BMW M2 vs. BMW M4: Complete comparison 2026

The BMW M2 represents a purist entry point into the full-fledged world of the M division, which, thanks to its compact dimensions, playfulness, and raw character, has won the hearts of fans seeking uncompromising driving pleasure. In contrast, the larger BMW M4 brings more majestic proportions, brutal performance, and more sophisticated technology to the road, sovereignly combining the qualities of a crushing sports tool with a luxury coupe. Let's take a detailed look at which of these two famous Bavarian athletes makes more sense on the nearly-new used car market and better suits your specific driving needs.

When looking at the exterior dimensions of the BMW M2 and BMW M4 models, it is immediately clear which segments these cars are targeting. Within the generations most commonly seen on the nearly-new used car market (the transition between the older F series and the current G series), a clear hierarchy emerges. The BMW M4 is on average 210 to 214 mm longer than the smaller M2, giving it a significantly more elongated, elegant silhouette of a classic grand tourer. The M2 capitalizes on its more compact proportions (with a length of around 4,580 mm for the newer G87 generation, and 4,461 mm for the older F87) in city traffic and on narrow roads, where it is much easier to maneuver. Conversely, the M4, approaching the 4.8-meter mark, requires a bit more maneuvering space. Simply put, the more compact dimensions make the M2 an ideal companion for those seeking everyday agility, while the longer M4 appeals to drivers desiring a more majestic and mature vehicle.

An interesting look at the wheelbase shows that it is roughly 110 to 119 mm longer on the BMW M4 (up to 2,857 mm for the M4 compared to 2,747 mm for the M2 in the modern G generation). This parameter fundamentally defines the driving behavior of both cars. While the M2's shorter wheelbase guarantees extraordinary agility, a willingness to dive into sharp corners, and almost go-kart-like playfulness, the longer wheelbase of the M4 brings excellent directional stability at high speeds and smoother weight transfers. In terms of height, the M4 is slightly lower (by about 10 to 15 mm), which helps lower the center of gravity and improve airflow. From a chassis perspective, the decision between these two models depends on whether you prefer the immediate and sharp response of the shorter M2 on winding backroads, or rather the predictable and calm track of the longer M4 during fast highway journeys.

The width of both models is surprisingly identical in the latest iterations – both the current generation M2 and M4 boast a base width of 1,887 mm, while the older F generations ranged around 1,854 to 1,870 mm. However, the range of body variants differs, which brings another level of choice in terms of external parameters. While the compact M2 is available exclusively as a purist two-door Coupé with a fixed roof, with the larger M4 model, you have the choice between a Coupé and an open-top Convertible. The overall footprint of the cars thus clearly shows that the BMW M2 is aimed at drivers looking for a concentrated sporting experience on the minimum necessary footprint, while the more flexible and generous dimensions make the M4 a more versatile luxury tool for a wider range of uses.

Comparison of Exterior Dimensions

When choosing a high-performance sports car, such as an approximately four-year-old BMW M2 or BMW M4, absolute practicality is often secondary. Nevertheless, both models can surprise with very usable trunk space, which buyers will appreciate especially during weekend shopping or packing for a holiday. For daily usability, handling small family trips, or transporting sports equipment, the difference in trunk volume between the compact M2 and the larger M4 is a surprisingly important factor that can significantly influence the final choice of a used car.

The smaller and aggressively styled BMW M2 Coupé (whether it's the previous F87 generation or the newer G87) offers a very solid volume of 390 liters in its basic configuration. This space is more than sufficient for several travel bags, regular weekend shopping, or even one average-sized golf bag. Its larger sibling, the BMW M4 Coupé (in our case, the current G82 generation, produced since 2021), adds another 50 liters to the mix. With a total volume of 440 liters, it represents a noticeably more practical choice for longer travel. This generous space for several extra suitcases means that with the M4 Coupé, you can pack for a longer international road trip for two without major compromises.

