2009 BMW 3-Series BMW 3-Series 2009

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2009 BMW 3-Series repairs by problem area

Engine (38%)

Transmission and Drivetrain (5%)

Brakes and Traction Control (3%)

Suspension and Steering (9%)

Electrical and Air Conditioning (32%)

Paint, Rust, Leaks, Rattles, and Trim (9%)

Other (4%)

Chart based on 551 repairs.
See TSBs and recalls for the 2009 BMW 3-Series.

2009 BMW 3-Series repair cost distribution

$2500+ (5%)

$1000 - $2499 (13%)

$500 - $999 (13%)

$100 - $499 (27%)

< $100 (42%)

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

Chart based on 320 repair trips. The repair cost chart excludes repairs made under warranty, do-it-yourself repairs, and repair trips that include maintenance.

2009 BMW 3-Series

Engine not specified

BMW 3-Series in Florida, United States
Dec 2013 - Feb 2014
Feb 2014

59000 mi

US $214
Abs wheel speed sensor replaced 
BMW 3-Series in Texas, United States
Dec 2009 - Jun 2011
Jan 2010

10000 mi
Sunroof shattered w/ no stone hitting - flaw in glass?? 
BMW 3-Series in California, United States
Jun 2011 - Jul 2011
Jul 2011

32000 mi
Defective turn signal. Rapid flash only when hot and sitting for hours. acted fine first thing in the morning. 

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2009 BMW 3-Series 4dr Wagon

turbocharged 241hp 3.0L I6 Diesel 6-speed shiftable automatic RWD

BMW 3-Series in Great Britain
Feb 2011 - Mar 2016
Aug 2011

18000 mi
central locking transponder failed due to water ingress. A common problem garage said. New transponder installed and extra sealant applied. 
Feb 2012

22000 mi
Adaptive headlight failure. Whole RH headlight unit replaced and system reprogrammed. FOC under warranty. 

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2009 BMW 3-Series 4dr Wagon

turbocharged 174hp 2.0L I4 Diesel 6-speed manual AWD

BMW 3-Series in Great Britain
Sep 2016 - Sep 2017
Jun 2016

62000 mi

£450
Engine light appeared, ERG Valve needed replacing. 

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2009 BMW 3-Series 4dr Wagon

230-horsepower 3.0L I6 6-speed shiftable automatic RWD

BMW 3-Series in Alabama, United States
Oct 2016 - Dec 2022
Dec 2016

63000 mi
low coolant level indicator. System needed a coolant flush and fresh coolant. 
Jun 2017

71500 mi

US $80
Leaking fluid from windshield washer reservoir. Pump motor had hairline crack in it causing a leak. I purchased and replaced both motors (front and rear) since this is E91. 
Apr 2018

82000 mi

US $700
Valve cover gasket replacement 
Jun 2018

83000 mi

US $246
replaced accessory belt and tensioner, torx screw. The screw had started to slightly bend and show signs of failure. 
Sep 2021

108000 mi

US $50
Driver side tail light malfunction. Known defect in LED circuit board and connection to third section (smallest) group of LED lights. Disassembly of light to remove LED board. Took to a small electronics repair shop to re-connect poor soldier job performed at factory. 
Jun 2022

115000 mi

US $20
Broken wiring inside rear hatch. Rear Window glass latch was activating upon starting the vehicle. Latch switch was replaced but did not resolve. It is the wiring insulation that become brittle and the wires often break. 

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2009 BMW 3-Series 4dr Wagon

230-horsepower 3.0L I6 6-speed shiftable automatic AWD

BMW 3-Series in Connecticut, United States
Jun 2010 - Nov 2015
Jun 2010

4400 mi

US $335
Replaced battery as we were told the alternator does not charge the battery when it isn't driven more than once per month 
Nov 2010

13000 mi
Replaced sunroof gasket due to wind noise. Replaced sunroof gasket due to wind noise.Done under warranty. 
Aug 2011

18000 mi
Sunroof would not close and was stuck in one position. Mechanical drive components replaced. Sun roof mechanical drive components had to be replaced under warranty.Car was at the dealer for 4 days. 
Mar 2012

28000 mi
The problem was very noisy valve lifters. Replace all valve lifters. It appears to be common problem with this engine and all replaced under warranty 
Aug 2012

31800 mi
Replaced end bushings on sway bar 
BMW 3-Series in Ohio, United States
Mar 2011 - Apr 2013
Jun 2011

15000 mi
The left turn signal had an intermittent malfunction. The glue used to seal the rear tail light caused the LED blinker to malfunction. A new tail light kit with new sealant was installed. No problems since. 
BMW 3-Series in New York, United States
Nov 2020 - Sep 2023
Nov 2021

117000 mi

US $250
New battery 
Sep 2022

123000 mi

US $1000
Replaced valve cover gasket - leaking 
Nov 2022

125000 mi

US $500
Replaced starter motor and crankshaft position sensor. 
BMW 3-Series in New York, United States
Jan 2009 - Jan 2022
Sep 2010

36000 mi
Replaced pump related to vapor emission system 
Jul 2011

46300 mi
Dealer replaced steering lower joint assembly. 
Mar 2015

92000 mi

US $300
Replace rear shock absorbers. 
Jun 2015

93000 mi

US $300
Front struts and links 
Jul 2015

94000 mi

US $350
Replace control arms. 
Jan 2016

89000 mi

US $760
Replace battery. 
Mar 2018

134000 mi

US $150
Replace diversity antenna. 
Jul 2018

139000 mi

US $400
Replace exhaust gasket. Replace three oxygen sensors. 
Oct 2021

178000 mi

US $500
New control arms and ball joints. 
BMW 3-Series in New York, United States
Oct 2009 - Oct 2012
Jun 2010

16000 mi
Left rear turn signal malfunction 
Jul 2010

17000 mi
Electrical fault in turn signal assembly. Entire assembly replaced 
Feb 2012

40300 mi
adaptive headlight malfunction. first they recalibrated it. problem returned; 2nd trip (3 days in shop) replaced right headlight unit 

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2009 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

turbocharged 300hp 3.0L I6 6-speed shiftable automatic RWD

BMW 3-Series in Nevada, United States
Nov 2013 - Feb 2014
Dec 2013

37000 mi
The engine began misfiring and shaking. It was towed to BMW. Cylinder 2 failed and excessive fuel was found on some spark plugs. The replace the injectors in bank 1, the plastic valve cover, vacuum tank and all the spark plugs. 
BMW 3-Series in Ontario, Canada
Mar 2012 - Jun 2015
Apr 2012

31500 mi
Spark plugs 
Jul 2013

43500 mi
half engine light 
BMW 3-Series in Louisiana, United States
Aug 2009 - Oct 2009
Jul 2009

6930 mi
Interior squeak/rattle at center rear headliner and left rear door--dealer failed to fix either...will try again when time permits. 
Sep 2009

9000 mi
Left rear door squeak associated with exterior "shadow line" trim at the rear door "B" pillar. 
BMW 3-Series in California, United States
Oct 2009 - Sep 2016
Apr 2010

5000 mi
Long cranks (>5 seconds) in cold morning. 
May 2010

6000 mi
High Pressure Fuel Pump (HPFP) was defective and replaced. 
Jun 2011

18000 mi
Engine idle speed was too low causing droning sound when turning steering wheel at low speed. Corrected by raising the idle speed. 
Jun 2012

29000 mi
Window was making rubbing noise when car going over a speed bump. Lubed the rubber seals and noise was gone. 
Feb 2013

35000 mi
One door lock was going out. Dealer replaced the door actuator. 
Jul 2013

40500 mi
Rough idle in the morning, but runs fine after engine fully warms up. Replace low pressure fuel sensor and the problem persists. Replace three fuel injectors and the problem goes away. 
Dec 2014

57000 mi
Loss of windshield washer fluid. Dealer stated the whole washer fluid reservoir was replaced. 
Mar 2015

60000 mi

US $150
Low voltage warning. Replaced with a new battery. 
Jan 2016

39700 mi
Replaced both turbochargers due to sticky waste gate. Replaced AC condenser. 
BMW 3-Series in Puerto Rico
Oct 2010 - Jul 2017
Mar 2011

27000 mi
I had forgotten to report this previously. The adaptive Xeon lights fall off their fixture and they don't illuminate properly. Dealer has tried to repair and even replace the parts on one side, without too much success. Blame the road here. 
Sep 2011

35000 mi
Movable headlight module broke, dealer claimed it was owner caused, manufacturer finally agreed to replace unit.  
Dec 2015

68000 mi

US $2100
Evaporator was replaced. 
Jul 2017

77000 mi

US $700
Damaged water pump 
BMW 3-Series in Nevada, United States
Dec 2013 - Sep 2017
Aug 2014

46300 mi
The car stopped in the middle of the freeway and had to coast to pull over. Fault said engine overheated.Diagnosed as cooling pump malfunction. Replaced under warranty. 
Dec 2015

66000 mi

US $50
A leak had developed around the oil filter housing gasket and required replacement. Since it was covered by my CPO warranty, the repair was $50 rather than $350 
BMW 3-Series in New Jersey, United States
Nov 2009 - Aug 2012
Apr 2010

10000 mi
Replaced HPFP 
BMW 3-Series in Washington, United States
Dec 2014 - Jun 2016
Apr 2016

123000 mi

US $3000
6 Fuel injector had to be replaced. 6 spark plug updated. new sw upgrade to match fuel injector. oil change. 
BMW 3-Series in California, United States
Feb 2010 - Jul 2018
May 2014

14000 mi

US $900
Took car in for half engine light, and radiator fan running full blast. Half engine light caused by failed HIGH PRESSURE FUEL PUMP. This was an HPFP that was replaced during the recall too! Took car in for half engine light and radiator fan running full blast. The full blast radiator fan was caused by a failed WATER PUMP. 
Aug 2014

15900 mi

US $200
Right rear LED turn signal. Bulb burned out causing warning indicator to come on. Required entire lens unit to be replace. LED bulbs not replaceable. 
Aug 2016

