How much does a BMW M2 F87 engine replacement cost in the UK?

A reconditioned F87 engine typically costs £4,000–£12,000 supply only, depending on engine -the N55 sits at £4,000–£7,000, while the S55 in the Competition/CS can reach £6,000–£12,000. Fitting adds £780–£1,300. Use our calculator for a personalised figure.

Which BMW M2 F87 engine is the most reliable?

The N55 3.0-litre single-turbo straight-six in the standard M2 (2015–2018) is the most reliable F87 engine -simpler than the S55, with fewer high-strain components and a proven track record. The S55 in the Competition and CS is a true M engine but demands more meticulous maintenance.

What are the common problems with the BMW M2 F87?

Charge pipe cracking and HPFP failure on the N55, rod bearing wear and crank hub spinning on the S55, oil leaks from the valve cover and oil filter housing on both engines, and -unrelated to the engine -the occasional diff and suspension component wear on tracked examples.

Is the BMW M2 F87 reliable?

Reliability depends heavily on engine choice and maintenance history. The N55 is the more dependable option, while the S55 has well-documented rod bearing and crank hub concerns that require preventative attention. A well-maintained F87 can be a reliable performance car; a neglected one will be expensive.

Which BMW M2 F87 engine should I avoid?

No engine is inherently bad, but an S55-powered Competition or CS without documented rod bearing and crank hub history is a risky purchase. A high-mileage N55 with no charge pipe or HPFP history should also be approached with caution. The CS is a collector's car with premium running costs.

How do I know if my F87 engine needs replacing?

Charge pipe cracks (N55 -boost leaks, loss of power), long cranking (N55 HPFP), rod bearing failure (S55 -metallic knocking, low oil pressure), crank hub spin (S55 -timing codes, loss of power), or oil leaks and overheating are the key warning signs. Use our diagnostic calculator for a personalised assessment.

Is it worth replacing a BMW M2 F87 engine, or should I scrap the car?

Depends on the car's value. Against a £25,000 M2 Competition, a £6,000 S55 recon is 24% -well within our 70% BMW threshold. Against a well-kept £35,000+ example, the same recon is 17% -a repair decision. Against a sub-£18,000 high-mileage example, a major engine failure is borderline. On a CS, the calculus is different -the car's collector value justifies the S55's high replacement cost.

How long do BMW M2 F87 engines last?

The N55 can exceed 100,000–150,000 miles with proper maintenance. The S55 can also reach high mileage -but requires rod bearing and crank hub preventative work, with oil changes every 5,000 miles maximum. Track use accelerates wear on both engines.

What is the difference between the N55 and S55 engines in the F87?

The N55 in the standard M2 is a single-turbo 3.0-litre straight-six producing 365–370 bhp. The S55 in the Competition and CS is a twin-turbo 3.0-litre straight-six producing 405–450 bhp -a true M-division engine with higher performance, more complex cooling, and additional maintenance requirements. The N55 is the more accessible, reliable choice; the S55 is for enthusiasts who can absorb the running costs.

How do I find my BMW M2 F87 engine code?

Listed on the VIN plate and vehicle documentation; block stamping is visible on the engine itself. The N55B30T0 is found in standard M2s (2015–2018); the S55B30A is in Competition and CS models (2018–2021). Tell us your variant (M2, M2 Competition, M2 CS) and we'll identify it -20+ vetted specialists will confirm it for free.

F87 Engine Replacement Cost UK -Compare Quotes

BMW M2 F87 Engine Codes -The Complete Database

Every engine fitted to the first-generation M2 -from the N55 single-turbo in the standard car to the S55 twin-turbo in the Competition and CS.

