2005 BMW 3-Series BMW 3-Series 2005

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2005 BMW 3-Series repairs by problem area

Engine (39%)

Transmission and Drivetrain (7%)

Brakes and Traction Control (5%)

Suspension and Steering (15%)

Electrical and Air Conditioning (24%)

Paint, Rust, Leaks, Rattles, and Trim (5%)

Other (5%)

Chart based on 407 repairs.
See TSBs and recalls for the 2005 BMW 3-Series.

2005 BMW 3-Series repair cost distribution

$2500+ (3%)

$1000 - $2499 (15%)

$500 - $999 (12%)

$100 - $499 (37%)

< $100 (33%)

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

Chart based on 307 repair trips. The repair cost chart excludes repairs made under warranty, do-it-yourself repairs, and repair trips that include maintenance.

2005 BMW 3-Series

Engine not specified

BMW 3-Series in Pennsylvania, United States
Dec 2012 - Jan 2015
Mar 2013

123000 mi

US $350
Fuel pump died. 
Apr 2014

137800 mi

US $480
New ac hose and recharge 
BMW 3-Series in Ohio, United States
Feb 2011 - Jun 2011
Mar 2011

137000 mi

US $140
had to replace sway bar end links 
BMW 3-Series in South Africa
Oct 2007 - Dec 2012
Apr 2008

43400 mi
There was a humming / whining noise from the steering column. The power steering pump was replaced and some of the pipes. 
BMW 3-Series in New York, United States
Jan 2015 - Mar 2015
Feb 2015

70300 mi

US $200
on 50K I replace servo motor which cost about 500USD and at 60K I replace Expansion tank because it leak 

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2005 BMW 3-Series 4dr Wagon

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

BMW 3-Series in North Carolina, United States
Nov 2009 - Apr 2014
Jan 2010

54000 mi

US $85
Right rear electric window inoperative - window regulator broken. Replaced broken regulator with OEM regulator ordered online. 
Nov 2010

62000 mi

US $30
Replaced leaking windshield washer pump. 
Jan 2011

62000 mi

US $1000
Replaced worn front lower control arm bushings Replaced leaking fan thermo switch Replaced leaking valve cover gasket Replaced broken crankcase ventilation hose Replaced leaking oil stand gasket 
Mar 2011

67000 mi

US $100
Service engine soon light and rough idle. Engine code reader showed "Misfire cylinder 5". Replaced cylinder 5 ignition coil. Problem resolved. Service engine soon light. Code reader showed "Engine idle valve stuck closed." Removed, cleaned, and reinstalled engine idle valve. Problem resolved. 
Jun 2011

70000 mi

US $70
Right front window regulator noisy and slow. Replaced window regulator. 
Jun 2012

84000 mi

US $1276
Replacing faulty crankshaft sensor Replaced faulty brake light switch Replaced faulty thermostat 

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2005 BMW 3-Series 4dr Wagon

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

BMW 3-Series in Rhode Island, United States
Jan 2011 - Jun 2018
Mar 2011

60000 mi
had to replace the check valve on the Secondary Air Pump 
Aug 2011

69000 mi
Secondary Air Pump CEL; replaced check valve in the spring, but CEL has been intermittent since then. Update: later resolved itself. 
Oct 2011

71000 mi

US $250
Driver's side CV boot was torn and leaking. Local indie shop replaced the boot. 
Feb 2012

78000 mi

US $85
Replaced oil filter housing gasket. 
Jul 2012

84000 mi

US $150
Exhaust flange gasket between the manifold outlet and first muffler failed. Shop replaced both gaskets; in order to do that they also removed and replaced the four corroded bolts. 
Aug 2012

85300 mi

US $50
Replaced leaking valve cover gasket. Replaced passenger side power window regulator. 
Apr 2013

98200 mi

US $198
Replaced the CCV system to address oil loss. 
May 2013

99000 mi

US $200
Safety and emissions inspection revealed broken rear coil spring. Replaced both. 
Feb 2014

111600 mi

US $300
Passenger-side inner axle failed, causing vibration when accelerating. 
Jun 2015

133000 mi

US $300
Replaced blown rear shocks. 
Sep 2015

141000 mi

US $300
Replaced driver's side front axle - CV boot was torn and leaking. 
Dec 2015

143000 mi

US $225
Replaced leaking oil pan gasket.  Leaking axle seal after re-installing passenger side axle. Replace motor mounts. 
Feb 2016

144100 mi

US $320
Replaced center support bearing. 
May 2016

146100 mi

US $125
Vanos seals, leaking valve cover gasket, oil filter housing gasket. 
Dec 2016

152000 mi

US $450
Fuel pump failure requiring a tow and replacement of the failed unit. 
Feb 2017

157000 mi

US $180
Replaced failing front axle. 
Mar 2018

172000 mi

US $150
Replaced all power steering hoses to address a leak. 
Apr 2018

174000 mi

US $1200
Upper radiator hose ruptured while in traffic; radiator itself also cracked. Replaced radiator, thermostat, hose, coolant. 
Jun 2018

175000 mi

US $95
Recharge to correct for a slow refrigerant leak. 
BMW 3-Series in Virginia, United States
May 2008 - Jun 2012
Oct 2008

38000 mi
Air conditioner did not cool when parked. Headlight washer hose leaked. Power steering hose leaked.  
May 2010

60000 mi

US $400
rear hoghead (transaxle) was leaking. Dealer removed, replaced gasket and grease/oil left (driver) side low beam headlight replaced thermostat was sticking causing "check engine" light to illuminate and temp gauge to read cool. dealer replaced thermostat. 
Jun 2010

61000 mi

US $10
replaced passenger side headlight 
Oct 2010

66000 mi

US $780
front CV joints replaced on both sides (work completed in Stuttgart, Germany=excessive cost) 
Jun 2011

73000 mi

US $300
Rear, driver side spring broken--required replacement. 
BMW 3-Series in Massachusetts, United States
Sep 2015 - Oct 2016
May 2016

150400 mi

US $1400
Engine mounts collapsed, replaced with new mounts. 
Oct 2016

159000 mi

US $400
Crank Case Ventilation system replaced due to the cracked rubber causing CEL. Upper and lower air boots replaced at the same time given their age. 

