BMW M4 2014-2020

BMW M4 2014-2020 Drivetrain Specifications

Detailed technical specifications and documentation for the 2014-2020 BMW M4 drivetrain system, including the S55 engine, transmission options, rear-wheel drive system, and limited-slip differential. Essential for technicians and enthusiasts.

Updated Oct 24, 2023

Overview Specifications

Comprehensive description of the drivetrain specifications for the 2014-2020 BMW M4, including key features, measurements, and technical details

How to Use

Use the search function to locate specific drivetrain components or specifications by entering keywords such as 'transmission', 'differential', or 'driveshaft'.

Navigate through the drivetrain documentation by selecting the relevant section from the table of contents or using the sidebar menu to jump to specific subsections.

Key Specifications

Engine Displacement

3.0L (2,979 cc)

Transmission Options

6-speed manual or 7-speed DCT

Driveshaft Material

Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymer (CFRP)

Rear Axle Track Width

1,630 mm (64.2 in)

Top Speed (with M Driver's Package)

174 mph (280 km/h)

Available Specifications

Engine and Transmission

Details about the engine and transmission system, including specifications and performance metrics

S55 Twin-Turbocharged Engine

3.0L inline-6 twin-turbocharged engine
Max power output: 425 hp (317 kW) at 5,500-7,300 rpm
Max torque: 406 lb-ft (550 Nm) at 1,850-5,500 rpm
Redline: 7,600 rpm
Direct fuel injection system

7-Speed Dual-Clutch Transmission (DCT)

7-speed M DCT with Drivelogic
Shift times as low as 100 milliseconds
Multiple driving modes: Comfort, Sport, and Sport+
Integrated launch control system
Weight: 187 lbs (85 kg)

Note: The DCT is optional; a 6-speed manual transmission is also available.

Differential and Driveshaft

Information about the differential and driveshaft components, including their roles and specifications

Active M Differential

Electronically controlled multi-plate limited-slip differential
Torque distribution: 0-100% between rear wheels
Integrated with Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)
Weight: 52 lbs (23.6 kg)
Enhances traction and cornering stability

Carbon Fiber Driveshaft

Carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) construction
Reduces rotational mass and improves efficiency
Length: 1,200 mm (47.2 in)
Weight: 13 lbs (5.9 kg)
Enhances power delivery and responsiveness

Note: The CFRP driveshaft is a key feature of the M4's lightweight design.

Axles and Suspension

Technical details about the axles and suspension system, including geometry and performance

Rear Axle Design

Five-link rear axle with forged aluminum components
Track width: 1,630 mm (64.2 in)
Wheelbase: 2,812 mm (110.7 in)
Integrated with Active M Differential
Optimized for high-speed stability

Adaptive M Suspension

Electronically controlled dampers
Three adjustable modes: Comfort, Sport, and Sport+
Front suspension: Double-wishbone design
Rear suspension: Multi-link setup
Lowered ride height by 10 mm (0.4 in) compared to standard 4 Series

Note: The suspension system is tuned for both track and road performance.

Performance and Efficiency

Performance metrics and efficiency details of the drivetrain system

Acceleration and Top Speed

0-60 mph (0-97 km/h): 3.9 seconds (DCT), 4.1 seconds (manual)
Top speed: 155 mph (250 km/h) (electronically limited)
Optional M Driver's Package increases top speed to 174 mph (280 km/h)
Quarter-mile time: 12.1 seconds (DCT)

Fuel Efficiency

City fuel economy: 17 mpg (13.8 L/100 km)
Highway fuel economy: 26 mpg (9.0 L/100 km)
Combined fuel economy: 20 mpg (11.8 L/100 km)
CO2 emissions: 238 g/km

Note: Fuel efficiency may vary based on driving conditions and transmission type.

Search Specifications

Search by specification name, value, or description

Component Specifications

Engine

Type: S55B30

Configuration: Inline 6-cylinder

Displacement: 2979 cc

Compression Ratio: 10.2:1

Max Power: 425 hp @ 5500-7300 rpm

Max Torque: 406 lb-ft @ 1850-5500 rpm

Redline: 7600 rpm

Fuel System: Direct Injection

Part Number: 11002207923

Transmission

Type: 7-speed Dual-Clutch Transmission (DCT)

Model: M DCT Drivelogic

Gear Ratios: 1st: 4.806:1
2nd: 2.593:1
3rd: 1.701:1
4th: 1.277:1
5th: 1.000:1
6th: 0.844:1
7th: 0.671:1
Reverse: 3.935:1

