Last updated: 2026-10-10
2023 BMW 4 Series Reliability Report
The 2023 BMW 4-Series holds a good reliability standing but trails other 2023 coupes, with 26 federal recalls and owner reports of total power loss.
Recalls
26
Complaints
43
Complaint Rate
11.6per 10,000 sold
Est. Repair Cost
$968
Annual Fuel Cost
$2,450–$3,850
Detailed Score Breakdown
Component-weighted complaints normalized by sales volume
Independent repair cost ratings
Recall count weighted by severity
Breadth of reported problem categories
The Verdict
Last year of the second generation, with more recalls and complaints than 2022 or 2024, and a weaker showing than both neighbors.
Top Issues to Watch
- SERVICE BRAKES (12)
- ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC) (5)
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (3)
Generation & Refresh (US)
2023 is the last model year of the Second generation (G22/G23/G26).
- Final-year models are typically the most refined version of a generation.
- 2nd generation 4 Series (US).
What this means for buyers
Final-year models are usually the most polished version of a generation, but resale value may dip as buyers anticipate the next redesign.
2020: Second generation (G22/G23/G26) Launch
Generation start — new platform.
2023: This Model Year
2023 is the last model year of the Second generation (G22/G23/G26).
Should You Buy the 2023 BMW 4 Series?
Buy with some caution. This year holds a good reliability standing, but it sits well below average among 2023 coupes and in the middle of the 4-Series model years. Both 2022 and 2024 rate better. It is the last year of the second generation.
Most brake complaints do not describe this car. Many of the 12 service brake filings and all of the 5 stability control filings come from 7 Series owners waiting on recall parts. The complaints that fit this car are different. Owners report the car shutting off while moving with all electrical power lost, sometimes with airbag and seat belt warnings. Others say rear cross-traffic alert often fails to beep or brake, and that the backup camera is too dim at night. Federal recall records list 26 recalls, more than 2022 or 2024, across electrical, air bags, seats, and brakes.
Run the VIN for open recalls before you sign. Ask for repair records on any electrical or brake work. Test the rear cross-traffic alert and camera yourself. Price a 2022 or 2024 alongside it.
Compared to the 2024 BMW 4 Series, which scored 3 points higher. See also the 2022 BMW 4 Series for an earlier comparison.
Pros
- +Acceptable reliability score
- +5-star NHTSA crash rating
- +Well-established generation
- +Only 43 complaints reported
Cons
- −Above-average recall count
- −Above-average complaint rate for Coupe
- −SERVICE BRAKES: Brake assist fades, the pedal goes stiff or sinks halfway, and the car does not... (12 complaints)
Compare 2023 BMW 4 Series With
2023 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
Reliability: 53/100
2023 Toyota Supra
Reliability: 69/100
2023 Mercedes-Benz E-Class
Reliability: 63/100
2023 BMW 5 Series
Reliability: 70/100
2023 Chevrolet Camaro
Reliability: 81/100
Common Problem Categories
Safety
LOW RISK- 26 manufacturer recalls issued
Other
HIGH RISK- SERVICE BRAKES (12)
- UNKNOWN OR OTHER (10)
Recall Overview
26
recalls on record
The 2023 BMW 4 Series has 26 recalls on record, which is above average. A high count can flag multiple component concerns, though it also shows the manufacturer is actively addressing known issues.
NHTSA.gov →Complaint Breakdown
11.6
per 10,000 soldSegment avg: 2.6
Safety Incidents
6
Crashes
0
Fires
3
Injuries
0
Deaths
NHTSA 5/5 Stars
Data sourced from NHTSA complaint filings and manufacturer recall notices. Complaint narratives are owner-reported.
2023 BMW 4 Series Recall Details
26 recalls have been issued for the 2023 BMW 4 Series. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2023 BMW 740i, 760i xDrive, and i7 xDrive60 vehicles. The telematics control unit may not transmit the vehicle location information to emergency responders.
Consequence
Emergency response may be delayed without the vehicle location information, increasing the risk of injury.