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2005 BMW 3-Series 4dr Wagon

184-horsepower 2.5L I6 5-speed manual RWD

BMW 3-Series in Oregon, United States
Oct 2008 - Jun 2022
Aug 2008

20204 mi
Right rear door seal replaced 
Oct 2011

43700 mi

US $70
Both front Headlight washer jets went bad. 
Aug 2014

78000 mi

US $1200
Replaced the CCV with the cold weather type. Installed G.A.S. DISA; Both intake boots. Spark plugs replaced 
Jun 2016

100000 mi

US $100
Brake hoses were cracked and fail safety inspection 
Jan 2017

57500 mi

US $100
L/F brake caliper started to stick 
Apr 2017

110000 mi

US $10
Oil Filter Housing gasket was leaking. 
Sep 2017

116000 mi

US $450
Replaced all 4 rotors, pads, anti-rattle springs, and guide bushing 
Jun 2018

126000 mi

US $250
Both Lower Control Arms and FCAB's (Control Arm Bushings) were replaced due to a clunk from the left front outer ball joint. 
Mar 2021

161000 mi

US $1200
Replace both Cats and upstream oxygen sensors as they were clogged. Also replaced the SAS valve for it too got clogged.  
Jul 2021

165000 mi

US $75
Oil Service 

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2005 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

235-horsepower 3.0L I6 6-speed manual RWD

BMW 3-Series in Georgia, United States
Nov 2008 - Aug 2016
Apr 2009

70000 mi

US $200
Replace sender for oil pressure sensor 
Dec 2009

83000 mi

US $180
Not running on all cylinders consistently 
May 2010

89000 mi

US $600
Replace window regulator and motor 
Feb 2012

131000 mi

US $1205
Power steering pump failure. Replace pump and hose 
Aug 2013

151000 mi

US $1072
AC Compressor seized. AC Compressor and accessory belt replaced. AC system recharged. 
Sep 2013

152000 mi

US $100
Replace left front wheel bearing 
Sep 2014

157000 mi

US $600
Replace differential bushings 
Oct 2015

167000 mi

US $300
Replace broken underpanel. Not aware of hitting anything. At high speeds it just started flapping. 
Aug 2016

168000 mi
Hole in the side of the engine block 
BMW 3-Series in New Brunswick, Canada
Nov 2010 - Mar 2014
Apr 2012

110980 mi

C $4500
broken camshaft, engine replaced 
Sep 2013

118420 mi

C $8
licence plate bulb sockets corroded. replaced with new LED units. 
BMW 3-Series in New Jersey, United States
Feb 2008 - Aug 2013
Dec 2008

45000 mi
Cracked oil filter housing under warranty. Oil changed under warranty. Control arm bushings replaced under warranty. 
Aug 2013

174000 mi

US $1000
Belt blew out prematurely because of hydraulic tensioner unit going bad. 
BMW 3-Series in Massachusetts, United States
- Jan 2007
Jan 2005

200 mi
Cylinder misfired and violent shaking. After inspection, no repair needed. Problem never occurred since. 
Jan 2006

15500 mi
E-brake shoes rubbing. No repair after investigation. 
Jan 2007

29500 mi
E-brake adjusted after additional rubbing. Problem fixed. 
BMW 3-Series in Arizona, United States
Aug 2010 - Jun 2018
Apr 2010

28500 mi

US $674
Replaced right front and right rear window lifts which had become inoperable.  
May 2012

39770 mi

US $101
Installed new coolant temp sensor in lower hose because old one leaking; filled system with fresh coolant, pressure tested to verify repair. Replaced drive belts due to wear and cracking. Installed new coolant temp sensor in lower hose; filled system with fresh coolant, pressure tested to verify repair. 
May 2013

45700 mi

US $441
Replaced the front lower control arm bushings. Replacement cost included $82.00 for realignment. 
Jul 2014

50000 mi
Added freon to A/C system.  Passenger-side dash vents were blowing much warmer than driver-side, indicating a problem with the system. May be related to fan not running at higher rpm when warm. Will continue to monitor. 
Nov 2015

56900 mi

US $202
Replaced main drive belt pulleys (idler pulley and adjusting pulley). $90 labor, $99 parts + tax and misc 
Jul 2016

60200 mi

US $75
A/C not cooling properly, added 0.50 lb of freon, just like last summer. It appears there is a slight leak, which takes a year to become problematic (vehicle is in Phoenix, where summers are brutal). Will continue to monitor. 
Mar 2017

62000 mi

US $130
Replaced the windshield cowl/cover at base of windshield. Cowl had become extremely cracked and brittle. $80 for the replacement cowl through ECS. 
Apr 2017

62000 mi
Replaced driver's-side airbag through manufacturer's recall/warranty. 
May 2017

63000 mi

US $427
Replaced driver's front window regulator, which had failed. As the summer temps began, it became noticeable that the A/C system was not cooling the cabin as efficiently as normal. Added Freon to A/C system, problem solved. 
Sep 2017

64000 mi

US $554
Upper headlight cover strips had degraded to the point that they were disintegrating. Replaced upper headlight cover strips, left and right. Replaced front brake pads, rotors, and brake pad sensors after brake-wear warning light appeared on dash. 
Oct 2017

62000 mi
Driver's window regulator, that had failed and was replaced five months earlier, failed again. The mechanism was replaced free of charge under the shop's 1-year warranty on parts and labor. These regulators were very poorly designed by the manufacturer. Failure was not due to the previous repair and replacement - the mechanism simply failed. 

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2005 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

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

BMW 3-Series in Georgia, United States
Dec 2014 - Dec 2015
Dec 2014

137000 mi

US $40
A hose from the power steering reservoir dry rotted and sprung a leak. NAPA auto parts had the replacement on the shelf. 
Dec 2015

163000 mi

US $50
P0171 and P0174 codes. DISA gasket leaking causing erroneous codes. Basically a vacuum leak in the intake. 
BMW 3-Series in Florida, United States
Apr 2008 - Mar 2010
Mar 2009

45000 mi
Replaced steering wheel, Alcantara covering was worn out Window trim moulding was loose, clip broken. Fuel door locking pin was not engaging. Tech reset seal on the locking pin. Clicking noise while driving next to a curb on drivers side. Only present when there was a source to echo the noise back. They could not duplicate the problem. 
BMW 3-Series in California, United States
Jun 2012 - Jun 2018
Aug 2012

87300 mi

US $808
Fan belt and motor mounts worn and needed replacement 
Apr 2013

90200 mi

US $750
Pressure control valve was leaking, fixed by independent mechanic 
Jul 2016

104200 mi
Windshield washer fluid tank was leaking, removed the one bolt, reseated pump and OK for a while but pump appears to have failed since. Have ordered a replacement part and strainer for < $15 on Amazon. 
Jul 2017

107000 mi

US $156
Fuel pump failed. Bought pump and gasket on amazon, arrived prime in 2 days and installed myself watching youtube DIY video. Only tools required are 10mm wrench, flat screwdriver, and mallet. Pump is under rear seat, passenger side. 
Sep 2017

107000 mi

US $1105
Front end shake during braking: replaced worn control arm bushings Also replaced visibly deteriorated plastic cowling at base of windshield 
Nov 2017

108439 mi

US $694
Check engine light was on with lean mixture: replaced lower intake boot (was cracked and leaking)  Heard rattling sound at idle while car in gear: found high pressure power steering hose mount broken, hose assembly was rattling on front sway bar; reattached it. Coolant level warning was on: replaced leaking coolant expansion tank, thermostat, brittle upper radiator hose; refilled antifreeze 
May 2018

109000 mi

US $1682
replaced worn fan belt set, air filter, spark plugs, replace oil pan gasket, oil housing seal, oil change. engine mount, driver side wheel well liner/ 
BMW 3-Series in Washington, United States
Nov 2015 - Aug 2016
Nov 2015

137000 mi

US $600
Needed new blower motor. 
BMW 3-Series in Rhode Island, United States
Jun 2015 - Mar 2016
Jul 2015

178200 mi

US $2000
Catalytic converters clogged and ruined the piston rings on 3 cylinders. 

