2019 Bmw M2 Competition – The Ultimate Performance Tuning

The 2019 BMW M2 Competition represents a significant leap in the baby-M lineup, replacing the N55 engine with the legendary S55 twin-turbo powerplant. This guide provides owners and DIY mechanics with deep technical insights into maintaining, troubleshooting, and upgrading this modern classic for both street and track use.

Owning a 2019 bmw m2 competition means you have one of the most balanced chassis ever produced by the M division. Whether you are a weekend track warrior or a spirited canyon carver, understanding the nuances of the S55 engine and the F87 chassis is vital for long-term reliability. In this article, we will break down the essential service intervals, common failure points like the crank hub, and the best performance modifications to unlock the car’s true potential.

We will approach this from the perspective of a seasoned technician who has spent hours under the hood of these machines. You will learn not just what to do, but why it matters for the health of your vehicle. From choosing the right synthetic oil to upgrading your charge pipes, let’s dive into the details of this incredible machine.

Understanding the Heart of the 2019 bmw m2 competition

The transition from the standard M2 to the “Competition” model brought the S55 3.0-liter inline-six engine from the M3 and M4. This engine features a closed-deck design, which provides incredible block rigidity and allows for higher boost pressures. Unlike the single-turbo N55, the S55 uses two small mono-scroll turbochargers to reduce lag and provide a broader power band.

One of the most impressive features of this setup is the cooling system. BMW equipped this car with a central radiator, two side radiators, and a dedicated engine oil cooler. If you plan on track days, this cooling capacity is your best friend, keeping intake air temperatures low even under heavy load. However, the complexity of this system means you must be diligent about checking for leaks in the intercooler circuit.

The 2019 model also introduced the carbon fiber strut tower brace. This piece isn’t just for show; it significantly increases front-end rigidity. When performing any work in the engine bay, be careful with the torque specs on the mounting bolts for this brace, as they are aluminum and can stretch if over-tightened.

Essential Maintenance for the 2019 bmw m2 competition

To keep your M-car running at its peak, you cannot follow the standard “condition-based service” intervals if you drive the car hard. Most enthusiasts recommend cutting the factory oil change intervals in half. Instead of 10,000 miles, aim for every 5,000 miles or once a year, whichever comes first.

Oil and Filter Changes

Use a high-quality LL-01 FE certified 0W-30 or 5W-30 synthetic oil. The S55 engine is sensitive to oil quality due to its high-revving nature and turbocharger heat. When changing the oil, always replace the crush washer on the drain plug and the O-rings on the filter housing cap to prevent annoying slow leaks.

Spark Plug Intervals

The 2019 bmw m2 competition requires spark plug replacements more frequently than a standard 2-series. For a stock car, every 30,000 miles is the sweet spot. If you have a Stage 1 or Stage 2 tune, you should reduce this to every 15,000 to 20,000 miles and consider using colder heat range plugs like the NGK 97506, gapped appropriately to prevent spark blowout under high boost.

Brake Fluid Flush

The massive 6-piston front and 4-piston rear “silver” brakes generate a lot of heat. Brake fluid is hygroscopic, meaning it absorbs moisture over time, which lowers its boiling point. For street use, a flush every two years is fine. For track use, switch to a high-performance fluid like Castrol SRF or Motul RBF660 and flush it before every major event.

Addressing the Crank Hub and Common Pitfalls

If you spend time in M-car forums, you have likely heard about the crank hub issue. In the S55 engine, the crank hub is a multi-piece design held together by a central bolt. Under high torque loads or during aggressive downshifts (especially with the DCT transmission), the friction plate can slip, causing the engine to go out of time.

While this issue is statistically rare on stock cars, it becomes a real concern once you start adding power. A popular preventative measure is installing a Crank Bolt Capture (CBC). This is a relatively inexpensive metal plate that prevents the central bolt from backing out. For those pushing over 500 wheel horsepower, a full pinned crank hub replacement is often considered “cheap insurance” against a catastrophic engine failure.

Another common failure point is the plastic charge pipes. These pipes carry pressurized air from the turbos to the intercooler. Under increased boost, the plastic can crack or the clips can pop off. Replacing these with aluminum charge pipes is a “day one” modification for many owners. It improves reliability and ensures you don’t get stranded with a boost leak in the middle of a drive.

Suspension and Handling Optimization

The 2019 bmw m2 competition is known for having a somewhat stiff and “busy” ride on poorly maintained roads. This is due to the fixed-rate dampers that are tuned for smooth European circuits. If you find the ride too harsh for daily driving, there are several ways to improve both comfort and grip.

Coilovers vs. Lowering Springs

Lowering springs are a cost-effective way to close the wheel gap and slightly stiffen the car. However, they can sometimes overwork the factory shocks. A better solution for the discerning DIYer is a set of height-adjustable coilovers. Systems like the M Performance Suspension (made by KW) allow you to retain a factory-like warranty while gaining the ability to corner-balance the car.

