BMW 8 Series
G14/G15/G16 (2019–present)
The modern 8 Series is BMW’s grand tourer (coupe, convertible, Gran Coupe). Early 2019–2021 cars carry a heavy recall load — including a fire-risk starter on 2020 — while M850i examples need oil-consumption checks. Prefer 2022–2023.
- ReliabilityMixed earlyCleaner after 2021
- Ownership cost$$$$Flagship GT
- Insurance$$$High
- Repair difficultyHardComplex V8/I6
- Typical lifespanLong if maintainedOil history key
At a glance
- Worst years
- 2019, 2020, 2021
- Best years
- 2022, 2023
- Best powertrain
- Later clean-history cars
- Avoid risk
- Early recalls / N63 oil use
- Recommended tire
- Michelin Pilot Sport All Season 4
- Must check
- VIN recalls + oil level
Years to avoid
Skip 2019–2021 for the early-production recall pile-up (2020 is the heaviest). Prefer 2022–2023 and verify oil consumption on any M850i.
- LayoutRWD / xDrive
- CharacterGrand tourer
Engines
Which powertrains hold up — and which to walk away from.
- Watch oil use
N63TU3 V8 (M850i)
2019–present
Oil consumption and valve-stem seal wear are the ownership watch items — check levels and service history.
- Cleaner years
Inline-six / later calibrated cars
2022+
Later model years underpin the best used 8 Series picks in the guide.
Transmissions
- Solid
8-speed automatic
2019–present
Generally fine when serviced — focus PPI on recalls, oil consumption, and electronics.
Ownership metrics
- Top failure theme
- N63 oil consumptionM850i valve-stem seals especially.
- Safer window
- 2022–2023Best years in the guide.
- Cross-shop
- S-Class coupe / GT rivalsSame buyer intent band.
- Must check
- Recalls + oil levelNon-negotiable on early cars.
Factory tire sizes
| Size | Years / trims | Best all-season | Shop |
|---|---|---|---|
| 245/40R19 | Common OE Many coupe trims |  Performance all-season pick for 8 Series grand-touring. | Live prices |
| 275/35R20 | Higher packages Larger wheel packages | Performance all-season pick for 8 Series grand-touring. | Live prices |
Recommended tires
- Best overall
- Summer
- Winter
Recalls
Early-generation campaigns (incl. starter fire risk)
2019–2021 esp.
Always run the VIN through NHTSA; 2020 carried the heaviest recall count of the modern generation.
Check recalls
Maintenance
| Interval | Service |
|---|---|
| Pre-purchase | Full NHTSA recall check Critical on 2019–2021. |
| Pre-purchase | Oil level + consumption history Especially M850i. |
| Per schedule | Oil changes with correct spec |
| Per schedule | Brake and cooling inspection |
Should you buy one?
Buy 2022–2023. Skip 2019–2021 unless every recall is closed and pricing reflects risk.