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2005 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

225-horsepower 3.0L I6 6-speed manual AWD

BMW 3-Series in Connecticut, United States
Apr 2010 - Apr 2012
Sep 2010

70000 mi

US $50
Brakes: pads, rotors, or drums, repair 
Nov 2011

106400 mi

US $1700
rear spring was broken. 
BMW 3-Series in Ohio, United States
May 2009 - Jun 2014
Aug 2009

71000 mi
Door brake bent out of alignment, causing door to "pop" loudly when the door is opened past a certain point. Part may be ordered and installed (DIY) within the next two weeks. Both Xenon headlights severely out of alignment, causing a dangerous lack of visible light during night driving. Manually adjusted lights by eye, visibility improved. Plan to adjust lights accurately within two weeks (DIY). Diagnosis of slight whine/whirr/whistle at WOT. Suspect either a minor vacuum leak or a worn-out water pump. Current water pump may be original, with 70,000 miles on it. May replace water pump with higher flow version within next two weeks. 
Sep 2009

72000 mi

US $100
Passenger xenon had begun emitting very dim, pink tinged light. Bulb out indicator appeared on dashbord occasionally. Ordered 2 replacement Phillips D2S xenon bulbs. Installation was straightforward, however tight clearances made it a challenge. 
Oct 2010

86100 mi

US $350
Parking brake button popped out and brake couldn't be engaged. Panicked, went straight to dealer. Entire parking brake assembly needed to be replaced. $375! Later found out that this can be DIYed, and OEM part costs $75... While working on parking brake, dealer repaired door brake at no cost, likely just tightening the bolts. Finally that headache is gone! 
Mar 2011

92000 mi

US $560
Check engine light indicated that engine was misreporting temperature. Bad thermostat. Replaced, flushed coolant. Resolved. Discovered that lower intake boot and DISA valve had leaks, hold repair till next time. Intake boot and DISA valve had a leak. Couldn't DIY as there was insufficient access to the retaining ring screw holding on the boot. Took to shop. Repl. leaky boot and DISA. Also did oil change, installed new swaybar endlinks too. 
Aug 2012

106700 mi

US $270
Rear driver side coil spring was noticed by BMW dealer at last trip to be broken, and passenger side cracked. Parts acquired through Tischer BMW online, replaced by me. Used OEM jack to spread the control arm down to remove old spring. 
Sep 2012

108000 mi
Intended to replace front control arms and inner ball joints. However, a rubber plate above the driver front strut had a hole punched in, so replaced.  Also replaced driver side CV joint as it was leaking. 4 wheel alignment done as well. Alignment was not correct the first time, car pulled to the side slightly. Took it back, they readjusted and it was better, however they were unable to fully adjust it due to a possible bend in the driver side front strut. 
Mar 2014

120000 mi

US $900
Car ran out of fuel halfway between quarter and empty. OBC showed 40 miles remaining when car completely ran out of fuel. 
Jun 2014

120000 mi
Fuel pump was on its way out and was going to be replaced this month. Driver's side window regulator was going and was going to be replaced this month. 
BMW 3-Series in Idaho, United States
Feb 2011 - Sep 2014
Jun 2011

86000 mi

US $600
Starter drive was sticking; installed new starter. 
Dec 2013

102000 mi

US $100
coolant leak due to small valve failure 

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2005 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

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

BMW 3-Series in New Jersey, United States
Mar 2008 - Mar 2010
Apr 2008

13000 mi
The serpentine belt and one of the pulleys was replaced at the same time due to light squealing upon startup (that only happened the day I brought it to the dealer to fix the brakes.) 
Nov 2008

25000 mi
Rough start on the first sub freezing day of the year triggered a CEL. Dealer determined that two coils were bad and replaced.  
Jun 2009

40000 mi
Squeaking noise when turning steering wheel to either side. Diagnosed as bad u-joint. Part replaced.  

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2005 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

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

BMW 3-Series in South Carolina, United States
Oct 2013 - Jun 2015
Jan 2014

107200 mi

US $1054
parking brake shoe mount...rust caused the shoe to fall off (rusted bolts and mounting locations Replaced Control Arm Bushings in Front 
Feb 2015

114000 mi

US $65
Replaced rear taillight wiring harness due to false taillight out dash indicator 
May 2015

114000 mi

US $125
Leak in A/C system Alternator Failed, Also replaced 12V battery 
BMW 3-Series in Ontario, Canada
Oct 2013 - Jun 2018
Jan 2015

89780 mi

C $700
oil leak valve cover gasket 
Feb 2015

90380 mi

C $1224
windshield washer pump oil leak at filter housing 
Dec 2015

95480 mi

C $1500
AC Fan clutch AC Condensor AC fan with Module Radiator assembly; transmission cooler; Coolant reservoir; 
Feb 2016

96580 mi

C $1000
new front struts 
Jan 2017

111600 mi

C $767
replaced alternator and belts headlight refresh 
Jan 2018

119040 mi

C $450
Leaking Brake line 
Jun 2018

121520 mi

C $250
Small coolant leak 
BMW 3-Series in Florida, United States
Oct 2009 - Jun 2011
Jan 2010

US $36
worn lower control arm bushings  replace valve cover gasket 
Jun 2010

55000 mi

US $490
Replace evaporator and dryer 
BMW 3-Series in California, United States
Aug 2011 - Jan 2012
Sep 2011

69000 mi

US $440
Radiator hoses cracked and leaking coolant. Mechanic replaced all rubber hoses. 
Nov 2011

70000 mi

US $300
Replaced MAF in response to Service Engine Soon light illuminating and displaying codes: P0171 and P0174 indicating both O2 sensors detecting a lean condition. After installing new MAF, light no longer illuminated. 
Dec 2011

71000 mi

US $70
Windshield washer pump motor failed and was leaking. Replaced with new pump and gasket. 
BMW 3-Series in New Jersey, United States
Oct 2012 - Jan 2017
Dec 2012

100000 mi

US $300
VANOS unit seals failed. This is a common problem on all E46 models. Was repaired under extended M56 SULEV warranty. 
Jan 2013