22000 mi

US $480
Another failed High pressur fuel pump. That makes the fifth one for this car. They also replaced the fuel pressure regulator. HPFP was under warranty, but not fuel pressure regulator. 
BMW 3-Series in Minnesota, United States
Apr 2015 - Mar 2018
Jun 2017

115000 mi

US $1800
Valve cover gasket replaced due to leak at rear. Steering angle sensor replaced. Front control arms worn and clunking under hard braking or steering. HVAC fan bearing failing and generating a squeal. 
BMW 3-Series in California, United States
Nov 2008 - Jun 2011
Mar 2009

4000 mi
All of my doors were squeaking and squealing. Took the car in and they placed felt tape in strategic areas inside the door panels. 
Aug 2009

8000 mi
Paint was chipping off of my light switch.  
BMW 3-Series in California, United States
Mar 2011 - Mar 2012
Nov 2011

43000 mi
abs pump had failure alarm. Replaced. replaced ABS hydraulic unit 
BMW 3-Series in Washington, United States
Nov 2010 - Dec 2012
Mar 2011

12000 mi
replace steering wheel heating module. at times, the heater would turn off immediately after you turn it on. 
Jun 2012

25000 mi
"Engine Malfunction. Reduced power" Turns out to be something in the injection system mechanically stuck. 
Sep 2012

25000 mi
Right corner light malfunction alert but right corner light is not malfunctioning. 
BMW 3-Series in California, United States
Jun 2009 - Mar 2016
Jul 2009

1001 mi

US $174
Went in for BMW alarm activation on 7-1-09. CIC module failed twice during the programing & had to be replaced. Car was not repaired until 7-17-09 after calling in a special BMW tech to resolve the problem. Cost of 174. was the activation charge. 
May 2012

16300 mi
Plastic latch on battery cover broke. Part is on special order. 
BMW 3-Series in California, United States
Sep 2009 - Mar 2012
Jun 2010

9000 mi
HPFP Failure - Engine went into Limp Mode 
Mar 2012

22000 mi
Left rear led's went out and dealer replaced both left and right rear tail lamps per BMW TSB 
BMW 3-Series in California, United States
Apr 2014 - Apr 2016
Aug 2015

72000 mi

US $450
Oil Housing gasket leak. Have to replace it. 
Dec 2015

75000 mi

US $1000
Water pump failed while driving. Had to tow to shop. Replaced water pump and thermostat. 
Apr 2016

80000 mi
Turbo whining/cracking sound detected while changing oil at dealer. The whole turbo system was replaced by dealer under BMW extended warrantty for turbo in 335i N54 engine per class-action suit. 

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2009 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

turbocharged 300hp 3.0L I6 6-speed shiftable automatic AWD

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

17000 mi
Wiper blades were replaced under warranty. Replacement blade was not touching the glass upon usage. Further inspection revealed a defective wiper blade arm, which was replaced under warranty. 
BMW 3-Series in Ontario, Canada
May 2010 - Sep 2016
Mar 2013

33480 mi
warning light for right headlight. 
Aug 2015

55660 mi

C $150
Window Washer pump failed 
Mar 2016

58900 mi

C $1500
The cooling fan was running continuously and I had no heat. Water pump failed at 95000km. also replaced thermostat at same time. 
May 2016

60760 mi
Car running rough, engine warning light flashing on and off. On restart, still rough but light off. Fault localized to spark plugs which were changed. Car smooth and running fine (so far). 
Jul 2016

62100 mi

C $250
Engine light on. Diagnosed as faulty high pressure fuel pump. Fuel pump replaced in June. Car still running rough at startup and then engine warning light came on. Took back to non dealer specialist shop. Diagnosed as ignition coil malfunction. Repaired for about $250 on top of almost 2k for fuel pump 
Aug 2016

62620 mi

C $975
Engine warning light again. This time low pressure fuel pump changed after replacing high pressure fuel pump in July 16 and water pump in February 2016 m 
Sep 2016

62620 mi

C $500
Engine warning light came on with car running rough in safe mode. Diagnosed software issue where components not communicating. Reloaded software cleared error codes Running rough again. Persisted despite software update in same repair visit. Did injector flush. Much improved. 
BMW 3-Series in Virginia, United States
Nov 2009 - Feb 2011
Sep 2010

22000 mi
Reduced Power engine light came on. Dealer showed Vanos fault. Cleared code and said it was an anomaly. Problem recurred, need to schedule trip to dealer. 
Nov 2010

22000 mi
VANOS faults- both solenoids replaced. 
BMW 3-Series in Minnesota, United States
Sep 2013 - Jul 2018
May 2014

66000 mi

US $150
Both turbochargers were replaced under extended warranty. 
May 2015

75000 mi

US $100
Replaced spark plugs 
Aug 2016

87100 mi

US $300
Battery died, replaced at dealer. Water pump failed 
Apr 2017

91200 mi

US $600
Replaced cracked valve cover. 
Oct 2017

93000 mi

US $120
Replaced leaking fuel injector 
Nov 2017

95000 mi

US $1600
Struts were leaky, replaced with coilovers. 
Dec 2017

95050 mi

US $200
LED tailight failed, assembly replaced 
BMW 3-Series in Virginia, United States
Jul 2009 - Apr 2010
Apr 2009

13000 mi
HIgh pressure fuel pump failed. 3 days in shop 
May 2009

20000 mi
Check engine light. Some software upgrade fixed the issue. Under warranty. 2 days in the shop. 
Jul 2009

23000 mi
High pressure pump failed again 
Aug 2009

26000 mi
VANOS (exhaust camshaft) bearing failed. Entered limp mode. Spent 7 days in shop. Threw another CEL on the way home. Spent 3 additional days in the shop, but they couldn't identify the problem. 
Sep 2009

31000 mi
VANOS exhaust solenoid. After the initial repair, the CEL came back on the way back from BMW of Fairfax, within eyesight of the driveway. Turned around and brought it back.  Previous fix lasted two weeks, then it died on the highway. VANOS bearing ledge - exhaust. Running fine since. 
Jan 2010 Another VANOS error and check engine light 
BMW 3-Series in Quebec, Canada
Jul 2013 - Jun 2016
Mar 2015

53940 mi

C $85
tie rod replaced 
BMW 3-Series in British Columbia, Canada
Feb 2015 - Jul 2016
Aug 2015

58280 mi

C $400
New gasket replaced, no more leaks. Parts cost $25 only, but it takes about 3- 4 hours to finish the job. 
Oct 2015

589000 mi

C $1000
Water pump died at 95,000km, had the car towed to mechanics. replaced the water pump and thermostat. Parts weren't expensive but the labour cost is. Longer replacement time is required for xdrive BMWs. 
Feb 2016

60760 mi

C $1000
Water pump died at 95,000km, had the car towed to mechanics. replaced the water pump and thermostat. Parts weren't expensive but the labour cost is. longer time required for xdrive BMWs. 
Mar 2016

62000 mi

C $400
Transfer case and transmission starting to fail. Tried reset the transmission adaptations, done tranny fluid change. Will change transfer case and diff fluid next week and see how it turns out. 
Jul 2016

66960 mi

C $850
Water pump died again because of leaking oil filter housing, it was replaced under warranty. Timing belt changed. Sign of Valve cover gasket leaking. 
BMW 3-Series in British Columbia, Canada
Jun 2013 - Apr 2017
Nov 2016

99160 mi
I have continued to have wheel alignment issues to since I bought the car.I have spent thousands on tires, rims straightening, alignments.I insisted BM do wheel alignments free of charge.They say it seems fine now.We'll see. 
BMW 3-Series in New York, United States
Dec 2009 - Jan 2011
Feb 2010

19300 mi
Rt front door, hinge seal replaced 
BMW 3-Series in Alberta, Canada
Jul 2009 - Jul 2012
Aug 2009

3100 mi
Car has 1500 km, on highway trip, car starts to run rough, loses power, engine light goes on. Phone roadside assistance, told to shut off and wait for tow truck. Loose connection in the electronic ignition system.  
BMW 3-Series in British Columbia, Canada
Mar 2012 - Jan 2020
May 2015

46500 mi

C $1680
Car Stalled-half engine light. Codes said fuel pumps. Replaced low pressure fuel pump and low pressure sensor. High Pressure fuel pump replaced last May. 
May 2016

54420 mi

C $250
Computer update required to correct fuel delivery problem 

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2009 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

turbocharged 300hp 3.0L I6 6-speed manual RWD

BMW 3-Series in North Carolina, United States
Sep 2016 - Jun 2018
May 2017

70000 mi

US $2000
Serpentine belt broke and went through the front main oil seal. Pan had to be dropped and many small pieces of belt removed. They said we had an oil leak on the oil filter cooling block which contributed to the failure. They also stated that all BMW's leak from the oil filter cooling block because the material for the seal hardens over time then leaks. They say it's a known problem that BMW doesn't change so all BMW's at 50000 - 70000 will leak and must be repaired. 
Nov 2017

75000 mi

US $1500
Running rough at idle. Replace fuel injectors on all six cylinders. Mechanics says coil packs are next about 100k miles. 
BMW 3-Series in California, United States
Jun 2010 - Dec 2017
Aug 2010

4935 mi
Complete loss of engine power. High pressure fuel pump replaced per SIB 12 55 06 
Apr 2012

16225 mi
Exterior rear window lower rubber molding debonded. Replaced with new piece. 
Feb 2013

22595 mi
Rear window lower moulding debonded again. Replaced with new rubber frame P/N 51-31-7-138-664 
BMW 3-Series in California, United States
Apr 2014 - Oct 2016
Oct 2014

83000 mi
Valve cover gasket and oil filter housing gasket leaking. Replaced valve cover gasket and oil filter housing gasket 
Apr 2015

94000 mi

US $1500
Water pump failure. Replaced water pump and thermostat 
May 2016

110700 mi

US $3400
Car was misfiring and running rich at cold start. Multiple fuel injectors malfunctioning. All 6 fuel injectors replaced and programmed. 
BMW 3-Series in Ontario, Canada
Jan 2013 - May 2017
Oct 2014