Engine CodeFamilyFuelDisplacementPowerYears (F87)

VariantsReliability2025 EnquiriesAvg. Recon CostN55B30T0N55

Petrol, single-turbo3.0L (2979cc)365–370 bhp2015–2018M2★★★★☆ [PATTERN DATA]

-(pattern data)£4,000–£7,000 [PLACEHOLDER -confirm vs cost sheet]S55B30AS55Petrol, twin-turbo3.0L (2979cc)

405 bhp2018–2021M2 Competition★★★★☆ [PATTERN DATA]-(pattern data)£6,000–£10,000 [PLACEHOLDER -confirm vs cost sheet]

S55B30A (CS)S55Petrol, twin-turbo3.0L (2979cc)444–450 bhp2020–2021

Engine CodeFuelPowerYearsReliabilityEnquiriesAvg. Recon Cost

VariantsReliability2025 EnquiriesN55B30T0N55

Petrol, single-turbo3.0L (2979cc)365–370 bhpM2★★★★☆ [PATTERN DATA]

-(pattern data)£4,000–£7,000 [PLACEHOLDER -confirm vs cost sheet]S55B30APetrol, twin-turbo3.0L (2979cc)

405 bhp2018–2021M2 Competition-(pattern data)£6,000–£10,000 [PLACEHOLDER -confirm vs cost sheet]

S55B30A (CS)S55Petrol, twin-turbo444–450 bhp2020–2021

Overview

BMW M2 F87 -Overview

The F87 is the first-generation BMW M2, unveiled in November 2015 and produced from October 2015 to 2021.

Built on the F8x chassis shared with the M3/M4, the M2 was marketed as the most accessible M Car in the range. The standard model used a tuned N55 single-turbo six-cylinder, while the later Competition and CS variants received the S55 twin-turbo engine from the M3/M4 -splitting this generation's mechanical identity into two distinct eras.

Key Facts

Platform

BMW F8x (shared with F80 M3, F82 M4)

Predecessor

BMW 1 Series M Coupé (E82)

Successor

BMW M2 G87

Sibling body styles in this generation

Coupé only

Market Intelligence

As a model that ended production in 2021, the F87 M2 is now a used-market icon -the N55 standard car is the most accessible, while the S55 Competition and CS are the most sought-after for their true M-engine character.

BMW M2 F87 -Overview

The F87 is the first-generation BMW M2, unveiled in November 2015 and produced from October 2015 to 2021.

Built on the F8x chassis shared with the M3/M4, the M2 was marketed as the most accessible M Car in the range. The standard model used a tuned N55 single-turbo six-cylinder, while the later Competition and CS variants received the S55 twin-turbo engine from the M3/M4 -splitting this generation's mechanical identity into two distinct eras.

Key Facts

Platform

BMW F8x (shared with F80 M3, F82 M4)

Predecessor

BMW 1 Series M Coupé (E82)

Successor

BMW M2 G87

Sibling body styles in this generation

Coupé only

Market Intelligence

As a model that ended production in 2021, the F87 M2 is now a used-market icon -the N55 standard car is the most accessible, while the S55 Competition and CS are the most sought-after for their true M-engine character.

Best & Worst Engines

Thin-Data Summary

“The F87's engine range divides into two distinct eras. The N55 3.0-litre single-turbo straight-six (standard M2, 2015–2018) is the more accessible and less temperamental option -365–370 bhp, robust when maintained, and free from the S55's more extreme failure modes. It uses M3/M4-spec pistons, crankshaft bearings and cooling, making it a well-engineered evolution of BMW's proven N55 architecture. The S55 3.0-litre twin-turbo straight-six (Competition, 2018–2021, and CS, 2020–2021) delivers 405–450 bhp and is a true M-division powertrain -but it introduces additional complexity: rod bearing wear, crank hub spinning, and higher running costs. The M2 CS (2020–2021) is the ultimate F87, with 444–450 bhp and lighter construction, but it's a limited-edition collector's piece with premium running costs. If you're buying an F87, the N55 is the sensible, reliable choice; the S55 Competition is the performance sweet spot; the CS is for collectors.”

