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Bmw 3 Series Problems

The BMW 3 Series is BMW's best-selling model and the benchmark for sport sedans, produced continuously since 1975. With 2,354 complaints and no reported deaths in this dataset, the 3 Series has varying reliability across its many generations. The E90 generation (2006-2011) had more issues than other generations, while the E46 (1999-2005) remains a fan favorite.

2,354
Total Complaints
21
Total Recalls
22
Model Years
0
Reported Deaths
!

Years to Avoid

These years have significantly more complaints than average.

2007 2006
✓

Best Years

These years have the fewest reported problems.

1986 1994 1995

Common Problem Categories

Air Bags 546
Electrical System 296
Exterior Lighting 206
Engine 146
Power Train 140

Complaints by Model Year

All Model Years

Year ↓ Complaints Recalls Crashes Fires Rating
2023 0 1 0 0 Good
2013 68 0 8 0 Average
2012 22 3 0 0 Good
2011 2 3 0 0 Good
2010 86 3 2 4 Average
2009 148 2 10 6 Average
2008 186 2 0 16 Below Average
2007 380 2 22 16 Avoid
2006 576 2 26 2 Avoid
2005 58 0 6 6 Average
2004 186 0 2 8 Below Average
2003 190 0 10 0 Below Average
2002 80 0 4 0 Average
2001 98 1 2 0 Average
2000 222 1 8 6 Below Average
1999 12 1 0 0 Good
1998 8 0 0 0 Good
1997 12 0 0 0 Good
1996 6 0 4 0 Good
1995 6 0 2 0 Good
1994 2 0 0 0 Good
1986 6 0 0 0 Good

Bmw 3 Series Years to Avoid

2006, 2007, 2008

Best Bmw 3 Series Years

2001, 2002, 2020

Frequently Asked Questions