51140 mi

C $2000
brake caliper control pistons 
Apr 2017

89900 mi

C $1900
water pump failure 
BMW 3-Series in Georgia, United States
Feb 2013 - Dec 2016
Jun 2013

55000 mi

US $75
Oil change plus Dealer fixed battery cable from BMW recall. Battery warning still shows in dash 
Apr 2014

63200 mi

US $15
Bulb failed from a brand new headlight installed in July 
Jun 2015

75000 mi

US $350
Car lost power on highway due to one cylinder head being blocked from carbon buildup in intake. Intake cleaned and walnut blasted to remove buildup. 
Mar 2016

77000 mi

US $375
One Cylinder blocked, needed intake cleaning with walnut blasting 
Oct 2016

79000 mi

US $475
Serpentine belt broke. Replaced belt and tensioner. Oil changed. Car leaked oil the next day and had to return to shop. 
Nov 2016

79000 mi

US $1750
Broken serpentine belt wrapped around engine components and caused failure of crank seal and oil pan gasket seal causing major oil leaks. Oil change redone and battery also replaced. 
BMW 3-Series in Indiana, United States
Aug 2015 - Dec 2016
Oct 2015

88700 mi

US $196
Plastic molded engine intake charge pipe cracked at pipe seam. Common failure mode for engines with higher mileage and/or increased boost pressure. This particular failure caused by age. Replaced with Cobb aftermarket aluminum charge pipe. 
Dec 2016

105000 mi

US $700
Intake valve cleaning with walnut abrasives. Serpentine drive beltrnBelt idler and tensioner pulleys. Coolant flush. Performance turbo down pipes. 
BMW 3-Series in Arizona, United States
Jan 2011 - Dec 2012
Dec 2012

52000 mi
Fuel injector 
BMW 3-Series in Virginia, United States
Sep 2008 - Mar 2017
May 2009

6000 mi
ABS and traction control malfunction caused by dirty sensor in rear wheel. 
Jun 2009

7000 mi
windshield washer fluid leak. replaced right front headlight washer assembly. 
Feb 2013

45700 mi

US $600
Battery was replaced 
May 2013

47000 mi
The radio did not stay on the last station listened to when the car was restarted. 
Jul 2013

50300 mi

US $200
Leak in windshield washer tank. Pump replaced 
Nov 2014

64000 mi

US $504
low pressure fuel sensor replaced due to error message 'engine malfunction reduced power' 
Dec 2016

80000 mi

US $2600
oil leaks at filter housing and oil pan 
BMW 3-Series in Mississippi, United States
Aug 2009 - Oct 2011
Oct 2010

7000 mi
Paint peeling from exterior window trim. 
BMW 3-Series in Missouri, United States
Jul 2009 - Jun 2011
Apr 2010

7500 mi
iPod adapter not playing sound. Bumper scratch, requested quote for repair, none received. electronic control module ordered after initial ordered part failed to fix system. Audio control module replaced to fix non-playing iPod. Bumper scratch repaired and repainted Bumper scratch, requested quote for repair, none received. iPod not playing sound. Windshield chip iPod connection replaced; did not fix non-sound issue. 

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2009 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

turbocharged 300hp 3.0L I6 6-speed manual AWD

BMW 3-Series in Colorado, United States
Jun 2009 - Jan 2010
Apr 2009

1500 mi
A/C not working. Dealer replaced A/C expansion valve under warranty ($0 cost). 
Jun 2009

5000 mi
Car overheated. Dealer replaced water pump under warranty ($0 cost). 
BMW 3-Series in Michigan, United States
Apr 2013 - Jun 2018
Aug 2013

62000 mi
Halo or "angel eye" daylight running lights. Replaced lamp, miserable job for something so simple. 
Mar 2016

87000 mi

US $1100
Difficult to diagnose (off and on) coolant leak. Would not leak under pressure test. 
BMW 3-Series in Alberta, Canada
Apr 2017 - Oct 2021
Jun 2021

40920 mi

C $650
Replaced battery, very expensive for BMW. previous repair recharge AC repair shop indicated evaporator has leak estimated 2 days to repair at cost of over $3000 CDN$ ... will live with no AC 

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2009 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

turbocharged 265hp 3.0L I6 Diesel 6-speed shiftable automatic RWD

BMW 3-Series in Pennsylvania, United States
Jun 2009 - Sep 2011
Sep 2011

18000 mi
The vehicle was in the repair shop for a Service Engine Soon light for over 30 days during one visit and maybe 3 more times prior to me ending the lease. The problem was not resolved which was why I ended the lease. 
BMW 3-Series in California, United States
Jan 2016 - Mar 2017
Jul 2016

79700 mi

US $3000
Both drive belts replaced, active tank unclogged, etc. 
BMW 3-Series in New Jersey, United States
Apr 2013 - Jun 2016
Nov 2013

118300 mi
Aluminum tube from turbo to lower charge pipe leaking. O-rings replaced on pipe. Parts under warranty; part of head gasket set installed 12-22-11 @ 70856 miles during EGR SCR warranty service. 
Jan 2015

123000 mi
CEL and DEF warning lights on. Service bulletin for SCR system update--new parts and programming--resulted in warning lights as a result of DEF build-up. Service tech may have made error during TSB update procedure. Parts cleaned, fine since. 
Apr 2015

139200 mi

US $2700
Pulled intake manifold for carbon check. About 70k since previous engine rebuild because of carbon. While build up not as bad as before decided to have walnut shell cleaning done on intake manifold, etc. Should be good for another 70K miles 
Apr 2016

162200 mi

US $630
HVAC blower motor failure. 
BMW 3-Series in California, United States
Oct 2010 - Nov 2015
Apr 2011

14300 mi
Rear parcel shelf squeaks over bumps. Attempted to fix (2nd try, 1st time at this dealer). 
Jun 2012

22000 mi
Seat lumber control Exhaust system replacement 
Apr 2015

43200 mi

US $500
Replaced vapor barrier on drivers door. Replace light powering "angel eyes" DRL on drivers side. 
Oct 2015

45300 mi

US $2500
Carbon build up required cleaning. Replacement of defective glow plug. 
BMW 3-Series in Pennsylvania, United States
Jan 2010 - Dec 2016
Apr 2015

60500 mi

US $650
temperature sensor on DEF tank recall, dealer replaced tank free of charge;  also found some issues with alignement, needed new alignement and some otehr front suspension parts? 
Dec 2016

99000 mi

US $4150
Oil leak, seals, oil change Rear pinion seal leak Low/ end of life original battery Booster pump hose 
BMW 3-Series in Florida, United States
Sep 2010 - Jun 2013
Jun 2013

46000 mi
Daytime running light out. Quick fix. 
BMW 3-Series in New York, United States
Apr 2011 - Jan 2015
Jul 2013

27200 mi
Right rear turn signal led taillights failed 
Oct 2014

32200 mi
Check Engine light on for bad glow plug. Code was cleared with no problems and light stayed off. 
Jan 2015

33000 mi
Check Engine light on again. Sold car. 

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2009 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

turbocharged 241hp 3.0L I6 Diesel 6-speed shiftable automatic AWD

BMW 3-Series in Sweden
Mar 2009 - Apr 2016
May 2014

74400 mi

$500
There was an oil leak that was found to come from between the oil filter mount and the engine block. The gasket was replaced and leak fixed. Mechanic had never seen this before......... 

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2009 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

414-horsepower 4.0L V8 7-speed automated manual RWD

BMW 3-Series in Texas, United States
Jan 2013 - Jun 2014
Mar 2013

40000 mi

US $175
Oxygen sensor replaced. Apparently damaged with prior installation 
Apr 2013

40300 mi
Passenger rear turn signal intermittently not functioning. Both rear turn signal assemblies replaced under warranty. 
May 2014

49000 mi

US $440
Leak in one of the transmission lines needed to be repaired before it was sold. It had not caused a problem yet. 
BMW 3-Series in Oregon, United States
Mar 2015 - May 2021
May 2016

49000 mi

US $250
Rough start and trouble normalizing idle when cold engine and cold external temperature. Replaced Idle Control Device based on forum advice. Did not fix or improve issue. 
Jun 2016

51000 mi

US $130
Same rough start when bold as before. Replaced fuel pressure sensor. Fixed issue, car now starts normally. 
Apr 2017

58000 mi

US $1300
Car would throw emissions codes on start and operate at reduced power. The codes thrown led to a diagnosis of worn out throttle control valves from forums. Throttle control valves were replaced and fixed the issue. 
Jun 2017

59000 mi

US $20
Tried to get into the car after it was sitting for a day and it was completely dead. No lights, no dash, no door locks. Battery was tested as fine at the jump points under the hood. Forum reseach found that there is an issue with the B+ cable which goes from the battery to the fuse box. The connection to the fuse box rattles and wears out over time at which point the fuse box loses all power from the battery. Was fixed by splicing in a new B+ cable. This is a part that was created specifically to address this problem. It was a recall for all 2007 - 2011 3-series, except the M3. M3 has identical part numbers for both the batter cable and fuse box as other 3-series vehicles. 
BMW 3-Series in Texas, United States
Jan 2010 - Jun 2011
Feb 2010

16000 mi
DCT software updated to remove throttle lag, problem solved. 
BMW 3-Series in Colorado, United States
Nov 2009 - Apr 2016
Feb 2013

24800 mi
Replaced battery under warranty 
May 2014

37000 mi

US $100
Fuel pressure sensor died, code P0191 

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2009 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

414-horsepower 4.0L V8 6-speed manual RWD

BMW 3-Series in Maryland, United States
Feb 2010 - Jun 2011
Jun 2010

24000 mi
Problem still persist took it in again in July. 
Dec 2010

33000 mi
daytime running lights out 
BMW 3-Series in Delaware, United States
Sep 2009 - Jan 2022
Oct 2009

6200 mi
BMW assist not working for past several thousand miles. Finally took into Union Park BMW, after 7 hours, still not fixed. car does not show having it, I am told. Awaiting BMW NA response, I'm told. 
Jul 2010