Who it's for:

Thin-Data Summary

“The F87's engine range divides into two distinct eras. The N55 3.0-litre single-turbo straight-six (standard M2, 2015–2018) is the more accessible and less temperamental option -365–370 bhp, robust when maintained, and free from the S55's more extreme failure modes. It uses M3/M4-spec pistons, crankshaft bearings and cooling, making it a well-engineered evolution of BMW's proven N55 architecture. The S55 3.0-litre twin-turbo straight-six (Competition, 2018–2021, and CS, 2020–2021) delivers 405–450 bhp and is a true M-division powertrain -but it introduces additional complexity: rod bearing wear, crank hub spinning, and higher running costs. The M2 CS (2020–2021) is the ultimate F87, with 444–450 bhp and lighter construction, but it's a limited-edition collector's piece with premium running costs. If you're buying an F87, the N55 is the sensible, reliable choice; the S55 Competition is the performance sweet spot; the CS is for collectors.”

Who it's for:

BMW M2 F87 -Ownership Economics

EngineTypical MileageCommon Major FailureRepair Cost (Specialist)Replacement Cost (Recon)Ownership Verdict

N55 3.0 (M2)30k–60kCharge pipe cracking, HPFP failure, oil leaks£500–£2,000£4,000–£7,000

Best Value -reliable, proven N55

S55 3.0 (Competition)30k–60kRod bearing wear, crank hub, oil leaks£1,500–£4,000£6,000–£10,000

Best Performance -true M engine, higher costs

S55 3.0 (CS)20k–40kRod bearing wear, crank hub, limited parts£2,000–£5,000£8,000–£12,000

Collector's Piece -rare and expensive

EngineTypical MileageCommon Major FailureRepair Cost (Specialist)Replacement Cost (Recon)Ownership Verdict

N55 3.0 (M2)30k–60kCharge pipe cracking, HPFP failure, oil leaks£500–£2,000£4,000–£7,000

Best Value -reliable, proven N55

S55 3.0 (Competition)30k–60kRod bearing wear, crank hub, oil leaks£1,500–£4,000£6,000–£10,000

Best Performance -true M engine, higher costs

S55 3.0 (CS)20k–40kRod bearing wear, crank hub, limited parts£2,000–£5,000£8,000–£12,000

Collector's Piece -rare and expensive

The F87 rule

A £6,000–£10,000 S55 recon against a £25,000 M2 Competition sits at 24–40% of the car's value -within our 70% BMW threshold. Against a well-kept £35,000+ example, the same recon drops to 17–29% -a repair decision, not a financial one. Against a sub-£20,000 high-mileage example, a major engine failure is borderline. On a CS, the calculus is different -the car's collector value justifies the S55's high replacement cost.

Key Takeaways

Which F87 Costs Least To Own?
N55 standard M2 -simpler single-turbo design, fewer high-strain components.
Which F87 Costs Most To Own?
S55 M2 Competition/CS -rod bearing and crank hub concerns add significant cost.
Which F87 Is Best Value?
N55 standard M2 -the most accessible and reliable F87 variant.

Common Problems

01

N55

Charge Pipe Cracking & HPFP Failure

Affected models:

F87 M2 (2015–2018, N55 engine).

Typical failure mileage:

30,000–60,000 miles.

Root cause:

The OEM plastic charge pipe can crack under high boost, leading to boost leaks, loss of power, and potential engine damage. The high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) can also fail on high-mileage or tuned engines, causing long cranks and lean-running conditions.

Tiered Cost Table

Our Recommendation

Replace the plastic charge pipe with an aluminium unit as a preventative measure -a £400–£800 investment is far cheaper than a £4,000+ engine replacement. If your N55 M2 has no documented HPFP history, treat it as overdue preventative maintenance.

Compare N55 engine prices for your M2 F87

02

S55

Rod Bearing Wear & Crank Hub Spinning

Affected models:

F87 M2 Competition (2018–2021), M2 CS (2020–2021) -S55 engine.

S55 Rod Bearing Wear & Crank Hub Spinning

Typical failure mileage:

30,000–60,000 miles.

Root cause:

The S55's rod bearings can wear prematurely, particularly when the engine is revved hard before reaching operating temperature. The crank hub can also spin on the crankshaft, causing timing to slip and potentially catastrophic engine damage -this is more prevalent in DCT cars due to the abruptness of aggressive upshifts.

