2017 Bmw M3 Competition – The Ultimate Performance Tuning
The 2017 BMW M3 Competition is a precision-engineered machine that balances daily utility with aggressive track performance. This guide provides an in-depth look at maintaining the S55 engine, optimizing the Competition Package hardware, and addressing common F80-platform concerns to ensure your ultimate driving machine stays in peak condition.
Owning a high-performance sedan is a dream for many automotive enthusiasts, especially when it involves the iconic M badge. You likely appreciate the blend of aggressive styling and the raw power delivered by the twin-turbocharged straight-six engine.
This article serves as your comprehensive roadmap for understanding and caring for this specific model year. We will dive into the technical nuances of the 2017 bmw m3 competition, covering everything from routine fluid changes to the critical performance upgrades every owner should consider.
By the end of this guide, you will have the knowledge to perform basic DIY tasks and identify when it is time to consult a professional technician. Let’s explore what makes this F80 generation M3 a standout in the world of sport sedans.
What Makes the 2017 bmw m3 competition Unique?
The Competition Package, often referred to by its internal code ZCP, was a significant step up for the 2017 model year. It was not just a cosmetic upgrade; it fundamentally altered how the car handled and delivered its power to the pavement.
Engine output saw a bump from the standard 425 horsepower to a more robust 444 horsepower. While the torque remained the same at 406 lb-ft, the power curve felt more linear and rewarding as you approached the redline. This extra grunt allows the car to shave tenths of a second off its zero-to-sixty sprints.
Beyond the engine, the 2017 bmw m3 competition received a completely overhauled suspension system. BMW engineers fitted new springs, dampers, and anti-roll bars that were significantly stiffer than the base model. This setup works in harmony with the reconfigured driving modes (Comfort, Sport, and Sport+) to provide better mid-corner stability.
The Iconic 666M Wheels
One of the most visible changes for the 2017 Competition model is the inclusion of the 20-inch Star-spoke 666M wheels. These forged alloy wheels are lighter and stronger than many aftermarket options, though they require careful cleaning to maintain their intricate finish. Always use a pH-neutral wheel cleaner to avoid damaging the clear coat.
Recalibrated Active M Differential
The electronic differential received a specific software tune for the Competition Package. This allows for better traction when powering out of tight corners and more predictable behavior when the rear end starts to rotate. It makes the car feel more “point-and-shoot” compared to the earlier F80 iterations.
Interior and Aesthetic Enhancements
Inside, you will find lightweight M sports seats with distinctive cut-outs that save weight and improve cooling for your back during spirited drives. The seat belts also feature woven M stripes, a small but significant detail for the enthusiast. Outside, the Shadowline trim replaces chrome with high-gloss black accents on the window surrounds and kidney grilles.
Essential Maintenance for the S55 Engine
The S55 engine is a marvel of engineering, but maintaining a 2017 bmw m3 competition requires strict adherence to service intervals. Because this engine uses two turbochargers and a high-pressure direct injection system, oil quality and cooling efficiency are paramount.
Change your engine oil every 5,000 to 7,500 miles, regardless of what the onboard computer suggests. Use a high-quality 0W-30 or 5W-30 synthetic oil that meets BMW LL-01 specifications. Frequent oil changes prevent sludge buildup in the turbo oil feed lines, extending the life of your chargers.
The S55 uses a unique top-mounted water-to-air intercooler. Periodically check the coolant level in the smaller secondary expansion tank. If this level drops, it could indicate an internal leak in the intercooler, which can lead to moisture entering the intake tract and causing engine damage.
Spark Plug Intervals
High-performance engines are hard on spark plugs. For the 2017 model, we recommend replacing the spark plugs every 25,000 to 30,000 miles. Use the OEM Bosch or NGK Laser Iridium plugs to ensure a consistent spark under high boost pressures. Always use a torque wrench to tighten them to 23 Nm (approx 17 lb-ft) to avoid stripping the threads in the aluminum head.
