2011 BMW 3-Series BMW 3-Series 2011

We are 103,000+ car owners sharing real-world car information.

Join Us

2011 BMW 3-Series repairs by problem area

Engine (49%)

Transmission and Drivetrain (5%)

Brakes and Traction Control (3%)

Suspension and Steering (7%)

Electrical and Air Conditioning (23%)

Paint, Rust, Leaks, Rattles, and Trim (8%)

Other (5%)

Chart based on 688 repairs.
See TSBs and recalls for the 2011 BMW 3-Series.

2011 BMW 3-Series repair cost distribution

$2500+ (5%)

$1000 - $2499 (15%)

$500 - $999 (16%)

$100 - $499 (26%)

< $100 (38%)

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

Chart based on 354 repair trips. The repair cost chart excludes repairs made under warranty, do-it-yourself repairs, and repair trips that include maintenance.

2011 BMW 3-Series

Engine not specified

BMW 3-Series in Rhode Island, United States
Feb 2017 - Mar 2017
Mar 2017

53000 mi

US $1200
Engine plug wiring harness worn and exposed could cause engine failure computer failure. Replaced wiring harness 
BMW 3-Series in Quebec, Canada
Apr 2015 - Mar 2016
Jul 2015

31200 mi
Cracked expansion tank 
BMW 3-Series in Utah, United States
Feb 2017 - Feb 2017
Feb 2017

103000 mi

US $1200
Engine overheating. Water pump not circulating coolant. Electric water pump and thermostat replaced 
BMW 3-Series in Florida, United States
Jul 2010 - Jun 2011
Aug 2010

2000 mi
Broken valve spring 

Return to top

2011 BMW 3-Series 4dr Wagon

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

BMW 3-Series in North Carolina, United States
Apr 2015 - Dec 2019
Jun 2017

55000 mi

US $200
ignition coil 
Jun 2018

68000 mi

US $200
replaced spark plugs and ignition coils x 6. fixed problem 
Mar 2019

80000 mi
vanos bolts sheared. repaired under warranty and/or recall. drives great again 

Return to top

2011 BMW 3-Series 4dr Wagon

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

BMW 3-Series in Nevada, United States
Nov 2013 - Jan 2016
Apr 2014

45000 mi
Loose accessory drive belt tensioner - repaired under warranty Front control arm bushings were coming out of the control arm assembly - replaced under warranty 
Jun 2014

46000 mi
Automatic transmission would not shift between gears properly 
BMW 3-Series in Ontario, Canada
Mar 2013 - Feb 2017
Feb 2017

117800 mi

C $500
replaced front rotors 
BMW 3-Series in Pennsylvania, United States
Sep 2016 - Sep 2018
Sep 2018

70000 mi

US $1200
Water pump died 
BMW 3-Series in Wisconsin, United States
Aug 2016 - Jan 2017
Oct 2016

55200 mi

US $120
Rear hatch assist struts failed 
BMW 3-Series in Massachusetts, United States
Jan 2011 - Sep 2021
Apr 2011

4000 mi
I always use the auto trans in manual mode. When shifting from 2nd it would go into neutral momentarily before going into 3rd about 10 percent of the time. Dealer said transmission firmware couldn't learn when manual mode always used. Dealer reproduced problem and contacted BMW who said I needed to drive more miles with transmission in D instead of manual mode in order for transmission to "learn." But could not tell me how many miles I needed to drive this way.  
Oct 2011

10000 mi
Auto trans would not shift correctly about 25 percent of time but only when in manual mode and only when upshifting 2nd to 3rd. Entire transmission replaced. Steering wheel shaft knuckle gear was binding to create high steering effort. 
Nov 2011

10000 mi
Steering column knuckle gear was binding since the car was brand new so was replaced.  Entire transmission (auto) replaced. Problem only occurred when in manual mode and only during upshift from 2nd to 3rd gear. Transmission would momentarily (1 to 2 seconds)shift into neutral between 2 to 3 upshift. Fault code found. Steering column knuckle gear was binding since the car was brand new so was replaced.  
May 2014