Tiered Cost Table

Our Recommendation

If you own an S55-powered F87, budget for rod bearing replacement and a crank hub fix as preventative maintenance. A £1,500–£3,500 investment is far cheaper than the £6,000–£10,000 engine replacement that follows a failure. Use the correct oil, warm the engine properly before hard driving, and change oil every 5,000 miles maximum.

Compare S55 engine prices for your M2 Competition/CS

03

N55/S55

Oil Leaks & Cooling System Stress

Affected models:

All F87 M2 variants.

N55/S55 Oil Leaks & Cooling System Stress

Typical failure mileage:

30,000–60,000 miles.

Root cause:

Both N55 and S55 engines can develop oil leaks from the valve cover gasket, oil filter housing, and oil cooler lines. Frequent track use can lead to coolant hose leaks or radiator cracks. The S55 also suffers from coolant system leaks at the thermostat and plastic hose fittings.

Tiered Cost Table

Our Recommendation

Have the valve cover gasket and oil filter housing inspected at every service. Address any oil leaks immediately -a £300–£800 preventative repair is far cheaper than a £4,000+ engine replacement. If you track your M2, consider upgrading the cooling system.

Compare M2 engine gasket and cooling parts for your F87

F87 Engine Replacement Costs -By Engine and Condition

VariantEngine CodeUsed (Supply)Reconditioned (Supply)Rebuilt (Supply)Labour Hours

M2 (2015–2018)N55B30T0£2,500–£4,500£4,000–£7,000£5,500–£8,50012–16 hrs

M2 Competition (2018–2021)S55B30A£3,500–£6,000£6,000–£10,000£8,000–£13,00016–20 hrs

M2 CS (2020–2021)S55B30A (CS)£4,500–£7,500£8,000–£12,000£10,000–£16,00016–20 hrs

Core Variants

Diesel & Petrol Lineup

Petrol Variants

M2M2 CompetitionM2 CS

Scope note: All variants listed are F87-generation M2 only (2015–2021). The M2 was only available as a rear-wheel-drive coupé.

Diesel & Petrol Lineup

Petrol Variants

M2M2 CompetitionM2 CS

Scope note: All variants listed are F87-generation M2 only (2015–2021). The M2 was only available as a rear-wheel-drive coupé.

Market Intelligence

Most Requested E90 Engines (2025)

Most Requested E90 Variants

Average E90 Replacement Cost

Most Common E90 Failures

FAQ

BMW 3 Series E90 rear three-quarter view

Why UK BMW M2 F87 Owners Trust bmwengines.uk

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Why UK BMW M2 F87 Owners Trust bmwengines.uk

Trusted F87 Engine Suppliers
every garage and engine rebuilder in our network is vetted, rated and reviewed by real F87 owners, as part of the Engine Finders network.
Compare F87 Engine Replacement Companies
see prices, warranty terms and supply & fit options side-by-side before you commit.
UK Engine Replacement Services for F87
covering every variant from standard M2 to M2 CS, with supply-only or full supply & fit available nationwide.

Find the best BMW M2 F87 engine replacement UK drivers rely on. Compare real prices from trusted specialists on EnginesMarket today and get back on the road with confidence.

Compare BMW M2 F87 Engine Prices on EnginesMarket

BMW M2 F87 Engines -The Complete UK Guide

BMW M2 F87 Engine Codes -The Complete Database

BMW M2 F87 -Overview

BMW M2 F87 -Overview

Best &amp; Worst Engines

BMW M2 F87 -Ownership Economics

Common Problems

F87 Engine Replacement Costs -By Engine and Condition

Diesel &amp; Petrol Lineup

Diesel &amp; Petrol Lineup

Market Intelligence

FAQ

Why UK BMW M2 F87 Owners Trust bmwengines.uk

Why UK BMW M2 F87 Owners Trust bmwengines.uk

Best & Worst Engines

Diesel & Petrol Lineup

Diesel & Petrol Lineup