US $200
Thermostat was changed due to it soft failing and not letting car run at operating temp. 
Jun 2013

104000 mi
Radiator was leaking, replaced under M56 Sulev warranty. Replaced front driver wheel speed sensor. 
Jan 2016

105500 mi

US $100
Upper radiator hose 
Jan 2017

130000 mi
02 sensors 
BMW 3-Series in California, United States
Nov 2010 - Apr 2016
Jan 2011

50000 mi

US $20
Replaced windscreen washer fluid pump. Replaced windshield washer pump. 
Jan 2013

109100 mi

US $350
Cracked cooling expansion tank. Replaced tank & hoses. 
Jul 2013

88000 mi

US $42
Oil filter had broken off inside housing. Needed to be removed. 
Apr 2014

97000 mi

US $1400
Replaced lower control arm bushings. Replaced oil filter housing gasket. Replaced oil filter housing gasket. 
Aug 2015

120800 mi

US $90
Re-glued fabric covering A-pillar. Time / sun had caused fabric to sag. 
Nov 2015

120000 mi

US $20
Replaced windshield washer pump. 
BMW 3-Series in Illinois, United States
Feb 2008 - Jun 2013
May 2008

36000 mi
Routine oil change and rattling noise at idle in drive. 
Oct 2008

40000 mi
Passenger side power mirror inoperable. Replaced power mirror assembly. 
Feb 2009

44000 mi
Leaking coolant temperature sensor. 
Aug 2012

74700 mi

US $453
Service Engine Soon light on. Codes showed lean condition on both banks. Smoke tested intake and found oil breather hose had a hole in it. Replaced hose, retested system and found no leaks. Cleared codes, test drove, no codes reappeared. Windshield washer inoperative. Windshield washer pump removed and replaced. 
BMW 3-Series in Western Australia, Australia
Jul 2008 - Jun 2011
Dec 2008

38440 mi

A $400
Replace ignition coils. 
Jun 2011

42160 mi

A $600
Power window regulator requiring replacement 
BMW 3-Series in Michigan, United States
Jun 2007 - Apr 2013
Jul 2008

78000 mi

US $300
Belt and idler pulley. 
Oct 2009

85000 mi

US $360
replaced control arm bushings  
Apr 2011

90000 mi

US $70
valve cover gasket 
BMW 3-Series in Ontario, Canada
Dec 2008 - Nov 2011
Jul 2009

52080 mi

C $50
Window regulator failure. 
Sep 2009

58280 mi

C $50
Front stabilizer link broken. Replaced successfully. 
Feb 2010

65720 mi

C $50
Caliper seizure. 
Dec 2010

83700 mi

C $50
Headlamp washer pump failed. Replaced 
Mar 2011

89900 mi

C $400
Front end oil-filled bushing replaced. 
Apr 2011

94240 mi

C $1700
Coolant expansion tank leak. Replacement of tank.  
BMW 3-Series in New Brunswick, Canada
Oct 2008 - Mar 2011
Nov 2008

36580 mi
Upon taking the final test drive I noticed some wind noise so the dealer put new sealant around the doors/windows which alleviated the issue. 
Feb 2010

54560 mi

C $50
Caliper was sticking after braking resulting in sigificant vibration as brakes stay applied on one wheel. 
Aug 2010

70680 mi
One fuel injector was faulty. After a couple of unsuccessful trips to dealer, dealer arranged to pick up car and provided loaner during 3 day repair. Dealer replaced all 6 injectors, no cost to owner. 
Feb 2011

74400 mi

C $400
Heater not working. Dealer replaced thermostat. 

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2005 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

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

BMW 3-Series in Colorado, United States
May 2011 - Sep 2012
Jun 2011

34000 mi
Thermostat was stuck open. The check engine light came on, and I took it to the dealer the next day. Since I just purchased the car a week earlier, the BMW dealer repaired the problem at no cost to me. 
BMW 3-Series in New York, United States
May 2009 - Jan 2022
Aug 2010

77000 mi

US $96
Leaky CV boot so dealer replaced both on the front. covered under certified used warrantee except for labor approx $96 
Jun 2011

81000 mi

US $500
RF caliper heating and vibrating told my wife caliper needed replacement. I wonder if it was just the pins? blinker lights were acting and blinking erratically 
Apr 2013

100700 mi

US $900
replaced both broken rear springs 
Oct 2013

106200 mi

US $1300
Replaced oil separator 
Feb 2015

114900 mi

US $300
new battery 
Aug 2015

118300 mi

US $1000
water pump impeller broke causing overflow tank leak, replaced entire assembly with new pump, tank etc 
May 2017

128000 mi

US $1100
during annual safety inspection mechanic discovered broken ball joint, Not needed to pass NY inspection but recommended replacement Is trusted mechanic so we replaced and had an alignment after 

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2005 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

184-horsepower 2.5L I6 5-speed manual RWD

BMW 3-Series in Washington, United States
Feb 2011 - Oct 2013
May 2012

74500 mi

US $90
Replaced lower control arm bushings 
BMW 3-Series in Massachusetts, United States
Aug 2012 - Jun 2018
Sep 2012

96000 mi

US $150
creaking noise in front traced to the sensor arm used to level the xenon headlights. Part was about $18 and the time to fix under an hour. when fixing the headlight sensor, the mechanic also found that the exhaust bracket under the trans had rusted away. It was replaced - the time was included in the other repair and the part were about $20 
Feb 2013

99500 mi

US $300
leaking valve cover gasket - mechanic also found signs of mouse damage in engine compartment, replaced chewed cabin air filter 
Oct 2014

110200 mi

US $1200
rear calipers not working well, other parts worn. Replaced calipers, pads, rotors. Backing plates so rusty they had to be replaced. This last added a lot to the bill. 
Feb 2016

132900 mi

US $300
airbag warning light came on, scan showed it was driver side door bag. Trim pulled, no problem found. We declined dealer's offer to look further. Light reset. Hasn't come back on after several weeks and hundreds of miles 
Jun 2016

140000 mi

US $800
throttle sensor/activator began to go bad. Symptom was car sometimes would not accelerate when pedal was pushed 
Apr 2017

153000 mi

US $400
ball joints replace both sides front 
Apr 2018

167000 mi

US $950
replaced left rear wheel bearing.  also pads and rotors in rear. 
BMW 3-Series in North Carolina, United States
Dec 2007 - Apr 2013
Feb 2008

37000 mi
Speaker buzz. 
Aug 2008

49000 mi
Blown tweeter on passenger door. 
Jan 2009

59000 mi
Annoying buzz at normal listening levels in front passenger door. Tweeter replaced; did not fix problem. May be loose panels or covers rather than speakers. 
Sep 2009

