Common Problems with the
2015–2020 BMW M3

We've identified 2 known issues that can affect the 2015–2020 BMW M3. 1 of these are serious faults that could be expensive to repair.

Known Issues

Serious

Moderate

Minor

The 2015–2020 period has 1 more issue than the BMW M3 average across all year periods.

All Known Issues

Crank Hub Slip / Timing Risk

SeriousEngine

Highly publicised on tuned S55 cars, crank-hub slip can throw engine timing out and destroy the valvetrain. Stock cars are less vulnerable, but mapped examples deserve extra caution.

Most affected: F80 M3

Estimated cost: £2,000–£8,000Affects: 2014–2020Often appears around: Any mileage on tuned cars

Typical symptoms

•Sudden misfire after a hard pull
•Engine light and loss of power after overrun or kickdown

What to inspect before you buy

✓Ask whether the car is mapped or has a pinned crank-hub fix
✓Be wary of drag-race or repeated-launch use

Coolant Loss / Charge Cooling Leaks

ModerateCooling System

Turbo M3s can develop small coolant leaks around expansion tanks, auxiliary coolers, or charge-cooling hardware. They are often minor at first, but repeated top-ups are not normal.

Most affected: F80 M3, G80 M3

Estimated cost: £150–£900Affects: 2014–2024Often appears around: 20k–60k miles

Typical symptoms

•Sweet smell after a spirited drive
•Low coolant warnings without obvious overheating

What to inspect before you buy

✓Inspect front coolers and the expansion tank seam
✓Check for dried coolant staining in the engine bay

Buying Tips for the 2015 BMW M3

✓Prioritise provenance: stamped history alone is not enough without specialist invoices for the known big-ticket jobs
✓Check for non-standard tuning, geometry, bucket seats, and brake upgrades that suggest track use
✓Listen carefully from cold for valve-train, VANOS, rod-bearing, or turbo-related noises
✓Inspect the underside for cracked rear suspension mounts, poor rust repair, or differential leaks

2014 BMW M3 2021 BMW M3