2002 BMW 3-Series BMW 3-Series 2002

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2002 BMW 3-Series repairs by problem area

Engine (42%)

Transmission and Drivetrain (5%)

Brakes and Traction Control (4%)

Suspension and Steering (16%)

Electrical and Air Conditioning (22%)

Paint, Rust, Leaks, Rattles, and Trim (6%)

Other (5%)

Chart based on 589 repairs.
See TSBs and recalls for the 2002 BMW 3-Series.

2002 BMW 3-Series repair cost distribution

$2500+ (4%)

$1000 - $2499 (12%)

$500 - $999 (21%)

$100 - $499 (38%)

< $100 (25%)

Worried about potential repair costs? An extended warranty can provide peace of mind.

Chart based on 466 repair trips. The repair cost chart excludes repairs made under warranty, do-it-yourself repairs, and repair trips that include maintenance.

2002 BMW 3-Series

Engine not specified

BMW 3-Series in Colorado, United States
Apr 2012 - Apr 2012
Apr 2012

195000 mi

US $4000
car was making a strange clunking sound when I turned hard to left. 
BMW 3-Series in California, United States
Oct 2010 - Dec 2010
Dec 2010

89000 mi
dash warning that washer fluid low. hose to headlight washers was leaking. Major labor bill to pull off bumper to access. Not worth it for an useless accessory. Capped hose at tank so stop leak. Windshield washer works fine 
BMW 3-Series in California, United States
Dec 2006 - Mar 2010
Jan 2007

50000 mi

US $800
Had them check cooling system , bad water pump and theromstat both were replaced and covered by original warranty. Other things done were routine, all fluids were flushed. 

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2002 BMW 3-Series 4dr Wagon

184-horsepower 2.5L I6 5-speed shiftable automatic RWD

BMW 3-Series in Virginia, United States
Mar 2010 - Jul 2022
Apr 2010

40000 mi
Noise from engine pulleys and idler. Replaced along with ribbed V belt. Chassis noise noticed. Front end aluminum flex plate was cracked and was replaced. Lower control arm bushings also replaced. Engine oil pressure switch leaking. Replaced. 
May 2013

58000 mi

US $915
Battery light came on during road trip on back roads. Battery discharged and car died after approx. 45 minutes driving, stranding us along side of the road. Car was transported via flatbed to BMW of Asheville, who replaced alternator. 
Dec 2013

60000 mi

US $1283
Defective window regulators both front windows (drivers and passengers) 
May 2014

61000 mi

US $70
Ventilation blower stopped working. Replacement of Final Stage Resister (FSR) resolved problem. Ordered part online and completed DIY replacement. 
Jul 2014

62000 mi

US $474
Right rear window regulator failure. 
May 2015

65600 mi

US $441
Right side differential seal leak 
Nov 2015

68000 mi

US $2350
Airbag light. Faulty sensor replaced Oil leak valve cover gasket Intermittent issue with door lock/unlocking 
Jan 2017

72000 mi

US $1258
Thermostat failed. Preemptively replaced water pump. Drivers airbag recall completed. 
BMW 3-Series in California, United States
Mar 2008 - Jan 2012
Jul 2009

61000 mi

US $50
replaced front driver door speaker ring 
Jul 2010

81000 mi

US $75
Water pump shaft broke 
Dec 2011

108000 mi

US $400
accessory belt broke 

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2002 BMW 3-Series 4dr Wagon

184-horsepower 2.5L I6 5-speed shiftable automatic AWD

BMW 3-Series in Vermont, United States
Nov 2012 - Feb 2013
Jan 2013

US $450
Broken Axle Shaft 
BMW 3-Series in New York, United States
Aug 2015 - Aug 2015
Aug 2015

44000 mi

US $60
Radiator hose failed, leaking coolant. Replaced hose. 

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2002 BMW 3-Series 4dr Wagon

184-horsepower 2.5L I6 5-speed manual RWD

BMW 3-Series in Texas, United States
Nov 2011 - Jun 2015
Dec 2011

100000 mi

US $125
Replaced light control module. 
Jan 2012

107700 mi

US $50
Replaced windshield/cowl seal. 
Mar 2013

112000 mi

US $75
Replace driver window regulator Repair broken door lock 
Aug 2013

115000 mi

US $122
Replaced rear shocks. One of the two had started to fail. 
Jan 2014

102800 mi

US $14
Ground short in tail light assembly. 
Nov 2014

123800 mi

US $60
Replaced LCM 
Jan 2015

125500 mi

US $500
Replaced entire cooling system. 
BMW 3-Series in Minnesota, United States
May 2013 - Jul 2014
Feb 2014

98300 mi

US $200
Transmission went into limp mode. Sensor in transmission replaced. 
Mar 2014

100000 mi

US $500
Expansion tank and hoses needed to be replaced Blower motor replaced 

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2002 BMW 3-Series 4dr Wagon

184-horsepower 2.5L I6 5-speed manual AWD

BMW 3-Series in New York, United States
Jun 2014 - Dec 2017
Sep 2014

101000 mi

US $250
headlight bucket replaced after being melted by improperly seated bulb 
Jan 2015

US $350
window regulator replaced 
Jul 2015

109500 mi

US $200
valve cover replaced, vanos seals replaced fuel pump failed 
Jan 2017

108800 mi
seized calipers replaced secondary air check valve 
May 2017

138000 mi

US $200
both post-cat O2 sensors replaced 
Jun 2017

140000 mi

US $300
oil filter housing gasket 
BMW 3-Series in California, United States
Jul 2014 - Jul 2014
Jul 2014

175000 mi

US $600
radiator, res. tank, ac fan 
BMW 3-Series in Ontario, Canada
Mar 2015 - Sep 2017
Apr 2015

189600 mi

C $800
Relace front axle and boot wipers failed 
May 2015

190900 mi

C $200
A rear hatch bracket supporting a gas-filled strut rusted thru and failed. Replaced brackets on both sides and re-installed struts. 
Oct 2015

195500 mi

C $993
Alternator, Belt, battery replced 
Nov 2015

196200 mi
Torn CV Boot - repaired under warranty 
Dec 2015

196540 mi

C $300
Parking brake failed and broke causing damage to pad 
Jan 2016

196840 mi

C $170
Short under hood - slowly draining battery. 
May 2017

203980 mi

C $950
repair seized parking brake 
BMW 3-Series in Alberta, Canada
Jun 2017 - Jun 2018
Jun 2018

96100 mi

C $150
Window regulator 

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2002 BMW 3-Series 4dr Wagon

BMW 3-Series in South Africa
Sep 2015 - Jan 2022
Dec 2015

116560 mi

R 8000
Clutch kit,including flywheelh Replaced engine mountings 
Feb 2016

117180 mi

R 2000
Fuel gauge was inaccurate and car would run out of petrol when the range still showed 180ks.Replaced fuel pump and sender unit 
Jul 2018

126480 mi

R 1270
Replaced flywheel Replaced all shock absorbers 

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2002 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

225-horsepower 3.0L I6 5-speed shiftable automatic RWD

BMW 3-Series in Illinois, United States
Sep 2009 - Mar 2010
Nov 2009

51000 mi

US $508
Replaced alternator. 
BMW 3-Series in Oregon, United States
Mar 2015 - Jun 2019
Sep 2016

202000 mi

US $80
Replaced Blower Motor Final Stage (Resistor) 
Apr 2017

207000 mi

US $220
Replaced upper radiator hose and water pump. 
BMW 3-Series in Saskatchewan, Canada
- Dec 2009
Dec 2009

58900 mi

C $400
Water pump and thermostat 
BMW 3-Series in North Carolina, United States
Jan 2005 - Apr 2009
Jul 2005 Sunroof had to be repaired. Known problem. 
Oct 2006

38500 mi

US $40
Rear light failure. Bulbs replaced. 
Jan 2007

40925 mi

US $200
Rear light failure again. Replaced taillight connectors due to scorching around the connectors. 
Aug 2007

45000 mi

US $420
Driver side rear window will not go up. Replaced left rear window regulator and insulation. 
Dec 2008

56500 mi

US $900
Pulley broke causing engine to overheat. Car towed to dealership. Replaced expansion tank, fan, and pulleys. 
Jan 2009

57000 mi

US $485
Replace power steering line. 
Apr 2009

58500 mi

US $2000
Transmission seal leak. Lower arm control bushings worn. Need to be replaced. 
BMW 3-Series in Massachusetts, United States
Jun 2008 - Jun 2011
Jan 2010

US $37
Left front blinker went out first time-fixed. Now same blinker doesnt work again... 
BMW 3-Series in Texas, United States
Sep 2011 - Jan 2012
Oct 2011