12000 mi
Rear driver side blinker light broken/replaced. Only 3/4 of pattern worked & at less intensity/illumination for the LED signal. Dealer replaced. Took 2 trips before complete. 1 to "actually" belive my diagnosis, & order part. 2 to do wrk Rear driver side blinker light broken/replaced. Only 3/4 of pattern worked & at less intensity/illumination for the LED signal. Dealer replaced. Took 2 trips before complete. 1 to "actually" belive ownr diagnosis, & order part. 2 to do wrk 
Apr 2014

34000 mi

US $120
Car not start, replace battery 
BMW 3-Series in New Jersey, United States
Sep 2012 - Aug 2015
Sep 2014

52000 mi

US $145
Frozen, made pinging sound periodically. BMW dealer took the rear brake assembly, including emergency brake apart, lubed, and reassembled.  
Jan 2015

45700 mi

US $500
Ping from rear when in reverse. By the time I got to the dealer (15 miles) it was not making the noise and they could not reproduce. Not really a reliability issue since still works even when it makes the noise, but a bit disconcerting. 
Jun 2015

54000 mi

US $50
left bank throttle actuator 
BMW 3-Series in Ontario, Canada
Dec 2009 - Oct 2013
Jun 2010

3720 mi
Manual Transmission locked into second gear, Replaced under warranty 
Jul 2011

8680 mi
Turn signal not operating properly  
Jul 2013

12500 mi
Idle control valve. Defective Rear turn signal failed 
BMW 3-Series in Florida, United States
May 2010 - Oct 2012
Apr 2012

30000 mi
Driving light bulb change, took about 20 minutes. 
Oct 2012

33000 mi
Leak in washer system 
BMW 3-Series in Massachusetts, United States
Jun 2009 - Mar 2014
Jun 2009

10000 mi
Replaced Stability Control sensors and computers 
Dec 2010

30000 mi
Anti-rattle pin was sheared. Shards of metal caused rattle. Parts of front brakes (calipers, pads) replaced. Took three trips to the dealer and a total of 5 days in the shop to diagnose and fix.  
May 2011

36000 mi
Failed idle valve. Appears to be a known problem with E9X M3. Dealer replaced $500 worth of parts. 
Jun 2012

45000 mi

US $135
1. Faulty sensor of burned out headlight bulb. 2. Faulty Halo light. 3. Moldy smell from HVAC. 
Jan 2013

50000 mi

US $280
Electronic Dmaper Control (EDC) fault. EDC randomly becomes non-functional. Electronic Damper Control system (EDC) fault. EDC randomly becomes non-functional. 
Mar 2013

50000 mi
Electronic Damper Control (EDC) fault 
Jul 2013

53000 mi
Secondary air pump failure. Took the dealer two attempts to diagnoze. 
Dec 2013

55000 mi

US $2000
Clutch failure, pressure plate springs failing, 1st-3rd not held effectively. 
Feb 2014

57000 mi

US $1100
Engine coller thermostat failure Oxygen sensor failure 
Mar 2014

57000 mi
A different oxygen sensor failure 
BMW 3-Series in Districto Federal, Mexico
Dec 2009 - Jul 2014
Jun 2014

48980 mi

$400
Check engine came on, misfire on one cylinder. All 8 spark plugs were replaced. 

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2009 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

268-horsepower 3.0L I6 6-speed shiftable automatic RWD

BMW 3-Series in Florida, United States
Aug 2014 - Mar 2017
Sep 2014

62000 mi

US $1300
around 45mph it felt like a vibration coming from the rear suspension,after the dealership look it at, it was the torque converter 

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2009 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

230-horsepower 3.0L I6 6-speed shiftable automatic RWD

BMW 3-Series in Texas, United States
Aug 2011 - Sep 2014
Sep 2011

14000 mi
Rear passenger turn LED turn signal was working, but very dim. The turn indicator in car was blinking quickly. Dealer replaced the LED array. 
Aug 2012

23500 mi
Intermittent buzzing from rear drivers speaker. When it happens it stays on for 5-10 minutes. 
Oct 2012

24300 mi
Intermittent buzzing from rear drivers speaker. When it happens it stays on for 5-10 minutes 
Mar 2014

55000 mi

US $30
Windshield trim came loose, had to be replaced. 
BMW 3-Series in Pennsylvania, United States
Jul 2011 - Sep 2012
Dec 2011

29000 mi
Low tire pressure light wouldn't go off. Found out it needed to be reset. 
BMW 3-Series in Alberta, Canada
Apr 2011 - Mar 2015
Sep 2012

21080 mi
Evaporator leakage, crayon like smell for first minute when car started. AC did not work well. 
Sep 2014

33480 mi

C $700
Steering wheel was off to drive straight. 
BMW 3-Series in British Columbia, Canada
Dec 2012 - Jul 2013
Jan 2013

30160 mi
Loud buzz in the rear speakers that goes on for 5 minutes. The noise gets louder and louder and stays on even when the car is off. After 5 minutes the radio restarts and it is ok. It happens once every 6 months 
BMW 3-Series in Arizona, United States
Jan 2012 - Jun 2015
Oct 2013

19200 mi
Evaporator leaking - replaced under Goodwill warranty 
BMW 3-Series in British Columbia, Canada
Jun 2009 - Jan 2011
Jan 2011

6200 mi
Door seals rattling. Replace seals 
BMW 3-Series in Florida, United States
Jun 2009 - Dec 2016
Sep 2009

4000 mi
There was a slight squeak coming from the steering column when the wheel was turned to the left quickly in a parking lot. The boot in the column was lubricated and the sound went away. 
Mar 2010

10000 mi
The DMTL Pump failed and was replaced. DTML pump in gas tank replaced due to Service Engine Soon light coming on. 
Nov 2010

23000 mi
A squeak coming from the right rear wheel upon acceleration. The dealer did not fix the problem. They claimed they couldn't hear it. I heard it on the way home from the dealer. 
Oct 2013

62500 mi

US $50
The condenser was replaced under extended warranty 
Jan 2014

65700 mi

US $40
The drive belt and tensioner were replaced. 
Jan 2016

69500 mi
ABS sensor replaced Belt tensioner pulley needed to be replaced. 
Mar 2016

92000 mi

US $140
Starter replaced, had a long crank Passenger door handle replaced due to melting. 
Sep 2016

100000 mi
Mechatronic sleeve was leaking. 
BMW 3-Series in Quebec, Canada
Jul 2009 - Jun 2022
May 2010

5208 mi
Gear whine (whistling noise). Differential replaced. Differential replaced due to gear whine. 
Jul 2012

19220 mi
Rear ball-joints replaced due to squeaking. 
Sep 2012

21080 mi
Creeking and clunking noises, front suspension. Replaced front stabilizer bar bushing. Greased front struts. 
Feb 2013

22940 mi
Creaking noise front suspension. Dealer tightened everything and grease some things. Noise gone for now. 
Jun 2021

43400 mi

C $300
Leaky rear shock. Replaced both. Did the work myself. 
Jun 2022

44640 mi

C $1200
Replaced front shocks 
BMW 3-Series in California, United States
Feb 2012 - Jun 2022
Dec 2012

36000 mi
replacement headlight, replacement taillight 
Feb 2015

53000 mi

US $400
Replace ignition coil. Replaced led brake light. 
Aug 2016

58000 mi

US $3000
Timing belt tensioner bent, replaced along with belt. Oil filter housing leaking, replaced. Cam cover gasket leaking, replaced both gasket & housing. 
Dec 2017

60000 mi

US $300
At 9 years bits are starting to fail. Had to replace the trunk handle with micro switch as the plastic had disintegrated.  The trims between the windows and the body have all perished.  One of the cup holders failed. 
BMW 3-Series in North Carolina, United States
Mar 2010 - Sep 2012
Jun 2012

41000 mi
A/C was not blowing cold enough. It was easily fixed by recharging the system. They checked for leaks and did not find any. It has been working well since then. 
BMW 3-Series in Quebec, Canada
Dec 2011 - Dec 2015
Jul 2013

33160 mi
Squeaky suspension over bumps. Replaced bushings and tie rods. All work performed under original warranty. 
May 2015

49480 mi

C $25
Power steering fluid slight leak. Replaced hose clamp. 
BMW 3-Series in Mexico, Mexico
Jul 2014 - Jun 2018
Aug 2015

83700 mi

$450
Oil leaking. Replaced all three valve cover and intake gaskets 
Apr 2017

94860 mi

$1000
Preventive VANOS plastics replacement, leaking gasket for oil filter stand. Also, a coolant bypass hose and clip was replaced, preventative. 
BMW 3-Series in California, United States
Jan 2015 - Mar 2018
Mar 2015

48281 mi

US $992
Oil level low light came on. Removed oil filter, oil filter housing, o-ring gasket. Installed new o-ring gasket, reinstalled the oil filter housing. 
Aug 2016

68246 mi

US $581
Took the car in for routine service. Replaced micro filter, 2 quarts of oil added, left brake light bulb replaced. While servicing, discovered the valve cover gasket was leaking oil Removing and installed sealing cylinder head cover. Replaced all valve cover gaskets (SULEV emissions warranty). Replaced drive belt tensioner. 
Jul 2017

80431 mi

US $71
Replaced left front low beam head lamp. 
Nov 2017

84963 mi

US $136
Replaced driver side low beam light. Also replaced wiper blades. 
Feb 2018

87000 mi

US $379
Car spewing coolant from the hood. Car towed to repair shop. Hose found to be rotted and cracked. Removed and replaced upper hose and bypass hose. 
BMW 3-Series in Utah, United States
Oct 2017 - Jan 2018
Dec 2017

171000 mi

US $580
Valve cover 
BMW 3-Series in California, United States
Jun 2013 - Jun 2014
Mar 2014

40000 mi
Rear sunshade motor needed to be replaced. 
BMW 3-Series in Maryland, United States
Jul 2010 - Jun 2022
Apr 2011

16000 mi
Rear right turn signal not working. Replaced lamp assembly. 
Aug 2012

25700 mi
Damaged part due to a previous accident and incomplete repair. 
Jan 2013

30000 mi
serpentine belt tensioner loose; tightened 
Jan 2014

24200 mi

US $20
The ride height sensor that controls adaptive headlight aim came detached from rear camber arm. 
Mar 2017

