2016 BMW 4 Series: known problems and what to check
Too few BMW 4 Series cars first registered in 2016 had an MOT during 2025 for reliable MOT figures. Here’s what we do know about the 2016 BMW 4 Series, and what to check before you buy one.
Known faults on the 2016 BMW 4 Series
Reported by owners, mechanics and buying guides for this model and age. Check which engine the car has, as some apply to one engine only.
- 2.0 petrol and diesel
Timing chain wear
The four-cylinder petrol and diesel engines (shared with the 3 Series) can suffer timing chain wear, especially with late oil changes. A failed chain is an engine-out repair.
At the viewing: Listen for a rattle or whine from the back of the engine, especially from cold. Ask for oil changes on time.
Source: Parkers: BMW 3 Series (2012-2019) used review (the 4 Series shares its engines and running gear)
- Diesel
Blocked EGR valve or particulate filter (diesel)
Diesels used mostly for short trips can block the EGR valve or clog the particulate filter, causing poor running.
At the viewing: Ask what journeys it’s done and watch for warning lights or a lack of power.
If it needs doing: DPF clean or regeneration, about £160–£500. ClickMechanic
Source: Parkers: BMW 3 Series (2012-2019) used review (the 4 Series shares its engines and running gear)
Noisy differential
A whine from the rear as the car passes you can mean the differential has been neglected.
At the viewing: Ask someone to drive it past you slowly and listen for a whine from the back.
Source: Parkers: BMW 3 Series (2012-2019) used review (the 4 Series shares its engines and running gear)
Questions to ask the seller before buying a 2016 BMW 4 Series
Ask before you travel to see it. A seller who knows the car will have answers, and receipts.
- Has the timing chain been checked or replaced, and have oil changes been on time?
- Can I see the service history and receipts for any big jobs?
What to check on a 2016 car
- MOT history
Check the reg below: its MOT history shows what has been failed or advised, and whether the mileage adds up.
- Service history
Look for regular servicing and receipts for big jobs like a cambelt or clutch.
- Finance and write-offs
MOT records don’t show outstanding finance or insurance write-offs. A history check does.
- Test drive
Listen for knocks over bumps, check every warning light goes out, and make sure the gears and brakes feel right.
Looking at a BMW 4 Series?
Check the actual car: its own MOT history, mileage and what to ask the seller. Free, no sign-up.
Other years
Every year of the BMW 4 Series compared
| Year | MOT tests | Most flagged |
|---|---|---|
| 2026 | – | Too new for MOT data |
| 2025 | – | Too new for MOT data |
| 2024 | – | Too new for MOT data |
| 2023 | – | Too new for MOT data |
| 2022 | – | Too few tests |
| 2021 | – | Too few tests |
| 2020 | – | Too few tests |
| 2019 | – | Too few tests |
| 2018 | 118 | Tyres 13% |
| 2017 | – | Too few tests |
| 2015 | – | Too few tests |
| 2014 | 296 | Tyres 25% |
| 2013 | 641 | Tyres 33% |
Where this comes from: how many are on the road is from the Department for Transport’s vehicle licensing statistics (DVLA records), counted by the year each car was first registered. Known faults are from UK buying guides, in our own words, with links. How we score