2020 BMW M8

The 2020 BMW M8 is a high-performance luxury grand tourer available as a coupe, convertible, and Gran Coupe (four-door coupe). It’s lauded for its powerful engine, luxurious interior, and impressive performance capabilities. However, some common criticisms include its high price tag, somewhat harsh ride quality (especially on non-adaptive suspensions), and complex infotainment system. The M8 features a 4.4-liter Twin-Turbo V8 engine. In the standard M8, this engine produces 600 horsepower and 553 lb-ft of torque. The M8 Competition bumps the output to 617 horsepower and retains the same torque figure. Both versions utilize an 8-speed automatic transmission (ZF 8HP).

Engine

4.4L Twin-Turbo V8 (S63)

• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Whining noise from the engine bay, loss of power, check engine light. Could be caused by oil starvation/contamination.
  • Solution: Replacement of the turbocharger(s). In some cases, addressing the oil supply issue is crucial to prevent recurrence.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $6,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Leaks (Valve Cover Gaskets, Oil Pan Gasket)
  • Description/Symptoms: Visible oil leaks on the engine, burning oil smell, low oil level warning.
  • Solution: Replacement of the leaking gasket(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+ depending on the location and complexity.
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

8-Speed Automatic (ZF 8HP)

• Rough or Delayed Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Hesitation when shifting, clunking noises, particularly during downshifts or gear changes at lower speeds.
  • Solution: Software update of the transmission control module (TCM). If the issue persists, valve body replacement or complete transmission replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 (software update) to $5,000+ (transmission replacement).
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Adaptive Damper Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Error messages related to the adaptive suspension, uneven ride quality, clunking noises from the suspension.
  • Solution: Diagnosis of the specific damper(s) causing the issue. Replacement of the faulty damper(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,500+ per damper.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Freezing/Crashing
  • Description/Symptoms: The iDrive system freezes, reboots unexpectedly, or exhibits lag.
  • Solution: Software update. If the problem persists, replacement of the iDrive control unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (Software Update, can be performed at dealer), $1,000+ (Replacement of the iDrive control unit)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sensor Malfunctions (Parking Sensors, Blind Spot Monitoring)
  • Description/Symptoms: False alarms, failure to detect objects, error messages.
  • Solution: Diagnosis of the faulty sensor. Replacement of the sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per sensor.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• No Issues Found

Interior

• Trim Pieces Loosening/Rattling
  • Description/Symptoms: Trim pieces around the dashboard, center console, or doors become loose and rattle, especially on rough roads.
  • Solution: Re-securing the trim pieces. In some cases, replacement of clips or fasteners.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the extent of the issue.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

The 2020 BMW M8, while a powerful and luxurious vehicle, has some potential issues to be aware of. Engine issues, particularly turbocharger and oil leaks, can be costly to repair. Transmission issues involving rough shifting may require software updates or more extensive repairs. Electrical issues with the infotainment system and sensors can be frustrating. While not all M8s will experience these problems, potential buyers should be aware of these common complaints and factor them into their purchasing decision. The severity of these issues ranges from minor inconveniences to major mechanical failures, with repair costs varying accordingly, potentially reaching several thousand dollars.