46500 mi
Left front speaker drops out for a few seconds then comes back on if you raise volume or open/close drivers door. Despite playing a recording to the shop foreman the dealer could not repair because they did not hear it themselves. Headlight washing nozzles are leaking and they were replaced. My reservoir was losing washer fluid. 
Jul 2014

47300 mi
Idler pully replaced left speaker cuts out randomly Driver door switch module replaced due to sticking rear window lockout switch 
Feb 2015

55400 mi

US $1200
Battery not holding charge and seemed reasonable after 4 bad winters. The charging module showed a fault and told it needed to be replaced. "registerable" BMW Battery $500, charging module $400.  
Mar 2017

71000 mi

US $975
One coil started missing. Recommended replacing all 6 due to high cost of labor. Also replace plugs. 
Apr 2017

72000 mi

US $675
VANOS solenoid (2) were sticking causing barely able to idle and erratic throttle. 
Aug 2017

75000 mi

US $2500
Replace alternator and ground cable 
Jan 2018

78000 mi

US $800
Replaced 2.5 year old BMW dealer battery. Replace front end control arms due to seized alignment bolts 
Feb 2018

79000 mi

US $1000
The entire PRND shifter module needed to be replaced. Was not always possible to put shifter into D position-needed to wiggle it around until it indicated D on dash display. Instead would go into M1 and would not shift out of M1 - car would reached rev limit and cut fuel. 
Apr 2019

85000 mi

US $1000
ABS tone rings rusted and rust build up scrapping against sensor so ruining sensor 
BMW 3-Series in Connecticut, United States
Aug 2016 - Aug 2016
Aug 2016

68000 mi

US $300
Moonroof does not work and glove box cover was peeling off. Dealership wouldn't cover in warranty 
BMW 3-Series in Massachusetts, United States
Oct 2013 - Jun 2018
Nov 2014

41100 mi
left rear bearing was noisy and replaced under warrantee 
Jan 2016

43300 mi

US $300
Battery test revealed battery needed to be replaced. 

Return to top

2011 BMW 3-Series 4dr Wagon

230-horsepower 3.0L I6 6-speed manual RWD

BMW 3-Series in Maine, United States
Jun 2011 - Jan 2022
Nov 2014

32300 mi
Leaky headlight washer nozzle replaced 

Return to top

2011 BMW 3-Series 4dr Wagon

230-horsepower 3.0L I6 6-speed manual AWD

BMW 3-Series in Ontario, Canada
Jul 2017 - Jun 2018
Feb 2018

93000 mi

C $100
FRM3 corruption, needed to reflash working EEE 
Jun 2018

94240 mi

C $200
known FRM3 corruption failure. Open recall in the USA, but not in Canada 
BMW 3-Series in Illinois, United States
Sep 2016 - Jun 2018
Aug 2017

80000 mi
Scheduled maintenance covered under extended warranty. Oil change, filter changes, general inspection of vehicle. The steering pump on this car emits an low, but audible hum and has since I owned it. Dealer's Master Technicians say this is normal for some of this generation 3-series. ...keeping an ear on it. 
Mar 2018

94000 mi

US $985
Pot hole impact bent lower steering column. The tires on that side of the car deflected to a point that they left black marks on the rims. There was impact to the degree that the control stalks for rear wiper and bright lights activated. ...yet no tire or rim damage. One of the u-joints in the steering column bent such that the steering input became uneven. Easy-hard-easy-hard as it moved through its rotation. 
BMW 3-Series in Connecticut, United States
Feb 2015 - Mar 2016
Sep 2015

77000 mi

US $50
Complained of a rough idle from time to time. Dealer replaced the coil packs. 