A completely specific situation arises if you opt for the open-top version, the BMW M4 Convertible (G83 generation). Here, the complex and space-consuming fabric soft-top mechanism takes its toll, and the trunk volume is highly variable. With the roof up, you still have a decent 385 liters available, but once you put it down, the available space shrinks to just 300 liters. Although all mentioned body styles of the M2 and M4 feature practical split-folding rear seat backrests (typically in a 40:20:40 ratio) for the convenient transport of longer items such as skis, the manufacturer traditionally does not state the official maximum volume with the rear bench folded down for its sports cars.

Trunk Volume Comparison

When choosing a thoroughbred sports car like the BMW M2 or BMW M4, towing capacity is usually not the first thing buyers consider. For both of these models on the current market of approximately four-year-old used cars (primarily the outgoing M2 F87 / incoming G87 and the current M4 G82), one fundamental rule applies: these vehicles are not homologated by the manufacturer for towing any trailer at all.

• Maximum and standard trailer weight: In the registration documents of both models, you will find a value of exactly 0 kg for both braked and unbraked trailers.
• Specific versions and equipment: There are no exceptions in this regard. The same zero applies to standard models, the sharper Competition versions, and limited editions like CS or CSL. The reason lies in the construction of the cars themselves – the massive rear diffuser, optimized aerodynamics, and centrally located components of the tuned exhaust system physically prevent the safe installation of a tow bar.

This lack of towing capacity naturally has clear practical implications. If you are used to solving "extra luggage space" in other cars by attaching a small trailer or a tow-ball-mounted bike rack, this approach will not work with the M division. The car's capacity, which must suffice for weekend shopping or longer holidays, is thus limited exclusively to the basic trunk volume and the rear seats.

Conclusion:
When deciding between the BMW M2 and BMW M4, towing capacity plays no role, as both models offer the same zero in this regard. If a tow bar is a non-negotiable requirement for you, you will need to consider high-performance SUV models such as the BMW X3 M or X4 M.

Note on the comparison table: Since none of the engine versions or generations of the BMW M2 and BMW M4 models are homologated for towing (no trailer weight data is recorded for them in the database), a comparison table with zero values is not generated for these specific models.

Engines and Performance: Two Faces of the Legendary Straight-Six

When looking at the engine lineup, both models are united by one essential element: the renowned three-liter, twin-turbocharged straight-six from the BMW M division. Although they share very similar technical DNA, their tuning and power delivery appeal to different types of drivers. From the perspective of someone interested in a roughly four-year-old used car (model years 2021 and 2022), the market situation is specific. While with the M4 we are already fully in the modern G82 generation, which brought the revolutionary M xDrive all-wheel-drive option and a massive increase in power, with the M2 you encounter a generational change. Due to a production hiatus, you will choose either from late versions of the iconic rear-wheel-drive M2 Competition (F87 generation, production ended in 2020), or you must pay slightly more for the newer G87 generation (from 2023). Both cars, however, guarantee top-tier dynamics; the M2 scores with agility and lower weight, while the M4 offers ultimate traction and a huge power reserve for everyday fast travel.

BMW M2: A Purist Driving Experience

When searching for a BMW M2 on the used car market, you will most often come across models from the end of the F87 generation production, dominated by the sought-after M2 Competition variant. Under the hood, it hides the sharp S55 engine (originally developed for the older M4) with 302 kW (410 hp) and was available with a purist 6-speed manual or a faster 7-speed M DKG dual-clutch transmission. With the arrival of the newer G87 generation, the "M2" received a slightly detuned version of the S58 engine with 338 kW (460 hp), while the dual-clutch was replaced by a smoother 8-speed M Steptronic automatic. An important factor for purists is that, unlike the larger M4, the M2 model retains exclusively rear-wheel drive in all its versions and generations, making it a perfect but, in the wet, quite demanding driving tool. Older engines for the F87 generation are no longer produced as new, but the used market is well-supplied with them.