153000 mi

US $1200
The head gasket was cracked and leaking oil slowly, hot oil fell on hoses that deteriorated them. All was replaced and working fine. 
BMW 3-Series in Arkansas, United States
Mar 2007 - Mar 2010
Sep 2007

71000 mi

US $350
idler pulley and belts 
BMW 3-Series in California, United States
Feb 2007 - Mar 2011
Aug 2007

95000 mi

US $850
Control arm bushings worn, required replacing control arms. Stinky smell from A/C after compressor is turned off and the fan is still running. Conditioned A/C, helped a little. 
Nov 2007

97000 mi

US $50
Torque converter failed and needed to be replaced. CAT O2 sensor threw check engine fault and needed to be replaced. 
Jan 2008

99000 mi

US $50
Sunroof wouldn't close sometimes. Rattle from underneath the car. Started after previous torque converter fix by dealer. Turned out they forgot to tighten loose front splash panel during previous repair. 
Aug 2008

106000 mi

US $75
Windshield fluid pump leaked -- replaced. 
Jun 2009

119000 mi

US $150
Had intermittent indication that rear tail-light was burned out. Turned out to be an intermittent contact. Noise at acceleration thought to have come from engine, but turned out to be MPG gauge. 
Nov 2009

127100 mi

US $506
replaced spring-type belt tensioner with hydraulic belt tensioner; replaced pulley adjuster and offset idler replaced fan clutch; 
Jul 2010

134000 mi

US $730
fuel pump stopped working, required towing and replacement 
Dec 2010

140000 mi

US $350
electrical burning smell in cabin caused by broken seal (forgot which) next to cabin air intake  
BMW 3-Series in California, United States
Oct 2007 - Mar 2010
Nov 2007

82000 mi

US $1178
Left rear window stuck in down position. Also right front window making grinding noise. Both window regulators were replaced. 
Mar 2008

88000 mi

US $593
Replaced front lower control arm. Removed and replaced the front thrust rod bushing. 

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2002 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

225-horsepower 3.0L I6 5-speed shiftable automatic AWD

BMW 3-Series in Virginia, United States
Apr 2006 - Mar 2020
Aug 2006

40157 mi

US $790
Replace alternator and battery 
Dec 2006

42555 mi

US $228
Replace DME relay and tighten air intake boot due to check engine light on 
Sep 2007

47000 mi

US $941
Right front CV axle boot and inner boot clinging grease. Repair included replacement of both inner and out boot plus four wheel alignment Fan clutch wobbling. Replaced unit. 
Jun 2008

50000 mi

US $497
Rear differential mount leaking. Installed shft seal and rubber mount. Parts 60.60; labor $436 
Dec 2008

52000 mi

US $434
Persistent burning odor caused by oil leak requiring gasket set replacement. 
Dec 2010

62000 mi

US $439
Several pulley and belt tensioners replaced to eliminate belt/bearing noise 
Apr 2012

70000 mi

US $238
Worn intake hoses for emissions system 
Jul 2012

72000 mi

US $400
Oxygen sensors replaced (first time!) 
Feb 2013

82800 mi

US $450
Replace driver and passenger window motors and regulators Cracked intake manifold 
Mar 2013

84000 mi

US $1085
Broken front hub and bearing which was replaced Replaced front axle driveshaft and universal joints 
Nov 2014

100000 mi

US $2557
Replaced front control arm and bushings  Replaced front axle boots oil filter housing leak 
Dec 2015

107000 mi

US $1000
Emission control component 
May 2016

109000 mi

US $300
Drivers side power window motors replaced 
Nov 2016

110700 mi

US $325
Broken water pump and can belt 
Dec 2016

112000 mi
Cracked radiator. Replaced along with hose 
Apr 2017

114480 mi

US $900
Needed all four rotors and brake pads replaced 
Jun 2017

115000 mi

US $600
replaced upper and lower air boots and replaced air pump mounts 
BMW 3-Series in Wisconsin, United States
May 2015 - Apr 2017
May 2015

158000 mi

US $300
Coolant overflow reservoir 
Sep 2015

162000 mi
Original paint failing all around the car at the lowest seam, in areas that have not had any damage. 
Mar 2017

171000 mi

US $1000
Rusted leaking brake lines 
BMW 3-Series in Utah, United States
Jun 2007 - Mar 2010
Dec 2007

71000 mi
Thermostat failure, stuck open. Second thermostat with same problem. Replaced again. Fuel gauge erratic indication. Left rear view mirror not setting for key used. The error codes were cleared but I am still having a hard shift between 1st and 2nd gear. It sounds like I need the transmission and engine software updated (150 dollars) I cleaned off the terminals and pounded on the bottom of the fuel tank with my fist. I believe the float was stuck. 
Feb 2008

72000 mi

US $650
Noticed steering wheel vibration when power applied to engine. Not related to brakes. 

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2002 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

225-horsepower 3.0L I6 5-speed manual RWD

BMW 3-Series in Virginia, United States
Feb 2016 - Jun 2018
Jun 2016

179000 mi

US $150
Interior cabin fan was running intermittently despite car being off. Replaced blower motor resistor. 
Sep 2016

181000 mi
Replaced shocks, struts and mounts due to blown suspension. 
Jun 2018

185000 mi

US $600
Replaced PCV valve 
BMW 3-Series in Idaho, United States
Feb 2008 - Nov 2010
Jul 2008

60000 mi

US $250
Leak in coolant system hosing. 
Aug 2008

60000 mi

US $300
Repair window regulator on right (passenger) window. 
BMW 3-Series in North Carolina, United States
Jan 2008 - Mar 2009
Jul 2008

85000 mi

US $500
one rear shock absorber leaked fluid, so replaced both rear shocks. 
Sep 2008

88000 mi

US $250
Coolant expansion tank had crack. was replaced. 
Mar 2009

92000 mi

US $700
Coolant leak: replace radiator. Service engine light: lean mixture & misfire codes. Problem traced to damaged upper intake boot. Part replaced. 
BMW 3-Series in West Virginia, United States
Jan 2010 - Nov 2013
Apr 2013

43300 mi
Window regulator. 
BMW 3-Series in California, United States
Aug 2006 - Jul 2016
Jan 2007

65000 mi

US $50
Replace HID igniter control box 
Aug 2007

70000 mi

US $85
Replaced window regulator in driver's door 
Sep 2007

71000 mi

US $20
Replace timing chain tensioner. 
Jul 2008

76000 mi

US $100
Replace passenger front window regulator 
Aug 2008

77000 mi

US $30
CEL code indicated weak mixture - replaced cracked rubber intake boot. 
Mar 2009

81000 mi

US $100
Replace right rear window regulator. 
Sep 2009

87000 mi

US $100
Replace right rear window regulator again. 
Jun 2010

93000 mi

US $70
Check engine light and code indicated thermostat jammed open. Replaced thermostat. 
Nov 2010

97000 mi

US $60
Replace final stage resistor to cure intermittent fan speed control problem. 
Aug 2011

105000 mi

US $110
Replace intake camshaft position sensor 
Jan 2012

117500 mi

US $200
Replace VANOS piston seals and CCVV. 
Mar 2012

110000 mi
False low engine oil warning light - replaced oil level sensor. 
Oct 2012

117000 mi

US $120
Door remote locking and unlocking was intermittent - fixed by repair to GM5 electronic control module. 
Nov 2014

146100 mi
Replace broken window regulator in left rear door. 
Oct 2015

157000 mi

US $250
Replace crank case vent valve and various vacuum hoses 
Feb 2016

161600 mi

US $150
Replaced both rear window regulators 
BMW 3-Series in Alabama, United States
Feb 2013 - Oct 2014
Jul 2013

122700 mi

US $125
Valve cover gasket replaced No visiible leaks found, system working, . A/C recharged 
BMW 3-Series in Pennsylvania, United States
Mar 2008 - Mar 2010
Apr 2008

96000 mi

US $80
Right rear tail light inop. Electrical connector damaged, I have been told this is common for this year 3 series. Brake light and turn signal would not word on driver side. One year ago I had the passenger side connector replaced. 
Jul 2008

98000 mi

US $580
Replaced alternator as it was inop. 
May 2009

103000 mi

US $600
Check engine light. Intake and exhaust sensors needed replacement. 
BMW 3-Series in California, United States
Oct 2008 - Feb 2011
Feb 2011

115000 mi

US $390
worn valve cover gasket leaks oil to ignition coil, replace ignition coil on cylinder 1 

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2002 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

225-horsepower 3.0L I6 5-speed manual AWD

BMW 3-Series in Florida, United States
Sep 2011 - Dec 2012
Jul 2012

121500 mi

US $100
Replaced Front Lower Control Arm Bushings. 
BMW 3-Series in North Carolina, United States
Mar 2009 - Apr 2011
Apr 2009

85000 mi

US $4
Bad stumble on fuel injectors caused misfire on 2 cylinders. No activation of CEL. Used quality fuel injector cleaner and full tank of premium gas and problem corrected self. 
Dec 2009

97000 mi

US $600
Replaced drivers side front axle assembly 
Jan 2010

98000 mi

US $500
Replace passenger side drive axle assembly 
BMW 3-Series in New Jersey, United States
Mar 2009 - Jun 2011
Apr 2009

89000 mi

US $567
The thermostat and sensor for the cooling system needed to be repaired. While doing that repair, old belts and hoses were replaced - maintenance items. 