Return to top

2011 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

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

BMW 3-Series in Texas, United States
May 2014 - Mar 2016
Jun 2015

54000 mi

US $1100
Transmission seal hard starting, replaced battery. Installed new battery. One of few items not covered by CPO or paid maintenance policy. $600 with install. That and some other BS turned me off on BMW of Dallas. turn light 
Aug 2015

59000 mi

US $54
On freeway when got a backfire. Lost boost and transmission acting odd. Upon inspection the intake from air cleaner to MAF had blown off and bracket ruptured. Had car towed to dealer.  Also had bad vibration on AC blower. Replaced. CPO fixed. 
Oct 2015

60500 mi
Car goes into overheat warning them limp mode but analog temp says no problem. Suspect car came with after market flash of prom. Overheat warning again on the way home. Took it back and kept for 3 more days. Seems had a hair line crack in the water reservoir tank. Then to add insult to injury tried to hit me for another deductible on the CPO for a new service. 
Mar 2016

63000 mi

US $1297
The main CPO was the unknown of valve cover oil leak. The TPM (tire pressure) was a CPO item but they laid it off on both rear senders being bad so got to charge me for those and a fat fee for diagnostics. 
BMW 3-Series in Illinois, United States
Nov 2016 - Jul 2019
Feb 2017

77000 mi

US $1400
Had an oil filter gasket leak, took about 3-4 hours of work and cost 600 bucks. Oil pan gasket leak noticed during oil change. Repair cost 800 dollars. 
Mar 2017

77000 mi
Shop told that the Mechatronics unit is not working properly and should be replaced. Part costs $3500 with labor it is about $4000. It causes jerky shifts especially between first and second gear and flare shifts where transmission slams into gears very hard. 
Sep 2017

83000 mi

US $450
Wheel speed sensor failed had to replace. 
BMW 3-Series in Illinois, United States
Mar 2015 - Sep 2018
Mar 2017

76000 mi

US $1380
Oil leak from filter housing Replace radiator hoses due to oil leak Replace belt and tensioner 
Sep 2017

83000 mi

US $650
P0456 code --- 3 trips for smoke test, replace DMTL pump and fuel tank vent valve 
BMW 3-Series in Ontario, Canada
May 2014 - Apr 2018
Jun 2015

83080 mi

C $850
Car was going into limp mode around this mileage. So read the engine codes using code reader. Based on symptoms and online help replaced ignition coils and spark plugs but didn't help. So changed hi press fuel pump and that worked 
Feb 2016

86880 mi

C $150
The gasket around the oil cooler housing was leaking. So replace two gaskets around that area. Because the coolant and oil might have been contaminated because of the leak, replaced both these fluids as well at the same time. 
Sep 2016

90520 mi

C $600
Big mess underneath the car with oil dripping but with the undertray it doesn't flow on the ground so hard to pinpoint. Found the source, it was oil pan gasket leaking. Got it fixed 
BMW 3-Series in Pennsylvania, United States
Dec 2015 - Dec 2019
Mar 2016

40000 mi
Trunk latch would intermittently not latch on closure. Dealer replaced latch under warranty. 
Mar 2018

53000 mi

US $290
All washer fluid drained from vehicle. 
BMW 3-Series in California, United States
Oct 2015 - Dec 2016
Nov 2016

83600 mi

US $80
Front suspension lower arms replaced because of worn out bushings 
BMW 3-Series in North Carolina, United States
May 2015 - Mar 2021
Jan 2016

US $400
Have replaced high pressure fuel pump,  thermostat, and water pump 
BMW 3-Series in California, United States
Aug 2010 - Jun 2012
May 2011

12700 mi
Both left and right adaptive headlight module replaced; ECU reflashed to sync the modules. 
BMW 3-Series in Texas, United States
Feb 2014 - Jun 2014
Apr 2014

34300 mi
fives 
BMW 3-Series in Ohio, United States
Jun 2017 - Jun 2018
Sep 2017

59000 mi

US $1500
Water pump failed 
BMW 3-Series in Texas, United States
Jun 2013 - Dec 2015
Aug 2013

19000 mi
Rear doors were rattling. 
Dec 2014

34000 mi
High Pressure Fuel Pump failed. Car was driving normally except for one single instance of reduced power. Otherwise, it drove fine. I suspect it could have gone another week or even a few months. 
Jul 2015

40700 mi
Charge pipe self-destructed. Dealer replaced under warranty. Took less than 2 hours. 
BMW 3-Series in California, United States
Mar 2013 - Oct 2019
Apr 2014

