BMW F22 2 Series buying guide: coupé and convertible
The F22 2 Series coupé and F23 convertible are compact, rear-wheel drive BMWs with a wide range of engines. This guide covers the versions, gearboxes, common issues and what to check before buying.
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The F22 2 Series coupé was launched in 2014, replacing the 1 Series coupé. The F23 convertible followed in 2015. Both kept the classic BMW layout of a front-mounted engine and rear-wheel drive, with xDrive available on some versions.
The F22 2 Series is compact, fun to drive and available with economical four-cylinder engines or fast six-cylinder M Performance models. This guide explains the engines, versions, common issues and what to check before you buy.
A compact rear-wheel drive coupé
The F22 is based on the F20 1 Series platform, sharing its engines and much of its technology. It is longer and lower than the hatchback, with a more elegant coupé shape. Our F20 1 Series buying guide explains many of the shared components.
The coupé seats four, and the boot is a useful size for a compact car. The F23 convertible has a fabric roof and four seats.
Engines
The F22 2 Series was offered with many engines:
- 218i: a three-cylinder turbo petrol in later cars.
- 220i and 230i: four-cylinder turbo petrols, first the N20 and later the B48. Our article on the BMW B48 engine explains it.
- M235i: the N55 six-cylinder turbo petrol.
- M240i: the B58 six-cylinder turbo petrol. Our article on N54 vs N55 vs B58 explains it.
- 218d, 220d and 225d: four-cylinder diesels, first the N47 and later the B47.
The 220d is economical and popular, while the M235i and M240i offer strong performance. Our article on the M240i vs M2 compares the fastest versions.
Gearboxes
The F22 2 Series was offered with a six-speed manual and an eight-speed automatic gearbox. The automatic is smooth and quick, and it suits most drivers. The manual is popular with enthusiasts. Check that the clutch engages smoothly and that there is no judder when pulling away. Our article on the BMW dual-mass flywheel explains related symptoms.
F22 2 Series common issues
Points to check include:
- Timing chain on early N47 diesels and N20 petrols. Our article on BMW timing chain problems explains the warning signs.
- Oil leaks from the valve cover and oil filter housing gasket.
- Electric water pump and thermostat on petrol models. Our article on BMW cooling system problems explains them.
- DPF and EGR on diesels used for short trips. Our article on the BMW DPF explains this.
- Run-flat tyres, which can give a firm ride. Our article on BMW run-flat tyres explains the options.
- Convertible roof operation and seals on the F23.
M235i and M240i
The M235i and M240i are fast and engaging, with strong six-cylinder engines and rear-wheel drive or xDrive in some markets. They are popular with enthusiasts and are often modified. When buying, look for original or well-documented cars, check for software tuning and look for a full service history.
Check the tyres, brakes and suspension, because these cars are often driven hard. Our article on BMW M Performance Parts explains common factory upgrades.
Practicality
The F22 2 Series has two usable rear seats for shorter trips and a practical boot. The rear seats fold in many cars. The convertible has a smaller boot when the roof is down. For a couple or a small family, the 2 Series coupé is practical enough for everyday use.
Running costs
The four-cylinder diesels and petrols are economical. The six-cylinder M Performance models use more fuel and have higher insurance costs. Parts are widely available and shared with the 1, 3 and 4 Series. Budget for tyres and brakes, especially on the six-cylinder cars.
Test drive checklist
On the test drive:
- Start the engine cold and listen for rattles.
- Check for smooth power without hesitation.
- Test the gearbox in all modes.
- Feel for vibration under braking.
- Test the roof on convertible cars.
- Read the fault memory and check for signs of tuning.
Our complete checklist for buying a used BMW M car covers many checks that apply to any BMW.
F22 2 Series: points to remember
Look for a car with full service history and evidence of timing chain checks on early four-cylinder models. Later cars with the B48 and B47 engines are often preferred. Check whether software updates and recalls have been completed. A specialist inspection is a good idea on any car, especially the six-cylinder models.
Is the F22 2 Series a good buy?
The F22 2 Series is a compact, stylish and enjoyable BMW. The 220d and 220i are economical everyday choices, while the M235i and M240i are among the best performance cars in their price range.
Choose a car with full history and the engine that suits your budget, and the 2 Series can be a rewarding car to own.
BMW BMW F22 specifications
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Production | 2014 to 2021 |
| Body | F22 coupé and F23 convertible |
| Drive | Rear-wheel drive, xDrive on some versions |
| Petrol | 218i, 220i, 230i, M235i, M240i |
| Diesel | 218d, 220d, 225d |
| Gearboxes | Six-speed manual, eight-speed automatic |
| Key checks | Timing chain, leaks, DPF, tuning, roof |
Frequently asked questions
Is the F22 2 Series rear-wheel drive?
Yes, the coupé and convertible are rear-wheel drive, with xDrive available on some versions.
Which F22 2 Series engine is best?
The 220d is economical, while the M240i offers the most performance.
Is the F22 2 Series reliable?
Later B48 and B47 engines are generally dependable. Early N47 and N20 engines need timing chain checks.
What is the difference between the F22 and F23?
The F22 is the coupé and the F23 is the convertible.
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