Remedy
Dealers will update the telematics control unit software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 17, 2023. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2021-2023 Toyota Supra, 2022-2023 2 Series Coupe, 2021-2024 5 Series (xDrive), 2021-2022 Z4, 2022-2024 4 Series (Gran Coupe), 2021-2024 4 Series (Convertible and xDrive Convertible), 2021-2023 4 Series (Coupe), 2021-2024 3 Series, 2021-2023 X4, 2021-2024 X3 vehicles. Please see the recall report for a complete list of all models. The engine starter may overheat and catch fire due to wear on an internal component.
Consequence
Fire increases the risk of injury.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the engine starter, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed March 24, 2026. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417 or Toyota's customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall will be searchable on NHTSA.gov beginning March 24, 2026.
POWER TRAIN
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2023 Toyota GR Supra, 3 Series Sedan (330i xDrive, M340i xDrive, M3), 5 Series Sedan (530i, 530i xDrive, M5), 4 Series Gran Coupe (430i, 430i xDrive), 4 Series Coupe (430i, 430i xDrive, M440i xDrive), 4 Series Convertible (430i, 430i xDrive, M440i xDrive), 8 Series Coupe (840i, M850i xDrive, M8), 8 Series Convertible (840i, M850i xDrive, M8), 8 Series Gran Coupe (850i xDrive, M8), X3 SAV (X3 xDrive30i, X3M), X4 SAV (X4 xDrive30i), X5 SAV (X5 xDrive40i, X5 M50i, X5M), X6 SAV (X6 xDrive40i, X6 M50i, X6M), and Z4 sDrive30i, Z4 M40i vehicles. The weld seam of the integrated transmission control unit's cover may not have been manufactured properly, which could allow automatic transmission oil to leak into the transmission control unit.
Consequence
Transmission oil that leaks into the control unit can lead to a seizure of the transmission gears, causing a sudden loss of drive power and increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the transmission mechatronics module and the automatic transmission fluid, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 26, 2024. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
Showing 10 of 18 recalls. View all on NHTSA.gov →
Buying a used 2023 BMW 4 Series? Check its history first
Service brakes problems lead owner complaints about the 2023 BMW 4 Series, and 26 recalls were issued for it. A VIN check shows whether this car's recall work was done, plus accident, title, and odometer history.
- Accidents
- Open Recalls
- Title History
- Odometer Rollback
2023 BMW 4 Series NHTSA Safety Ratings
Overall Safety Rating
Crash Test Results by Configuration (expand)
Gas Powertrain
Rollover risk: 0.0%
Safety Technologies
Gas / HEV Powertrain
Rollover risk: 9.2%
Safety Technologies
BMW 4 SeriesRepair Costs & Maintenance
Maintenance Rating
3Maintenance rating: 3 out of 5Based on NHTSA complaint patterns, recall severity, and publicly available cost benchmarks.
Est. Annual Maintenance
$968
Category-level averages derived from publicly available industry reports (AAA, CarMD). Model-level estimates produced by Auto Reliability Index.
2023 BMW 4 Series Example Repair Prices
National average price ranges for common repairs. These are not model-year-specific failure predictions.
| Repair | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Headlamp Switch Replacement | $295 – $338 |
| Engine Oil Level Sensor Replacement | $345 – $561 |
| Air Conditioning Expansion Valve Replacement | $641 – $949 |
| Wheel Bearing Replacement | $783 – $1,140 |
| Tire Rotation | $61 – $90 |
| Timing Chain Replacement | $4,812 – $6,790 |
| Engine Leak Inspection | $153 – $224 |
| Windshield Wiper Blade Replacement | $122 – $143 |
| Timing Chain Tensioner Replacement | $333 – $390 |
| Battery Replacement | $753 – $846 |
Estimates based on national average repair costs. Actual costs may vary by location and shop.