14500 mi
Reduced engine warning light: two hoses and an actuator. 
Dec 2016

48000 mi
Oil filter housing casket leak. Repaired under warranty. 
Feb 2017

51000 mi
door lock failed 
Dec 2017

59000 mi
Expansion tank was leaking, prompted by warning light. Covered by extended warranty. 
May 2019

73000 mi
Water pump failure while driving on highway, never totally overheated 
BMW 3-Series in Virginia, United States
Mar 2018 - Jun 2018
Apr 2018

75000 mi

US $200
AC system evacuation, leak check, and recharge. No leaks found so a simple recharge fixed the issue. 
BMW 3-Series in Arizona, United States
May 2017 - Oct 2019
Jun 2017

75000 mi

US $150
Water pump had failed rendering the car non-operational. Water pump + thermostat replaced by shop Freon was only at 50 percent and AC was not blowing very cold. Freon recharged and schrader valves replaced. 
Dec 2017

79000 mi
Indy shop had warned me that oil had been seeping from the oil filter housing gasket a couple of times when I previously had my car on the shop, but stated that it wasn't an immediate concern. In ~December 2017, I decided to have it addressed. 
Aug 2018

83000 mi

US $600
Charge pipe failed so it was replaced. 
BMW 3-Series in Texas, United States
Feb 2010 - Jun 2018
Sep 2010

1713 mi
Replaced iDrive controller and battery 
Jan 2016

34313 mi

US $326
Slow starting, replaced battery. Oil filter housing gasket was leaking and gasket was replaced. 
Dec 2017

90280 mi

US $1225
Replaced starter 
Jan 2018

91340 mi

US $677
Replaced rear brakes and rotors 
BMW 3-Series in Texas, United States
Aug 2013 - May 2017
Jun 2014

49000 mi
The car would stall as the car was slowed to a stop at a traffic light. The engine speed went from 2000 rpm down to zero without leveling off at idle. The dealer updated the programmed fuel curves and the car idles smoothly now. 
Jun 2016

78000 mi

US $708
Water pump replaced. Engine intake cracked during prior repair. Reduced power light was lit before repair. Reduced Power light came on. Actuator for turbocharger waste gate failed to keep waste gate closed. Reduced power as a result. Actuators were fixed to allow engine to build up boost. 
Sep 2016

84000 mi

US $1585
The reduced power light came on resulitng in the third vist to the dealer for the same symptom. The High Pressure Fuel Pump failed and was replaced. A fuel line sensor was also replaced. 
BMW 3-Series in California, United States
Jun 2013 - Jun 2022
Sep 2013

35000 mi
Exhaust rattle. surging idle. 
Jul 2014

42000 mi
broken hid headlight mounting bracket. 
Mar 2015

50000 mi
Electric Water pump failure, heater core was replaced at same time. Oil leak notied during water pump repair. Pan was resealed. 
Sep 2015

53000 mi

US $120
Sensor related battery needed replacing slight leak in coolant overflow tank 
Jun 2016

59000 mi

US $50
Replaced evaporator. 
Apr 2017

67000 mi

US $820
Repair blower motor. 

Return to top

2011 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

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

BMW 3-Series in Ontario, Canada
Jul 2011 - Oct 2013
Apr 2012

12700 mi
Battery failed load test at 9.2V (charge status at 51%). Alternator output at 110amps. Replaced battery under warranty. 
BMW 3-Series in Massachusetts, United States
Apr 2014 - Mar 2016
Apr 2015

55500 mi

US $500
Blue tooth not working with new Android update 
Oct 2015

61000 mi

US $2000
belt tensioner pulley bearings were noisy,  replaced leaking oil pump gasket, 
Nov 2015

61300 mi
cooling overflow tank cracked 3 days after tensioner pulley and water pump gasket were replaced. dealer says not related. not happy. 
BMW 3-Series in Quebec, Canada
Apr 2015 - Sep 2020
Dec 2015

93620 mi
oil leak at the filter housing wishbone, one link kit and 3 ball joints replaced 
BMW 3-Series in Indiana, United States
May 2015 - Jun 2018
Nov 2016