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2002 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

184-horsepower 2.5L I6 5-speed shiftable automatic RWD

BMW 3-Series in New Jersey, United States
Nov 2013 - Jan 2014
Jan 2014

US $1500
Drivers side window stopped working, car would not start,  headlight covers fogged, reverse light not working, break pedal squeaking. 
BMW 3-Series in Ohio, United States
Dec 2007 - Jun 2015
Jul 2008

60000 mi

US $544
"Found both rear coil springs broken during inspection.Replaced both.+33-53-575 16FRU." "C/S there is a right tail lamp message displayed at times but when checked the lamps are working.Bulletin 63-03-06 taillight grounds.Installed additional grounds to taillight.00 56 867 6FRU." 
Nov 2008

64000 mi

US $61
"Customer states he has a clunk under the car when he stops and again when he starts.Almost like a ball rolling around (in the trunk)".Control arm bushing "Customer states there is a downshift clunk when you come to a stop and start letting off the bra 
Jun 2009

73000 mi

US $134
"Clunk" in rear suspension described earlier revisited with independent tech who states: "Appears to be the beginning of the E46 subfame issue. Customer will monitor and await results of the class action law suit." 
Jul 2009

74000 mi

US $690
failed alternator 
Jun 2011

93000 mi

US $118
recharge A/C add compressor oil 
May 2012

102800 mi

US $7
The computer showed a false code. Dealer changed the real brake/turn signal bulbs anyway. It seems to have worked. 
Nov 2013

118000 mi

US $600
replace control arm bushings 
Oct 2014

125700 mi

US $1604
replace windshield washer pump. intake runner, plugs, breather and oil separator hose thermostat assembly 
BMW 3-Series in Texas, United States
Jun 2012 - Jan 2015
Oct 2012

118000 mi
CAR IS IN SHOP NOW. SERVICE ENGINE. LITE ON PLUS control arm bushings, et rear axle mount 
Feb 2013

135600 mi

US $378
PCV valve 
Sep 2013

157000 mi
Cooling system leak, replaced all system components ie expansion tank, radiator, and hoses, and a header. Leak fixed 
Jan 2015

129000 mi

US $1500
The repairs have not yet been done. The repair items are the water pump,  power steering pump vacuum coupling and rebuilding the rack and pinion. 
BMW 3-Series in Florida, United States
Sep 2013 - Dec 2013
Oct 2013

160800 mi
After cooling system overhaul car still overheats sporadically. 
BMW 3-Series in Tennessee, United States
Nov 2010 - Jan 2011
Jul 2010

210000 mi

US $500
gaskets 
Dec 2010

217000 mi

US $100
Coil pack blown. Replaced. 
BMW 3-Series in Florida, United States
Jan 2013 - Sep 2014
Mar 2014

112000 mi

US $220
Vacuum lines were broken Rain molding came apart again. 
Aug 2014

123600 mi
Window trim coming apart. 
BMW 3-Series in Kansas, United States
Sep 2011 - Dec 2012
Jan 2012

112000 mi

US $150
Check transmission light came on 
Mar 2012

114000 mi

US $1800
Changed gasket, thermostat Power stearing pump replaced 
Jul 2012

120800 mi

US $1000
radiator crack, replaced radiator and expansion tank 
Dec 2012

128000 mi

US $700
belts, pulley broker. replaced. 
BMW 3-Series in California, United States
Dec 2013 - Dec 2014
Oct 2014

117000 mi

US $725
Oxygen sensor problem could not get car to smog. Computer software update required.  
BMW 3-Series in Illinois, United States
Jul 2012 - Apr 2016
Oct 2012

103500 mi

US $750
Rough Idle and occasional dying when cold. Replaced ICV (Intake Control Valve). Jittery feedback in the steering wheel. Replaced front control arm bushings and got an alignment. Problem fixed. 
Jan 2013

106300 mi

US $150
Replaced fuel pump. Replaced DISA valve, aka adjuster unit. It sounded like a spray paint can being shaken when engine was running. 
Mar 2013

108000 mi

US $400
Pulley failed and serpentine belt shredded. Replaced mechanical tensioner with hydraulic tensioner. Replaced all pulleys, and both belts. 
Jan 2014

108300 mi

US $40
Leaking oil from engine bay. Replaced the engine's valve cover gasket. Fixed. 
Apr 2016

140000 mi

US $200
Radiator sprung a leak and was replaced. 
BMW 3-Series in California, United States
Jan 2009 - Jan 2011
Jul 2009

110000 mi

US $70
Thermometer for outside temperature 
Aug 2009

95000 mi

US $3000
Belts, Coolant(anti-freeze) system, wiper-fluid pump. 
Dec 2009

118000 mi

US $550
window regulators, front windows. they would not go up once they went down. 
Jul 2010

126200 mi

US $102
Clip attaching window to window regulator broke leading to a cracking noise when using driver window. It was a $2 part but $100 in labor. Kinda sickening but that's the price you pay to drive a BMW.  
BMW 3-Series in California, United States
Jun 2009 - Jan 2013
Aug 2009

98000 mi

US $1700
Cooling system: Replaced cracked radiator surge container and broken air vent. 
Oct 2010

105000 mi

US $600
Cracked oil strainer caused vacuum leak engine not running correctly. 
Jun 2011

108000 mi
replaced brake booster causing vacuum leak. 
Nov 2011

116700 mi

US $340
Oil leak from gasket between engine block and adapter for oil filter. Emissions control having to do with catalytic converter 
BMW 3-Series in Oregon, United States
Oct 2008 - Apr 2009
Apr 2009

46000 mi

US $70
Second window regulator replaced. 
BMW 3-Series in Georgia, United States
Feb 2009 - Apr 2012
Mar 2012

110000 mi

US $700
Cooling fan clutch broken 
BMW 3-Series in California, United States
- Apr 2007
Apr 2007

72000 mi

US $400
Had to replace my lower control arms, bushing which came out to be $400 in parts and did my own labor. 
BMW 3-Series in Massachusetts, United States
Jan 2009 - Dec 2011
Oct 2011

119000 mi

US $400
Front ball joints 
BMW 3-Series in British Columbia, Canada
Sep 2007 - Sep 2021
Mar 2008

62000 mi

C $220
Oil level sensor malfunctioned. 
Apr 2008

64480 mi

C $660
Leak coming from thermostat. Thermostat housing replaced. Head gasket leak. 
Jul 2008

66340 mi

C $300
Steering ball joints. 
Oct 2009

74400 mi

C $30
Replaced tail light bulb socket wiring harness plug, left rear tail light 
Nov 2010

80260 mi

C $7
Taillight failure warning due to poor ground design in tail lights. Spliced a second ground wire an attached to tail light cluster as per bimmerforum diy. $7 in parts and 10 minutes per side. Problem fixed. 
Apr 2011

82460 mi

C $150
check engine light activated by one malfunctioning oxygen sensor. both oxygen sensors replaced as a precaution. Repair successful. 
Jan 2012

83040 mi

C $36
Replaced hose leading to the secondary air injection pump. The hose hadn't failed but was in poor shape where it connected to the pump. I wasn't getting any warning/check engine lights showing yet. 
Aug 2012

92880 mi

C $1020
HVAN fan speed blowing erratically. Blower motor final stage resistor replaced Acc. Belt Tensioner / AC belt tensioner / Idler pulley replaced. 
Mar 2013

98580 mi

C $500
Oil pan gasket and the seal btwn the dip stick and block were weeping oil. 
Mar 2016

114080 mi

C $400
Valve cover gasket was seeping. Gasket was replaced. 
BMW 3-Series in California, United States
Oct 2014 - Oct 2014
Oct 2014

170000 mi

US $2000
Engine had idling problems at low speeds. Frequent piston misfires. 
BMW 3-Series in Colorado, United States
Aug 2015 - Sep 2015
Aug 2015

