Buying a Used BMW M2 F87: Complete Reliability Guide and Which Models to Avoid
Few modern BMWs capture the brand’s pure driving essence quite like the BMW M2 (F87). Compact, powerful, and engineered for enthusiasts, the M2 became an instant icon when it launched in 2016, combining the light footprint of the 2 Series with true M-division engineering.
However, beneath its thrilling performance, not all M2 versions share the same mechanical DNA — and reliability varies significantly between the N55-powered M2, the M2 Competition with its S55 engine, and the M2 CS, the ultimate limited-edition version.
In this guide, we break down everything you need to know before buying a used BMW M2 F87: its strengths, common issues, maintenance needs, and which model years to approach with caution.
Overview: How Reliable Is the BMW M2 F87?
The BMW M2 F87 enjoys a strong reputation for reliability — especially compared to larger M models like the M3 and M4 of the same era. It benefits from simpler packaging, fewer electronics, and a robust drivetrain.
That said, reliability depends heavily on engine type, driving history, and maintenance discipline. Most issues are related to performance use — track days, aggressive tuning, or poor maintenance — rather than factory design flaws.
Common Problems Across All M2 Models
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Oil leaks: Valve cover gaskets, oil filter housing, and oil cooler lines are common sources.
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Cooling system stress: Frequent track use can lead to coolant hose leaks or radiator cracks.
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Carbon buildup: Direct injection leads to deposits on intake valves after 50–70,000 miles.
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Suspension wear: Front control arms and rear bushings wear faster on hard-driven cars.
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Differential noise: Some early cars develop light whine due to fluid degradation or lack of service.
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Clutch wear (manual): Common in tuned or aggressively driven cars.
Engine-by-Engine Reliability Breakdown
BMW M2 (2016–2018) – N55 3.0L Turbo Inline-6
The original M2 used the N55 engine — a single-turbo, twin-scroll inline-six derived from the M235i but upgraded with pistons, crankshaft, and cooling from the M3/M4 S55.
Common issues:
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Oil leaks around the valve cover and oil filter housing.
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Charge pipe cracking (plastic OEM pipe can split under high boost).
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HPFP (high-pressure fuel pump) failures on high-mileage or tuned engines.
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Wastegate rattle and turbo wear with track use.
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Occasional VANOS solenoid failure causing rough idle or loss of power.
Verdict:
Very reliable when serviced regularly and kept near stock. The N55 M2 is less temperamental than its S55 successor, with fewer high-strain components. Avoid cars with heavy tuning or poor maintenance history.
BMW M2 Competition (2019–2021) – S55 3.0L Twin-Turbo Inline-6
The M2 Competition swapped in the S55 engine from the F80 M3 and F82 M4, detuned slightly but still producing 405 hp. This is a true M powertrain — and it shows both in performance and complexity.
Common issues:
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Rod bearing wear: The most talked-about S55 issue; high-RPM driving on cold oil or long intervals accelerates wear.
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Crank hub spinning: Rare, but possible in hard-driven or tuned cars, leading to timing misalignment.
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Oil leaks at valve cover and oil pan gasket.
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Coolant system leaks: Thermostat and plastic hose fittings weaken over time.
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High-pitched whine from the twin turbos after ~50,000 miles can signal wastegate or bearing wear.
Verdict:
The S55 is a powerhouse but needs meticulous maintenance — frequent oil changes (5,000 mi max), warm-up discipline, and premium fluids. Properly maintained, it’s reliable enough for daily use; neglected, it can be very expensive to repair.
BMW M2 CS (2020–2021) – S55 3.0L Twin-Turbo Inline-6 (450 hp)
The M2 CS represents the pinnacle of the F87 lineup — lighter, sharper, and more powerful than any previous version. It shares the same S55 engine as the M2 Competition but with improved cooling and revised ECU mapping.
Common issues:
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Mechanically similar to the M2 Competition, with the same rod bearing and crank hub considerations.
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Limited parts availability and higher running costs due to exclusivity.
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Sensitive carbon-fiber components (hood, splitter, roof) that are costly to repair.
Verdict:
The M2 CS is both the rarest and most reliable of the F87 lineup — mainly because most owners treat them carefully. It’s a solid long-term investment, but parts and maintenance come at a premium.
Other Components to Watch
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Transmission: Both the 6-speed manual and 7-speed DCT are robust. Manual clutches can wear early with hard launches; DCT fluid changes every 40–50k miles are essential.
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Differential: The M Active Diff is reliable if fluid changes are respected (every 30–40k miles).
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Brakes: M compound brakes perform well but can squeal when cold; replacement pads and rotors are expensive.
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Electronics: iDrive 5 and 6 are stable; occasional software updates fix Bluetooth or camera issues.
Which BMW M2 Models to Avoid
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Heavily modified or tuned examples — especially S55 cars with ECU remaps or downpipes.
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Neglected N55 models — skipping oil changes can ruin the turbo or timing components.
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Track-driven cars without documented cooling system upgrades or regular fluid changes.
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Imported cars with incomplete service history.
A well-kept stock example will always be a safer and more rewarding buy than a poorly maintained “built” M2.
What to Check Before Buying a Used BMW M2 F87
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Confirm complete service records (oil every 5k mi, diff and DCT fluids changed).
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Inspect for oil or coolant leaks underneath and around the valve cover.
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Listen for cold-start rattles or ticking (rod bearing wear indicator).
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Test for smooth clutch engagement and DCT shifts.
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Check for aftermarket tunes — ask for ECU readouts if unsure.
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Inspect tires and brakes; mismatched brands can indicate poor maintenance.
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Run a diagnostic scan for hidden codes (especially VANOS or boost pressure faults).
Upgrade and Customize Your BMW M2 F87
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Verdict: Is the BMW M2 F87 Reliable?
The BMW M2 F87 is one of the best-balanced performance coupes of its era — and impressively reliable when maintained correctly.
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The M2 (N55) is the most dependable and easiest to maintain.
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The M2 Competition (S55) offers serious power but demands strict upkeep.
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The M2 CS is a collector-grade model — reliable, rare, and a joy to drive.
In short: buy with care, maintain meticulously, and you’ll own one of BMW’s most rewarding modern M cars.