be slow or serious.
On your test drive, be sure to run the AC continuously for 15 or 20 minutes as well. If the system stops working and cold air stops flowing into the cabin during your test drive, have a technician investigate.
Other air-conditioning issues have been reported as a result of bad switches and sensors, and poor performance in high-humidity driving conditions. This issue seems more common on earlier (2015) model-year units, and may be the result of a poorly placed sensor that falsely detects a freezing condition in the AC lines.
A combination of hardware, refrigerant charging, and software re-flashing may be required to fix wonky air conditioning in your new-to-you BMW F-series M3 or M4.
Check for damp carpeting in both front and rear footwells of the vehicle. If you detect standing water or moisture in the floor carpeting, a problem with the AC system may be allowing water to leak into the vehicle’s cabin. Note that a clogged cabin air filter can cause leak and performance issues from the air conditioner as well.
- AC problems can have various causes.
- Listen for a hissing sound as the system is turned on.
- Confirm consistent performance.
- Dealer servicing is best.
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Modifications
Some BMW M3 and M4 owners modify their vehicles with non-factory software and performance parts to increase power output and performance; others do not.
Modifying a high performance car like this one can be a lot of fun, but it can lead to problems too. For instance, the use of non-factory parts and (especially) software can void remaining warranty coverage, reduce the lifespan and durability of engaged components, and even cause damage and wear that’s not covered by the warranty.
Even if non-factory parts and software are removed or reset before a dealer warranty visit, their presence can be detected by technicians, and the vehicle’s warranty may be limited, blacklisted, or voided outright.
The average shopper is best to stick to stock where possible, avoiding the purchase of a used M3 or M4 that’s ever been fitted with non-factory parts or software.
- Modifications can void remaining warranty coverage.
- Increased likelihood of component damage.
- Stick to stock for best results.
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Squeaky seals
One of the most common gripes reported by owners of this generation M3 relates to squeaky, chirpy door seals, especially on four-door models.
On your test drive, quiet the cabin and drive at a relatively low speed over a rough or uneven road. Listen closely for chirping, rubbing or squeaking sounds from the upper edges of the vehicle’s side windows.
According to the owners’ community, this issue is the most common on models with gloss-black window trim, which may wear out, become dirty, rub, and create unwanted sounds. Some owners have had success with lubrication of seals in this area; others have applied special non-stick tape or other adhesives to help quiet the unwanted sound effects.
If you notice this issue, the fastest fix may involve visiting your local dealership and asking a service advisor to reference Service Bulletin “SI B51 10 16 — Body Equipment”, which outlines parts and procedures required for an effective repair.
Here’s some more reading.
- Exterior window trim can cause irritating noises.
- Service bulletins help technicians fix this problem quickly.
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Oil cooler
The BMW M3/M4 engine uses an oil cooler that’s mounted behind the lower bumper, facing the surface of the road in a location where it can be vulnerable to damage from road debris. In certain situations, an impact with a large enough piece of road debris (or wildlife) can cause the oil cooler to rupture or leak, resulting in a loss of engine coolant and/or engine oil.
If that’s the case, you’ll need to stop the engine immediately to prevent serious, fatal damage.
On your test drive or during a Pre-Purchase Inspection (PPI) by a trained technician, carefully assess the condition of the oil cooler, which sits flat beneath the lower front edge of the bumper, parallel to the road.
If the cooler looks damaged, bent, beaten, or in otherwise poor shape, it may have been damaged previously and could be at an elevated risk of failure. If you notice engine oil leaking from the cooler, or the area around it, move to another unit.
While driving your M3 or M4, use extreme caution when running over debris or hazards on the road, which could ruin your oil cooler (and engine) in an instant. If you notice warning messages relating to low coolant or oil levels while driving, pull over and stop the engine immediately to try and mitigate further damage.
- Engine oil cooler placement is vulnerable to damage.
- Ruptured oil cooler can cause fatal engine damage.
- Inspect this component carefully before purchase.
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Final thought
These tips are designed for test driving shoppers to more easily identify problems reported by some owners. A careful and attentive test drive that focuses on the areas above can help you find a first-class example of a second-hand M3 or M4.
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