76000 mi

US $50
Drivers side window lift began operating erratically and slow. Shop replaced lift motor. 
Dec 2009

83000 mi

US $95
Passenger front door window lift operating erratically; motor and regulator replaced under extended warrantee. 
Dec 2010

96000 mi

US $150
Improper grounding in brake light circuit caused brake light to work intermittently and display on dash to show light out. Parts replaced and grounding issue fixed. 
Jan 2011

98000 mi
Starter motor on engine would not engage. Jumped the car to start it. Shop checked battery - showed good. Starter now works fine. Will monitor. 
Apr 2013

123000 mi
Never could fix speaker buzz at certain tones and volume. 
BMW 3-Series in Washington, United States
Apr 2015 - Jun 2018
Sep 2015

101000 mi

US $1200
Fuel pump failed and needed to be replaced 
Dec 2015

104000 mi

US $470
Interior heat was lukewarm and oil temperature was failing to reach 190F. Determined to be a thermostat stuck open which was replaced. 
Jun 2016

110000 mi

US $900
Control arms and a wheel baring replaced as they were getting very worn out. 
Jul 2017

115888 mi

US $2000
Noticed a burning smell or a funk odor. Turned out to be a dirty cabin air filter. As part of the check up the mechanic found my valve cover to be leaking oil along with an oil line. Belts and pulleys were getting old and replaced as a preventative measure. 

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2005 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

184-horsepower 2.5L I6 5-speed manual AWD

BMW 3-Series in New York, United States
May 2008 - Jun 2011
Sep 2008

37000 mi
"Service Engine Soon" light reset. Cause of alert light: Emissions issue... 
Oct 2008

38000 mi
"Service Engine Soon" light on again. Emissions issue fixed this time. 
Apr 2011

54755 mi

US $915
Oil filter housing gasket began leaking. Over a quart leaked, coating the engine cradle and bottom front section of car. Dealer repaired. Oil leak. Replaced Oil Filter Housing gasket. 
BMW 3-Series in Connecticut, United States
Jul 2016 - Jul 2017
Jul 2017

135000 mi

US $2000
ECM failure that took 24 days to diagnose 

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2005 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

168-horsepower 2.2L I6 5-speed shiftable automatic RWD

BMW 3-Series in Cayman Islands
Apr 2015 - Mar 2016
Oct 2015

72220 mi

$1900
AC Compressor not functioning properly 
BMW 3-Series in Ontario, Canada
Jan 2011 - Apr 2012
Mar 2011

55180 mi

C $125
The air pump was replaced. 

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2005 BMW 3-Series 4-door

6-cylinder manual AWD

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

89300 mi

US $200
Windshield washer pump leaks 
Dec 2012

91000 mi
Replaced windshield washer pump. 

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2005 BMW 3-Series 4-door

4-cylinder diesel manual 2WD

BMW 3-Series in Great Britain
Nov 2009 - Mar 2010
Feb 2010

114000 mi

£800
Clutch was OK but the flywheel which is of the dual mass type had disintergrated so both the clutch and the flywheel were replaced. Common problem According to the Bmw breakdown mechanic. Two years ago a pulley shaft snapped.  

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2005 BMW 3-Series 2dr Coupe

333-horsepower 3.2L I6 6-speed manual RWD

BMW 3-Series in Tennessee, United States
Nov 2012 - Aug 2015
Mar 2013

50000 mi

US $400
Faulty drivers door actuator. 
May 2014

60400 mi

US $150
Thermostat needed to be replaced. 
BMW 3-Series in California, United States
Jul 2011 - Jun 2016
Nov 2011

101300 mi
Service Engine Soon (MAL) Light 
Feb 2012

104000 mi
Right/Left driver/passenger Combo Front/Back OEM Electric window switches R/R center console R and L of man tran shifter 10 minutes... easy repair Insurance covered Front windscreen replacement During repair, tech damaged rearview mirror Contractor accepted responsibility My independent shop R/R mirror with updated OEM mirror, apparently stock M3 part leaks under certain conditions 
Nov 2012

115600 mi

US $1400
Ran code reader Misfire cyl #6 Bad coil Replaced at Shop Performed inp II Major preventive maintenance while veh in shop All performed per BMW recommended guidelines 
Jul 2013

119800 mi

US $200
Repaired leaking oil relief valve = 103.00. Interval oil service {MOD} Installed Injen Tuned Short Ram Cold Air Intake {MOD} Dinan ST1 Program {MOD/Upgrade} Installed BS PSS10 Replaced noisy belt tensioner + new serpentine belt = 90.00 
Aug 2014

127600 mi

US $500
Replace valve cover gasket Engine oil service mid interval 
BMW 3-Series in California, United States
Jan 2008 - Mar 2011
Mar 2009

32000 mi
Belt pulley system. Various rattles and squeaks. 
Sep 2009

37000 mi

US $450
Right-front wheel bearing 
BMW 3-Series in Washington, United States
Sep 2010 - Jan 2022
Oct 2010

30000 mi
Rear view mirror developed a bubble in lens / auto dim feature quit working in same mirror 
Feb 2018

37600 mi
Cooling system leak, bad o ring on lower radiator sensor. Self repair, less than $1.00 for the part. 
BMW 3-Series in Maryland, United States
Apr 2009 - Jun 2011
May 2009

34000 mi
VANOS solenoid failure. Replaced under warranty. No charge. 
May 2010

44000 mi

US $1650
Flywheel repair. Bolt came loose, Flywheel repair. Bolt came loose,  
BMW 3-Series in Districto Federal, Mexico
Jan 2010 - Oct 2012
Feb 2010

29140 mi

$200
Self dimming mirror failed and had to be replaced. 
BMW 3-Series in Alabama, United States
Mar 2011 - Jul 2018
Sep 2012

55000 mi

US $100
Had a 2x misfire at cylinders 1 & 2. Caused a SES light on dash. No issues found, no misfires since. 
BMW 3-Series in Districto Federal, Mexico
Jun 2014 - Mar 2017
Oct 2014

58280 mi

$200
Battery died and was replaced. 
Dec 2016

63240 mi

$1300
Engine mounts were replaced,  head gasket was replaced 
BMW 3-Series in Texas, United States
Sep 2007 - Sep 2011
Oct 2007

33000 mi
Unstable idle when cold. All M3's have this to some degree but mine was worse than average. Dealer did not fix. I cleaned the MAF sensor myself and it improved the idle noticeably to where it is now OK (although not perfect). 
Feb 2008

35000 mi
Failed alternator. Warning light on. Checked voltage w/ engine running: 11.5V. Was able to drive car to dealer after charging the battery. Dealer replaced alternator under warranty. Mechanic did very nice work. No grease smudges in engine comp, very clean BMW has an auto-dimming rear view mirror and a common problem with them is they leak the auto-dimming fluid inside. The fluid is highly toxic and caustic so if it drips on the interior it will damage it. Mine was starting to go bad, the left side no ... 
May 2009

