F98 (2019-2024) · S58 3.0L twin-turbo inline-6 · 510 hp
BMW's high-performance SUV coupe with the acclaimed S58 engine - one of BMW's strongest M powertrains. Built on lessons learned from the S55, the S58 features forged internals and a closed-deck design for durability. Main concerns: high-pressure fuel pump failures (expensive), rapid tire wear (11,000 miles reported), electric water pump leaks, and charge pipe brittleness. The S58 is relatively new (2019+) so high-mileage data is limited, but early indicators suggest good reliability in stock form. Performance braking and xDrive system add maintenance complexity and cost.
HPFP failures cause long cranking, loss of power, engine stalling, and limp mode · more· less
The S58 engine uses a high-pressure fuel pump critical for delivering precise fuel at high pressure to the injectors. Some M3/M4 owners have experienced premature HPFP failures. Symptoms include long cranking during startup (especially cold weather), noticeable power loss during acceleration, and engine stalling or entering limp mode. This is a common BMW problem area across multiple engines. Parts cost €800-1,800 for OEM pumps, plus 3-6 hours labor at €120-190/hour for specialists (€450-1,200). If the failed HPFP sends metal debris through the fuel system, you may need to replace injectors and fuel lines, adding €1,000-5,000+.
Rapid tire wear€1,600 - €2,000
X3M/X4M owners report tires worn to legal limit at 11,000 miles, particularly inner edges · more· less
This is a well-documented issue on X3M/X4M forums. The vehicles are heavy (1,935 kg) and sustained high-speed driving causes uneven tire wear, particularly on inner edges. Forum threads show owners experiencing "BALD TIRES @11k Miles" and discussing "265/40 & 295/35 better tire mod" as essential. The X4M Competition comes with Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires: 255/40R21 front (€371 each) and 265/40R21 rear (€378 each). Full set costs approximately €1,498 + €100-200 installation = €1,600-1,700. Track use or aggressive driving accelerates this significantly. Regular tire pressure checks and rotation are essential.
Electric water pump failure€900 - €1,400
Electric water pumps fail suddenly between 60,000-100,000 km, can cause overheating damage · more· less
The S58 uses an electric water pump that can fail suddenly without much warning. Unlike belt-driven pumps with gradual wear, electric pumps go from fine to faulty quickly. Symptoms include fluctuating engine temperatures, coolant leaks, check engine light, or cooling fan screaming constantly. If the pump fails completely, the engine can overheat, causing blown head gaskets or warped cylinder heads. Parts cost €300-500 (OEM), labor adds €500-900 due to engine bay packaging. Always replace thermostat simultaneously (€65-110) since they're co-located. In 2024, BMW recalled 720,000+ vehicles for water pump short circuit risk - verify if your X4M is affected.
Plastic charge pipe failure€200 - €1,000
Y-shaped plastic charge pipe cracks under high boost, causing loss of power · more· less
The BMW S58 features a Y-shaped plastic charge pipe connecting both turbos to the throttle body. Under high boost conditions (especially in tuned cars), the plastic pipe struggles with increased temperatures and pressure, leading to cracking and potential engine damage. When it fails, boost pressure is lost, causing reduced performance and triggering check engine light. Many owners proactively upgrade to aftermarket aluminum charge pipes (€200-400) which provide better durability. Labor for replacement is minimal (installs in minutes) since it uses OEM mounting system. If the pipe fails catastrophically on the road, recovery and repair costs can reach €1,000+.
M-spec brake pad and rotor wear€1,300 - €2,500
Performance brakes wear faster, pads every 30,000-40,000 km, rotors every 60,000-80,000 km · more· less
The X4M Competition features high-performance M brakes designed for track use. These brakes are larger and more expensive than standard X4 brakes. Based on M4 pricing (similar brake system), expect €1,300-1,400 for brake pad replacement (both axles). Rotors typically last twice as long but cost significantly more. BimmerWorld offers OEM front brake kits for F97/F98 X3M/X4M models. Aggressive driving, towing, and track use accelerate wear. If equipped with optional carbon ceramic brakes (CCB), replacement discs cost over €4,000 each - a potential €16,000 repair bill. Many owners convert CCB to iron brakes due to replacement cost. Brake fluid should be changed every 30,000 miles (first interval), then every 60,000 miles.
Valve cover gasket oil leak€700 - €2,200
Common BMW issue - valve cover gasket degrades over time, causing oil leaks and burning oil smell · more· less
This is a traditional BMW problem area. The valve cover gasket seals the top of the engine and degrades over time from heat cycling. Symptoms include oil spots under the car or burning oil smell when driving. The gasket itself costs €50-300 for a kit with grommets and seals, but labor is 2-5 hours (€200-500) due to the complexity of the S58's twin-turbo setup. Dealerships charge significantly more - one example quoted €2,205 for a valve cover gasket due to firewall removal requirements. Independent BMW specialists typically charge €700-1,200 for this repair. Driving with a failing gasket can compromise engine performance and contaminate vital components. This typically becomes an issue after 80,000-120,000 km.