134000 mi

US $1100
Power steering Radiator 

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2002 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

184-horsepower 2.5L I6 5-speed shiftable automatic AWD

BMW 3-Series in New Jersey, United States
May 2007 - Jun 2011
Jun 2009

95000 mi

US $1500
Alternator and starter 
Aug 2009

97000 mi

US $450
Leaking water pump 
Dec 2009

100000 mi

US $600
Window regulators. 
Nov 2010

112000 mi

US $1500
Sensors that control engine idle. Compressor not functioning properly. 
BMW 3-Series in Massachusetts, United States
Sep 2012 - Oct 2012
Oct 2012

75000 mi

US $800
Had to replace the thermometer because the AC didn't work. 
BMW 3-Series in Florida, United States
Sep 2012 - Oct 2012
Oct 2012

100000 mi

US $200
we did not get it repaired yet. They wanted 1700 for the repair 
BMW 3-Series in Ontario, Canada
Dec 2010 - Jun 2011
Jan 2011

86180 mi

C $350
Leaky coolant expansion tank Replace front right axle shaft. vibration noise when turning 
Feb 2011

86480 mi

C $225
Replace cvv or oil separator and associated hoses due to age (140000km). A small amount of gunk was seen inside oil separator. Hoses were hardened and one of them had a crack on it. 
Mar 2011

88040 mi

C $300
Replaced leaky cooling thermostat and cooling hose between thermostat and radiator Replaced leaky cooling thermostat and cooling hose between thermostat and radiator 
BMW 3-Series in New Jersey, United States
- Nov 2007
Nov 2007

96500 mi

US $3700
Service II inspection, 4 new tires mounted and balanced, replaced AC compressor and dryer. Replaced headlamp lense due to fogging issue. 
BMW 3-Series in Washington, United States
Sep 2013 - Sep 2014
Dec 2013

112000 mi

US $500
The entire cooling system failed at the same time. Had to replace the thermostat, reservoir, fan clutch, hoses, & hot air valve after the thermostat failed on the freeway and the car began to overheat. 
Sep 2014

130000 mi

US $800
ICV broke, oil was spewing into exhaust 
BMW 3-Series in New York, United States
Apr 2013 - Jan 2017
Sep 2014

115000 mi
Rear suspension is shot. Need to change struts. Left axle boot is leaking Coolant leaking Rattle coming from radio/center console Sunroof doesn't open. Inner part is stuck. 
Feb 2016

127000 mi
Oil leak Right axle boot leaking again Secondary air flow reporting error code Steering boot leak 
Nov 2016

125000 mi
Replaced intake sensor as engine would not start Windshield pump leaking bad All steering hoses leaking 
Jan 2017 Engine Mounts need replacing 
BMW 3-Series in Rhode Island, United States
Jan 2012 - Sep 2014
Feb 2012

148300 mi

US $245
Thermostat replaced. Service code p0128. 
Sep 2014

160000 mi

US $600
Valve cover gasket replaced Replaced failing alternator Replaced broken rear spring 

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2002 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

184-horsepower 2.5L I6 5-speed manual RWD

BMW 3-Series in Louisiana, United States
Nov 2011 - Jul 2015
Nov 2012

134000 mi

US $250
Power seat motor replaced (Driver side) 
BMW 3-Series in Alaska, United States
Jun 2017 - Sep 2021
Jul 2017

175000 mi

US $4500
Replaced water pump, cooling fan and several hoses. Replaced front struts, steering rack, tie rod ends, power steering hoses, and sway bar links Replaced serpentine belt and all idler pulleys 
May 2018

180000 mi

US $150
Replaced entire crankcase ventilation system 
BMW 3-Series in Texas, United States
- Feb 2009
Feb 2009

120000 mi

US $90
Driver's side window regulator 
BMW 3-Series in California, United States
Oct 2011 - May 2013
Mar 2013

145000 mi

US $850
Several coolant leaks found. Replaced expansion tank, radiator and valve cover gasket. 
BMW 3-Series in Nevada, United States
May 2014 - Jun 2014
May 2014

151000 mi

US $2300
Had random puffs of white smoke out the exhaust and slight loss of power. Replaced valve cover, valve cover gasket, oil filter housing. Problem is bad valve seals. Did not replace due to cost. Leaking coolant. Replaced thermostat. 
BMW 3-Series in New Jersey, United States
Aug 2016 - Dec 2017
Jul 2017

139398 mi

US $200
Bosch remanufactured steering rack replaced control arm driver side window regulator failed 
Sep 2017

13994 mi

US $566
power steering failing, making creaking noises etc. replaced power steering pump and drive belts 
BMW 3-Series in South Carolina, United States
Jul 2012 - Mar 2013
Sep 2012

72000 mi

US $800
Lower control arms, Left and Right needed to be replaced. Bought the parts online, and had local shop do the work. Even then, it was $800. Hate to think what the dealer would have wanted. 
BMW 3-Series in Ontario, Canada
Mar 2008 - Jun 2020
May 2010

84880 mi

C $900
Suspension bushings worn 
Oct 2010

89900 mi

C $700
Dead battery replaced, alternator replaced 
Jun 2013

124000 mi

C $800
Valve cover gasket leak - replaced U joint was cracked - part replaced Rear bushings cracked, needed replacement 
Aug 2013

126480 mi

C $300
Hood would not open - latch inoperable Cables replaced, latches replaced 
Aug 2014

139440 mi

C $500
Rear shock leaking, replaced both 
Mar 2015

146320 mi

C $220
Valve Cover gasket oil leak - replace gasket 
Oct 2016

166040 mi

C $450
Intake manifold - valve not working causing engine to surge 
May 2018

184140 mi

C $300
Coolant recovery tank cracked, causing coolant leak 
BMW 3-Series in Wisconsin, United States
Aug 2003 - Jun 2011
Dec 2003

17900 mi
Replace exhaust camshaft position sensor Fix pass. seat rattle 
Aug 2005

41200 mi
Replace mass airflow sensor 
Feb 2006

48500 mi
Replace thermostat 
Mar 2007

63500 mi

US $208
Replace front sway bar link 
Mar 2009

91000 mi
Rain rail separated and loose. 
Jul 2009

96000 mi

US $125
Replaced exterior window trim due to corrosion. Replaced driver's side mirror glass due to corrosion. 
Sep 2009

96000 mi

US $600
Replace worn front control arms and bushings. 
Oct 2009

97000 mi

US $25
Windshield wipers were not stopping in the full down position. Replaced the wiper relay. 
Feb 2010

105000 mi

US $100
CEL illuminated. Scan revealed failed radiator output temp sensor. Replaced sensor. 
Sep 2010

109000 mi
Exterior door trim fell off and needed to be reattached. 
BMW 3-Series in Florida, United States
Apr 2008 - May 2011
May 2011

77000 mi

US $300
Left rear window actuator replaced. Interior A and C pillar trim replaced. 
BMW 3-Series in Alberta, Canada
Jan 2010 - Jun 2011
Mar 2010

29760 mi

C $3000
front bushing needed repair. new tires. 
BMW 3-Series in Illinois, United States
Sep 2007 - Mar 2012
Apr 2007

110000 mi

US $500
Alternator failed 
Oct 2010

156000 mi

US $140
fuel pump failed 
Dec 2011

188000 mi

US $50
window regulator failed 
BMW 3-Series in Texas, United States
Dec 2012 - Jun 2017
Apr 2013

89300 mi

US $3800
Replaced AC system due to failing AC Compressor and Condenser Leak. Ventilation fan failing, replaced as well. 

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2002 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

184-horsepower 2.5L I6 5-speed manual AWD

BMW 3-Series in Colorado, United States
Dec 2014 - Jul 2018
Dec 2014

99000 mi

US $2700
Antilock brake module and Master cylinder leaking which caused passenger side brake caliper to sieze. 
May 2015

109600 mi

US $165
Oil fluid level sensor failed. Required new part and oil change to replace. 
Jun 2015

109000 mi

US $248
Driver's side window regulator failed for the second time. Had to be replaced. 
Sep 2015

111000 mi

US $555
The power steering pump failed and was replaced 
Dec 2015

114000 mi

US $80
Window regulator failed again. Rear facing clip broke off of cable. 
Dec 2016

121000 mi
The electric thermostat failed and had to be replaced. 
Apr 2017

130000 mi

US $1350
The front suspension needed a rebuild. The struts and strut bearings were worn out and also replaced the sway bar links (right side worn out) and upgraded the sway bar bushings. Used H&R springs and Bilstein B8 performance plus struts and shocks. Upgraded the rear springs and shocks used Bavauto reinforcement plates and heavy duty shock mounts. 
Jun 2017

131000 mi

US $370
Expansion tank ruptured, replaced radiator hoses, tank and thermostat 
Jul 2018

142000 mi

US $89
replace entire steering rack and pinion 
BMW 3-Series in Oregon, United States
Feb 2014 - Mar 2014
Mar 2014

147000 mi

US $80
New plugs ABS speed sensor failed 

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2002 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

168-horsepower 2.2L I6 5-speed manual RWD

BMW 3-Series in South Africa
May 2015 - Dec 2016
Apr 2016

102380 mi
Replaced thermostat. 
Aug 2016

108520 mi

R 19000
Losing water. Radiator was replaced, water bottle cracked by new thermostat. Dealer only waived labor charge, said that the failure was "normal." Replaced all ignition coils and spark plugs. 

