2018 BMW M240i xDrive
The 2018 BMW M240i xDrive is a compact performance coupe known for its powerful engine, agile handling, and luxurious interior. It’s powered by a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-6 engine producing 335 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. It’s commonly praised for its quick acceleration, responsive steering, and overall driving fun. Some owners, however, may find the ride a bit stiff or the rear seats cramped. Other engine options for this model include the B48 2.0L turbo-4. Transmission options include a 6-speed manual and an 8-speed automatic.
Engine
B58 3.0L Turbocharged Inline-6
- Oil Filter Housing/Cooler Leaks
- Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks are observed around the oil filter housing and cooler, leading to a burning smell and potential oil loss. Coolant leaks may also be present, as the cooler houses both oil and coolant passages.
- Solution: Replace the oil filter housing gasket and/or the oil cooler assembly.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Coolant Leaks
- Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks are observed due to degrading plastic coolant pipes and fittings. Leaks can lead to engine overheating and damage if not addressed.
- Solution: Replace the faulty plastic coolant pipes and fittings with updated parts, often made of aluminum.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
- Recalls: None Found
B48 2.0L Turbocharged Inline-4
- Timing Chain Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Some B48 engines experience premature timing chain wear, leading to rattling noises, especially on startup. This can eventually lead to engine damage if the timing chain breaks.
- Solution: Replace the timing chain, guides, and tensioner.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
ZF 8HP 8-Speed Automatic
- Rough Shifting/Hesitation
- Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported occasional rough shifting, hesitation, or delayed engagement, particularly when cold or during specific driving conditions.
- Solution: Performing a transmission fluid flush and filter change may alleviate some symptoms. In more severe cases, valve body replacement or transmission replacement may be required. Ensure proper fluid level and condition before considering more invasive repairs.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 (fluid flush) - $5,000+ (transmission replacement)
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- No Issues Found
Electrical
- Idrive Screen Freezing/Crashing
- Description/Symptoms: The iDrive infotainment screen may freeze, crash, or become unresponsive.
- Solution: Software update, or replacement of the iDrive module if software updates do not solve the problem.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (software update) - $1,000+ (module replacement)
- Recalls: None Found
- Battery Drain
- Description/Symptoms: The car battery drains quickly, especially when the car is not driven frequently.
- Solution: Diagnose parasitic draw to determine which component is draining the battery. Potential causes include faulty modules, aftermarket accessories, or the comfort access system. Replacing the battery is often necessary.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $500+
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- No Issues Found
Interior
- Seat Heater Failure
- Description/Symptoms: The seat heaters may stop working, affecting either the seat back or the seat cushion.
- Solution: Replacing the faulty heating element in the seat.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2018 BMW M240i xDrive is generally a reliable performance car. However, potential buyers should be aware of the possibility of oil leaks from the oil filter housing or cooler and coolant leaks, especially on the B58 engines. Some B48 engines experience timing chain issues. Some owners have also reported electrical glitches with the iDrive system and battery drain issues. Transmission problems, while less common, can be expensive to repair. The severity of these issues varies, but addressing them promptly is essential to maintaining the car’s performance and longevity. While some issues can be resolved with relatively inexpensive fixes, others could potentially lead to significant repair costs.