MPG & Annual Running Costs
Gas
18–28 MPG
Running cost: $3,400–$4,800/yr
Fuel + repair
16–25 city / 22–34 hwy MPG
Hybrid
25–27 MPG
Running cost: $3,500–$3,700/yr
Fuel + repair
22–24 city / 31–32 hwy MPG
Running cost includes EPA fuel-cost estimate and independent repair-cost data (repair cost estimated at model level). Excludes routine maintenance, depreciation, and insurance. Data as of 2023 EPA label cycle.
Gas trims
| Trim | Drive | Trans. | City | Hwy | Comb | Fuel Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 430i Convertible 2.0L 4-cyl | Rear-Wheel Drive | Automatic (S8) | 25 | 34 | 28 | $2,450 |
| 430i Coupe 2.0L 4-cyl | Rear-Wheel Drive | Automatic (S8) | 25 | 34 | 28 | $2,450 |
| 430i Gran Coupe 2.0L 4-cyl | Rear-Wheel Drive | Automatic (S8) | 25 | 34 | 28 | $2,450 |
| 430i xDrive Convertible 2.0L 4-cyl | All-Wheel Drive | Automatic (S8) | 23 | 33 | 27 | $2,550 |
| 430i xDrive Coupe 2.0L 4-cyl | All-Wheel Drive | Automatic (S8) | 23 | 33 | 27 | $2,550 |
| 430i xDrive Gran Coupe 2.0L 4-cyl | All-Wheel Drive | Automatic (S8) | 23 | 33 | 27 | $2,550 |
| M4 Competition Coupe 3.0L 6-cyl | Rear-Wheel Drive | Automatic (S8) | 16 | 23 | 19 | $3,650 |
| M4 Coupe 3.0L 6-cyl | Rear-Wheel Drive | Manual 6-spd | 16 | 23 | 19 | $3,650 |
| M4 Competition M xDrive Convertible 3.0L 6-cyl | All-Wheel Drive | Automatic (S8) | 16 | 23 | 18 | $3,850 |
| M4 Competition M xDrive Coupe 3.0L 6-cyl | All-Wheel Drive | Automatic (S8) | 16 | 22 | 18 | $3,850 |
| M4 CSL Coupe 3.0L 6-cyl | Rear-Wheel Drive | Automatic (S8) | 16 | 23 | 18 | $3,850 |
Hybrid trims
| Trim | Drive | Trans. | City | Hwy | Comb | Fuel Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| M440i Coupe 3.0L 6-cyl | Rear-Wheel Drive | Automatic (S8) | 24 | 32 | 27 | $2,550 |
| M440i Gran Coupe 3.0L 6-cyl | Rear-Wheel Drive | Automatic (S8) | 24 | 32 | 27 | $2,550 |
| M440i Convertible 3.0L 6-cyl | Rear-Wheel Drive | Automatic (S8) | 23 | 31 | 26 | $2,650 |
| M440i xDrive Convertible 3.0L 6-cyl | All-Wheel Drive | Automatic (S8) | 22 | 31 | 25 | $2,750 |
| M440i xDrive Coupe 3.0L 6-cyl | All-Wheel Drive | Automatic (S8) | 22 | 31 | 25 | $2,750 |
| M440i xDrive Gran Coupe 3.0L 6-cyl | All-Wheel Drive | Automatic (S8) | 22 | 31 | 25 | $2,750 |
Used Buying Checklist
Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing a 2023 BMW 4 Series.
Run the VIN through a federal recall lookup and confirm every open brake-related recall repair has been completed.
Brake firmly from moderate speed several times and reject a car whose pedal sinks, goes stiff, or grabs and releases.
Watch the dash at startup and while driving for "Drive Carefully" brake messages or safety-system warnings.
Drive in steady traffic and note any automatic emergency braking event with nothing ahead.
Compare the car's navigation position against your phone over several miles to check for location drift.
Back out of a space with a car approaching and confirm the rear cross-traffic alert sounds.
Stop the car, select Drive, and check whether a light touch knocks the shifter into neutral.
Check the cup holder and shifter area for spill residue and ask about past gear malfunction warnings.
2023 BMW 4 Series Common Problems by Component
43 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.