44000 mi

US $75
Worn out trailing arm bushings. Symptoms were unstable during acceleration and rapid tire wear. Replaced OEM w/ urethane after market. 
Sep 2009

47000 mi
Pass side Xenon headlight failed + auto-leveling. Condensation found. Sealed housing, dried, and light worked again. Leveling broken due to snapped clip, fixed clip.  
Jul 2010

52000 mi
Headliner came loose at rear window and was hanging down. I re-glued it.  
Jun 2011

56000 mi

US $50
Service Engine Light on, P0128. Replaced thermostat.  
Sep 2011

56000 mi

US $16
Hood emblem flew off while driving down the road. Replaced emblem. New emblem flew off same week. Glued emblem w/ weatherstrip adhesive which fixed it.  
BMW 3-Series in Maryland, United States
Jul 2015 - Mar 2018
Jul 2015

110000 mi

US $100
headlight ballast and bulb was replaced. 
Sep 2015

112000 mi

US $100
Right ballast for headlight replaced 
Jan 2016

US $140
Left and right control arm bushings, left was replaced as preventative maintenance, right side was messed up. 
Feb 2016

114100 mi

US $273
Left control arm w/integrated ball joint was replaced 
Apr 2017

121000 mi

US $110
Replaced high pressure power steering hose because it was going to start leaking from rubbing on oil pan 
Sep 2017

125000 mi

US $20
Speaker blew out, bought used one on eBay for $20 
BMW 3-Series in California, United States
Dec 2014 - Jan 2022
Dec 2015

104000 mi

US $2000
SMG pump went out. Converted to Stickshift 
Jul 2018

110000 mi

US $300
Stock thermostat failed a while ago but had no significant impact to smog. Finally replaced it with a motorsport thermostat for better durability in Southern California heat. Also replaced EGT sensor at the same time 
Oct 2018

110000 mi

US $75
radio failed. Audio came only from one side of car . mayy have been caused by a related car collision or disassembly at body shop, but. Bought OEM replacement for $75 on ebay which solved the problem 
BMW 3-Series in Washington, United States
Jun 2010 - Jun 2018
Jul 2011

48000 mi

US $50
seepage from gasket right side of motor. replaced horn 
May 2014

59000 mi

US $1000
Leak from differential due to failed pinion seal. 
May 2015

64000 mi

US $200
Temp sensor failed causing coolant leak 
May 2017

67000 mi

US $300
System was blowing warm air. No leak found. Suspected cause was intermittently sticking valve in compressor. Re-charged system and problem gone for the time being. 
May 2018

68000 mi

US $1700
Stability control and brake light fault. After extensive (and expensive) diagnosis they replaced the brake pressure sensors which has cleared the fault for the time being. 
BMW 3-Series in Florida, United States
Sep 2010 - Jun 2016
Oct 2010

54000 mi

US $3100
Vanos oil pump drive gear tabs broke, causing exhaust timing to be off. Replaced Vanos unit, drive gear, spark plugs, accomplished valve adjustment. 
Jan 2011

57000 mi

US $100
Engine coolant temperature sensor 
Mar 2011

58000 mi

US $480
Power steering high pressure hose replaced. Also completed oil change while there 
Jul 2015

71000 mi

US $1000
Rear Trailing arm bushing 
BMW 3-Series in Oregon, United States
Oct 2010 - Jun 2022
Mar 2014

82000 mi

US $42
Replaced the Constant pressure vavle PN# 11111318185 for it was leaking oil down the side of my block. 
Mar 2017

93000 mi

US $1700
Replaced the VANOS with a rebuilt one from Dr. VANOS. Also replaced the camshaft bolts. 
Aug 2017

96000 mi

US $750
Repaired the VANOS. I received a bad VANOS unit from Dr. VANOS, and they are working on getting me another one. I had a club member allow me to use his spare for the summer until the 1st unit that was sent to me repaired. Now I have to get it repaired again, so in the spring you will see another entry. 
Sep 2017

96000 mi

US $1200
Inspection-II Completed Oxygen sensors replace X4 (scheduled) All fluids Replaced(engine, trans, diff) Valves adjusted, spark plugs and coils replaced 
Dec 2021

107000 mi

US $450
Replaced Intake, Exhaust, and Crank position sensors. 
BMW 3-Series in Ohio, United States
May 2010 - Mar 2013
Jun 2010

39000 mi

US $300
Water pump, thermostat, and seals replaced due to bearing in water pump going bad. Replaced input and output seals for differential. 
Jul 2010

39000 mi
Daytime running lamps stopped working along with alarm and sunroof after dealer software re-flash. 
BMW 3-Series in New Jersey, United States
Nov 2007 - Jun 2013
May 2009

40000 mi
MAF failure. Engine would not run 
Jun 2009

41000 mi

US $265
Cooling fan blades broke off. Replaced fan and viscous clutch. 
Oct 2010

58700 mi

US $500
Gear shifter retaining ring broke. Replaced gear shifter. 

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2005 BMW 3-Series 2dr Coupe

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

BMW 3-Series in Colorado, United States
Feb 2013 - Jun 2022
Aug 2014

66000 mi

US $1200
Repair hail damage and repair prior paint repair that was defective. Insurance covered most of hail damage, owner paid for paint repair. 
May 2018

121000 mi

US $3000
Clutch fork pivot pin broken, replaced flywheel, clutch, pressure plate and clutch fork. Also replaced guibo and driveshaft U-joint while transmission was out. 
BMW 3-Series in California, United States
Aug 2015 - Jul 2022
Aug 2015

78000 mi

US $1500
Engine thermostat Fuel filler sealing pump 
Jun 2016

87000 mi

US $3500
Railing for timing chain had worn, needed to be replaced. Replaced engine mounts and flex plate replaced trim on interior a and c pillers 
Jan 2017

US $2100
Bumper needed to be removed and parts repaired and repainted. Quarter window gaskets needed to be replaced, other minor body touch-ups were also completed 
Jun 2017

92000 mi

US $1050
Replaced 2 exhaust hangers Tensioner and pully replaced, along with belts 
BMW 3-Series in Georgia, United States
Sep 2015 - Mar 2016
Mar 2016

156000 mi

US $3000
Oil leak 
BMW 3-Series in Florida, United States
Jul 2012 - Sep 2015
Aug 2012

47000 mi
dealer replaced SMG oil pump 
BMW 3-Series in California, United States
Oct 2015 - Oct 2015
Oct 2015

110000 mi

US $300
Fixed transmission crossbar mount 
BMW 3-Series in Virginia, United States
Dec 2010 - Sep 2011
Mar 2011