Alignment Settings

The factory alignment is designed for safety, which often means a bit of built-in understeer. By adding a set of camber plates to the front struts, you can increase negative camber. This allows the tire to stay flatter against the pavement during hard cornering, significantly reducing outer shoulder wear on your tires and sharpening the turn-in response.

Tire Choice

The car comes stock with Michelin Pilot Super Sports. While these are great all-around tires, upgrading to the Michelin Pilot Sport 4S offers better wet grip and improved longevity. If you are chasing lap times, the Cup 2 is the gold standard, but be warned: they require heat to work and can be sketchy in heavy rain.

DIY Performance Modifications for the S55

Unlocking more power from the 2019 bmw m2 competition is remarkably easy thanks to the robust nature of the S55. However, you must approach tuning with a “safety-first” mindset to avoid damaging the drivetrain.

• Flash Tuning: Platforms like Bootmod3 or MHD allow you to reflash the ECU via the OBDII port. A “Stage 1” tune can easily add 50-70 horsepower without any hardware changes.
• High-Flow Air Filters: Replacing the stock paper filters with high-flow drop-ins allows the turbos to breathe easier. Avoid “open intake” kits unless you want more induction noise, as they can sometimes suck in hot engine bay air.
• Mid-Pipe Upgrade: The stock exhaust is quite restricted by the OPF (Oxygen Particulate Filter) in certain regions and a heavy center section. An “equal length” mid-pipe can fix the S55’s notoriously “raspy” exhaust note and improve flow.

When installing a tune, always monitor your log data. Pay attention to ignition timing and knock sensors. If you see the car pulling timing, it usually means your fuel quality isn’t high enough for the map you are running. Always use the highest octane fuel available in your area (91 or 93 in the US).

Essential Tools for the M2 DIY Mechanic

Working on a modern BMW requires a specific set of tools. If you plan on doing your own maintenance, you will need more than just a basic wrench set. The 2019 bmw m2 competition uses E-Torx (External Torx) fasteners throughout the chassis and engine bay.

1. E-Torx Socket Set: You will need sizes from E6 to E20 for everything from engine covers to suspension arms.
2. Torque Wrench: Critical for aluminum bolts and wheel lugs (140 Nm or 103 lb-ft).
3. OBDII Diagnostic Tool: A tool like BimmerLink or a Foxwell scanner is essential for reading BMW-specific fault codes and registering a new battery.
4. Low-Profile Floor Jack: The M2 is low to the ground; you’ll need a jack that can reach the central jacking point on the front subframe.
5. Thin-Wall Spark Plug Socket: The S55 uses a 14mm 12-point spark plug that requires a specific thin-wall socket with an extension.

Always use jack stands when working under the car. Never trust a hydraulic jack alone. The M2 has specific plastic jacking points on the side skirts; use jack pad adapters to prevent crushing the plastic or damaging the rocker panels.

Frequently Asked Questions About the 2019 bmw m2 competition

Is the 2019 BMW M2 Competition a good daily driver?

Yes, it is surprisingly practical. It has a usable trunk and the “Comfort” mode makes the steering and throttle mapping manageable for traffic. However, the rear seats are tight for adults, and the ground clearance requires care over speed bumps.

Does the 2019 M2 Competition have the crank hub issue?

While the 2019 bmw m2 competition uses the S55 engine which is susceptible to crank hub slip, it is very rare on unmodified cars. Most owners only worry about this once they increase boost levels significantly or use the car for heavy track work.

What is the difference between the M2 and the M2 Competition?

The main differences are the engine (N55 vs S55), the front bumper design for better cooling, the M-Sport seats, the carbon fiber strut brace, and the upgraded braking system. The Competition is essentially a “mini M4” under the skin.

How often should I change the differential fluid?

BMW claims the fluid is “lifetime,” but most enthusiasts recommend changing the Electronic M Differential fluid every 50,000 miles. This helps preserve the clutch packs inside the differential, especially if you enjoy drifting or hard launches.

Conclusion and Final Thoughts

The 2019 bmw m2 competition is a masterclass in automotive engineering, blending old-school dimensions with modern turbocharged power. By staying ahead of the maintenance curve and addressing known weak points like the charge pipes and crank hub, you can enjoy this car for hundreds of thousands of miles. Remember to always use OEM or higher quality parts and never skip the warm-up procedure before driving aggressively.

Whether you are tightening your first bolt or fine-tuning a track alignment, the key is patience and the right information. This car rewards the driver who pays attention to the details. Keep your fluids fresh, your tires sticky, and your eyes on the apex. Stay safe, stay greasy, and enjoy the drive!