55100 mi

US $50
AC Blower motor replacement Sunroof motor replacement 
Jan 2018

65000 mi

US $75
Coolant expansion tank replaced 
BMW 3-Series in Pennsylvania, United States
Oct 2010 - Oct 2013
Jul 2011

10000 mi
Electrical system malfunction noted, said car could not be driven but there were no problems with driving it. Took it to dealer on no notice. 
BMW 3-Series in Quebec, Canada
Apr 2010 - Apr 2012
Jun 2010

310 mi
car delivered to me with faulty CD/DVD player CD/DVD replaced at dealership but steering was scratched and wood trim was not properly installed in the dash.. 
BMW 3-Series in New Jersey, United States
Oct 2010 - Dec 2013
Mar 2013

46000 mi
The fuel pump sensor needed repairing. 
Jun 2013

50000 mi
Park distance control malfunction 

Return to top

2011 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

turbocharged 300hp 3.0L I6 6-speed manual RWD

BMW 3-Series in Illinois, United States
Oct 2010 - Oct 2012
Aug 2011

10200 mi
The DMTL pump and sensor were faulty within the fuel system causing a CEL. The pump, sensor, and related tubing were all replaced under warranty  
Sep 2012

26000 mi
Engine would die on cold start up. Dealer was able to replicate the problem. They re-programmed the DME and adjusted the idle. 
Oct 2012

26000 mi
After previous repair trip the engine had slow throttle response. the engine also made strange noises, and on two occasions would hang during acceleration The dealer had the car for 45 days before declaring that they cannot fix the car even with help from the factory. BMW will be taking the car back 
BMW 3-Series in Alabama, United States
Jan 2015 - Sep 2016
Mar 2015

16000 mi

US $800
Intake air pressure sensor 
Nov 2015

23000 mi

US $150
Active steering reset 
Jun 2016

30000 mi

US $600
Alignment off due to unknown suspension problem 
BMW 3-Series in Texas, United States
Sep 2014 - Jun 2018
Aug 2015

42700 mi

US $50
Car went into limp safety mode while on the highway. Checked overflow reservoir after it cooled down and coolant was below the minimum mark. Failed water pump replaced under CPO warranty. Turbo engine burning through quart of oil every 3-4 months. Dealer found oil leak and repaired under CPO warranty. 
Oct 2015

43700 mi
After a high speed drive, engine block + stability control warning lights came on. Dealership replaced a bad intake pipe sensor on inter-cooler. Engine temperature warning light came on again - dealer replaced leaking overflow reservoir. While replacing the failing water pump 2 months ago, dealership probably didn't inspect it or it wasn't leaking at the time. 
Jan 2016

47300 mi
Engine temp light on again! After replacing overflow reservoir, dealer failed to add water/coolant. 
Apr 2017

53000 mi
My CPO warranty ran out Nov 2016. In March 2017, the 6-speed manual shifter LOUDLY popped out of 1st gear. So loudly that I thought I'd ran over something! I thought it was a fluke from not properly engaging the clutch, but it kept reoccurring. Called the local BMW dealer about diagnosing it but he said they didn't fix transmissions, only replaced them. Took it to an independent mechanic specializing only in European cars - he drove it and re-created the problem. $5K parts/labor for used transmission and $7K for new! On a car with barely 50K miles?? I decided to skip the repair and shift out of first as soon as the car starts rolling. Not ideal for enjoying the "ultimate driving machine" but it beats driving in fear of losing power in the middle of an intersection. Now I understand why people lease BMW's or sell them as soon as the warranty runs out. Buyer beware!! 
BMW 3-Series in Ohio, United States
May 2014 - Jun 2018
May 2015

48000 mi

US $50
Car had sluggish shifting and then a yellow coolant warning. Coolant low, suspected leak. Took to dealer, checked and found nothing. Next day, reoccurrence with a red coolant light. Issue traced to failed water pump. Fixed under warranty. 
BMW 3-Series in Connecticut, United States
Sep 2011 - Sep 2014
Jul 2014