Suspension bushings and shock wear€800 - €2,000
Heavy vehicle (1,935 kg) and firm suspension accelerate bushing and shock degradation · more· less
The X3M and X4M are heavy vehicles with extremely firm OEM suspension. This combination accelerates wear on suspension components. When control arm bushings fail, you'll notice clunking noises, uneven tire wear, and poor handling during cornering. The rubber in bushings degrades over time, resulting in excessive play. Shocks and struts typically need replacement between 50,000-100,000 km, costing €764-895 per axle. Sustained high-speed driving causes additional stress. Regular inspection of suspension bushings, shock absorbers, and tire wear is essential. BMW Inspection 1 (every 32,000 km) includes suspension checks. Track use significantly accelerates wear.
xDrive transfer case and differential service€200 - €13,000
Regular fluid changes prevent catastrophic transfer case failure (€7,000-13,000 repair) · more· less
The X4M's xDrive all-wheel-drive system requires regular maintenance. Transfer case fluid should be changed every 30,000-60,000 miles (BMW dealerships charge €395, independent shops €150-250). Differential fluid needs changing every 40,000-60,000 km. If these services are neglected, the transfer case can fail catastrophically - replacement costs €7,000-13,000. BMW currently faces a class action lawsuit for xDrive transfer case defects (though M Series models are excluded). Over time, transfer case fluid is exposed to extreme temperatures, reducing lubrication properties. Driving beyond 80,000-100,000 km without fluid changes leads to premature wear. This is preventive maintenance that's far cheaper than replacement.
Strong engine, but high-performance components add cost
The S58 engine is one of BMW's most robust M powertrains, built on lessons from the S55 and B58. With forged internals, closed-deck design, and low compression ratio, it's engineered for durability even at high power levels. After 4+ years in production, no widespread failures have emerged in stock form. However, this is a heavy performance SUV with high-stress components: aggressive tires wear quickly, M-spec brakes are expensive, and the xDrive system adds complexity. High-mileage data is still limited since the newest examples are only 5 years old. Proper maintenance is essential.
Pre-Purchase Inspection Checklist
General checks
Service history
Complete BMW dealer or specialist records essential. Verify 10,000 km oil changes (enthusiasts recommend 8,000 km for M cars).
Tires
Check tread depth and uneven wear patterns, especially inner edges. Michelin Pilot Sport 4S 255/40R21 front, 265/40R21 rear. Wear accelerates on track.
Cold start
Must start engine completely cold. Listen for unusual sounds, long cranking (HPFP issue), or cooling fan screaming (water pump).
Body condition
Check 21-inch wheels for curb damage. Inspect for accident damage, paint mismatch.
Test drive
Minimum 30 minutes including highway speeds. Test all drive modes (Comfort, Sport, Sport+), launch control, and xDrive operation.
Specific for this vehicle
Check for long cranking or rough cold starts
Start engine completely cold. Long cranking, especially in cold weather, indicates HPFP failure (€1,500-3,500 repair).
Inspect coolant system thoroughly
Check coolant level, condition (should be clean, not brown/milky), and look for leaks around electric water pump. Electric pumps fail suddenly.
Test cooling fan operation
If cooling fan runs at maximum speed constantly, the water pump may be failing. This is a common early warning sign.
Examine charge pipe for cracks
Look at the Y-shaped plastic charge pipe connecting turbos to intake. Check for cracks, especially if car has been tuned. Many owners upgrade to aluminum.
Verify tire condition and wear pattern
X3M/X4M are known for rapid, uneven tire wear. Check if tires have been replaced recently. Run hand across tread - should feel smooth, not wavy.
Check for oil leaks around valve covers
Look for oil residue on top of engine around valve covers. Check for burning oil smell during test drive. Common BMW issue.
Test all suspension modes and listen for noises
Drive over rough roads in all suspension modes. Listen for clunking (bushings) or squeaking (dry bushings/shocks). Suspension is very firm even in Comfort.
Inspect brake condition carefully
M-spec brakes are expensive. Check pad thickness, rotor condition. Ask when last replaced. If car has carbon ceramic brakes, verify condition (€16,000+ replacement).
Verify xDrive transfer case and differential service history
Ask for proof of transfer case fluid change (every 50,000 km). Failure to maintain these can lead to €7,000-13,000 transfer case replacement.
Check recall completion status
Verify rearview camera recall (2019-2021), seat frame welding recall (2019-2021), and license plate illumination recall (2022) completed. Use VIN lookup.
Test all electronics and infotainment
BMW X4 has reported infotainment glitches. Test all screens, navigation, connectivity, rearview camera. Check for software updates.
Recalls and Technical Service Bulletins
Rearview camera image obscured (2019-2021)Verify completed
Electric water pump short circuit (2024 recall - check if applies)Verify with dealer
Contact a BMW dealer with the VIN to verify all recalls have been completed. The BMW X4 has 27 known recalls according to tracking databases. Pay special attention to the 2024 water pump recall affecting 720,000+ BMW vehicles.
Warranty Status
Factory warranty (4 years / 50,000 miles)Expired on 2019-2020 models
BMW extended warranty (up to 7 years / 100,000 miles)Available from dealer
BMW Platinum extended warranty€5,700 (approximate)
2019-2020 X4M models are now outside their 4-year factory warranty. BMW offers extended warranty coverage up to 7 years or 100,000 miles with two levels of protection. The Platinum plan costs approximately €5,700 and provides comprehensive coverage. Given the high cost of S58 engine repairs (HPFP, water pump, turbos), extended warranty may provide peace of mind. Contact BMW dealer for personalized quote based on vehicle age and mileage.
This report is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. Estimates may be inaccurate. Always have a qualified specialist inspect the vehicle before purchase. We accept no liability for decisions made based on this information.