56000 mi

US $4000
Eccentric shaft sensor leaking oil. Replaced it and valve cover gasket. Also replaced spark plugs. 
Oct 2017

61000 mi

US $3200
Replace oil stand gasket. 
Aug 2021

73000 mi

US $3500
Transmission replaced. Likely sustained damage years ago due to a rear ending accident, and the body shop failed to recognize it. 
BMW 3-Series in Germany
Sep 2010 - Dec 2011
Mar 2011

19840 mi

€90
rear brake light replaced 
BMW 3-Series in Pennsylvania, United States
Apr 2017 - Apr 2018
May 2017

116000 mi

US $250
Multiple warning lights on dashboard (ABS, traction control, and brake) were on. Diagnostics pointed to bad reading at rear right wheel speed sensor. Replacement sensors (3 of them) did not fix issue. Changing both rear sensors also did not fix issue. Axle replacement recommended. Instead only the reluctor ring was replaced with one found on eBay. Difficult to get the axle out due to rust, etc but overall not a very difficult job. 
BMW 3-Series in California, United States
Nov 2010 - Sep 2013
Dec 2010

21000 mi
CEL Replace O2 Sesor pre-heater 
Mar 2011

25000 mi
rear directional signals were going out intermittingly, both rear tail light assy's were replaced under TSB?warranty 
BMW 3-Series in California, United States
Nov 2012 - Jan 2013
Jan 2013

60000 mi

US $50
Navigation system goes black and pops up unnecessary malfunction warning lights. 
BMW 3-Series in California, United States
Feb 2009 - Jun 2011
Oct 2009

8000 mi
Defective center console hinge 
Feb 2010

13000 mi
Fixed defective center console hinge 
BMW 3-Series in Pennsylvania, United States
May 2012 - Sep 2014
Dec 2012

37000 mi
Faulty mass airflow sensor, replaced under warranty 
Jan 2013 carbon buildup in intake due to low quality diesel fuel. manifold replaced, cyl. heads were walnut blasted to remove buildup. 
Feb 2013

41300 mi
crack in adblue/urea exhaust fluid tank. tank was replaced, lines cleaned and fluid refiled. 
BMW 3-Series in North Carolina, United States
Mar 2012 - Jun 2015
Jan 2012

16512 mi
sunroof jammed partway open; car in shop for a week to replace sunroof motor 
Feb 2012

17888 mi
replaced both rear lighting modules because of service bulletin. replaced both rear lighting modules because of service bulletin. 
Feb 2013

25105 mi
drivers side heater core was clogged with foreign substance, so no heat on drivers side of car. in shop 16 days for diagnosis, incremental repair efforts, and finally need to order repair part from Germany (!) repaired under warranty. 

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2009 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

230-horsepower 3.0L I6 6-speed shiftable automatic AWD

BMW 3-Series in Georgia, United States
Sep 2012 - Jul 2013
Jan 2013

28200 mi
Steering wheel had click in it 
BMW 3-Series in Ontario, Canada
Aug 2012 - Sep 2012
Sep 2012

37200 mi
Left rear tail light replaced. 2 days later right tail lights had to be replaced 
BMW 3-Series in New York, United States
Jan 2013 - Sep 2013
Sep 2013

53000 mi

US $70
Smaller rear taillight bulb needed replacement 
BMW 3-Series in Ohio, United States
Jul 2012 - Mar 2014
Feb 2013

34000 mi
Steering wheel heater was not functioning correctly. BMW replaced the entire steering wheel under warranty. No charge and loaner car provided. 
Oct 2013

43800 mi
Emissions light - false warning and reset during oil service 
BMW 3-Series in Ohio, United States
Apr 2012 - Oct 2014
Aug 2012

37900 mi
replaced both rear tail-lights for burnt out LED's 
BMW 3-Series in Michigan, United States
Mar 2013 - Aug 2013
Jul 2013

51200 mi

US $100
AC damaged by stone. covered by insurance. replaced condenser 
BMW 3-Series in Ontario, Canada
Oct 2011 - Mar 2019
Feb 2014

62000 mi

C $50
Front sway bar bushings worn. 
Apr 2014

62700 mi

C $50
Coil pack failure 
Jul 2015

78320 mi

C $50
Passenger side power seat motor failed 
Nov 2016

100180 mi

C $175
Needed to replace original OEM battery. 
Mar 2018

119660 mi

C $2200
AC not working. Leaking evaporator replaced. 
Jun 2018

125240 mi

C $800
Rear passenger LED taillight assembly needed replacing. 
BMW 3-Series in Massachusetts, United States
Oct 2015 - Oct 2016
May 2016

120900 mi

US $200
Oil filter gasket replaced 
Oct 2016

130000 mi

US $300
Belt tensioner replaced 
BMW 3-Series in Pennsylvania, United States
Oct 2009 - May 2012
Feb 2012

29000 mi

US $66
The shifting of the transmission was "jumpy" and rough. I was told by the dealer that the program/software that manages the transmission had to be updated and reprogrammed. 
BMW 3-Series in Quebec, Canada
Dec 2010 - Apr 2022
Jun 2011

24800 mi
Suspension brackets worn out 
Mar 2012

33480 mi
Suspension bushings, bad quality part replaced 6 months ago. 
May 2015

71300 mi

C $250
Tail light, 400 dollars because LED technology, and whole unit to replace. However, after insisting, dealer found a service note from manufacturer and sold right and left units for around 250 dollars 
Mar 2016

78740 mi

C $1800
Shock absobers leaking front both sides 
Jul 2016

87300 mi

C $18
Broken, needed replacement of wire 
Mar 2017

96100 mi

C $1300
Evaporator leak 
May 2017

97340 mi

C $70
Left front headlight, element around the main light 
Feb 2018

109 mi

C $300
Rear wheel bearing 
BMW 3-Series in Illinois, United States
Nov 2010 - Mar 2016
Dec 2012

46000 mi
Intermittent issue with radio. Got new one under warentee 
BMW 3-Series in Oregon, United States
Feb 2015 - Jul 2017
Jan 2017

33700 mi

US $600
All of the tensioner pulleys and the belt were replaced. The reason for it was that there is a known issue with these motors. If the pulleys deflect enough to let the belt slip off, they can suck the belt in and destroy the motor. 
Jun 2017

37000 mi

US $750
Had an AC leak. 
BMW 3-Series in Pennsylvania, United States
Oct 2014 - Apr 2017
May 2015

150000 mi

US $45
Bad ignition coil replaced 
Oct 2015

164000 mi

US $20
Faulty ignition coil 
Apr 2017

199000 mi

US $1000
Replaced rear shocks, front struts and front lower links. 
BMW 3-Series in Alberta, Canada
Mar 2014 - Jun 2018
Jun 2014

55800 mi

C $150
A/C would not blow cold air. 
Apr 2015

69440 mi

C $330
Car sat for 5 months. Battery was dead. Recharged battery but some data would not stay as input. ie clock, calendar etc. replaced and initialized battery. Cooling fan running at extremely high speed and very loud. Intermittent problem. Diagnosis showed faulty temp. sensor. Replaced sensor. 
Aug 2016

75520 mi

C $140
Ac continues to lose coolant. Recharged 
May 2018

82460 mi

C $15
A/c still leaks slowly. Recharged at home. 
BMW 3-Series in Indiana, United States
Apr 2014 - Apr 2016
Jun 2015

54000 mi
Car was making whistling sound that was intermittent and could not be diagnosed. Think it may be an issue with the crank valve. Will update when I know more. 
Oct 2015

55300 mi

US $1000
Crankcase valve needs replacing. 
Dec 2015

57000 mi

US $950
Crankcase vent valve problem, also required new valve cover. 
Apr 2016

57000 mi
Diagnosed with rear main seal leak. This is a major repair cost, and so I just traded the vehicle for a Prius. 
BMW 3-Series in Virginia, United States
Dec 2011 - Jan 2016
Apr 2012

26800 mi
External Light Warning, tail light bulb replaced 
Jul 2012

31075 mi

US $920
Replaced both tail light assemblies. Fixed AC leak. Replaced lower steering spindle. Replaced both tail light assemblies. Fixed AC leak. Replaced lower sterring spindle. 
Nov 2012

35000 mi

US $79
Clunk noise while steering returned after two weeks. Replaced lower spindle again. 
BMW 3-Series in Ontario, Canada
Jun 2009 - Dec 2012
Feb 2011

15500 mi
Noticed a clunking sound from front end when going over large bumps in cold weather. Problem was diagnosed by the dealer as worn/damaged front sway bar bushings. The bushings were replaced and the sound is now gone. 

