What to look for when buying a 4 Series 418i?

2018 · 418i · 4 verified findings
"Is the 4 Serisi 418i reliable, and what should you check?"

When buying a used BMW 4 Series 418i 2018 (F32 / F33 / F36 / F82 / F83), the most frequently mentioned issue is: Cooling system: pump and thermostat. Also, timing chain tensioner and chain are commonly reported.

Engine: B38

B38B15A · 418i · Used in this car from 2017-2019

Known engine issues

  • Crankshaft thrust bearingEngines up to 2015 suffered from excessive axial clearance on the crankshaft, and the thrust bearing failed at 50,000 km. The design was later revised.
  • Cracks in the manifoldThe aluminum turbocharger housing with water cooling is integrated with the exhaust manifold and cracks from overheating, leading to coolant leakage.
  • Floating idleAs with all direct injection engines, intake valves become coked with carbon deposits, resulting in floating idle and unstable engine operation.

+1 more issues on the engine detail page

Known issues and risks

Listed from most frequently reported, each with its source.

Cooling system: pump and thermostat

Often reported

Issues are reported in the cooling system, including anomalies with the thermostat and water pump, which can cause engine temperature fluctuations or risk of overheating. If not detected in time, these failures can lead to major engine damage.

Cooling

Timing chain tensioner and chain

Often reported

In some variants of the 1.5 engine (B38), timing chain elongation and tensioner wear are reported; this can cause a rubbing or rattling noise on cold start and, if neglected, carries a risk of serious mechanical damage.

Timing chain

Injectors and carbon buildup

Often reported

Injector failures and carbon deposit formation on intake ports are reported; this can cause idle fluctuations, loss of efficiency, and higher fuel consumption.

Fuel System

Turbocharger issues (wastegate/oil)

Often reported

In many 1.5 versions, the turbocharger may experience wastegate failures or performance loss due to clogged oil passages or faulty actuators.

Turbo

BMW 4 Serisi 418i technical specs

BMW 4 Serisi 418i (2018): boot 445 L; fuel use 5,6 l/100 km (urban 7,1 l/100 km · extra-urban 4,8 l/100 km); 0–100 in 9 s.

Boot capacity
445 L
Fuel consumption
5,6 l/100 km (urban 7,1 l/100 km · extra-urban 4,8 l/100 km)
0–100 km/h
9 s
Top speed
212 km/s
Tire size
225/50 R17
Fuel tank
60 L
Dimensions (L×W×H)
4640 × 1825 × 1377 mm

Same trim, different year

Frequently asked questions

What should I look for when buying a BMW 4 Series 418i?+
When buying a 2018 418i, check the service history, test drive, and look for engine/transmission warnings. The most commonly reported issues are: Cooling system: pump and thermostat; Timing chain tensioner and chain; Injectors and carbon buildup.
What are the chronic problems of the BMW 4 Series 418i?+
The most commonly reported issues are: Cooling system: pump and thermostat; Timing chain tensioner and chain; Injectors and carbon buildup.
Is the BMW 4 Series 418i reliable?+
Rather than a simple yes/no, it's necessary to evaluate the proven pros and cons together. This page lists 4 verified findings.
How does Carbeak collect data?+
The cards on this page are derived from Difetti fault database records; compatibility between the source vehicle and target vehicle is verified in terms of brand, fuel, engine, and generation. Topics with insufficient evidence are not shown.

We only publish claims we can verify. Cards come from Difetti fault records matched to this vehicle on brand, fuel, engine and generation.

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