Air Filter Maintenance
The M3 features two air intake boxes. Inspect the filters every 10,000 miles. If you drive in dusty environments or perform frequent track days, replace them sooner. Clean air is vital for maintaining the air-mass sensors and ensuring the turbos don’t ingest debris.
Drive Belt Inspection
Inspect the serpentine belt for cracks or fraying every two years. A snapped belt on the S55 can sometimes be pulled behind the crank pulley and forced through the front main seal. This catastrophic failure can lead to engine destruction, so a $30 belt is cheap insurance.
The Competition Package: Suspension and Braking Care
The Adaptive M Suspension in your Competition model is more complex than a standard strut-and-shock setup. Sensors at each corner monitor road conditions and body movement to adjust damping forces in milliseconds. Keeping this system healthy is key to maintaining the car’s handling prowess.
Inspect the shock absorbers for any signs of hydraulic fluid leaking down the body of the strut. If you notice a “clunking” sound over small bumps, check the sway bar end links and the upper strut mounts. These are common wear items that can degrade the steering feel of the 2017 bmw m3 competition.
Braking performance is another area where the Competition Package shines. Whether you have the standard blue M-Compound brakes or the optional Gold Carbon Ceramics, fluid health is critical. Flush your brake fluid every two years using a high-boiling-point DOT 4 fluid to prevent pedal fade.
Brake Pad Selection
If you primarily drive on the street, the OEM pads offer the best cold bite and low noise. However, they produce a significant amount of brake dust. For those who visit the track, consider swapping to a dedicated track pad like the Pagid RS29, but remember to swap back for street use to avoid excessive rotor wear.
Alignment Specifications
The aggressive suspension geometry of the ZCP model can lead to inner tire wear if the alignment is off. Get a professional four-wheel alignment once a year. Request a “street-performance” alignment that maximizes tire contact without sacrificing the sharp turn-in the M3 is known for.
Tire Care and Selection
The 20-inch wheels usually come wrapped in Michelin Pilot Super Sport or Pilot Sport 4S tires. These are summer tires and lose significant grip below 45 degrees Fahrenheit. Never drive on these in freezing conditions, as the rubber compound can crack and lose its structural integrity.
Addressing the Infamous S55 Crank Hub Issue
If you spend time in M3 forums, you will inevitably hear about the “spun crank hub.” This occurs when the crank gear, which drives the timing chain, slips out of sync with the crankshaft. While it is not as common as the internet suggests, it is a risk for those who increase the engine’s power or drive aggressively.
The 2017 bmw m3 competition is just as susceptible as other model years. The issue usually happens during a rapid downshift or a “kick-down” in the DCT transmission. If the hub spins, the engine’s timing is thrown off, which can lead to valve-to-piston contact and a very expensive repair bill.
For peace of mind, many owners opt for a “Crank Hub Capture” or a full aftermarket keyed crank hub replacement. If you plan on adding a Stage 1 or Stage 2 tune, this should be your first preventative modification. It is a labor-intensive job, so we recommend having an experienced BMW specialist perform the installation.
Signs of a Timing Issue
If your car suddenly enters “Drivetrain Malfunction” mode and feels down on power, stop driving immediately. Use an OBD-II scanner to check for timing-related codes. Catching a slightly slipped hub early can save the cylinder head from total destruction.
Oil Filter Housing Gasket (OFHG)
Another common leak point is the oil filter housing gasket. Over time, the rubber becomes brittle and leaks oil down the front of the engine. If oil gets onto the serpentine belt, it can cause the belt to slip off. Replace this gasket at the first sign of weeping to avoid larger headaches.
DIY Upgrades to Enhance the Driving Experience
One of the best things about the F80 platform is the ease of modification. For the DIY enthusiast, there are several “bolt-on” upgrades that can improve both the sound and performance of your car without requiring a full shop setup.
The stock plastic charge pipes are a known weak point. Under high boost, they can crack or even blow off the throttle body. Replacing these with aluminum charge pipes is a straightforward DIY task that involves basic hand tools and about two hours of your time. This ensures your 2017 bmw m3 competition remains reliable under pressure.