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2002 BMW 3-Series 4-door

6-cylinder manual 2WD

BMW in California, United States
Aug 2006 - Mar 2010
Dec 2006

67000 mi

US $310
Rear left side power windows broke. 

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2002 BMW 3-Series 2dr Coupe

333-horsepower 3.2L I6 6-speed manual RWD

BMW 3-Series in Indiana, United States
May 2010 - Jun 2011
Jul 2010

83000 mi

US $800
vanos oil return line blew off, leaking oil all over engine and passenger side of engine bay into wheel well. Oil was dripping down to exhaust manifold causing it to burn off as well (lots of white smoke). line popped off on the highway 
BMW 3-Series in Great Britain
Feb 2010 - Jun 2011
Mar 2010

54000 mi
Car needed new engine so brought a used one from BM spares.  After engine replacement replaced Crank shaft sensor V common problem on these cars. 
BMW 3-Series in Utah, United States
May 2014 - Apr 2015
Feb 2015

238000 mi

US $50
Idler pulley seized up went to auto parts store and replaced it at home. Easy fix. Replaced suspension with coilovers as the suspension was getting old and worn and wanted to upgrade to adjustable height and dampening. 
BMW 3-Series in Massachusetts, United States
Mar 2010 - Dec 2015
Jun 2010

89000 mi

US $1500
subframe cracked and bmw would not repair because crack was to small, had turner motor sport repair and strenghten subframe 
Dec 2012

106000 mi

US $1300
The abs light traction control stayed on. bleed brakes and put new fluid in, also had cooling flushed and replaced. door moldings fell off, replaced, total for this and other work 800 in parts and 500 in labor. 
Jun 2014

130000 mi

US $129
replaced spark plugs and coils 
Apr 2015

132300 mi

US $300
50-cent crush seal on vanos, rest labor; might have to replace vanos because of oil leak, fluid changes filter change 
BMW 3-Series in New York, United States
May 2013 - Mar 2016
Oct 2013

115200 mi

US $750
replace worn front springs and rear control arm 
Dec 2013

116000 mi

US $200
Rear Trunk Handle Separated from Trunk 
May 2014

116600 mi

US $500
Left front wheel bearing 
Feb 2015

120000 mi

US $500
Leak from power steering hose  Brake caliper was sticking and needed to be rebuilt/replaced Torn front axle boots 
Jul 2015

123000 mi
Blown Rear Speaker Sagging interior liner 
BMW 3-Series in Wisconsin, United States
May 2014 - Jun 2018
Sep 2014

114000 mi

US $30
Leak from wiper fluid 
Sep 2015

121000 mi

US $15
Rubber exhaust hanger broke and needed to be replaced 
BMW 3-Series in Tennessee, United States
Nov 2014 - Jul 2022
Mar 2016

53000 mi

US $14
The windshield washer pump was leaking. A service part and a short repair involving removing the passenger front wheelwell splash shield to access the part was all that was required. Not unheard of with 14yr old plastic seals. 
Jun 2016

55000 mi

US $25
One headlight bulb went out. I swapped front bulbs to confirm the incident, and replaced both with aftermarket Phillips headlight bulbs. 
Jul 2022

88000 mi

US $230
Misfires on cylinder 1 and 6, replaced all 6 coils and spark plugs as repair. 
BMW 3-Series in Illinois, United States
May 2015 - Apr 2017
Aug 2016

67000 mi

US $428
Replaced Oxygen Sensor post catalytic, bank 2 
BMW 3-Series in Pennsylvania, United States
Jul 2011 - Jul 2012
Dec 2011

133000 mi

US $325
Constant Pressure Valve needed to be replaced. $30 part, and needed $45 worth of tools to complete. Replaced fluid in Differential. Was making a grinding noise. Replaced with BMW Genuine fluid. 
Jul 2012

135000 mi

US $30
Replaced wiring harness for front driver's seat belt tensioner. 
BMW 3-Series in California, United States
Feb 2017 - Jun 2022
Mar 2017

32000 mi

US $250
Rear differential seal and pinion seal replaced to fix leaks. 
Feb 2018

39569 mi

US $3324
Brake fluid changed, AC and alternator belts, muffler hanger and rear trailing arm bushing replaced  BMW Vanos (variable valve timing) system replaced with Dr. Vanos system (aftermarket). 
Mar 2018

37158 mi

US $240
Left front window regulator replaced 
Jun 2018

38460 mi

US $350
Replaced ignition coils and spark plugs 
Aug 2018

39329 mi

US $120
Right front wheel sensor replaced 
Mar 2020

47544 mi

US $1026
Front passenger airbag replaced in recall Front pads, sensors and rotors, rear pads and sensors replaced 
BMW 3-Series in California, United States
May 2008 - Nov 2015
Aug 2008

42000 mi

US $500
Dying alternator killed battery as well. 
Feb 2009

45000 mi

US $325
Rear end felt loose during hard cornering. Research pointed to worn out RTABs, a known failure point on these cars (too much slop between bushing and trailing arm flange). Replaced with Powerflex RTABs by my mechanic. Rear end feels a lot more planted. 
Mar 2011

56000 mi
Both window trims have delaminated. Very common problem on E46 coupes. Trim expands in heat and shears off adhesive. New trim material corrects issue. Dealer wants $1050 to replace old trim. Attempting to have BMWNA cover cost. 
Apr 2011

57000 mi

US $300
AC stopped blowing cold air. Final Stage Unit (FSU) replaced. 
Nov 2011

59000 mi

US $800
Replaced drooping interior door trim on both sides. Well known problem on early E46 coupes due to differing rates of thermal expansion between rubber portion (pinch sensor) of trim and fabric portion of trip, shearing the adhesive between . Replaced high pitch horn. And low pitch horn while we were at it. Replaced PS wiper arm due to poor wiper performance on that side despite trying new blades and bending old arm to make better contact with windshield. 
Feb 2013

62000 mi

US $75
Replaced windshield washer pump that was leaking and causing a low fluid condition. 
Aug 2014

64000 mi

US $130
Rear view mirror electroluminant element started to cloud (known issue with the round mirrors). Elected to have it repaired by Radar-Mirror.com rather than have it replaced by OEM (not sure if that's still an option). 
Nov 2015

65000 mi
Passenger side door fails to reliably unlock outside handle remotely. Interior handle still works. BMW Tech said that lock control module needs to be replaced. Apparently there's a module for everything in a BMW. 
BMW 3-Series in California, United States
May 2007 - Jan 2016
Jun 2007

63000 mi

US $100
Front bumper support cracked, required replacement. Part was $15 
Sep 2008

87000 mi

US $400
Valve adjustment. 
Sep 2009

107000 mi

US $200
Passenger window fails to roll down; disassembled door to fix. 
Feb 2010

113500 mi

US $100
Ignition coil replaced, spark plugs & fuel filter replaced. 
Nov 2010

126700 mi

US $10
Broken left front anti-roll bar mount. 
Nov 2011

136500 mi

US $3900
valve adjust, variable cam solenoid, oil leak repair,  power steering leak repair,  window washer repair, bumper repair. 
Jan 2012

137300 mi

US $20
service light came on again; apparently cam position solenoid replacement part failed. mechanic is researching similar failures to determine best course. 
Jun 2012

139000 mi

US $150
Ignition coil needed replacement 
Apr 2013

143200 mi

US $1000
Exhaust cam timing 
Sep 2013

145000 mi
Vanos adjustment. Mechanic misadjusted vanos on reassembly during earlier repair. 
Jun 2014

153000 mi

US $2400
replace alternator, battery frame cracking at swaybar mount passenger door lock actuator replaced 
Sep 2015

166000 mi

US $600
replaced front wheel bearing broken upper a-arm, rear 
Jan 2016

141000 mi
sunroof shade stuck/broken. also, seats worn. 
BMW 3-Series in Massachusetts, United States
Jun 2008 - Jun 2012
Mar 2008

