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BMW · Sports Car · 2014–2018

BMW M3 F80

Weaknesses, engine ratings and buying advice

3.0 / 5.0 · Based on 1 engine variants

Generations


Engine Overview

The BMW M3 F80 is available with 2 engine variants — from 431 to 450 hp.

3.0L Biturbo · Benziner· 431 PS
2014 2018
Be Careful 10 weaknesses
M3 Competition · Benziner· 450 PS
2016 2018
Be Careful 10 weaknesses

The BMW 3.0L Biturbo (Benziner, 431 PS) has the S55B30 (3.0L Biturbo) — rated: "Be Careful", 10 known weaknesses.

The BMW M3 Competition (Benziner, 450 PS) has the S55B30 (3.0L Biturbo) — rated: "Be Careful", 10 known weaknesses.

Vehicle Weaknesses

WeaknessCost
Propshaft flange connection: recall — loss of drive

Recall 18V713000: the connection between the propshaft and flange can fail — sudden loss of drive is possible. Approximately 2,661 vehicles affected.

Symptoms: Vibration or noise from the underbody, progressively worsening. In the worst case, complete loss of drive.
from 40,000 km
Low
NHTSA Owner Complaints
Above Average
20 complaints · 2014–2018
Fuel System
8
Engine
5
Other
4
Powertrain
3
Suspension
1

Top Reported Issues

Fuel System (8 complaints)
Engine (5 complaints)
Other (4 complaints)
Source: NHTSA (nhtsa.gov) · 2026-03

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Known Problems and Issues

A total of 17 weaknesses have been documented for the BMW M3 F80 (2014–2018) — 10 engine-related and 7 vehicle-related. Typical issues affect Gearbox, Suspension, Body, Interior.

M3 (S55B30, 2014–2018) — Be Careful: Connecting rod bearing wear, Crankshaft hub slip (crank hub), Oil cooler damaged by stone impact. Power: 431 PS.

M3 (S55B30, 2016–2018) — Be Careful: Connecting rod bearing wear, Crankshaft hub slip (crank hub), Oil cooler damaged by stone impact. Power: 450 PS.

What to watch out for with the BMW M3? See the detailed listing of all engine and vehicle weaknesses in the sections above.

Frequently Asked Questions

What problems and weaknesses does the BMW M3 F80 have? +
The BMW M3 F80 has 10 known engine weaknesses and 7 vehicle weaknesses.
What should I look for when buying a used BMW M3 F80? +
faq.watch_a_none
Which engine is recommended? +
Be careful: S55B30 (3.0L Biturbo). No engine is rated 'Good Choice'. The most fun to drive is the S55B30 (3.0L Biturbo).
Which BMW M3 F80 engine is the most fun? +
The {code} ({displacement}) offers the most driving fun in the BMW M3 F80 — rated: "Legendary!". {description} The F80 M3 with manual is the last real three-pedal M3 of the turbo era. The S55 delivers 550 Nm from 1,850 rpm — a brutal kick in the back on every gear change. The shift action is short and precise, the rear on a wet road a permanent challenge. Sounds more characterful than the N55, without reaching the V8 character of the S65 — but whoever has experienced the turbo punch misses the high-revving character less than expected.
Is the BMW M3 F80 worth buying used? +
The BMW M3 F80 requires careful consideration — choosing the right engine variant is crucial.
What horsepower variants are available for the BMW M3 F80? +
The BMW M3 F80 is available with engine variants from 431 to 450 hp. Petrol: S55B30 (3.0L Biturbo).

Last updated: February 2026 · All information without guarantee