BMW M4: Power Brutality and Perfect Traction

In the category of four-year-old used cars, the BMW M4 reliably reigns in its current G82 generation (or G83 convertible), where the modern power unit designated S58 plays the main role. Although the base version of the car was offered with 353 kW (480 hp) and exclusively with a manual transmission, it is an absolute rarity in listings. The vast majority of owners opted for the top-tier M4 Competition version, which squeezes a massive 375 kW (510 hp) and a massive 650 Nm of torque from the three-liter. A key advantage of this specification, besides the standard 8-speed automatic, is primarily the smart M xDrive all-wheel drive (since summer 2021). Thanks to it, the car handles the sprint to 100 km/h in a crushing 3.5 seconds and represents a significantly safer and more usable choice even on wet or winter roads. At the top of the range stands the special track version M4 CSL (2022) with 405 kW.

For comparison purposes, the table also includes highly sought-after versions from the phasing-out production of the previous F82 generation, which you will commonly encounter on the used market.

Choosing the right engine is crucial for BMW M division sports models, not only for the maximum driving experience but also for long-term reliability, reasonable operating costs, and maintaining the car's future value. While older M models often shared modified engines from regular production, models from recent years rely on purebred racing units with a closed-deck cylinder block and top-tier components. An interesting historical fact is that the previous generation BMW M2 had to switch to a full-fledged racing M engine halfway through its life cycle just to meet stricter emission standards, which paradoxically made it a much more ultimate machine. The following recommendations reflect the market for nearly new used cars, focusing on models roughly four years old (taking into account the availability of specific generations).

For the BMW M2, we recommend: 3.0 M2 Competition (S55), 302 kW (410 hp)

When looking for the ideal used car approximately four years old, we encounter a specific situation with the M2 model – in 2022, the model range was experiencing a generational gap. The new G87 generation has only been offered since 2023, so for used cars, it currently makes the most sense to go for the top version of the previous generation (F87), whose production ended in late 2020, but which offers an unbeatable price-to-driving-experience ratio.

• Why it's the best choice: The Competition version replaced the original engine with the legendary unit codenamed S55 from the larger M3/M4. Thanks to this, the car retained its compact dimensions and agility but gained the explosive character and technology of a purebred M division car.
• Technical advantages: The twin-turbocharged inline-six delivers 550 Nm of torque and escalating power at higher revs. In conjunction with the fast M DKG dual-clutch transmission, it offers top-tier dynamic parameters and a direct mechanical response that more modern cars with torque-converter automatics often dampen.
• Risks and what to watch out for: The S55 unit is very robust, but a known, albeit rather rare, risk is the so-called "crank hub slip." This problem primarily threatens cars after unprofessional chiptuning or extreme track stress. Always ask about power modifications, look for completely stock cars, and demand shortened oil change intervals (ideally every 10,000 km).
• Who it's ideal for: The M2 Competition is a dream for purist and advanced drivers. It's a playful, sometimes even hooligan-like rear-wheel drive car that is the ideal machine for weekend joys on winding backroads and occasional visits to the race track.

For the BMW M4, we recommend: 3.0 M4 Competition M xDrive (S58), 375 kW (510 hp)

For the M4 model, the segment of four-year-old used cars offers a rich selection of the current G82 generation (produced since 2021). Here, we clearly recommend going for the more powerful version with all-wheel drive.

• Why it's the best choice: The combination of the revolutionary S58 engine and the disconnectable M xDrive all-wheel drive makes this coupe an absolute universal weapon. The system allows for the safe and effective transfer of colossal power to the road in all weather conditions, while retaining the behavior of a classic rear-wheel drive car when the front axle is disconnected.
• Technical advantages: The all-new S58 six-cylinder is a masterpiece of modern engineering. It uses a forged crankshaft, a closed-deck cylinder block, and a cylinder head core produced by 3D printing. It is an extremely robust engine with crushing pull (650 Nm) from low revs. It also excels with surprisingly reasonable real-world fuel consumption – during normal highway travel, it's possible to move around the 10 to 11 liter mark without any problems.
• Risks and what to watch out for: The engine itself is currently considered a benchmark for reliability and has no significant mechanical weaknesses. The real risk with a used M4 G82 is primarily its curb weight exceeding 1.8 tons. The greater load results in accelerated wear of expensive brake components and tires. During inspection, check the degree of wear on the brake discs (especially with the optional carbon-ceramic brakes) and the condition of the suspension elements.
• Who it's ideal for: This version is perfect for demanding drivers looking for a "Gran Turismo" for every day. It will suit those who require a confident and brutally fast car for safely devouring hundreds of kilometers across Europe, regardless of the season.