SERVICE BRAKES
12 complaintsSafety-relatedBrake assist fades, the pedal goes stiff or sinks halfway, and the car does not stop as expected. Some reports describe a pedal that grabs, releases and grabs again, with a braking system failure message on the dash. Others describe automatic emergency braking slowing the car hard at moderate speed for no reason. Two filings involve crashes, one with injuries. Many of these complaints come from 7 Series owners still waiting on a recall repair because parts are unavailable. A few say dealer repairs did not fix uneven pedal pressure.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
10 complaintsSafety-relatedNavigation position drifts away from the car's real location. Some owners say the wrong location also reaches phone apps and the BMW app, which could matter in an emergency. The dash screens go blank on some cars, and the app connection fails. Other reports describe a car that will not go into park and rolls away, a sunroof panel that shatters while driving, and a backup camera that is too dim at night. Two filings involve crashes, one after the car lurched forward while parking.
ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
5 complaintsBrake system faults cause sudden stops at low speed without the pedal pressed, or leave the pedal on the floor, along with a "Drive Carefully" brake message and warning lights. One failure happened at 6,470 miles. Most filings here report no failure, though. They describe owners waiting for a recall repair while dealers confirm parts are unavailable. Every complaint in this group names a 7 Series model, not a 4 Series, so these reports point to a BMW brake problem without describing this car directly.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (3 complaints)
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
3 complaintsThe car shuts off completely while moving, with all electrical power lost. On some highway drives this comes with warnings that the airbags and seat belts are not working. Another report describes a dashboard that gets too hot to touch every day, which brings up a warning that the safety sensors may not be working. A third complaint, about a 330e, says the instrument cluster is too dim in bright daylight and has no manual brightness control. No crashes are reported here.
BACK OVER PREVENTION (3 complaints)
BACK OVER PREVENTION
3 complaintsRear cross-traffic alert often fails to beep or brake when another car approaches from behind, even on its most sensitive setting. One owner says it rarely triggers unless the other car is very close. Dealers in more than one state say the system works as designed and offer no fix. One owner says a relative's 2023 440i does the same thing. Other complaints say the backup camera is too dim to use at night or in parking garages. No crashes are reported.
POWER TRAIN (3 complaints)
POWER TRAIN
3 complaintsThe gear shifter moves out of Drive into neutral with a light brush of the arm, and the car stops pulling while traffic speeds up around it. Dealers call this acceptable. In another case, a gear malfunction warning disabled the car, and it could not be shifted to neutral for towing. The service advisor blamed water from the cup holder getting into the controller. One dealer-confirmed failure involves the rear differential breaking inside and the rear axle separating from it, which risks loss of control.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL (2 complaints)
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
2 complaintsSafety-relatedUnwanted lunges forward make up both reports in this group, and neither involves a 4 Series. In one, a foot slips from the brake onto the accelerator because the pedals sit close together, and the car drives through a garage wall. In the other, a harsh jerk on the shift from first to second feels like unintended acceleration. That owner reports near-collisions and neck pain, while the dealer calls it normal. One filing involves a crash and one reports an injury.
STRUCTURE (2 complaints)
STRUCTURE
2 complaintsSafety-relatedUnexpected acceleration when the brake is pressed leads to one crash in this group. It happened at very low speed and damaged a neighbor's property after an earlier episode on a downhill road. The other complaint describes the front license plate holder falling off the bumper while the car was parked, with no outside force, and damaging the bumper. Only two complaints are filed here, so no wider pattern is visible.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING (1 complaints)
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
1 complaint:**Complaint Regarding 2023 330e Instrument Cluster Brightness Issue** - I wish to report a safety concern regarding the instrument cluster brightness in my 2023 BMW 330e. The instrument cluster features an auto-dimming screen with no brightness control during the day. The ambient brightness sensor does not accurately detect daylight conditions unless the sunshade on the sunroof is open. This results in an excessively dim instrument cluster that is challenging to read in bright daylight. **Safety Implications:** This issue poses a safety concern as it hinders the driver's ability to access critical information such as speed, fuel levels, and other essential data. It may lead to distractions and decreased situational awareness. **Requested Action:** I kindly request that the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) investigates this issue and collaborates with the manufacturer, BMW, to find a solution promptly. This could involve a software update or a hardware adjustment to the ambient brightness sensor to ensure the instrument cluster remains readable in all lighting conditions.
