IsItAGoodCar

Common Problems with the
2013–2015 BMW 4 Series (F32/F33/F36)

We've identified 4 known issues that can affect the 2013–2015 BMW 4 Series (F32/F33/F36). 2 of these are serious faults that could be expensive to repair.

4
Known Issues
2
Serious
2
Moderate
0
Minor

The 2013–2015 period has 3 more issues than the BMW 4 Series (F32/F33/F36) average across all year periods.

All Known Issues

N20 Timing Chain & Guide Failure

SeriousEngine

The plastic timing chain guides on early 420i and 428i models can shatter, leading to chain slip and catastrophic engine failure.

Most affected: 420i, 428i

Estimated cost: £800–£2,000Affects: 2013–2015Often appears around: 50,000–90,000 miles

Typical symptoms

  • •Whining noise from the engine that rises with RPM (sounds like a supercharger)
  • •Rough idling
  • •Low oil pressure warning caused by guide plastic blocking the oil pickup

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Listen for whine from the front of the engine when revving
  • ✓Inspect the oil for plastic fragments during a service
  • ✓Check for updated chain and guide part numbers in the service history

EGR Cooler Leak / Fire Risk

SeriousExhaust & Emissions

A major UK recall affects most diesel 4 Series models. Leaking coolant inside the EGR system can ignite soot and cause a fire.

Most affected: 418d, 420d, 430d, 435d

Estimated cost: £0 (Recall)Affects: 2013–2019Often appears around: Any mileage

Typical symptoms

  • •Unexplained coolant loss
  • •Sweet smell in the cabin
  • •Drivetrain warning or limp mode

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Enter the VIN on the BMW UK recall checker
  • ✓Look for white staining or residue around the EGR cooler
  • ✓Check for recent intake manifold replacement

Frameless Window & Regulator Issues

ModerateBodywork & Rust

The windows must drop slightly to clear the trim when opening the door. Faulty regulators or sensors can stop this, leading to trim damage or leaks.

Most affected: Coupe (F32), Convertible (F33), Gran Coupe (F36)

Estimated cost: £150–£350Affects: 2013–2020Often appears around: Age-related

Typical symptoms

  • •Window refusing to drop when the handle is pulled
  • •Window "bouncing" back down when trying to close
  • •Wind noise at speed from poor sealing

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Test the window drop on both doors multiple times
  • ✓Check the outer window seals for perishing or tears
  • ✓Inspect the door handle sensors for responsiveness

Steering Rack Clunk

ModerateSteering

The electronic steering rack can develop internal play in the thrust piece, causing a rattling or knocking noise over uneven UK roads.

Most affected: All models, especially those with 19" wheels

Estimated cost: £200–£1,000Affects: 2013–2018Often appears around: 40,000–80,000 miles

Typical symptoms

  • •Knock through the steering over bumps
  • •A "clicking" sensation when turning the wheel at low speeds

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Drive over a rough road surface with the windows down
  • ✓Ask if the BMW thrust-piece repair kit has already been fitted
  • ✓Check for play in the tie rods

Buying Tips for the 2013 BMW 4 Series (F32/F33/F36)

  • ✓Check N20 petrol engines (pre-2015 420i/428i) for high-pitched timing chain whine which indicates guide failure
  • ✓Ensure the frameless windows drop slightly when pulling the door handle and seal correctly when closed
  • ✓On Gran Coupe (F36) models, verify the powered tailgate operates smoothly and the seals are intact
  • ✓Check for EGR cooler recalls on all diesel (420d, 430d, 435d) variants, as this is a high-priority safety item
2016–2018 BMW 4 Series (F32/F33/F36)

Browse 2013–2015 BMW 4 Series (F32/F33/F36) in our Directory

View MOT history, registration data, and reliability scores for 2013–2015 BMW 4 Series (F32/F33/F36) vehicles.

View 2013–2015 Directory

Other BMW 4 Series (F32/F33/F36) Year Periods

2013–20152016–201820192020

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