Official fuel consumption figures provided by manufacturers often paint an overly optimistic picture that is difficult to achieve in everyday driving. To provide a more realistic idea of the appetite of these high-performance sports cars, we have turned to data from owners themselves on the popular community platform Spritmonitor.de. Given the used car market, we focused on generations that have been on the market for approximately four years – for the BMW M2, this is a mix of top versions from the end of the previous F87 generation and the first years of the current G87 generation, while for the BMW M4, we evaluated data belonging entirely to the current G82 generation.

From a trend perspective, the interpretation of the figures for these two cars is very specific. While it is common in the automotive world to compare fuel-efficient diesels with thirstier petrol engines, there are naturally no diesel engines in the purebred BMW M division, and all the crushing power is produced exclusively by twin-turbocharged three-liter straight-six petrol engines. A surprising finding may be the fact that the more powerful, larger, and heavier BMW M4 Competition shows a very similar real-world average consumption to the smaller and theoretically lighter M2 model. The reason is, among other things, the presence of a more sophisticated eight-speed automatic transmission and better body aerodynamics on the M4, which helps to effectively reduce consumption on the highway. Conversely, with the M2, owners more often opt for the shorter manual transmission, which keeps the engine at unnecessarily higher revs at a steady speed.

What does this mean for the typical user? For drivers who use these cars for longer highway journeys, a real average consumption oscillating around the 10 liters per 100 km mark is very acceptable for a sports car with such power and ensures a comfortable range. However, those who plan to use these thoroughbreds as daily drivers in busy city traffic, or who want to fully enjoy their dynamics on favorite backroads or race tracks, must expect consumption to skyrocket into the 15 to 20 liter range. While buyers of these cars are not primarily focused on the most economical driving possible, awareness of the engine's real appetite can significantly facilitate the planning of summer road trips.

In conclusion, it can be safely stated that fuel consumption should not be the deciding factor in this particular battle. Both Munich missiles demand an almost identical portion of high-octane petrol for their extraordinary performance. The main say will thus belong purely to driving preferences and whether the driver appreciates the agile nature of the compact M2 or prefers the more majestic presence and higher everyday comfort of the M4.

Price Comparison on the Used Car Market

When looking at used cars approximately four years old (model years 2021–2023), the market situation for both models differs slightly, primarily due to the different timing of their generation cycles. While the BMW M4 generation G82 was already in full production during this time, the BMW M2 was going through a "gap" period of transition from the successful F87 generation (production of which ended around 2021) to the new G87 generation (which arrived on the market in late 2022 as a 2023 model).

BMW M2 (Generations F87 and G87)

If you are considering a BMW M2 roughly four years old, the market will present you with a choice between the final "old school" cars and the first used examples of the new generation.

• M2 F87 Competition (2020–2021): The final years of the previous generation are extremely sought after on the market, as many purists consider them some of the best modern M cars ever made. Their price tag for well-maintained models with a verifiable history remains very stable between €41,000 and €57,000. The rare CS edition then moves in completely different price brackets.
• M2 G87 (2023): The very first used or nearly new examples of the new, more robust generation with the more powerful engine from the M4 can currently be found on the used market in the range of approximately €66,000 to €78,000.

BMW M4 (Generation G82)

For the M4 model, with four-year-old cars, you will encounter almost exclusively the G82 generation. This model benefits on the used market from its uncompromising performance and premium interior.

