2019 BMW 420i
The 2019 BMW 420i is a stylish and sporty coupe, gran coupe, or convertible known for its agile handling and refined driving experience. In 2019, the 420i was available with a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 engine producing 180 horsepower and 200 lb-ft of torque. Other engine options available for the 2019 BMW 4 series include the 430i with a more powerful version of the 2.0-liter producing 248 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, and the 440i with a 3.0-liter inline-6 producing 320 horsepower and 330 lb-ft of torque. It was primarily paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise the 420i’s sleek design, comfortable interior, and responsive handling. Some common dislikes include the relatively small rear seats and limited cargo space, especially in the coupe and convertible models.
Engine
2.0L Turbocharged Inline-4 (B48)
- Oil Leaks from Valve Cover Gasket
- Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks may be observed around the valve cover, potentially causing a burning smell. Low oil levels could also result from this leak.
- Solution: Replace the valve cover gasket.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
- Recalls: None Found
- Coolant Leaks from Plastic Components
- Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks may occur from plastic coolant pipes, the thermostat housing, or the expansion tank. Symptoms include low coolant levels, overheating, and visible coolant leaks.
- Solution: Replace the faulty plastic coolant components with updated or more durable parts.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+, depending on the component and location.
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
8-Speed Automatic (ZF 8HP)
- Rough or Delayed Shifting
- Description/Symptoms: Reports of rough or delayed shifts, particularly when cold, or between certain gears.
- Solution: Perform a transmission fluid flush and filter replacement. If the problem persists, valve body replacement may be necessary.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: Fluid flush and filter: $300 - $500. Valve body replacement: $1500 - $3000+
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- No Issues Found
Electrical
- iDrive System Malfunctions
- Description/Symptoms: The iDrive system can experience glitches, freezing, or complete failure. This can affect navigation, entertainment, and vehicle settings.
- Solution: Software updates are often the first step. In some cases, the iDrive control unit may need to be replaced.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: Software update: $100 - $300. Control unit replacement: $800 - $1500+
- Recalls: None Found
- Battery Drain Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Premature battery drain, leading to difficulty starting the vehicle, especially after periods of inactivity. This can be caused by parasitic draws from various electrical components.
- Solution: Perform a parasitic draw test to identify the source of the drain and repair or replace the faulty component.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+, depending on the source of the drain.
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- No Issues Found
Interior
- Sunroof Issues
- Description/Symptoms: The sunroof can sometimes be difficult to open or close, may get stuck, or may produce unusual noises during operation.
- Solution: Inspect the sunroof tracks for debris, lubricate the tracks, or replace faulty sunroof components.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $800+, depending on the severity of the problem and parts required.
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2019 BMW 420i can be a generally reliable vehicle, but potential buyers should be aware of the listed issues. Engine-related problems like oil and coolant leaks are fairly common. Transmission issues, especially regarding shifting, can also occur. Electrical issues relating to the iDrive system or battery drain can be frustrating and costly to repair. While most of these issues are not considered catastrophic, the potential cost of repairs, especially for electrical and transmission problems, should be factored into the ownership cost.