32000 mi
Engine malfunction message, car went into "limp home" mode and would not restart once stopped. BMW dealer did a software re-install and initialization across multiple systems. Glad this was covered by warranty! Rear left muffler rattle, repaired by replacing entire unit. Apparently internal flap was broken. 
BMW 3-Series in Texas, United States
Apr 2011 - Oct 2015
Jul 2011

3800 mi
Evacuate and recharge AC system; no real improvement. 
May 2014

22300 mi
Inability to latch trunk; repeated "trunk open" warnings despite trunk being closed. 
Feb 2015

24000 mi
Repeat visit: trunk fails to latch in freezing weather. This is now the 5th repair attempt. 
Sep 2015

25000 mi
Passenger front seat replaced due to "screeching" sound when using power seat adjustment. 
Oct 2015

25000 mi
Radio "acquiring signal" on every start after car sits for more than a day or two. This is now this car's THIRD radio; would have cost well over $1k if out of warranty. 
BMW 3-Series in California, United States
May 2014 - Feb 2022
Dec 2014

56000 mi

US $75
Replace oil filter housing gasket 
Sep 2017

82000 mi

US $350
Replace starter motor 
Oct 2017

82000 mi

US $160
Replace battery and register to vehicle 
Feb 2022

109000 mi

US $60
Evaporative emissions leak caused check engine light to turn on - code indicated small leak. Replaced DMTL pump. 

Return to top

2011 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

turbocharged 300hp 3.0L I6 6-speed manual AWD

BMW 3-Series in New York, United States
Sep 2011 - Sep 2013
Mar 2013

15000 mi
Adaptive light module malfunction. 
BMW 3-Series in New Jersey, United States
Sep 2011 - Jun 2018
Dec 2014

50000 mi
Sticking parking brake - springs and pad replaced Windshield washer pump replaced Water leak around passenger-side front door - gaskets replaced Seat lumbar support replaced Clutch shuddering 
Jul 2016

67300 mi

US $800
Thrust rod bushings replaced. 
Dec 2016

70000 mi

US $500
Engine hard to start when weather is cold, often runs rough and dies. ECU reprogrammed, which appears to have worked around the problem. 
Apr 2018

79000 mi

US $1800
Head gasket replaced 4-wheel alignment 
BMW 3-Series in Alberta, Canada
Mar 2016 - Jun 2018
May 2016

62000 mi

C $2000
Overheated on highway, water pump failure. Oil filter housing leaking, replaced filter housing. 
BMW 3-Series in Maryland, United States
Jan 2014 - Jan 2015
Sep 2014

71000 mi

US $2000
Replaced Water Pump 
BMW 3-Series in Colorado, United States
Jul 2014 - Jan 2016
Jan 2016

59000 mi
Dual mass flywheel has hot spots. Didnt notice tgis in the test drive since it surfaces only on hot days and if I have been driving around quite a bit 
BMW 3-Series in Massachusetts, United States
Dec 2012 - Sep 2014
Apr 2014

44000 mi
Coolant pump failed 
Aug 2014

46600 mi
Headlight replaced Sticker around start button delaminating 
BMW 3-Series in New Jersey, United States
Nov 2013 - Jun 2014
May 2014

28000 mi
Erratic idle, a slight stall in cold and then a CEL that came & went. Dealer read out codes, replaced a VANOS solenoid and a fuel tank purge valve. There is no CEL, but there is no improvement to idle either. 
Jun 2014

28000 mi
Erratic idle. 
BMW 3-Series in New York, United States
Oct 2014 - Oct 2017
Nov 2014

33800 mi
Exhaust/ muffler rattle. Replaced under warranty. 
Jun 2016

53000 mi

US $50
Jumpy irregular idle at startup. No fix. No diagnosis. 
Oct 2016

55500 mi

US $1200
Water pump died 
Mar 2017

59000 mi

US $1200
Oil leak at filter housing. Misfires due to coil failure. 