58000 mi

US $150
Couple LED lights burned out so BMW replaced whole rear light assembly. Front bushing. 
BMW 3-Series in Illinois, United States
Mar 2018 - May 2022
Jun 2018

71000 mi

US $4500
Vanos system needs to be replaced. At the same time some bolts on exhaust camshaft were found to be sheared. 
BMW 3-Series in New Hampshire, United States
Mar 2008 - Feb 2012
Jul 2008

41000 mi
Door panel Subwoofer Driver's mirror 
Sep 2008

47000 mi
Headlight was going on and off. Replaced the ballist and ignitor. got the car back and the problem was still present. Made second appointment and bulb was replaced.  Car will "chatter" when taking off from dead stop. Problem is intermittent and the dealer could not reproduce it. Was told it was a service bulletin having to do with the frame of the vehicle.  
May 2010

63700 mi

US $77
Inspection 2 (60,000 mile svc), the spark plugs are supposed to be replaced whch was not done during initial vsit. They also blamed chk eng light was bcause cold air intake was not connected when they got car which is not possible. 
Jun 2011

74000 mi

US $80
Replaced belt tensioner and ac belt 

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2005 BMW 3-Series 2dr Coupe

235-horsepower 3.0L I6 6-speed manual RWD

BMW 3-Series in Arizona, United States
Mar 2012 - Apr 2018
Jun 2013

63000 mi

US $119
AC recharge 
Mar 2014

71000 mi

US $120
leaky oil filter housing gasket, replaced gasket 
May 2014

72100 mi

US $110
AC recharge, second time in a year. Probably have a leak in the condenser. 
Nov 2014

76000 mi

US $150
Expansion tank float broken. Replace expansion tank, preventive replacement of water pump 
Mar 2015

79000 mi

US $120
Recharge AC. Has slow leak, gets recharge every April (3rd year straight) 
Apr 2016

84500 mi

US $649
AC belts & idler pulleys, charge AC (required annually due to slow refrigerant leak) 
Nov 2016

89300 mi

US $560
front control arm bushings worn, replaced with poly, aligned 
Mar 2018

98800 mi

US $250
Replaced tie rods & ends to resolve a pull problem. Problem now fixed. 
BMW 3-Series in Wisconsin, United States
Aug 2013 - Mar 2022
Mar 2015

61000 mi
Front control arm mounts were worn out. Oil filter housing gasket is leaking. Side mirrors not operating. High resistance across drivers mirror indicating defective part. Rubber mounts for front control arms worn. Dealer replaced. Side mirror motors not operating. 
Apr 2016

76500 mi

US $153
Replaced front lower control arms Replaced one rear control link. 
Dec 2016

83000 mi

US $92
Thermostat replaced Left engine grill fell out. Owner purchased new part from dealer and installed it himself. 
Mar 2020

104000 mi

US $5000
Valve guides in two cylinders came loose. Engine rebuilt. 
Oct 2020

108000 mi

US $400
Tie-rods needed to be replaced Coolant reservoir tank cracked. Reservoir tank cracked 
Feb 2021

110000 mi
Cylinder head cracked, one cylinder filled with oil 
BMW 3-Series in New Jersey, United States
Mar 2012 - Apr 2013
Apr 2013

72000 mi

US $200
Installed Beisan vanos rings and anti-rattle spacer bearings to resolve vanos rattle. 

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2005 BMW 3-Series 2dr Coupe

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

BMW 3-Series in California, United States
Mar 2007 - Apr 2008
Feb 2008

26000 mi
After performing the recall, the CEL would not turn off. They had it for 40 days. They finally fixed by replacing the computer, but by then I had contacted an attorney and BMW had agreed to buy the car back. Very disappointing. Best car I've ever owned. 
BMW 3-Series in Alberta, Canada
Nov 2008 - Oct 2014
Mar 2009

37820 mi

C $146
Front Lower Control Arms needed replacing. 
Jun 2009

42160 mi
Oil level sensor faulty 
Jun 2010

55800 mi

C $130
Ripped intake boot 
Mar 2013

82460 mi

C $200
Replaced thermostat and auxiliary drive belt 
Jun 2013

84320 mi

C $185
Had to replace exterior ambient temperature sensor  as well as the drivers side wheel well cover 
BMW 3-Series in British Columbia, Canada
Sep 2008 - Sep 2012
Apr 2009

26040 mi

C $50
Lower ball joint failed on right side. They are full of oil when working properly. Oil had drained out. Day in shop. BMW warranty paid, but paid a 50.00 user fee for warranty claim. Problem fixed. Steers a lot better. 
Aug 2009

29140 mi
Part broke off underneath passenger seat. Ordered in from BMW Germany. Passenger door mirror usually tilts down when car in put in reverse. Stopped working.  
Sep 2009

29140 mi
Transmission symbol illuminated on dash. Transmission went into safe mode which slows it down and makes it hard to drive. Car towed from my residence to dealership. Speed sensor on transmission replaced and computer reflashed. Problem was solved. Part for seat rail order in from Germany. Wrong part sent or ordered. Part reordered. Car scheduled for fixing on Oct 19, 2009. Passenger side mirror would tilt when put in reverse gear. Switch on drivers door was turned off. Switch turned back on. Problem solved. No charges to me. 
Oct 2009

29760 mi

C $50
Driver seat part installed. 
Aug 2011

35740 mi

C $245
Windshield washer pump leaking. Replaced windshield washer pump. 
Mar 2012

36580 mi
Leaking temperature sensor on radiator. Lower rad hole replaced at same time. New battery installed. 7 year old battery not keeping a charge. 
BMW 3-Series in South Carolina, United States
Jul 2009 - Aug 2021
Jun 2011

55000 mi

US $50
Windshield wipers not working. Control module replaced. Windshield washer pump not working. Part replaced. 
Oct 2017

64000 mi

US $2000
Cooling hose replaced (leaking) 
Jul 2018

66000 mi

US $150
Repaired corrosion in outside air temp sensor wiring harness. 

