BMW F32 4 Series buying guide: coupé, convertible and Gran Coupé
The F32 4 Series is a stylish coupé, convertible and Gran Coupé. This buying guide covers the body styles, petrol and diesel engines, the folding hard top, common issues and what to check.
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The F32 4 Series was created in 2013 when BMW gave the coupé and convertible versions of the 3 Series their own name. It was offered as the F32 coupé, the F33 convertible with a folding hard top and the F36 Gran Coupé with four doors.
With elegant styling, a wide range of engines and sharp handling, it is a popular used buy. In this buying guide we explain the F32 4 Series body styles, engines, common issues and what to check before you buy.
Three body styles
The F32 4 Series family includes:
- F32 coupé: a classic two-door sports coupé with frameless windows.
- F33 convertible: with a folding metal hard top, giving coupé-like comfort with the roof closed.
- F36 Gran Coupé: a four-door coupé with a large tailgate, offering more practicality.
The Gran Coupé is especially popular because it combines the 4 Series design with family practicality.
Engines
The 4 Series was offered with many engines:
- Four-cylinder petrol: early 420i and 428i with the N20, later 420i and 430i with the B48. Our article on the BMW B48 engine explains it.
- Six-cylinder petrol: early 435i with the N55, later 440i with the B58.
- Four-cylinder diesel: 418d and 420d, first with the N47 and later with the B47.
- Six-cylinder diesel: 430d and 435d.
The M4 is the full M version. Our F80 M3 buying guide also covers the F82 M4.
Timing chain and engine checks
Some earlier four-cylinder engines need timing chain checks:
- N20 petrol in the early 420i and 428i.
- N47 diesel in the early 420d.
Listen for rattles on a cold start and ask for records of timing chain work. Our article on BMW timing chain problems explains the symptoms. Later B48 and B47 engines are generally considered more durable.
The F33 convertible roof
The F33 uses a folding metal hard top. When buying a convertible:
- Operate the roof several times and listen for unusual noises.
- Check for water leaks in the cabin and boot.
- Inspect the seals between roof panels.
- Make sure the roof storage area in the boot is clear and undamaged.
Our article on BMW convertible roof care explains how to look after the roof.
F32 4 Series common issues
Other points to check include:
- Window regulators on frameless windows. Our article on BMW window regulators explains the issue.
- Run-flat tyres on many cars. Our article on BMW run-flat tyres explains them.
- Front suspension bushings, which can cause vibration. Our article on BMW vibration at speed explains this.
- DPF and EGR on diesels used for short trips.
- Oil leaks on older engines.
- Wheels for kerb damage, especially on M Sport cars with large wheels.
Driving experience
The 4 Series has a lower centre of gravity and a wider track than the 3 Series of the same era, which makes it feel slightly sharper and more planted. The steering is precise, and the chassis is well balanced, especially with adaptive suspension.
The six-cylinder models are particularly enjoyable, with strong performance and a pleasing sound. The four-cylinder petrol and diesel models are more economical and still quick enough for most drivers. Rear-wheel drive versions feel more playful, while xDrive models offer more traction in winter.
The convertible is heavier and slightly less sharp than the coupé, but it adds the pleasure of open-air driving with good comfort when the roof is closed.
Running costs
The 420d and 420i are the most economical versions, while the six-cylinder 430d, 435d, 435i and 440i offer much more performance with higher costs. Insurance for coupés can be higher than for saloons in some markets.
Convertibles have additional maintenance needs because of the roof mechanism. Budget for tyres, brakes and preventive work on older cars. Our article on BMW diesel or petrol helps you choose the right engine for your driving.
Test drive checklist
On the test drive:
- Start the engine cold and listen for chain noise.
- Check the gearbox for smooth shifts.
- Test the convertible roof, if applicable.
- Check the windows drop and rise correctly when opening and closing the doors.
- Feel for vibration at motorway speeds.
- Read the fault memory.
Our complete checklist for buying a used BMW covers other checks.
Is the F32 4 Series a good buy?
The F32 4 Series is a stylish and enjoyable car. Later models with the B48, B58 or B47 engines and full service history are generally the safest choice. The Gran Coupé offers the best practicality, while the coupé is the most sporty and the convertible the most fun in summer.
Choose the body style that suits your life and focus on condition and history. Our article on the BMW M440i explains the next-generation 4 Series.
BMW F32 4 Series key facts
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Production | 2013 to 2020 |
| Body styles | F32 coupé, F33 convertible, F36 Gran Coupé |
| Petrol engines | N20, B48, N55, B58 |
| Diesel engines | N47, B47, six-cylinder diesels |
| Convertible roof | Folding metal hard top |
| Timing chain checks | Early N20 and N47 engines |
| Key checks | Roof, windows, chain noise, bushings |
Frequently asked questions
Is the F32 4 Series reliable?
Generally yes, especially later models with B-series engines. Early N20 and N47 engines need timing chain checks.
What is the difference between the F32, F33 and F36?
The F32 is the coupé, the F33 the convertible with a folding hard top and the F36 the four-door Gran Coupé.
Which F32 4 Series engine is best?
Many buyers prefer the later 430i or 440i petrol or the 420d with the B47 diesel.
Is the 4 Series Gran Coupé practical?
Yes. It has four doors and a large tailgate, making it suitable for families.
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