Return to top

2011 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

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

BMW 3-Series in Florida, United States
Sep 2012 - Sep 2013
Apr 2012

17000 mi
Replace A/C compressor belt. 
Dec 2012

24000 mi
Recharged battery. Still get battery warnings when driven short distances. 
BMW 3-Series in Georgia, United States
Jun 2012 - Jun 2018
Dec 2013

32000 mi
sensor in fuel tank failed. replaced under warranty 
Apr 2014

34300 mi
Car would not start. Problem was with intake manifold. Replaced under BMW warranty 
Jun 2014

41000 mi
Fuel pump replaced 
Oct 2015

64700 mi

US $3000
SES light on. Carbon buildup in cylinders and intake manifold. Manifold removed, cylinders cleaned as well as manifold. 
BMW 3-Series in Rhode Island, United States
Nov 2016 - Jan 2022
Mar 2021

125000 mi

US $300
Emissions issue 
BMW 3-Series in New Jersey, United States
Feb 2014 - Oct 2015
Oct 2015

56000 mi
carbon buildup in intake manifold 
BMW 3-Series in California, United States
Aug 2017 - Sep 2018
Jul 2017

86000 mi

US $3200
Maintenance, intake carbon cleaning, diagnose multiple SAS codes 
Sep 2017

93000 mi

US $4000
DEF tank and sensor failure, Oxygen sensor (2) failure, ,multiple SAS codes, could not smog 
Oct 2017

93000 mi

US $5200
Transmission failure. It was randomly downshifting to second gear from 6th during highway passing maneuvers. Turns out that the tranny is spec'd to last only 200k km so mine was still a bit premature. 
BMW 3-Series in California, United States
Dec 2012 - Jun 2018
Mar 2013

46000 mi
iDrive system control knob completely non-functional. Exhaust leak at front of engine. 
Jun 2017

90000 mi

US $600
Oil leak - turbo cooling line. 
Dec 2017

99000 mi

US $1800
Glowplug replacement. Replace headlight. 
BMW 3-Series in Colorado, United States
Nov 2013 - Apr 2017
Dec 2013

18000 mi
Drivers door control panel for windows and side mirrors failed and was non-responsive. Prior to delivery, dealer replaced control panel (no charge to owner). 
May 2014

20000 mi
Wind noise from drivers door (door appeared not to be latching tight against seal). Rattle from instrument cover glass. 
Sep 2014

21000 mi
Creaking from doors going over off-camber ground. Dealer lubricated door seals, which corrected problem. 
Jun 2016

29000 mi

US $50
DEF tank temperature sensor read out of limits. DEF tank replaced under warranty. 
Aug 2016

30100 mi
DEF valve clogged, leading to check engine light. Appears to have been related to DEF tank replacement earlier. 
BMW 3-Series in Arizona, United States
May 2014 - Oct 2015
Jun 2014

59000 mi

US $1539
MAF air sensor failure, turbo charger balance and sequential pipe o-rings and upper turbo oil feed line replaced due to leaks. 
Oct 2015

70000 mi

US $150
Rough idle, engine stumbles intermittently. Dealer diagnosed carbon buildup but not confirmed visually. Estimated cost to clean $2900. Instead I purchased BG fuel system cleaner and fuel filter, fixed. 
BMW 3-Series in New Jersey, United States
Aug 2010 - Dec 2013
Oct 2010

2700 mi
Leather replaced on driver seat cushion. Small fold was present in leather when car was delivered, creating uncomfortable hard spot. 
Oct 2011

11300 mi
Urea injection required refill for second time. Should last 15,000 miles. Dealer diagnosed and replaced urea pump. 
Jun 2012

24000 mi
Belt squeal when starting car with compressor on. From reading forums on-line, apparently this is an issue with the 335ds only (not X5 diesel). 
Jun 2013

35000 mi
Check engine light on. Defective swirl flaps in intake manifold. Steering column is squeaking. 
BMW 3-Series in Ohio, United States
Jul 2010 - Jul 2016
Sep 2010

1000 mi
Service Engine Soon light came on. Problem was a stuck DEF valve. Dealer cleaned valve and all is well. 
Feb 2011

4700 mi
Low Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) warning stating car wouldn't be startable after driving 1000 miles from time of initial warning. DEF fill is supposed to last until first scheduled maintenance at around 12k miles. Warning came at 4600mi. 
Jul 2013