TIRES (1 complaints)
TIRES
1 complaintsize 19. I have had two tires fail in 3 months. Less than 3k miles on both. There was no road hazard but both tires blew out on the side.
Best & Worst BMW 4 Series Years
Best BMW 4 Series Years to Buy
Based on reliability index score2024
2022
2023
(Current Model)
BMW 4 Series Years to Avoid
BMW 4 Series Reliability Score Trend
Scores 0–100. Higher is better. Current year highlighted.
| Year | Score | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| 2018 | 54/100 | Mixed |
| 2019 | 55/100 | Mixed |
| 2020 | 52/100 | Mixed |
| 2021 | 57/100 | Mixed |
| 2022 | 66/100 | Good |
| 2023 | 63/100 | Good |
| 2024 | 66/100 | Good |
| 2025 | 67/100 | Good |
| 2026 | 64/100 | Good |
BMW 4 Series Reliability Compared to Other Years
2023 BMW 4 Series Reliability by Powertrain
The 2023 BMW 4 Series is available with 2powertrain options. Here's how they compare on reliability.
| Powertrain | Complaints | Recalls | Incidents* | Crash Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gas | 27 | 20 | 1 | N/T |
| Gas / HEV | 16 | 6 | 5 | 5 out of 5 |
| Total | 43 | 26 | 6 |
NHTSA tracks complaints by vehicle configuration when that detail is available. Model-level reports that do not identify a specific powertrain are included in Total but not assigned to a row. A plus sign indicates a confirmed minimum; — means no complaints could be attributed to that specific powertrain. N/T = Not tested by NHTSA.
* Incidents = crash + fire reports. A single complaint can include multiple incident types.
2023 BMW 4 Series Common Questions
10 questions from 2023 BMW 4 Series owners.
Ignition trouble
If i replace the ignition switch does that include the cylinder tumbler in it,it was thought possibly the cylinder tumbler might need replacing since key will only turn just a little A few days
When turning key car wont start or click on solenoid.
1996 BMW Z3. Is there a relay that controls the starter? all fuses are fine. I replaced the starter and car still wont start or click! Car won't start More than a week
Crank no start
I started my car the other morning and it was about 29° outside. When I started it there was a loud pop under the hood. The car kept running so I drove it about 40 miles. Later that afternoon I went to leave and it would crank but no start I went and bought a battery and it started so I went back home. It's been 3 weeks and it still won't start. Now it's a slow rough crank with no start More than a week
2006 BMW X3 3.0i Coolant leak
Coolant leak-even when car is not running. Have replaced the coolant reservoir, the mounting plate for the reservoir and radiator, the heater control valve and the oil cooler have been replaced. It’s still just dousing the coolant out. Not a drop leak more consistent stream. I’m at a loss for what to do. Leaks regardless of engine on or off A few days
Oil leaking
When driving car smokes on and off I was told it could be valve cover gasket it gas been sitting for 2 months and now is hard to start More than a month
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 2023 BMW 4-Series reliable?
What are the most common problems with the 2023 BMW 4-Series?
Does the 2023 BMW 4-Series have electrical problems?
How many recalls does the 2023 BMW 4-Series have?
Is the 2023 BMW 4-Series better than the 2022 or 2024?
Don’t buy a 2023 BMW 4 Series without checking its VIN first — hidden accidents, title issues, and open recalls could cost you thousands.
How we score the 2023 BMW 4 Series
Of the four inputs behind this score, the 2023 BMW 4 Series does best on how many systems draw complaints (85/100) and worst on recall impact (47/100). Scores weight complaint severity at 35%, repair costs at 30%, recall impact at 20%, and the spread of complaints across systems at 15%, with complaint counts adjusted for US sales. Read the full methodology.
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