• Base M4 and non-xDrive versions: Older 2021 and 2022 models start at approximately €66,000.
• M4 Competition xDrive: Models with enhanced performance (510 hp) and all-wheel drive are much more frequent on the market. Well-equipped examples from the mentioned years commonly range between €74,000 and €86,000.

Value and Depreciation

Compact M models – and especially the M2 F87 generation – traditionally hold their value significantly better. Their price drop has largely leveled off after the first few years. The newer and significantly more expensive (from the factory) BMW M4 G82 has naturally seen a larger price drop in absolute terms in its first years. For buyers on the used market, however, this represents a clear advantage: they can now get a car with supercar technology for a fraction of its original list price.

While buyers in the premium sports car segment often broadly expect a full five-star rating in Euro NCAP tests – a milestone the BMW M4 platform successfully achieved on paper – it is crucial to view these results in the context of the specific testing year. Euro NCAP assessment protocols are constantly evolving and becoming drastically stricter. New simulations of frontal impacts into a mobile barrier, more advanced cyclist detection, and emergency scenarios at complex intersections are regularly added to the methodology. For this reason, percentage scores from different years cannot be directly compared; an older, generally more lenient five-star rating no longer meets the same standards as tests of the latest models.

BMW M2 shares its passive and active safety structure with the standard 2 Series Coupé, which underwent crash testing in March 2022. Due to the application of very uncompromising new protocols, this model received an overall rating of four stars. Adult occupant protection was rated at 82% and child safety at a solid 81%. In the categories of vulnerable road user protection (67%) and safety assistance systems (64%), the tightened requirements, which place extreme demands on active assistants, were fully evident. The 2022 result does not mean a lack of safety at all; on the contrary, it illustrates the fact that the car's more modern architecture had to cope with significantly more complex and precise detection scenarios of the current era.

BMW M4 relies on safety foundations derived from the 3 Series and 4 Series, which were tested under the then-current Euro NCAP methodology in 2019 and boast a full five-star rating. The results are fascinating at first glance – adult protection reached an excellent 97% and child protection 83%. An exceptionally high score of 93% in vulnerable road user protection was largely supported by the use of an active "pop-up" hood. Assistance systems received a 72% rating in those tests. However, it is very important to note that the validity of these Euro NCAP certificates is usually 6 years, which means that the 2019 rating has already expired from the perspective of today's tough standards, and the car was not confronted with the most modern automatic braking tests.

In conclusion, although the BMW M4 appears to be the safer option in terms of numbers thanks to its older five-star result, the reality is much more balanced. The BMW M2 features a highly up-to-date arsenal of assistants, which, although it "only" achieved four stars under the scrutiny of the uncompromising 2022 standards, objectively provides a more modern package of active technologies that better correspond to current European standards. In terms of overall passive body protection, however, both models will serve you excellently as a used car buyer.

In addition to standard equipment, each of the models offers several unique features that can be decisive for the customer and clearly demonstrate their different approach to added value and the driving experience itself.

BMW M2: Purist Experience and Compact Ferocity

The smaller of the M model family focuses on the brand's traditional values, appealing especially to more conservative sports driving enthusiasts.

• Engine and Transmission: The BMW M2 retains its "old school" status and, unlike its larger siblings, primarily relies exclusively on rear-wheel drive. For many, the option of a manual transmission is a crucial feature, providing a more mechanical connection with the car.
• Chassis and Handling: The shorter wheelbase gives the car agility and playfulness. Combined with the active M differential, it is an ideal tool for sharp cornering. A lightweight carbon roof (M Carbon) is also available as an option, lowering the car's center of gravity.
• Electronics and M Toys: Equipment for enthusiasts includes the M Traction Control system with ten-step slip adjustment. Also included is the popular M Drift Analyzer, which evaluates the angle, speed, and length of a drift.
• Infotainment and Connectivity: Even the purist model features the latest dashboard layout (in newer units with the BMW Curved Display). The system offers specific M widgets that display turbocharger pressure, oil temperature, or G-force.
• Design Elements: Muscular flared fenders and aggressive bumper styling are not just for show; they have functional aerodynamic significance and house the widened track derived from the M4 model.