58674 mi

US $460
Oil pan replaced due to over tightening of drain bolt. Stripped threads. Replaced both rear springs Replaced high pressure steering hose 
Jun 2008

58688 mi
Replaced water pump/thermostat, under 90 warranty 
Sep 2010

86018 mi

US $2748
Replace failed VANOs 
Oct 2010

87200 mi

US $56
Replaced trim around shift. Badly scratched Window switch 
Dec 2010

87000 mi

US $123
Replaced cubby storage. Door very scratched 
Feb 2011

89000 mi

US $300
Repair exhaust hangers. Worn out and cracked. 
Jul 2011

94300 mi

US $350
Air conditioning was not blowing cold air. 
Mar 2012

100000 mi

US $800
Differential seal on right side 
BMW 3-Series in Arizona, United States
Nov 2009 - May 2011
May 2010

50000 mi

US $160
Replaced Ignition coils, as original coils are known to deteriorate over time. I felt about a dozen misses over a 2000 mi drive. The dealer who looked at it recommended replacement, but couldnt cover it under warranty, cause it hadn't thrown a code. 
BMW 3-Series in District of Columbia, United States
Jan 2011 - Feb 2014
Jun 2012

67000 mi

US $1500
Water Pump and Fan was replaced along with the radiator. 
Nov 2012

68300 mi

US $100
Replace O2 sensor. 
May 2013

69600 mi

US $90
Temp gauge was not working. 

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2002 BMW 3-Series 2dr Coupe

333-horsepower 3.2L I6 6-speed automated manual RWD

BMW 3-Series in South Africa
May 2010 - Jul 2012
Apr 2010

40002 mi

R 400
Input shaft seal into differential leaking. Seal replaced. Rubber drive shaft coupling replaced. 
Jul 2010

42540 mi

R 1000
RR shock lost damping. Decided to install aftermarket suspension to fix the problem. 
Nov 2011

60140 mi

R 100
Central locking not actuating the unlock function. Door lock unit needed to be replaced. Windscreen washer nozzles had failed and needed replacing. 
Feb 2012

63860 mi
Boot lid handle mountings failed. Super glued mounts back in and re-attached handle. Interior trim around door seal on the inside of the car coming off. Pushed back into position but not glued. Input shaft seal on differential leaking. Seal replaced. 
BMW 3-Series in Pennsylvania, United States
Jul 2013 - Sep 2013
Sep 2013

79000 mi

US $1200
Check engine light came on. Took it to BMW dealer. They replaced an emission control unit (a $500 part, I think), and performed a BMW inspection I. Total cost $1200 to $1500 (I've forgotten the exact price.) 
BMW 3-Series in Belgium
Dec 2009 - Sep 2010
Jan 2010

83080 mi
automatic level control xenon headlights- electrical stepper motor broken 
May 2010

84940 mi

€900
Alternator broke down and empty battery 
BMW 3-Series in Texas, United States
Feb 2011 - May 2014
Jul 2012

93000 mi

US $2200
SMG pump failure 
BMW 3-Series in Colorado, United States
Jul 2010 - Jan 2022
Apr 2016

47000 mi
Oil Leak....not yet found. Put dye in system. Think it's the S54's relief valve sticking open from time to time. Looking for an oil leak. 

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2002 BMW 3-Series 2dr Coupe

225-horsepower 3.0L I6 5-speed shiftable automatic RWD

BMW 3-Series in Maryland, United States
Mar 2011 - Jun 2012
Oct 2011

102000 mi
Replaced front control arm bushings and sway bar end links. 
BMW 3-Series in Georgia, United States
Jun 2010 - Sep 2010
Sep 2010

142000 mi

US $3000
Torque converter, control arm bushings water pump 

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2002 BMW 3-Series 2dr Coupe

225-horsepower 3.0L I6 5-speed shiftable automatic AWD

BMW 3-Series in California, United States
Sep 2010 - Jun 2011
Oct 2010

89000 mi

US $400
Coolant tank cracked and needed replacement. 

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2002 BMW 3-Series 2dr Coupe

225-horsepower 3.0L I6 5-speed manual RWD

BMW 3-Series in Texas, United States
Jul 2010 - Jul 2013
Dec 2010

130000 mi

US $200
The adjusting valve or "disa" valve was leaking air causing a check engine light. Replaced disa valve. 
Mar 2012

136000 mi

US $1000
Front control arms + bushings, rear trailing arm bushings, water pump + belts, water pump pulley. passenger side kidney grill fell out due to plastic tabs breaking off. probably due to being ten years old. replaced grill with new from BMW dearer for $55. Very easy repair; just pushes into place. 
Dec 2012

142000 mi

US $106
The shifter was getting sloppy so I bought a short shift kit to fix that. Also changed out the trans fluid - 1.3 quarts. This is a manual transmission. 
Mar 2013

147000 mi

US $1056
Replaced worn out tires and rear trailing arm ball joints. Aligned car after new tires and repairs 
May 2013

148000 mi

US $65
The climate control interior fans quit working. Replaced final stage fan resistor pack to repair. Common repair on these cars - this unit replaced the original one - it lasted more than ten years before it failed. 
BMW 3-Series in California, United States
Apr 2011 - Dec 2018
Feb 2012

193400 mi

US $110
expansion tank leak water pump leak 
Jan 2013

214000 mi

US $560
Steering angle sensor failed. 
Dec 2013

238000 mi

US $160
Fuel pump failure, replaced. radiator small leak, replaced. 
Jan 2014

198800 mi

US $150
alternator failed 
Sep 2014

254000 mi

US $500
left rear wheel bearing replacement 
Oct 2014

254000 mi

US $150
Replaced dead 5.5 year old battery 
Dec 2016

302000 mi

US $125
loose steering, replaced worn tie rods. replaced steering coupler. Sway bar bushing replaced. Front control arms replaced, lower control arm bushings replaced. Rear trailing arm bushings replaced. Rear sway bar bushings and rear sway bar links replaced. 
BMW 3-Series in Minnesota, United States
Mar 2011 - Apr 2012
Apr 2011

135000 mi

US $100
Bad front sway bar end links and control arm bushings, replaced with OEM sway bar end links and poly control arm bushings. 
BMW 3-Series in Washington, United States
Sep 2014 - Dec 2015
Sep 2014

76000 mi
clutch replacement water pump and thermostat replacement 
BMW 3-Series in Alberta, Canada
Aug 2005 - Mar 2010
Jan 2005

31000 mi
Faulty ignition coil repaired under warranty. 
May 2005

32860 mi
Driver's seat heating element repaired under warranty. 
Jan 2009

45880 mi

C $240
Thermostat replaced. 
Mar 2009

46500 mi

C $300
HVAC Final Stage Resistor (fan speed control) replaced. 
Apr 2009

46810 mi

C $300
Front control arm bushings replaced. 
BMW 3-Series in California, United States
- Dec 2008
Nov 2008

58000 mi

US $200
HVAC Control unit going bad. AC blower working intermittent, then would not turn off after shutting down car. 
Dec 2008

60000 mi

US $800
Replace Control arm bushings. Front suspension was feeling loose and nosy on driveways and bumps 
BMW 3-Series in Illinois, United States
Aug 2009 - Jun 2011
Mar 2010

104000 mi

US $60
thermostat 
Jan 2011

109000 mi

US $112
Replace water pump not due to malfunction, annoying sound appeared. Car was drivable before the repair. 
BMW 3-Series in Virginia, United States
Mar 2011 - Mar 2013
Mar 2012

124000 mi

US $375
Replaced front control arms and control arm bushings (CABs) 
Aug 2012

126700 mi

US $400
Replaced front struts. 
Nov 2012

129200 mi
Service Engine Soon (SES) light activated. Codes p0171 and p0174= lean on both banks. 
Mar 2013

130000 mi

US $650
Strut bearings needed to be replaced. Intermittent Service Engine Soon (SES) light for "lean on both banks". 
BMW 3-Series in Indiana, United States
Oct 2015 - Feb 2021
Nov 2015

97500 mi

US $930
Alternator replaced 
Jan 2016

98300 mi

US $325
Gap between driver's window and B-pillar causing wind noise. Body shop replaced regulator. Gap still present. 
Nov 2016

103500 mi

US $300
HVAC blower periodically stopped working. Replaced blower motor resistor. 
BMW 3-Series in Alberta, Canada
Sep 2012 - Jun 2018
May 2013

79320 mi

C $865
Replace worn out front control arm bushings Replace faulty thermostat 
Jun 2013

80600 mi

C $205
Replaced rubber intake boots, rebuilt DISA valve Replaced front stabiliser bar end links 
Jul 2013

