2018 BMW 4 Series 3.0L Petrol · 2222 BS

Fuel economy for the 3.0-litre petrol 4 Series typically returns around 35-40 mpg on a long motorway run, dropping to mid-twenties in town driving — realistic to budget around 28-32 mpg combined. With a 2979cc petrol engine, this car falls into a higher road tax bracket than smaller-engined variants; expect VED in the £200-£300 range annually depending on exact CO2 figures. Insurance sits in a relatively high group for a 3.0-litre coupé, typically group 35-40, so premiums for an average driver will be in the region of £700-£1,000 per year.

Routine servicing through a BMW main dealer will cost around £400-£600 per visit depending on whether it is a minor or major service, while independent BMW specialists typically charge £250-£400. Tyres are a meaningful cost — the 4 Series uses run-flat tyres in many trims, and a full set can run to £500-£800. Brakes are generally long-lasting on a low-mileage car of this type, but replacement discs and pads are likely within the next 10,000 miles given the car's age.

Estimated annual running cost: £2,400-£2,900 covering fuel, tax, insurance, and routine servicing.

Although this car's MOT history is entirely clean, the model-wide MOT data shows that tyres, road wheel fixings, and shock absorbers are the most common failure points on the 4 Series. Inspect all four tyres for even wear — uneven wear can point to suspension or alignment issues — and check the sidewalls for cracking given the car's age. Road wheel fixing failures typically relate to corroded or damaged wheel bolts, so inspect the wheels carefully if they look like they have been removed recently. Shock absorbers should be checked for any signs of leaking oil or knocking over bumps.

On the 3.0-litre engine specifically, listen on cold start for any rattle from the timing chain area, which can indicate stretched chain guides — a costly repair on the N55/B58 engines. Check for any oil seepage around the valve cover and oil filter housing, both common on these units. The cooling system and water pump should also be inspected, as plastic components become brittle with age.

General inspection priorities include checking all electrical systems (infotainment, iDrive controller, electric seats and mirrors), confirming the air conditioning blows cold, and looking underneath for any signs of fluid leaks or corrosion. A bore-scope inspection of the bores via the spark plug holes can reveal bore wear on high-mileage examples, though this is unlikely to be an issue at 26,000 miles.