BMW M4: Technological Dominance and Uncompromising Versatility

The larger BMW M4 represents a technological peak, combining the characteristics of a raw track tool with a daily-usable Gran Turismo car.

• Drivetrain and Traction: A fundamental difference is the option of the innovative M xDrive all-wheel drive. This system allows the driver to fully exploit the car's potential in all weather conditions, while the front axle can be disconnected at the touch of a button to switch the car to pure rear-wheel drive (2WD mode).
• Seats and Interior: A specialty of the M4 model (available as an option) are the M Carbon bucket seats. Not only do they save significant weight and look like they're from a race car, but they also allow for the removal of the center cushion for use with multi-point racing harnesses on the track.
• Assistance Systems and Telematics: Given its focus on daily driving and longer trips, the M4 offers more advanced smart assistant packages, including Driving Assistant Professional (adaptive cruise control with lane keeping) and a sophisticated parking assistant with a reversing memory function.
• Track Electronics: Included in the equipment is M Drive Professional, a comprehensive telemetry system linked to the M Laptimer app. It allows for detailed data analysis after track driving, precise timing, and sharing of results.
• Technological Innovations: Advanced infotainment with remote access and OTA (Over-The-Air) updates ensures that the car's systems remain constantly up to date. The M4 also offers optional laser headlights (BMW Laserlight), which significantly increase comfort and safety during fast night driving.

The BMW M2 is the ideal choice for automotive purists looking for a pure, playful, and compact sports coupe. It is perfectly suited for weekend drives and occasional track visits, although it requires certain compromises in comfort for frequent long journeys or carrying more passengers.

The BMW M4 will appeal to more demanding drivers who require uncompromising speed combined with a high standard of luxury and daily usability. It is a more mature and technologically advanced car that, thanks to the available all-wheel drive, can dominate all year round, regardless of the weather.

Based on long-term user experience, service reports, breakdown statistics, and data from our own comprehensive car audit, we have compiled an overview of the most common issues that buyers of these used sports cars should watch out for.

BMW M2 models from recent production years (the end of the F87 Competition generation with the S55 engine and the beginning of the G87 generation) are generally considered reliable and mechanically robust driver's cars, but they have their specific ailments and require meticulous maintenance.

• Engine and Drivetrain: In older versions with the S55 engine, a "crank hub issue" (where the timing gear on the crankshaft slips) can occasionally occur, primarily affecting software-tuned cars with higher power output. On engines with higher mileage, minor oil leaks may also appear around the valve cover gasket.
• Chassis and Wear: Due to the car's purist sporting focus, brake components and rear tires wear out very quickly. The stiffer suspension setup on lower-quality roads accelerates the fatigue of ball joints and bushings.
• Interior: Due to the stiff suspension, creaking or rattling plastic panels may start to be heard in the interior over time, especially in the area of the center console and door panels.
• Cooling: For extremely hard-driven units that owners frequently took to the track, mechanics recommend checking the condition of the radiators located low in the bumper, which are prone to punctures from flying stones.

The BMW M4 (current G82 generation) equipped with the modern S58 unit is considered a technologically advanced and highly robust vehicle, yet minor faults can still appear, primarily in the area of modern electronics.