80900 mi

C $372
Electric cooling fan failed 
Aug 2013

82000 mi

C $137
Faulty exhaust can position sensor 
Feb 2014

87400 mi

C $1800
Oil separator failure. Replaced entire crankcase ventilation system, intake manifold gasket, valve cover gasket, oil filter housing gasket, VANOS oil line. Thermostat leaking; replaced under part warranty. 
Apr 2014

88440 mi

C $189
Replaced faulty intake camshaft position sensor. 
Mar 2015

99200 mi

C $750
Replaced broken windshield wiper linkage. Replace leaking windshield cowl trim (leaky gaskets caused wiper linkage to corrode and seize up) Replaced worn-out front control arms Replace rear trailing arm bushings. Intended as preventive (I installed polyurethane bushings instead of the stock rubber bushings), but the rubber in driver side bushing was in fact tearing apart. Other worn out parts had masked this. Replaced accessory belts 
May 2015

101060 mi

C $260
Replaced broken driver's door lock actuator unit. 
Aug 2016

114080 mi

C $353
Replace seized front brake calipers, preventively replaced front brake lines 
Feb 2017

119040 mi

C $1125
Replace failed valve cover gasket after CCV clogged Replace leaking shift rod and output shaft seals 
Jan 2018

127720 mi

C $1600
Replaced failed valve cover;  replaced failing accessory belt tensioners and idler pulleys. 
Jun 2018

132060 mi

C $50
Replaced faulty brake pad wear sensors 
BMW 3-Series in Wisconsin, United States
Dec 2010 - Mar 2011
Feb 2011

88400 mi

US $67
Idler pulley broke while driving. Replaced pulley and belts Idler pulley broke while driving. Replaced pulley and both belts 
Mar 2011

88400 mi
Two struts leaking when sold. TPMS system problem but was never diagnosed or fixed. 
BMW 3-Series in British Columbia, Canada
Sep 2010 - Sep 2016
May 2012

74680 mi

C $600
replaced thermostat DISA valve flap making noise 
Sep 2012

76880 mi

C $250
Replace idler pulley 
Nov 2012

77380 mi

C $1000
replace expansion tank 
Jul 2013

79560 mi

C $600
replaced crankcase ventilation valve (high oil consumption) and one (1) ignition coil 
Dec 2014

84320 mi

C $800
Replace thermostat  Replace engine valve gaskets 
Feb 2015

84320 mi

C $420
Diagnose and replace upper radiator hose 
Jan 2016

80000 mi

C $1600
Replace power steering high pressure hose Leaking radiator 
May 2016

92380 mi

C $400
Oil filter housing leak. Replace gasket. 
BMW 3-Series in Pennsylvania, United States
Sep 2014 - Apr 2015
Dec 2014

160000 mi

US $300
Left front caliper went bad 
BMW 3-Series in California, United States
Jul 2010 - Oct 2018
Apr 2011

129000 mi

US $1057
pulleys and accessory drive belts 
Aug 2012

149800 mi

US $165
power steering reservoir and hoses replaced 
Nov 2012

152800 mi

US $89
outside temp. sensor replaced 
Mar 2013

157000 mi

US $654
alternator not functioning, replaced. 
Jun 2013

160000 mi

US $465
fuel pump failed, replaced 
Oct 2013

164700 mi

US $300
oil filter housing replaced 
Feb 2015

180700 mi

US $287
replaced intake cam sensor and coolant temp switch 
Oct 2015

188300 mi

US $2416
replaced rear shocks, front struts, front control arms & bushings replaced water pump, thermostat, tensioner pulley, main serpentine belt 
Apr 2016

192300 mi

US $1225
Oxygen sensors, crankcase vent kit, DISA valve 
May 2016

193400 mi

US $457
Secondary air pump and EGR valve replaced. 
Feb 2017

200183 mi

US $1115
Bad ABS/DSC control unit -- replaced along with two brake pressure switches and the brake master cylinder 
May 2017

203000 mi

US $1300
Replaced catalytic converters with used units 

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2002 BMW 3-Series 2dr Coupe

184-horsepower 2.5L I6 5-speed shiftable automatic RWD

BMW 3-Series in Illinois, United States
Feb 2008 - Mar 2010
Sep 2008

78000 mi

US $140
Outside Air Temp. sensor. Common breakage with the E46 as it is subject to impact from snow and ice. 
BMW 3-Series in Arizona, United States
Oct 2012 - May 2013
Dec 2012

97000 mi

US $75
Power Window switch 

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2002 BMW 3-Series 2dr Coupe

184-horsepower 2.5L I6 5-speed shiftable automatic AWD

BMW 3-Series in Colorado, United States
Aug 2011 - Feb 2015
Nov 2011

88000 mi

US $475
Replaced water pump 
Dec 2011

89000 mi
Car ran very rough then stalled and wouldn't re-start. Had to be towed to shop. Started and ran perfectly the next day. No computer codes! Shop tech. put 100 miles on the car trying to duplicate the problem. No luck. 
Oct 2012

92500 mi

US $500
Replaced fuel pump. Working perfectly when the car was being driven. The problem only occured when starting the car. It wouldn't start at all or started and ran very rough at low idle. 
May 2013

101000 mi

US $1500
Cooling Ststem: Plastic Tanks cracked under coolant fill cap and on radiator. Replaced tank and radiator/tank. Surprised BMW makes these thermally stressed coolant tanks out of plastic... Cheap to make expensive to fix... 
Feb 2015

121000 mi
Water pump replaced 8/14 failed and leaked resulting in coolant loss, engine overheated badly, head warped, head gasket blew,coolant flow into cylinder, engine totaled. Giving car to charity.Cost to replace engine (used)= value of car :( 

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2002 BMW 3-Series 2dr Coupe

184-horsepower 2.5L I6 5-speed manual RWD

BMW 3-Series in Ohio, United States
Dec 2020 - Feb 2022
Apr 2021

180000 mi
Replaced both intake hoses due to CEL Passenger airbag recall 
Aug 2021

183000 mi

US $92
New RR caliper which cause a brake pad failure where the wear material fell off. New pads & caliper 
Sep 2021

185000 mi

US $35
Reseal and remount trunk mounted taillights, reattach C pillar trim fabric. Replaced failed parking brake handle. Would no longer engage. 
BMW 3-Series in Arizona, United States
Apr 2009 - Jul 2015
Aug 2014

168000 mi

US $550
Differential bushing 
Sep 2014

169000 mi

US $13
Expansion tank cap replaced. The plastic at the second o-ring had broken. Leaving one intact o-ring.  

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2002 BMW 3-Series 2dr Convertible

333-horsepower 3.2L I6 6-speed manual RWD

BMW 3-Series in New Jersey, United States
Jul 2009 - Mar 2011
BMW 3-Series in New Hampshire, United States
Jul 2011 - Sep 2011
Aug 2011

78300 mi

US $750
Freeze expansion plug blew out of engine, leaked oil from cylinders onto exhaust assy. 
BMW 3-Series in California, United States
Nov 2010 - Jan 2011
Dec 2010

62000 mi

US $800
Bad CV joint in driveshaft. Replaced driveshaft assy 
BMW 3-Series in California, United States
Dec 2012 - Jun 2018
Mar 2013

53000 mi

US $200
One exhaust system mounting bracket replaced. Bluetooth pairing button broke. 
Jun 2018

70000 mi

US $1600
Airbag module malfunction. New BMW part had to be procured - $650. Balance was labor and cost of removing an aftermarket airbag on/off switch for the passenger's seat. 

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2002 BMW 3-Series 2dr Convertible

333-horsepower 3.2L I6 6-speed automated manual RWD

BMW 3-Series in Virginia, United States
Feb 2010 - Aug 2011
Mar 2010

70000 mi

US $4000
Transmission needed replacement 
Jun 2010

71000 mi

US $150
Oil leak from oil level sensor. 
Jun 2011

85000 mi

US $650
oil level sensor leaking; 4th time replaced 
Jul 2011

85300 mi

US $700
Shocks/struts/bushings replaced b/c badly worn; broken front sway bar end link replaced. 

