Buyer's checklist: F80 BMW M3 (2015–2018)

This checklist comes from a draft dossier that has not been approved yet, so read it with care.

What to look for on this generation, worst first. Tick each line as you check it.

Free while the site is being tested. Every line comes from the dossier and keeps its source, and the dossier itself stays free.

Look for 8

Known problems, and how to check for each.

Crank hub slippingAll yearsAsk whether an upgraded, pinned or keyed crank hub has been fitted, and how the car was driven and tuned.¹
Rod bearing wearAll yearsListen for knocking from the bottom of the engine, and ask for proof the bearings were replaced.²
Oil leaksAll yearsLook for oil on the engine block below the oil filter housing, and for oil in the spark plug tubes.²
Cracked charge pipes and boost hosesAll yearsFeel for a sudden loss of boost, and look over the plastic pipes and hoses.²
High-pressure fuel pumpAll yearsFeel for rough running, misfires or stalling under load.²
Electric water pump and thermostatAll yearsWatch the temperature, and ask for records of their replacement.²
Driveline vibrationAll yearsFeel for vibration at highway speed and listen for noise from the differential.^2,3,4
DCT clutch wearAll yearsFeel for jerking or slow engagement at low speed.²

Recalls filed for these model years. Not every car is covered; check the vehicle identification number with NHTSA.

Recall 15V7820002015–2016The driveshaft's slip joint may lack grease and fail, cutting drive to the rear wheels. Dealers inspect the driveshaft and replace it if needed. Ask for proof the recall work was done.^3,4
Recall 16V6530002015–2016Rear subframe bolts reused during differential work can loosen, affecting the handling. Dealers fit new bolts. Ask for proof the recall work was done.^3,4
Recall 18V7130002016–2017The joint between the driveshaft and its flange can fail, so the car loses drive. Dealers replace the driveshaft. Ask for proof the recall work was done.⁴
Recall 24V2880002015The head airbag's inflator can fail at a weld, leaking gas or bursting. Ask for proof the recall work was done.³

What owners and the press say to steer clear of.

An early car without service recordsAll yearsEuro Premium Parts advises avoiding early cars without a documented service history, and advises against BMW's long oil change intervals.²