BMW M2 F87 buying guide
2016 to 2021. An F87 M2 suits a keen driver who wants a compact rear drive coupe and will check the engine for leaks.
Workshop jobs
- N55 coils and water pump (pre Competition). Some pre Competition N55 cars had faulty coils, and more than one has had the electric water pump fail.
- Gasket leaks, charge pipe and overflow hose. Valve cover, oil filter housing and oil pan gaskets leak, charge pipes break and coolant overflow hoses split.
Small jobs
- DCT cold first gear stutter. The DCT can stutter in first gear, mostly when cold, as it hunts for the bite point on a short first ratio.
- Brake dust shields and tail light condensation. Early cars had dust shields that trapped stones and made noise; updated shields were fitted under warranty. LED tail lights can get condensation.
- iDrive, amplifier, horn and sensors. iDrive screens can go black in cold weather, a failing amplifier screeches, the horn and indicators can play up, and outside temperature sensors fail.
- M Performance exhaust valves. Some warranty claims have been made on the M Performance exhaust valve system.
Questions for the seller
- Is it the original M2 with the N55 or the Competition or CS with the S55?
- Is it DCT or manual?
- Have the coils or water pump been replaced?
- Has it been tuned?
Sources
Researched 2026-11-05. General guidance from owner and specialist sources. Check the specific car with an independent inspection.