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2002 BMW 3-Series 2dr Convertible

225-horsepower 3.0L I6 5-speed shiftable automatic RWD

BMW 3-Series in Illinois, United States
Aug 2016 - Jun 2017
Aug 2016

126000 mi

US $420
oil leak in common area for m54 engine; oil filter housing gasket replaced. also preventive maintenance replaced pre and post o2 sensors. 
BMW 3-Series in Missouri, United States
May 2012 - Sep 2012
May 2012

109000 mi

US $1825
Hydraulic cylinder line for automatic convertible top had a leak. Had to buy entire cylinder for this one line repair. 
Sep 2012

110000 mi
Shop inspection found broken springs, $1000 estimate to fix. Leak around crankcase: no estimate; needed further exploration. Leak around seal that had been recently replaced: $400 
BMW 3-Series in Massachusetts, United States
May 2010 - Dec 2011
Jul 2010

77000 mi

US $800
Conv. top would not close, big poblem since it would open no problem but had to go to manual mode to close. seems there should be a override for this as the motor was not reading lockdown when it opened but so it wouldnt close. 
BMW 3-Series in Minnesota, United States
Feb 2015 - Oct 2015
Mar 2015

111000 mi

US $30
Thermostat replacement 
Jun 2015

112000 mi

US $100
Power Steering pump was tired, replaced with used unit from junk yard. Battery replaced. 
BMW 3-Series in North Carolina, United States
Mar 2016 - Dec 2016
Nov 2016

71300 mi

US $600
Lock actuator needed to be replaced. 
BMW 3-Series in Massachusetts, United States
Mar 2016 - Apr 2017
Apr 2016

159000 mi
Coil was misfiring. Had to install a new coil. 
Jun 2016

160000 mi
Replaced Cam Filter sensor and housing 

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2002 BMW 3-Series 2dr Convertible

225-horsepower 3.0L I6 5-speed manual RWD

BMW 3-Series in Nevada, United States
Jun 2011 - Jul 2022
Apr 2017

64250 mi

US $188
Water pump failed. Part was under warranty, only cost was coolant. Valve cover gasket VANOS Seals replaced, symptoms were lack of power at low RPM Front pads and rotors. First time replacement 
BMW 3-Series in California, United States
Aug 2017 - Sep 2018
Dec 2017

100000 mi

US $7000
New clutch (preventive - original clutch had not failed New shocks New pads 
BMW 3-Series in New York, United States
Jan 2006 - Sep 2013
Dec 2006

42000 mi
The nut on top of the spring tower came loose and make a loud noise over bumps. It just needed to be tightened. 
Sep 2010

125000 mi

US $1000
Replaced control arms, bushings in L&R front plus alignment. 
BMW 3-Series in New Mexico, United States
Mar 2009 - Jan 2022
Jul 2009

77000 mi

US $536
right and left front suspension Lower Control Arm bushings 
Sep 2010

91000 mi

US $695
Headlight control module replaced. Consists of three switches and computerized power supply. Expensive !!! 
Jul 2012

109200 mi

US $600
Replace rubber air intake passages. Original equipment age cracked. Leaking headlight washer, draining entire windshield/headlight washer reservoir. 
Jun 2013

116000 mi

US $1028
Final Stage Resistor (AC fan speed and temp control) replaced Replace window regulators, both doors. Window drop function not working, and window alignment out of spec. Two window lift assemblies replaced. 
Sep 2013

119000 mi

US $346
Seat belt drooping, getting hung in power seat track and/or closed in door. Replace drivers side seat belt and retractor mechanism, so belt retracts properly. 
Sep 2014

130000 mi

US $4982
Clear coat on hood fogged and flaking, rest of car dulling with age. Repainted in factory color with subtle "true flames" ghosted in pearl on nose, hood and front sides. Front seats reupholstered in matching leather. Very nicely done! 
Mar 2016

138000 mi

US $800
Intermittent misfire, replaced three ignition coils. Drivers side seat would not adjust, replaced fore-aft power seat motor. 
Sep 2017

141409 mi

US $429
Windshield washer system inoperative. 
BMW 3-Series in Connecticut, United States
Mar 2009 - Sep 2018
Sep 2009

45000 mi

US $350
Replace worn door mechanism on driver's side.  Check engine warning light, reset. 
Dec 2009

47000 mi
Drive side door not unlocking, fixed. 
Dec 2013

68000 mi

US $600
Exhaust system. Brakes redone. New wheels and tires. Regular maintenance. Total of $6,000. 
Mar 2015

85000 mi

US $500
Windscreen washer pump. Took three trips to get repaired 
Dec 2015

92000 mi

US $600
Windscreen washer pump. Took 4 repairs to finally fix! 
Apr 2017

102000 mi

US $500
Replace controller for door locks with second hand part. 
Jun 2017

104000 mi
Replace controller for door locks with second hand part - tried 2 more times and ended up with replacing the original part and removing the fuse. The doors don't unlock remotely, but at least work manually 
BMW 3-Series in Washington, United States
Apr 2013 - Sep 2013
May 2013

85000 mi

US $900
valve seal damage engine temp sensor damaged 
BMW 3-Series in Massachusetts, United States
Sep 2009 - Mar 2012
Feb 2010

86000 mi

US $450
Replaced engine thermostat following "Service Engine Soon" light. 
Mar 2010

86000 mi

US $450
Replaced engine thermostat as result of "Service Engine Soon" warning light. 
Sep 2011

98000 mi

US $148
Replaced dead battery (AAA) 

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2002 BMW 3-Series 2dr Convertible

184-horsepower 2.5L I6 5-speed shiftable automatic RWD

BMW 3-Series in New York, United States
Nov 2014 - Jun 2022
Jul 2015

123700 mi

US $200
I had to replace the alternator which stopped charging the battery. 
Aug 2015

126000 mi

US $50
I had to replace a leaky valve cover gasket. The blower motor for hvac system stopped working, and I replaced the motor resistor to fix the problem. 
Sep 2016

135000 mi

US $150
The cooling system expansion tank ruptured and caused a massive loss of coolant. I removed and replaced the tank. For peace of mind, I also purchased a new coolant level sensor which mounts in the bottom of the tank. 
May 2017

137500 mi

US $65
I replaced a part called the steering guibo which is a connector with a rubber damper that is between the steering column and steering rack. The rubber in the old connector had worn and was loose. This was noted by excessive play in the steering wheel before any steering forces were applied to the steering rack. 
Oct 2017

143000 mi

US $125
I had misfire codes for 2 cylinders, replaced the spark plugs with no change in the problems. I then changed the ignition coils for those same 2 cylinders and the error codes, and rough engine problems were solved. 
May 2021

154000 mi

US $1650
Shop noted broken rear spring during PM and NY state inspection. Both springs replaced. 
BMW 3-Series in Alabama, United States
Mar 2015 - Jun 2018
Mar 2015

131000 mi

US $127
replaced fuel pump under back seat of car, took about 30 mins. to do. 
Mar 2016

143000 mi

US $250
replaced both inner and outer tie rods on both front sides. 
BMW 3-Series in Utah, United States
May 2013 - May 2020
Aug 2013

127000 mi

US $1100
fuel pump failed 
Jun 2014

141000 mi

US $1200
oil leak transmission leak 
Nov 2014

146600 mi

US $300
oil leak 
Feb 2016

163300 mi

US $740
replaced radiator and fan 
Mar 2016

163000 mi

US $180
window regulator replaced 
Jun 2016

169000 mi

US $180
convertible top 
Sep 2016

173000 mi

US $350
part replaced. 
Feb 2017

177000 mi

US $180
replaced valve cover gasket 
Jun 2017

181000 mi

US $200
replaced thermostat per check engine codes 
BMW 3-Series in New York, United States
Jan 2016 - Dec 2016
Jan 2016

101000 mi

US $300
Replaced passenger side inner and outer tie rod. 
BMW 3-Series in Louisiana, United States
Oct 2015 - Sep 2016
Sep 2016

212000 mi

US $22
Stiff steering. Flushed power steering fluid. Helped but did not resolve problem. Possibly have worn/bad shock mount bearing(s) 

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2002 BMW 3-Series 2dr Convertible

168-horsepower 2.2L I6 5-speed manual RWD

BMW 3-Series in France
Oct 2016 - Sep 2018
Dec 2016

101680 mi

€200
fuel pump dead 
Apr 2017

133300 mi

€100
the door lock actuator was replaced 
Jun 2018

139500 mi

€660
DISA broken 

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2002 BMW 3-Series 2-door

6-cylinder automatic 2WD

BMW 3-Series in Hawaii, United States
Aug 2006 - Mar 2010
Oct 2006

51000 mi

US $325
Final stage resistor needs to be replaced. AC went out one night, and mysteriously came back like nothing ever happened. Both service advisor at dealer and mechanic at a different shop said it was the blower resistor(something like that). although the 
Nov 2006

54000 mi

US $700
dead alternator 

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2002 BMW 3-Series Repair Histories

See our lemon odds and nada odds page to see vehicles with no repairs or vehicles with more than three repairs. To see how frequently 2002 BMW 3-Series problems occur, check out our car reliability stats.