Upgrading the rear exhaust mid-pipe can also transform the sound. The S55 engine is often criticized for its “raspy” exhaust note. An equal-length mid-pipe helps to smooth out the exhaust pulses, giving the car a deeper, more exotic tone that better matches its aggressive looks.
Software Coding with BimmerCode
You can unlock hidden features in your M3 using a smartphone app and a Bluetooth OBD adapter. Features like “Easy Entry” (where the seat moves back when you turn off the car), disabling the legal disclaimers on the iDrive screen, and folding the mirrors with the key fob are all possible. This is a safe and fun way to customize your vehicle.
Upgraded Air Intake Systems
While the stock airboxes are very efficient, an aftermarket cold air intake can increase induction noise, allowing you to hear the turbos spooling up. Look for “sealed” systems that still draw air from the front grilles to avoid sucking in hot engine bay air.
Buyer’s Guide: Inspecting a Used 2017 M3
If you are in the market for a 2017 bmw m3 competition, a thorough Pre-Purchase Inspection (PPI) is non-negotiable. These cars are often driven hard, and you want to ensure the previous owner stayed on top of the maintenance schedule we discussed earlier.
Check the service history for regular oil changes. If the car has had multiple owners in a short period, that can be a red flag. Look for signs of track use, such as heavy “marbling” on the tires or excessive heat discoloration on the brake calipers.
Use a flashlight to inspect the engine bay for any leaks near the valve cover or the oil filter housing. Ask the seller if the crank hub has been addressed. While not a deal-breaker if it hasn’t, it is a great bargaining point to lower the price, as you will likely want to do it yourself later.
The Condition of the DCT
If the car is equipped with the M-DCT (Dual Clutch Transmission), ensure the shifts are crisp and immediate. If you feel any hesitation or “clunking” when pulling away from a stop, the transmission may need a fluid and filter service, or the adaptation values may need to be reset via software.
Carbon Fiber Roof Maintenance
Most M3s come with a carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP) roof. Inspect the clear coat for any signs of peeling or yellowing. This can happen if the car was left outside in the sun for years. Protecting the roof with a high-quality ceramic coating or paint protection film (PPF) is a smart move for long-term ownership.
Frequently Asked Questions About 2017 bmw m3 competition
Is the 2017 bmw m3 competition a reliable daily driver?
Yes, it is remarkably reliable if maintained properly. Unlike older M-cars with rod bearing or subframe issues, the F80 is structurally sound. Its main weaknesses are plastic engine components and the crank hub, both of which have well-known solutions.
What is the difference between the 2016 and 2017 M3 Competition?
The 2017 model year introduced the “LCI 2” updates for the interior, including the newer iDrive 5.0/6.0 system which supports Apple CarPlay. It also featured updated LED headlights and taillights that give the car a more modern appearance.
How much does it cost to maintain an M3 annually?
On average, expect to spend between $1,500 and $2,500 per year on routine maintenance, including tires and brakes. This cost can fluctuate depending on whether you perform the labor yourself or take it to a dealership.
Can I fit winter tires on the 20-inch 666M wheels?
While you can find winter tires in that size, it is not recommended. The wide 20-inch setup will struggle in deep snow. Most owners buy a dedicated set of 18 or 19-inch wheels with narrower winter tires for better traction during the colder months.
Final Thoughts on the F80 M3 Experience
The 2017 bmw m3 competition remains a benchmark for what a high-performance sedan should be. It offers a level of engagement and “theatre” that many modern, more insulated cars lack. By following the maintenance steps outlined here, you ensure that your M3 remains a source of joy rather than a source of stress.
Whether you are wrenching in your garage or carving through a mountain pass, remember that these cars reward those who pay attention to the details. Stay proactive with your fluid changes, keep an eye on your cooling system, and don’t be afraid to drive the car as it was intended.
Owning an M3 is more than just having a fast car; it is about being part of a legacy of engineering excellence. Take care of your machine, and it will provide you with thousands of miles of smiles. Stay safe and stay fast!
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