• Engine and Drivetrain: The S58 unit is mechanically extremely strong, but it is highly sensitive to neglected oil change intervals and the exact lubricant specification. In the first production years, faulty lambda sensors or pressure sensor failures occasionally occurred.
• Infotainment and Electronics: The most common complaint from owners is software glitches in the iDrive 7 and iDrive 8 systems. These manifest as screen freezes, loss of mobile phone connection, or spontaneous restarts. Almost always, the solution is an "Over-the-Air" (OTA) software update.
• Seats and Interior: If the car is equipped with the optional M Carbon Bucket Seats, one must watch out for extremely rapid wear and scuffing of the prominent side bolsters, which occurs even at relatively low mileages due to the more demanding entry and exit.
• Brakes: Customers often report loud squealing from the high-performance steel and optional carbon-ceramic brakes during normal city driving. This is more a characteristic of high-performance friction material than a defect, but it occasionally requires cleaning and lubrication of the brake calipers.

When buying a used car, a thorough inspection is key. Although both of these Bavarian models are top-tier sports machines, their extreme performance means that neglected maintenance can very quickly become expensive for roughly four-year-old used cars. Here are several specific points to focus on, most of which should be covered by a detailed independent technical inspection of the car's condition.

When choosing a BMW M2:

• Signs of track use: The M2 is a renowned "track tool," which can leave its mark. During a physical inspection of a used car, look for melted rubber bits in the wheel arches, bluish brake discs, or excessively worn bushings. Frequent clunking and noises from the front axle when driving over bumps usually indicate "tired" control arms.
• Specifics of older generation engines (F87): If you are choosing a roughly 4–5 year old model (the end of the previous F87 generation with the S55 engine), pay close attention to cracking plastic charge pipes. Also, check for any oil leaks from under the valve cover or oil pan. Rough idling or loss of power can be caused by failing ignition coils.
• Vulnerable underbody on the newer generation (G87): On newer M2 models (equipped with the S58 engine), always inspect the low-mounted oil cooler, which sits underneath just behind the front bumper. It is very susceptible to punctures from stones or during parking. Damage to it can lead to immediate oil loss and fatal engine seizure.
• Transmission condition and behavior: On older versions with the dual-clutch transmission (DCT), carefully monitor the smoothness of take-offs – the transmission must not jerk or hesitate for an unnaturally long time. On the newer generation with the eight-speed ZF automatic, shifting should instead always be lightning-fast, smooth, and without any metallic clunks from the rear differential.
• Condensation in the headlights: Especially on newer generations (G87), excessive fogging of the headlights is not uncommon. Condensed water inside the light can irreversibly damage the daytime running light (DRL) modules, which manifests as light failures and usually ends in an expensive replacement.

When choosing a BMW M4:

• Risk of hidden coolant leaks: The S58 engine in G82 generation cars uses a water-cooled intercooler (charge air cooler) integrated directly into the intake manifold. Check the level in the expansion tank of this separate circuit. White smoke from the exhaust, loss of fluid, or misfires can indicate an internal leak, which poses a real risk of destroying the engine by ingesting water.
• Unprotected oil cooler: Just like the new M2, the M4's oil cooler is unfortunately positioned horizontally to the road just under the front bumper. Even the slightest dent from normal driving poses a risk of leakage. Since BMW usually does not cover these defects under warranty, a thorough technical inspection of the car on a lift is an absolute necessity in this regard.
• Wear on carbon seats: If the car is equipped with the extremely popular and expensive "M Carbon" bucket seats, check their pronounced side bolsters in detail. Due to the more difficult and deeper entry, the leather on these edges suffers from rapid scuffing, creasing, and cracking.
• Cold starts and engine noises: Listen carefully to the engine during a cold start. Some early S58 units suffer from an unpleasant fluctuating whine coming from the area of the alternator or idler pulley in cold weather, which requires an early service visit.
• Condition of the M xDrive system: If you are choosing a version with all-wheel drive, focus on full steering lock at very low speeds during the test drive, for example, while parking or turning around. Any mechanical clicking, popping, or a feeling of unnatural tire "scrubbing" can indicate excessive wear on the transfer case, which is a typical consequence of the previous owner using the Launch Control function too frequently.

Sources: ADAC, idnes.cz, novinky.cz, autorevue.cz, autozive.cz, carsandcoffee.cz

This article was prepared using artificial intelligence tools. The section guarantor is Petr Dušek.