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2009 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

230-horsepower 3.0L I6 6-speed manual RWD

BMW 3-Series in Texas, United States
Aug 2012 - Mar 2017
Dec 2012

41000 mi
Blower motor not working. Replaced under warranty. 
Dec 2013

50000 mi

US $50
Multiple warning lights were illuminated in the dashboard; dashboard illumination not working; power windows not working; turn signals not working 
Oct 2014

60700 mi

US $1600
Brake light assembly including LED lights 
Jan 2017

68000 mi

US $1300
Oxygen sensor Drive belt tensioner 
BMW 3-Series in Louisiana, United States
Jan 2009 - Dec 2021
Aug 2009

7000 mi
I noticed the voice activated phone system was working eratically, so I used the onboard Assist to request an appointment. Never heard from BMW or local dealer - maybe both are faulty. Will try again and report back.  
May 2011

31700 mi
Car was idling roughly and giving poor mileage. Dealer tested and found faulty MAF, replaced the unit, and problem was resolved.  
Nov 2011

37500 mi

US $10
At the same time a defective exterior light warning came on, Bluetooth stopped functioning. Re-pairing my cell phone brought Bluetooth back. Dealer checked the system and found no fault. A warning showing a fault in the exterior lights came on. The dealer kept the car for a day, and replaced a defective rear taillight. The $10 listed below was for gas for the remtal car the dealer provided while the car was in the shop.  
Nov 2013

51000 mi

US $265
Replaced failed windshield washer pump. 
Oct 2014

55200 mi

US $700
Wheel speed sensors replaced due to failure in one wheel - I was advised they tend to fail one after the other, so it's cheaper and more convenient to replace them all at once, 
Feb 2015

56000 mi

US $250
Battery failed and had to be replaced. 
Jun 2015

57000 mi
After sitting overnight (only), the a/c doesn't begin to cool until the car has been driven. If the car is started and at idle, the a/c doesn't engage - the fan works and air is circulated in the system, but no cool air is produced. 
Aug 2015

57900 mi

US $200
My June report turned out to be a low a/c system - recharge by the shop fixed it. 
Jan 2016

56800 mi

US $200
Right rear turn signal failed. Replaced both right and left LED turn signals - TSB said to replace both if either failed. Low cost OEM parts found at oembimmerparts.com 
Sep 2016

61000 mi

US $180
"Angel" lights replaced. 
May 2017

63000 mi

US $215
As commented above, the airbag was replaced. The cooling fan for the AC radiator was defective and was replaced. This was a bizarre, intermittant problem, The repair shop diagnosed the problem as the fan motor occasionally stopping on a defective contact, so the motor wouldn't engage until the air flowing over the fan turned the motor to a good contact. 
Jun 2018

75000 mi

US $1850
The front tie rods on the right side were damaged, presumably from one of the ubiquitous pot holes in New Orleans. Both sides are were replaced and a four wheel alignment was done. In addition, the rear tires were replaced, but the front still have about 30% of the tread left. 
Dec 2021

101000 mi

US $1400
The rear wheel sensors were defective, making the ABS inoperative. There was an oil leak around the oil filter housing. 
BMW 3-Series in Virginia, United States
Mar 2012 - Jun 2022
Oct 2012

46000 mi
Adaptive headlight arm failed. Fixed under warranty. 
Jun 2013

59000 mi

US $100
The seal where the manual gear lever enters the transmission was replaced. 
Jul 2014

84500 mi

US $145
Battery replaced. DIY. 
Dec 2014

89000 mi

US $70
Cylinder two ignition coil failed. Self maintained the vehicle. 70 dollar cost for coil and shipping. 
Jan 2017

81700 mi
Kept on hearing rattling noise from the belt area. The issue was diagnosed as a pulley and a harmonic balancer. Both got replaced under warranty. 
Sep 2017

143000 mi

US $1300
The oil filter housing was leaking. And, it started to damage the accessory belt. We also got other services such as replacing the break fluid, oil change, and coolant replacement. 
Jan 2018

147000 mi

US $1100
Oil pan was leaking. This work was very intensive where the tech had to drop the sub-frame to replace the pan gasket. 

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2009 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

230-horsepower 3.0L I6 6-speed manual AWD

BMW 3-Series in Massachusetts, United States
Mar 2012 - May 2016
Oct 2014

71300 mi

US $50
Replaced a failed cable, triggered the drive off assist failed light 
Jun 2015

77000 mi

US $50
Replaced leaking shreader valve 
BMW 3-Series in Massachusetts, United States
May 2011 - Dec 2013
Nov 2011

22000 mi
Car failed to accelerate during emergency manuever avoiding an accident ahead. Transmission light came on and car was sluggish to respond afterwards. Was able to avoid accident anyway. 
Jul 2012

30800 mi
It's been in twice because the transmission failed and car wouldn't accelerate. Twice the dealer has been unable to find the problem and is still working on repair. 
Aug 2012

32000 mi
Had to update software for shifting. This is the fourth update. 
Dec 2012

37000 mi
For the fifth time since purchase, the transmission got stuck in first or second gear while accelerating and caused a dangerous situation while blending into interstate highway traffic. BMW refuses to replace part only software upgrades 
Feb 2013

38400 mi
After transmission went into high gear on its own several times, they finally replaced the computer module that operates the shifting mechanism on the transmission.  Also, replaced rear shock mounting brackets as they were rubbing. 
BMW 3-Series in Michigan, United States
Aug 2017 - Jun 2022
Nov 2017

137000 mi

US $90
Had intermittent misfires on #1 and #2 cylinders. Replaced all six spark plugs and #1 and #2 coils. Runs great now. 
Jan 2018

137000 mi

US $150
Seized right rear shock absorber. Shock absorber was leaking and full of water. Water froze and locked up shock. Replaced shock absorber 
Jul 2018

147000 mi

US $190
Starter motor quit working. Removed and replaced starter. Requires considerable work, removal of the intake manifold. Took advantage of this opportunity to replace valve cover gasket which had a small leak. 
Sep 2021

153000 mi

US $24
Car has unusual amount of lash in the drivetrain which creates an annoying clunking sound when shifting (6MT) and bad noises in sharp turns (Parking maneuvers). I cannot find the problem as everything seems fine when I inspect it on a hoist. Either the transfer case or dual mass flywheel on my list. I took advantage to drain and refill the transfer case. It was empty and had metal particle on the plug. I flushed it and refilled it and it does not leak but the problem still persists. 
Jun 2022

154000 mi

US $30
Transfer case has been making loud clunking sounds when turning sharp at low speeds. I decided to change the fluid. When I removed the drain plug it was empty. I refilled it with the proper fluid and after driving it a few hundred miles the noises went away. There is no visible leak so I don't know where the original fluid went. 
BMW 3-Series in New York, United States
Feb 2009 - Jun 2015
Oct 2013

57800 mi

US $250
The right rear directional signal stopped working. Since the lights are LED it was not cheap to fix. Apparently problem is with a controller that connects to the rear directional and not the actual bulb or lights. 
BMW 3-Series in Ontario, Canada
Jun 2010 - Apr 2012
Jul 2010

10354 mi
Heated steering wheel worked intermittently Heated steering wheel 
Mar 2011

14260 mi
Heated steering wheel would not work and nav system provided erratic destinations 
Apr 2012

21700 mi
Comfort access 
BMW 3-Series in Pennsylvania, United States
Apr 2011 - Mar 2022
Jan 2021

125000 mi

US $2000
Worn out rotors 
Jul 2021

129000 mi

US $800
Oil leak, accessory belt Failing wheel bearing 
Nov 2021

134000 mi

US $400
Halo light 
Mar 2022

134000 mi

US $100
Replace transfer case fluid 

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2009 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

215-horsepower 3.0L I6 6-speed shiftable automatic AWD

BMW 3-Series in Ontario, Canada
Feb 2010 - Aug 2011
May 2010

19220 mi
Actuator of door look needed to be replaced. 
Apr 2011

41540 mi
Sway bar bushings replaced 

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2009 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

215-horsepower 3.0L I6 6-speed manual AWD

BMW 3-Series in Ontario, Canada
Aug 2011 - Oct 2011
Sep 2011

22940 mi
Heated seat indicators lighting up without seats being turned on. Diagnosed as wiring problem. Parts ordered but wrong harness delivered. Parts ordered again with correct harness finaly arriving. 

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2009 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

168-horsepower 2.0L I4 6-speed shiftable automatic RWD

BMW 3-Series in Ontario, Canada
Jan 2013 - Mar 2018
May 2013

50840 mi

C $470
Left signal light burnt out. This is an LED light so whole unit had to be replaced at cost of $470. This price includes 20% discount. 

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2009 BMW 3-Series 4-door

turbocharged 4-cylinder diesel manual 2WD

BMW 3-Series in Czech Republic
Oct 2014 - Jul 2017
Feb 2015

60100 mi

$80
Self-levelling xenon sensor failed, replaced with OEM item in at and indy shop. 
Mar 2016

71920 mi
N47D20 timing chain preventative repair Started making a lot of noise in the last few months and the engine was vibrating more than ever at 1,500-2,000 rpm Seat heating (driver's seat) stopped working last year Replacement parts had to be ordered The shocks were not as good as they used to so changed them to Bilstein B8 and Eibach springs. 
Jul 2017

84320 mi

$200
Cracked windshield, OEM replacement.  Suspension check due to clunking noises. Bilstein dampers found at fault. 

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2009 BMW 3-Series 4-door

6-cylinder manual 2WD

BMW 3-Series in Ontario, Canada
Feb 2010 - Jun 2011
Apr 2010

9920 mi
Bluetooth on radio not functioning correctly. Radio would be silent after end of call. 

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2009 BMW 3-Series 2dr Hardtop conv.

turbocharged 300hp 3.0L I6 6-speed shiftable automatic RWD

BMW 3-Series in California, United States
Sep 2008 - Nov 2011
Oct 2008 Convertible top water leak on both door & top seals. Oil light came on once. Passenger window intermittently goes back down when convertible top is raised into position. Dealer drilled license plate holes during new car prep despite notations on original factory order not to 
Dec 2008

US $19
Headlight washer cover fell off. Owner ordered & paid for part; Dealer painted upon arrival; Owner installed. 
Aug 2009

4000 mi
"Service Engine Soon" light with rough starts. Replaced sensor, then High Pressure Fuel Pump (HPFP) Navigation and iPod miscellaneous problems 
Aug 2010

7200 mi
Fuel/Emissions Update 
BMW 3-Series in California, United States
Jul 2010 - Sep 2010
Aug 2010

19000 mi
Roof leaked during car wash.  
BMW 3-Series in Michigan, United States
Mar 2009 - Apr 2016
May 2009

1500 mi
Software bug in Nav system displayed POI's when option not selected. a.k.a. "Shopping cart bug" CIC software updated, problem solved. Update Navigation software for display error 
Aug 2009

6000 mi
Engine malfunction light activated at freeway speed, followed by engine unable to rev greater than 2000 rpm. Car fairly crippled. Enroute dealer service for 5 hrs. Problem believed to be cyl. coil loose, however not conclusive. No further problems  
Apr 2016

39000 mi

US $100
Brake fluid flush per warning light 
BMW 3-Series in Louisiana, United States
Dec 2014 - Oct 2016
Mar 2015

67000 mi

US $150
Worn bushings 
Oct 2016

100000 mi

US $200
Seat belt restraint failure 
BMW 3-Series in Texas, United States
Sep 2012 - Apr 2013
Feb 2013

39200 mi
Trim peeling from various places in vehicle Convertible top leaking Engine stalls under heavy accelleration 
Mar 2013

40000 mi
Recall on battery cable issue that could cause anything from stalling to an engine compartment fire. 
BMW 3-Series in California, United States
May 2012 - Jul 2013
Apr 2013

52500 mi
power supply system 
BMW 3-Series in British Columbia, Canada
Apr 2012 - Jun 2018
Apr 2013

18800 mi
Four light bulbs replaced. All were accessory bulbs. Three in the headlight assemblies and one backup bulb. Repair took 3 hours. All of these bulbs seemed to fail at the same time, within one week of each other. 
Jan 2015

19680 mi
Sudden onset of rough running and stalling engine. Three injectors (#4,5,6) prematurely failed and ports and valves were dirty. Replaced all 6 fuel injectors. Ports and intake valves cleaned. Apparently a common issue on N54 BMW engines. 
Mar 2016

32860 mi

C $440
Driver's seatbelt retractor replaced. Would not allow the belt to be extracted. At first just difficult, then not at all. 

