BMW M8 G16 — Problems & Common Faults
Weaknesses, engine ratings and buying advice
The M8 G16 is the Gran Coupé — same S63B44T4 (441 kW) as the Coupé but with four doors. Same tech, same weaknesses. xDrive transfer case as additional concern.
Market 2026: M8 Gran Coupé Competition from $93,000.
Insider pick: A S63B44T4 Gran Coupé WITHOUT carbon ceramic brakes.
Generations
Engine Overview
The BMW M8 G16 is available with 2 engine variants — from 530 to 600 hp.
The most mature S63 generation: revised bearing geometry, Valvetronic. The sound remains S63-typical — no raw AMG aggression, rather a deep V8 growl with turbo whistle as an accent. Sonically restrained from the factory, which many owners correct with aftermarket exhaust systems. The M xDrive system can be switched to pure rear-wheel drive — in dry 2WD mode the car becomes a thoroughbred drift tool. Electric wastegate actuators are the new weakness of this generation. Oil changes every 8,000 km with quality full synthetic; do not rely on Longlife intervals. The con rod bearing issue is reduced but not eliminated by the revised geometry — oil analysis remains worthwhile.
- !! Connecting rod bearing wear (mitigated) from 80,000 km
Revised connecting rod design compared to S63TU with 8 additional oil drillings. Despite this, documented failures exist: a workshop case study shows an F90 M5 with connecting rod and crankshaft damage. The F90 sees the problem less often than the F10.
Symptoms: Noticeable knocking from the engine, metal particles in the sump and filter housing, crankshaft damage as a consequence of delayed diagnosis - !! Thermostat and expansion tank worn from 40,000 km
The S63B44T4 generates extreme heat in the V-valley. Thermostat and plastic expansion tank are prone to premature wear at higher mileages. The overheating risk on failure is considerable.
Symptoms: Coolant loss without visible leak, temperature gauge fluctuates or rises too high, coolant level warning, steam from engine bay. - !! High-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) failure from 120,000 km
The high-pressure fuel pump can fail at high mileages or with aggressive use. Fuel pressure drop causes noticeable power loss and can secondarily damage injectors and turbochargers.
Symptoms: Power loss under high load, hard starting, fault code fuel pressure too low (P0087), stumbling at full throttle.
+ 9 more engine weaknesses + vehicle weaknesses
Vehicle Weaknesses
| Weakness | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| M Sport brakes: persistent squealing Identical to G15: M Sport brakes squeal consistently when braking. BMW rates it as normal. Symptoms: Constant squealing at light braking pressure, especially with cold brakes. | Medium |
Top Reported Issues
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Known Problems and Issues +
A total of 26 weaknesses have been documented for the BMW M8 G16 (2019–2026) — 21 engine-related and 5 vehicle-related. Typical issues affect Brakes, Electronics, Gearbox, Suspension. Considered reliable: N63B44TU3 (4.4L V8 Biturbo).
M8 (S63B44T4, 2019–2026) — Be Careful: Connecting rod bearing wear (mitigated), Thermostat and expansion tank worn, High-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) failure. Power: 600 PS.
What to watch out for with the BMW M8? See the detailed listing of all engine and vehicle weaknesses in the sections above.
Frequently Asked Questions
What problems and weaknesses does the BMW M8 G16 have? +
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Which BMW M8 G16 engine is the most reliable? +
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Last updated: February 2026 · All information without guarantee