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BMW F80 M3 common problems

2015–2018 · M3 (incl. Competition, CS) (S55). The known weak spots of the engines used in the F80, with sources, plus the topics that come up most in BMW's service bulletins and NHTSA recalls for this chassis.

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S55 engine

M3 (incl. Competition, CS) (2015–2018) · S55 bulletins →

Crank hub slip

The S55's friction-fit crankshaft hub can rotate under big torque spikes (especially on tuned cars), knocking timing out. Upgraded keyed or pinned hubs are the common fix.

BMW bulletins on file for the F80:

Sources: Litchfield: F8x crank hub issue · Lang Racing: S55 crank hub

Charge pipe cracks

The factory plastic charge pipes crack, causing boost leaks and limp mode.

Sources: Lang Racing: S55 crank hub and boost notes

Most frequent bulletin topics 137 bulletins

TopicBulletinsExamples
Steering6SIB 66 24 19, SIB 36 01 21
Axle4SIB 34 09 21, SIB 31 03 18
Battery3SIB 61 13 05, SIB 61 27 17
Radio3SIB 65 06 17, SIB 65 07 17
Axle ticking2SIB 34 05 15, SIB 34 08 14
Differential humming2SIB 33 03 18, SIB 33 01 19
Differential new-car delivery hold2NHTSA 10147047, NHTSA 10147048
Telematics unit2SIB 84 02 21, SIB 84 01 21

BMW service bulletins and warranty extensions filed with NHTSA that list the F80, grouped by topic. A bulletin tells technicians how to diagnose and fix a known issue; it doesn't mean every car has the problem.

NHTSA recalls by component 4

Matched from NHTSA's public recall file by model and model year. Recall repairs are free; check a VIN.

BMW warranty extensions that list the F80

If a car qualifies, the listed repair may be free. Check eligibility for the VIN with a BMW center.

Sources: BMW service bulletins and recalls filed with NHTSA (public data) and the specialist and owner write-ups linked above. Not affiliated with BMW.

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