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2009 BMW 3-Series 2dr Hardtop conv.

turbocharged 300hp 3.0L I6 6-speed manual RWD

BMW 3-Series in California, United States
Feb 2012 - Jun 2018
May 2012

32200 mi
Convertible top needing lube and adjusting 
Oct 2012

38700 mi
Misfire code hidden in computer & rough idle on cold start. Dealer diagnosed & replaced 2 faulty injectors. 
Mar 2013

46000 mi

US $1400
Faulty Transmission. Dealer replaced transmission, clutch. I paid for flywheel 
Apr 2013

46500 mi
Battery worn. Dealer to replace after 2 trips. 
Jan 2014

58000 mi

US $250
Leaking oil from valve cover, oil filter housing, and oil pan gaskets Bushings on front tension strut were bad and leaking Bad engine mounts. Passenger mount collapsed, driver's side bad. 
Feb 2014

59000 mi
Leaky injectors. Two injectors bad causing two fouled plugs. Dealer replaced all injectors, plugs. 
Feb 2015

74000 mi
Wastegate Rattle. BMW Dealer replaced turbos at no charge 
Sep 2015

83000 mi

US $450
Waterpump failure. Had to pay out of pocket to replace thermostat (not covered by 3rd party warranty) as preventative maintenance. 
Mar 2016

86000 mi

US $400
Rear main seal leak Radiator overflow hose and upper hose replaced 
Mar 2017

96000 mi

US $800
Oil Pan gasket leak 
Nov 2017

100500 mi

US $500
Engine coolant reservoir measuring stick broke. Replaced coolant reservoir 
BMW 3-Series in New Jersey, United States
Feb 2012 - Mar 2012

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2009 BMW 3-Series 2dr Hardtop conv.

414-horsepower 4.0L V8 7-speed automated manual RWD

BMW 3-Series in New Hampshire, United States
Mar 2012 - Jun 2018
Jul 2012

15700 mi
The buttons on the center console for Power/EDC/DSC were loose. The individual features still worked but occasionally the physical button popped off while driving. This is primarily cosmetic in nature. 
Jun 2014

33000 mi

US $700
Defective driveshaft causing rattling and violent shifts. Driveshaft replaced. BMW USA paid parts cost out of warranty. 
Sep 2014

39000 mi

US $110
Daytime (Halo) LED running lights burnt out on driver's side. Replaced light assembly. 
May 2016

55000 mi

US $600
Engine threw fuel pump failure warning. Replaced all fuel pressure sensors 
May 2018

68000 mi

US $1500
Computer threw engine system alert. Dealer identified failed engine temperature sensor and replaced part. 
BMW 3-Series in Florida, United States
Dec 2009 - Jun 2011
Aug 2010

19000 mi
Rattle when convertible top was up. First time dealer fixed but problem showed up again. Second time different dealer fixed correctly. 
BMW 3-Series in Pennsylvania, United States
Jul 2015 - Sep 2015
Sep 2015

52000 mi
Adaptive Headlight (right) replaced 

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2009 BMW 3-Series 2dr Hardtop conv.

414-horsepower 4.0L V8 6-speed manual RWD

BMW 3-Series in New Jersey, United States
Apr 2009 - Jun 2018
Jun 2009 Rollover bar deployment system fault--warning went off as I drove off the lot. Eventually the entire mechanism was changed and problem solved. 
Dec 2009

4000 mi
Convertible top not working and out of alignment. Took a few days to diagnose problem then repair. Got car back after a week of work. 
Apr 2011

11000 mi
motor controlling head rest and seatbelt pulley broken and replaced. Had car back the next afternoon. 
Sep 2011

14000 mi
all windows up and roof close button don't always work on front windows and results in one of the front windows going back down. 
Jun 2016

26000 mi

US $500
Needed new battery (car is 2009 model) 
Aug 2017

26000 mi

US $250
Convertible top working intermittently. Difficult to diagnose but found spottily working relay. Replaced both and works great. 

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2009 BMW 3-Series 2dr Hardtop conv.

230-horsepower 3.0L I6 6-speed shiftable automatic RWD

BMW 3-Series in Tennessee, United States
May 2013 - Sep 2020
May 2013

32000 mi
Weather seal around trunk latch deteriorated and hanging loose. Replaced seal. 
Jun 2017

67500 mi

US $575
Replace leaking valve cover gasket. 
BMW 3-Series in California, United States
Apr 2012 - Jun 2018
Jul 2012

25200 mi
Convertible top would drop into trunk, but sensor wouldn't acknowledge that it was closed. 
Nov 2013

35000 mi
Oil leak 

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2009 BMW 3-Series 2dr Hardtop conv.

230-horsepower 3.0L I6 6-speed manual RWD

BMW 3-Series in Tennessee, United States
May 2010 - Jun 2015
Jul 2011

8300 mi
Fuel tank valve, CEL Radio head unit, intermittent no radio 
Nov 2011

10700 mi
Intermittent 
Feb 2012

13000 mi
Hardtop convertible leak at windshield Radio works intermittently 
May 2012

15500 mi
Battery symbol, sluggish crank 
Sep 2013

22000 mi
Adaptive cruise control sensor at front of car needed to be re-aligned 

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2009 BMW 3-Series 2dr Coupe

turbocharged 300hp 3.0L I6 6-speed shiftable automatic RWD

BMW 3-Series in Michigan, United States
Dec 2012 - Jul 2014
Jul 2014

32000 mi

US $100
replaced drivers door handle reinforcement bracket 
BMW 3-Series in Pennsylvania, United States
Sep 2012 - Nov 2012
Oct 2012

50000 mi
Fuel injectors replaced 
BMW 3-Series in Texas, United States
Mar 2012 - Nov 2013
Jul 2012

37700 mi
Rough start & idle. Puff of smoke at start. 
Nov 2013

63000 mi

US $600
Failure of Fuel Injectors 4,5,6. Replaced with new, purchased from dealer. Symptoms were hard start, poor idle, stutter on hard acceleration, unburnt fuel on hard acceleration. 
BMW 3-Series in Florida, United States
Jun 2009 - Dec 2013
Jul 2009

1000 mi
Faulty injector on cylinder 1 
Aug 2009

3000 mi
Engine misfire on cylinder 1 
May 2010

10000 mi
Removed carbon buildup on the valves caused by (BMW claims) either oil flowing back from the turbo or excessive ethanol content in the fuel. Flashed ECU to increase engine running temperature. Removed carbon buildup on the valves caused by (BMW claims) either oil flowing back from the turbo or excessive ethanol content in the fuel. Flashed ECU to increase engine running temperature. 
Oct 2012

30300 mi
High pressure fuel pump replacement 
BMW 3-Series in Manitoba, Canada
Mar 2012 - Oct 2013
Mar 2013

26660 mi
Transmission gasket replaced 
BMW 3-Series in North Carolina, United States
Jun 2017 - Apr 2018
Aug 2017

62000 mi

US $120
Defective boost solenoids and vacuum lines prevented car from making boost. Replaced both boost solenoids and all vacuum lines. 1 year old battery would no longer hold a charge. Battery was replaced, and car was coded to reflect the change. 
Oct 2017

62000 mi

US $1000
All six high-pressure fuel injectors were replaced with new index 12 parts to ensure future reliability. Intake valves were walnut-blasted to remove carbon build-up as general maintenance. 
Apr 2018

63000 mi

US $235
The windshield heat cracked from intense, direct sun. Avoid FY windshield glass. 

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2009 BMW 3-Series 2dr Coupe

turbocharged 300hp 3.0L I6 6-speed shiftable automatic AWD

BMW 3-Series in North Carolina, United States
Jan 2016 - Nov 2019
Apr 2018

99687 mi

US $500
Full strut repair with housing 
BMW 3-Series in New York, United States
Jan 2009 - Dec 2011
Jun 2009

6000 mi
Misfires caused MIL to illuminate, Service Bulletin stated to change fuel injectors to a redesigned part. 
BMW 3-Series in Alberta, Canada
Nov 2014 - Mar 2018
Mar 2017

38440 mi

C $300
Replaced sensor attached to the battery 
BMW 3-Series in Massachusetts, United States
Jul 2009 - Feb 2016
Jun 2009

549 mi
Low pressure fuel line disconnected. Line was reconnected by dealer under warranty 
Aug 2013

100000 mi

US $495
Intake valves clogged with carbon buildup (known issue for N54 engine), cleaned with walnut shell abrasive blasting (BMW approved procedure) 
BMW 3-Series in Oregon, United States
Aug 2009 - Jul 2012
Dec 2009

3000 mi
Stereo would not turn on intermittently due to software error. Fixed with simple software reflash.  