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2005 BMW 3-Series 2dr Coupe

225-horsepower 3.0L I6 6-speed manual RWD

BMW 3-Series in Florida, United States
Sep 2016 - Dec 2018
Apr 2017

85100 mi

US $150
Full CCV refresh, new intake manifold gasket, new air distribution O rings, new ICV new DISA gasket, various old vacuum lines replaced. None had failed, but the CCV and associated hoses were very old and brittle. So a failure was near. 
Sep 2017

92000 mi

US $400
Full brake refresh. Replaced original rotors, pads and wear sensors. Bled the brake system and completed brake fluid flush. 
Mar 2018

101000 mi

US $23
Replaced hazard and door lock switch 
BMW 3-Series in New Jersey, United States
Mar 2009 - Jun 2012
Apr 2009

50000 mi
When car running slowly or idling, smelled of antifreeze. Told dealer last summer, but no problem identified. Dealer seems to have located problem (replaced thermometer, I think). 
Dec 2009

63000 mi
AM radio reception very static-y. Long-standing problem, but not dealt with under warranty due to my error (forgot to tell them). Dealer comp'd me a new radio which arrived w/in week, will be installed next week.  
Jan 2010

85700 mi
They replaced the radio two days ago - comped me a loaner and gave me a new radio. 
Dec 2011

115000 mi

US $1000
battery needed replacement 

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2005 BMW 3-Series 2dr Coupe

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

BMW 3-Series in Massachusetts, United States
Mar 2011 - Jan 2014
May 2011

45000 mi

US $160
Engine intake hose had a huge hole/crack - part was replaced 

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2005 BMW 3-Series 2dr Coupe

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

BMW 3-Series in New Mexico, United States
Oct 2007 - Aug 2009
Dec 2008

42000 mi
Worn control arm bushings. 
Aug 2009

45000 mi

US $75
Repaired a faulty level sensor discovered in a pre-purchase inspection. 
BMW 3-Series in California, United States
Jan 2013 - Dec 2013
Dec 2013

86000 mi

US $700
oil leak 
BMW 3-Series in Illinois, United States
Feb 2011 - Aug 2012
Mar 2011

52000 mi

US $80
Thermostat stuck open, replaced thermostat 

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2005 BMW 3-Series 2dr Coupe

184-horsepower 2.5L I6 5-speed manual RWD

BMW 3-Series in Oregon, United States
Sep 2011 - Dec 2014
Nov 2011

81000 mi

US $400
Replaced windshield washer pump. Control arm bushings 
Aug 2013

112700 mi

US $500
rotors and brakes replaced. Also a guibo. 
Dec 2014

130000 mi

US $943
Blower Motor replacement 
BMW 3-Series in Texas, United States
Nov 2007 - Aug 2012
Jun 2012

63000 mi
Replace front lower control arm bushings. Serpentine belt pulley bearings failing. Chewed up serpentine belt. 
BMW 3-Series in Wisconsin, United States
May 2008 - Jan 2011
Dec 2008

37000 mi
Headlight taking on water at carwash. 
Aug 2009

43000 mi

US $2800
Clutch, flywheel replaced. Front reinforcement plate replaced 

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2005 BMW 3-Series 2dr Convertible

turbocharged 201hp 3.0L I6 Diesel 6-speed manual RWD

BMW 3-Series in Great Britain
Feb 2013 - Jun 2022
Feb 2014

51000 mi

£110
Replaced worn out battery Checked bushes for wear 
Sep 2015

57000 mi

£225
Starter motor failure. Known issue with Denso units. Replaced with Bosch unit 
Dec 2017

58000 mi
Factory recall to replace Driverks airbag. Part of a global recall. 
May 2018

59000 mi

£200
DSC pressure monitoring valve #2 went intermittent causing warning lights. Replaced and brake system bled. 
Jun 2018

61329 mi

£2077
Manual gearbox rebuilt after technical issue with selector pin. Full overhaul, new bearings, synchro cones and full wear check. New clutch parts fitted. Transmission replaced and now better than new. 
Sep 2021

68000 mi

£250
Second DSC pressure sensor failed and required replacement. 
May 2022

71000 mi

£490
Bottom arm bushes replaced both sides due to age related wear. 

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2005 BMW 3-Series 2dr Convertible

333-horsepower 3.2L I6 6-speed manual RWD

BMW 3-Series in Texas, United States
Jun 2015 - Jun 2018
Nov 2017

138000 mi

US $750
Starter failed 

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2005 BMW 3-Series 2dr Convertible

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

BMW 3-Series in Tennessee, United States
Feb 2012 - Apr 2017
Aug 2012

73800 mi

US $25
Diagnosed problem with car not starting or not able to select a gear if start possible, or jumping out of gear during driving. Pulled codes, indicated low hydraulic pressure. Reservoir was full, no leaks indicated. Suspect relay - changed. 
Oct 2012

79700 mi

US $150
Throttle Position Sensor became erratic. Threw lots of codes. Car went into 'Limp' mode several times. Had to pull over stop and re-start engine. Replaced sensor. 
Apr 2013

86000 mi

US $300
Had roaring noise making left hand turns at highway speed. Shop diagnosed right front wheel bearing failing. Replaced. 
Aug 2016

165000 mi

US $30
A/C recharge 
Jan 2017

165000 mi

US $575
Replaced compressor. 
BMW 3-Series in Florida, United States
Nov 2014 - Nov 2018
May 2015

91000 mi

US $2000
Slight shuddering in 1st. Replaced clutch and fw. Also took care of a very tiny coolant leak. Replaced hose. 
Jan 2018

111000 mi

US $2000
Starter replaced Read differential was making grinding noises during slow sharp turns. Fluid replaced. All OK immediately. 

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2005 BMW 3-Series 2dr Convertible

235-horsepower 3.0L I6 6-speed manual RWD

BMW 3-Series in New Jersey, United States
Oct 2007 - Mar 2010
Sep 2008

47000 mi
A problem with the softtop in the convertible. 

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2005 BMW 3-Series 2dr Convertible

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

BMW 3-Series in California, United States
Nov 2016 - Jun 2018
Mar 2017

81000 mi

US $1700
new radiator, water pump, expansion tank, hoses, vanos lines. 
Mar 2018

86000 mi

US $625
Oil level sensor replaced 

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2005 BMW 3-Series 2dr Convertible

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

BMW 3-Series in Arizona, United States
Mar 2011 - Jun 2012
Jul 2011

71000 mi

US $50
Windshield washer fluid pump replaced. 

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2005 BMW 3-Series 2dr Convertible

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

BMW 3-Series in Ohio, United States
Dec 2010 - Mar 2015
Jun 2014

84000 mi

US $300
Could not turn steering column. shocks needed replacing 
BMW 3-Series in Victoria, Australia
May 2010 - Jun 2011
Jul 2010

26040 mi

A $1000
Engine mounts replaced (collapsed) Suspension bushings replaced 

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2005 BMW 3-Series 2dr Convertible

184-horsepower 2.5L I6 5-speed manual RWD

BMW 3-Series in New Jersey, United States
Dec 2008 - Jun 2018
Jul 2013

65000 mi

US $500
ABS/Traction control light on YELLOW - BRAKE lite on YELLOW also. Could not turn DSC on or off using switch. Replaced fluid sensor - glad it was not the computer board. 

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2004.5 BMW 3-Series

Engine not specified

BMW in Bahrain
Sep 2012 - Jun 2013
Feb 2013

103580 mi

$800
Radiator hoses leakage and engine oil leakage I also changed my brakes front and rear 

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2005 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 2005 BMW 3-Series problems occur, check out our car reliability stats.