BMW 4 Series
G22/G23/G26 (2021–present)
The 4 Series is BMW’s luxury coupe line (plus convertible and Gran Coupe). Early 2014–2015 cars — especially N20-powered models — carry timing-chain guide failure risk. Prefer 2016, 2020, or 2022–2023 with documented maintenance.
- ReliabilityMixedN20 years risky
- Ownership cost$$$BMW luxury coupe
- Insurance$$Moderate–high
- Repair difficultyModerate–HardEngine access
- Typical lifespanLong if maintainedChain history key
Generations
- F32/F33/F362014–2020
- G22/G23/G262021–presentCurrent
At a glance
- Worst years
- 2014, 2015, 2021
- Best years
- 2016, 2020, 2022, 2023
- Best powertrain
- Later B48 / clean history
- Avoid risk
- N20 timing-chain guides
- Recommended tire
- Michelin Pilot Sport All Season 4
- Must check
- Timing chain / oil history
Years to avoid
Skip 2014–2015 for N20 timing-chain guide failures, and 2021 for the heaviest second-gen recall load. Prefer 2016, 2020, or 2022–2023 with documented maintenance.
- LayoutRWD / xDrive
- CharacterLuxury coupe
Engines
Which powertrains hold up — and which to walk away from.
- Avoid without chain proof
N20 2.0T (428i)
2014–2015 (esp.)
Timing-chain guide failures are the headline risk — demand documentation or budget a major repair.
- Stronger
Later turbo fours / sixes
Later F32 / G22
Later powertrains underpin the best used 4 Series years in the guide.
Transmissions
- Solid
8-speed automatic / 6-speed manual
Various
Generally fine when maintained — focus PPI on engine chain history and cooling system.
Ownership metrics
- Top failure theme
- N20 timing chain2014–2015 428i/435i especially.
- Safer window
- 2016, 2020, 2022–2023Best years in the guide.
- Cross-shop
- A5 / 2 Series / M4Same buyer intent band.
- Must check
- Chain + oil historyNon-negotiable on early cars.
Factory tire sizes
| Size | Years / trims | Best all-season | Shop |
|---|---|---|---|
| 225/45R18 | Common OE Many coupe trims |  Performance all-season pick for 4 Series daily driving. | Live prices |
| 255/35R19 | Higher packages M Sport / larger wheels | Performance all-season pick for 4 Series daily driving. | Live prices |
Recommended tires
- Best overall
- Summer
- Winter
Recalls
Various generation campaigns
Multiple
Always run the VIN through NHTSA; verify fuel-pump, water-pump, and any timing-chain related repairs on early N20 cars.
Check recalls
Maintenance
| Interval | Service |
|---|---|
| Pre-purchase | Timing chain / guide inspection or proof of repair Critical on 2014–2015 N20. |
| Pre-purchase | Oil condition + cold-start rattle check |
| Per schedule | Oil changes with correct spec Helps chain longevity. |
| Per schedule | Cooling system inspection |
Should you buy one?
Buy 2016, 2020, or 2022–2023. Skip 2014–2015 and 2021 unless history and pricing compensate.