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2009 BMW 3-Series 2dr Coupe

turbocharged 300hp 3.0L I6 6-speed manual RWD

BMW 3-Series in California, United States
Nov 2015 - Jan 2017
Jan 2017

US $2000
Water pump failed Leaking oil filter housing gaskets 
BMW 3-Series in New Mexico, United States
Mar 2011 - Apr 2014
Nov 2011

40000 mi
Rough idle and acceleration. Dealer replaced 3 high-pressure injectors. Covered by factory warranty. 
Feb 2013

77600 mi

US $190
Engine idled rough and raw fuel was coming out of the exhaust. Replaced one faulty fuel injector. 
Feb 2014

93000 mi
Replaced all 6 fuel injectors again. Supposedly another redesign since the last ones (~1 yr ago) 
BMW 3-Series in Florida, United States
Apr 2009 - Mar 2018
Mar 2011

16000 mi
replace and reprogramming for high-pressure fuel pump 
Mar 2012

26000 mi
DRL and inner brake light out. Manual recommends dealer fix both problems. 
BMW 3-Series in Washington, United States
Apr 2009 - Mar 2010
Jul 2009

1000 mi
I feel the window seal isn't tight as I can hear cars that I pass or pass by my driver side window. They said this is standard as compared to other BMW coupes. My RDS radio information is delayed by several minutes. It will not tell me the title and artist until about 2-3 mins into the song. However if I change stations and come back then the artist and title updates. Told "they all do that..." 
Oct 2009

4000 mi
Drove about 120 miles and car overheated. Warning light came on although OIL temp only at 250. Car went into limp mode then stopped. Waited 10 mins & restarted car. Brought to dealer, possible water pump failure. Replaced pump (although remanuf. pump) 
BMW 3-Series in New York, United States
Feb 2013 - Jul 2015
May 2014

38100 mi

US $1600
Power steering pump seized, broke serpentine belt. required tow. 
Jul 2014

39300 mi

US $1000
Water pump failed, car went into limp mode due to overheating. 
BMW 3-Series in Missouri, United States
Jul 2009 - Jul 2010
Oct 2009

1700 mi
High pressure fuel pump. Long cranks followed by service engine light. 
May 2010

11000 mi
High pressure fuel pump, second time. 
BMW 3-Series in Michigan, United States
Jul 2012 - Mar 2013
Mar 2013

50000 mi
Heated steering wheel intermittent; did not stay on 100% of the time. 

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2009 BMW 3-Series 2dr Coupe

turbocharged 300hp 3.0L I6 6-speed manual AWD

BMW 3-Series in Pennsylvania, United States
Feb 2016 - Mar 2016
Mar 2016

70000 mi
Oil leak from Turbo #1, $3400 quote for repair or 6

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2009 BMW 3-Series 2dr Coupe

414-horsepower 4.0L V8 7-speed automated manual RWD

BMW 3-Series in New Jersey, United States
May 2012 - Dec 2015
Jul 2014

28200 mi

US $600
Low pressure fuel sensor 
Apr 2015

31000 mi

US $600
Fuel regulator 
BMW 3-Series in Texas, United States
Jan 2011 - Mar 2011
Mar 2011

23000 mi
DCT LAG ISSUE. When under hard acceleration, the car would not engage the gear for up to 3 seconds. DCT LAG ISSUE 2. When turning into a corner, and letting off, when you press the gas, nothing happens. On last visit, they reprogrammed my ecu, and the sat radio disappeared. Reprogrammed and it is back now. 
BMW 3-Series in California, United States
Jan 2010 - Sep 2010
Aug 2010

5000 mi
DCT shift lag--fixed via software update 
BMW 3-Series in Alabama, United States
Jan 2010 - Jan 2022
Jun 2010

7000 mi
Backed car in parking spot, came out to start & move, but there were numerous warning lights/caution notices on idrive...would not go into gear. 45 min later, it worked but said service. Dealer looked at it & said there were no codes/issues 
Feb 2011

11000 mi
Went in for yrly service and there was a TSB out for a reflash. 
Dec 2011

16000 mi
Hard to start (8 second eng crank) & RPM flux for about 30 seconds after start. 
Nov 2014

25000 mi
Transmission oil pan warped and leaking...it's a plastic pan. BMW replaced it under my extended warranty. 
Mar 2015

25000 mi
Engine sputtered with high rev down shift. Replaced spark plugs & this appears to have made the issue better. 
Nov 2019

32000 mi

US $3000
A/C Evap leaking…Removed & replaced but to accomplish had to remove the entire dash. 
Sep 2021

35000 mi
Vents blowing white ash substance through out car. They cleaned out blower motor, vents and car. No idea what caused it…possibly old evap that was replaced nearly 2 years ago. 
Jan 2022

36000 mi
Still blowing white ash. Found the new evaporator was the culprit and they replaced that again. 
BMW 3-Series in South Carolina, United States
Jun 2010 - Jan 2011
Jan 2011

6000 mi
DCT TSB software update. Low mileage oil change - have to go back as the dealer did not change oil! 
BMW 3-Series in Sweden
Jun 2021 - Jun 2022
Jun 2022

94091 mi

$800
Convertible roof failed last year. Leakage of hydraulic fluid from hose, replaced in this repair 
BMW 3-Series in Texas, United States
Jan 2010 - Oct 2013
Jul 2011

10000 mi
DCT update for M3 DCT transmission 

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2009 BMW 3-Series 2dr Coupe

414-horsepower 4.0L V8 6-speed manual RWD

BMW 3-Series in Michigan, United States
Jan 2012 - Sep 2013
Jun 2012

31000 mi

US $1300
A valve needed replacement due to failure. A special tool was needed by the dealer, so they had to order which caused them to need the car three different times. 
Jul 2013

39000 mi

US $150
Battery wasn't charged enough. 
BMW 3-Series in Utah, United States
Jun 2011 - Jul 2012
Aug 2011

19400 mi
Lose screw in the dashboard. Twisted seat belt. 
Jul 2012

27000 mi
Break pad sensor broken Broken brake pad sensor 
BMW 3-Series in Alberta, Canada
Jul 2010 - Jun 2011
Sep 2010

15500 mi
2 and 3rd gear syncrhomeshes were extremely worn, not a driving behavior problem, most likely a defect. transmission (complete) ordered as BMW does not replace transmission internals 
BMW 3-Series in North Carolina, United States
Jul 2009 - May 2010
Mar 2010

3000 mi
Map light rattled over rough surfaces and when you would tap it. Plastic clip broken inside rolling around (factory defect). Parts ordered, replaced - took 1.5 days to "re-program" car after light assembly installed. 
BMW 3-Series in California, United States
Jun 2009 - Jul 2016
Apr 2014

48200 mi

US $400
Battery died, mechanic said alternator was "overcharging" to compensate. 

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2009 BMW 3-Series 2dr Coupe

230-horsepower 3.0L I6 6-speed shiftable automatic RWD

BMW 3-Series in Illinois, United States
Jun 2013 - Dec 2015
Nov 2013

49900 mi
Battery would not hold charge and was replaced. 
Jan 2014

50500 mi
Reverse light burned out & was replaced. Not accessible to the owner, no instructions in the manual. 
BMW 3-Series in Georgia, United States
Jul 2015 - Nov 2016
Nov 2016

143000 mi

US $100
Right rear bearing inner core broke. Started scraping sound after 15-20 minutes of driving. 
BMW 3-Series in Florida, United States
Mar 2009 - Sep 2017
Jul 2011

23000 mi
Rear passenger brake light bulb replaced 
Nov 2012

39600 mi
Replaced starter 
Mar 2015

59000 mi

US $50
Valve cover gasket leaking, replaced under extended warranty Windshield washer pump leaking, still worked, but slowly leaked all the fluid out. 
Dec 2016

68000 mi

US $450
Car began to start weak Valve cover gasket leaks 
May 2017

69000 mi

US $1100
Belt tensioner Front suspension control arm bushings 
BMW 3-Series in Massachusetts, United States
Aug 2012 - Dec 2015
Jul 2013

40200 mi
This was a recall for a bad connection to the battery. Water was leaking around one of the rear turn signal lights and collecting in the area where the amplifier is housed. This was shorting out the amp, causing many issues with the audio system. 
Aug 2013

40900 mi
Water was leaking around one of the rear turn signal lights and collecting in the area where the amplifier is housed. This was shorting out the amp, causing many issues with the audio system. 
Sep 2014

47000 mi

US $45
Pinch sensor on the sunroof needed to be reset. 
Oct 2014

47000 mi
The tire pressure monitor system lost connection with all four tires, reporting them all as low. 

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2009 BMW 3-Series 2dr Coupe

230-horsepower 3.0L I6 6-speed shiftable automatic AWD

BMW 3-Series in Massachusetts, United States
Mar 2011 - Mar 2014
Apr 2013

36200 mi
headlamp burnout 
BMW 3-Series in New York, United States
Dec 2014 - Dec 2014
Dec 2014

98000 mi
Vanos needed to be replaced 
BMW 3-Series in Colorado, United States
Jun 2015 - Feb 2016
Oct 2015

56000 mi

US $50
Fan belt idler pulley was replaced. 
BMW 3-Series in Colorado, United States
May 2012 - Jun 2022
Mar 2015

48000 mi

US $3760
AC evap? had to be replaced. It is located behind the dash so it took a lot of labor hours to fix. Total cost for this was about $2800. Replace belt tensioner 
Mar 2016

53000 mi

US $300
Variable valve timing unit had an oil leak. 
May 2021

92000 mi

US $3200
Compressor died. Needed a new one along with some other repairs. Replaced leaking [drivetrain] gaskets 
Apr 2022

95000 mi

US $600
Replace windshield washer motor 

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2009 BMW 3-Series 2dr Coupe

230-horsepower 3.0L I6 6-speed manual RWD

BMW 3-Series in New York, United States
Jul 2009 - Aug 2012
Jul 2011

6000 mi
Gas cap fell apart and was replaced 

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2009 BMW 3-Series 2dr Coupe

230-horsepower 3.0L I6 6-speed manual AWD

BMW 3-Series in California, United States
Aug 2010 - Mar 2014
Mar 2011

16000 mi
Fixed rear brake lamp and seat belt extensioner.  
Apr 2012

32000 mi
Heated steering wheel malfunctioned and replaced by dealer. If not under warranty this wound have cost $1200!!! 

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2009 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 2009 BMW 3-Series problems occur, check out our car reliability stats.