Shift Time: 80 ms

Part Number: 28107848877

Differential

Type: Active M Differential

Configuration: Electronically controlled multi-plate limited-slip

Lockup: 0-100% variable

Part Number: 33108659987

Driveshaft

Material: Carbon Fiber Reinforced Plastic (CFRP)

Length: 1.5 m

Diameter: 80 mm

Part Number: 26108659988

Axles

Front: Type: Double-joint spring strut front axle
Track Width: 1572 mm
Part Number: 31308659989

Rear: Type: Five-link rear axle
Track Width: 1602 mm
Part Number: 33308659990

Clutch

Type: Dual Wet Clutch

Diameter: 240 mm

Material: Sintered metal

Part Number: 21508659991

Cooling System

Engine Coolant Capacity: 10.5 liters

Transmission Coolant Capacity: 2.5 liters

Differential Coolant Capacity: 1.2 liters

Part Number: 17108659992

Lubrication

Engine Oil Capacity: 6.5 liters

Engine Oil Type: BMW TwinPower Turbo 5W-30

Transmission Oil Capacity: 2.0 liters

Transmission Oil Type: BMW DCT Fluid

Differential Oil Capacity: 1.1 liters

Differential Oil Type: BMW SAF-XJ + FM Booster

Part Number: Engine Oil: 07510017800
Transmission Oil: 83222445678
Differential Oil: 83222445679

Operational Limits

Max Engine Temp: 120°C

Max Transmission Temp: 140°C

Max Differential Temp: 110°C

Max Speed: 250 km/h (electronically limited)

Max Towing Capacity: Not recommended

Diagnostics

Error Codes

P0015 - Camshaft Position Timing Over-Retarded
P0300 - Random/Multiple Cylinder Misfire Detected
P0171 - System Too Lean (Bank 1)
P0174 - System Too Lean (Bank 2)

Diagnostic Port: OBD-II

Scan Tool: BMW ISTA/D

Service Information Service

Detailed service requirements and schedules for the BMW M4 drivetrain

10000

Engine oil and filter change
Inspect brake system
Check coolant level
Inspect tires and adjust pressure

Use only BMW-approved fluids and parts

30000

Replace air filter
Replace spark plugs
Inspect drive belts
Check transmission fluid level

Transmission fluid change recommended every 60000 miles

60000

Replace transmission fluid
Replace differential fluid
Inspect suspension components
Check exhaust system

Perform full drivetrain inspection

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about torque specifications

What type of drivetrain does the 2014-2020 BMW M4 use?

The 2014-2020 BMW M4 features a rear-wheel-drive (RWD) system with an optional M xDrive all-wheel-drive (AWD) system available in later models. The drivetrain includes a 7-speed M Double Clutch Transmission (M DCT) or a 6-speed manual transmission, depending on the configuration.

What is the torque output of the BMW M4's drivetrain?

The BMW M4's S55 twin-turbocharged inline-6 engine delivers a maximum torque of 406 lb-ft (550 Nm) at 1850-5500 rpm. This torque is transmitted through the drivetrain to the rear wheels or all four wheels in AWD models.

How does the Active M Differential enhance drivetrain performance?

The Active M Differential is an electronically controlled limited-slip differential that optimizes traction and stability. It continuously adjusts torque distribution between the rear wheels based on driving conditions, improving cornering grip and overall handling.

What is the recommended service interval for the drivetrain components?

BMW recommends inspecting the drivetrain components, including the transmission, differential, and driveshaft, every 30,000 miles (48,000 km). Fluid changes for the transmission and differential should be performed every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or as specified in the owner's manual.

Can the drivetrain handle high-performance modifications?

The BMW M4's drivetrain is engineered for high performance, but modifications such as increased horsepower or torque should be approached cautiously. Excessive power upgrades may strain the transmission, differential, or driveshaft, requiring reinforced components or professional tuning.

Factory Service Resources

Access official service manuals, technical documents, and repair guides. These resources provide detailed procedures, specifications, and diagrams directly from the manufacturer.

BMW M4 Drivetrain Technical Overview

Coming Soon

A detailed guide covering the specifications, components, and operation of the BMW M4's drivetrain system.

Active M Differential Operation Manual

Coming Soon

Learn how the Active M Differential works and its role in enhancing the M4's performance and handling.

BMW M4 Transmission Service Guide

Coming Soon

Step-by-step instructions for servicing the 7-speed M DCT or 6-speed manual transmission in the BMW M4.

Drivetrain Maintenance Best Practices

Coming Soon

Essential tips for maintaining the drivetrain components to ensure longevity and optimal performance.

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