26000 mi
Brief but loud screeching noise coming from engine compartment, after car sits for several hours on hot days. Dealer was unable to duplicate. No repair made so far. 
Apr 2014

34200 mi
Noisy blower motor. Noisy AC compressor clutch. The problem is, the noise only occurs on hot days, and we haven't had any yet. this year. Weatherstripping at bottom of rear window keeps falling off. This is 4th attempt by dealer to fix. This time they removed the entire window and replaced all of the trim surrounding it. 
Aug 2015

42300 mi

US $500
I drive error message. Excessive battery drain. Solved by replacing battery. 
Jun 2016

48000 mi

US $250
Check engine light came on. Dealer changed EGR valve. Did not solve the problem. 
Jul 2016

48000 mi

US $550
Dealer now believes check engine light was caused by carbon buildup in the intake system. Dismantled intake system for walnut-shell blasting to remove carbon buildup. Light still on. 
BMW 3-Series in Illinois, United States
Jun 2012 - Mar 2017
Dec 2012

18000 mi
Vent deflector broke off 
Jun 2013

22000 mi
Squeak from engine area. Was result of previous service campaign work. 
Jan 2014

51700 mi
Fan blower unit was failing. Replaced. 
Sep 2016

64000 mi

US $3000
Car wouldn't start when warm. High pressure fuel pump and fuel filter replaced 
BMW 3-Series in Texas, United States
Dec 2014 - Jun 2018
Feb 2016

54600 mi

US $761
Replaced Nox sensor 
BMW 3-Series in Alabama, United States
Oct 2014 - Jan 2022
Feb 2015

59700 mi
Due to Carbon buildup, CPU was throwing many codes, and fuel consumption was up. They replaced the intake runners and a few other things, totaling about 3k worth of work. 
Aug 2018

103000 mi

US $1800
Boost pipe and Harmonic Balancer will fail, replaced in preparation 
Jan 2022

145000 mi

US $850
had to replace two front ABS sensors replace blower motor 
BMW 3-Series in Florida, United States
May 2015 - Jul 2020
Feb 2017

87785 mi

US $53
Carbon Buildup. Sent intake off to be hot tanked, did walnut blast carbon cleaning. Also replaced gaskets: 11-61-7-790-198 11-61-2-246-945 11-61-2-245-439 11-12-7-796-378 13-54-7-792-098 Covered under extended warranty. Cylinder 4 injector 
Dec 2017

99400 mi

US $700
Harmonic Balancer failed. Replaced with OEM part. During repair also replaced non-failed but wear items: -Thermostat -Idler Pulley -1Gal BMW Coolant -Both drive belts 
May 2018

104000 mi
SCR Tank Check engine light illuminated. Known problem with extended warranty. Replaced active tank. 
BMW 3-Series in California, United States
Apr 2014 - Jun 2014
Jun 2014

24000 mi
EGR valve replacement. 
BMW 3-Series in California, United States
Jun 2010 - Jan 2012
Sep 2010

6000 mi
fuel valve was malfunctioning and replaced. car could not be driven over 20mph 
Dec 2010

9000 mi
engine stalling due to insulation stuffed into connector by factory 
BMW 3-Series in Louisiana, United States
Jun 2015 - Oct 2018
Aug 2015

51700 mi
Bad catalytic converter 
Feb 2016

57300 mi
Catalytic converter was replaced under emissions warranty. 
May 2016

61800 mi

US $2500
Urea tank temperature sensor failed. Whole tank replaced due to temperature sensor built into tank in a manner which prevents sensor service/replacement independent of tank replacement. 
Apr 2018

82321 mi

US $1700
Battery, Crankshaft Pulley,  CV Joint Recall, and Motor Mounts replaced. 
BMW 3-Series in California, United States
Aug 2013 - Mar 2018
May 2016

25000 mi
SES soon light on. SCR metering valve had to be replaced. Dealer replaced it free under Technical Bulletin. 
Jun 2016

25000 mi

US $600
Control Module for Glow Plugs showed a fault and needed to be replaced. 
Sep 2017

33000 mi

US $500
Mass Air Sensor failure causes SES light to come one. Dealer replaced Mass Air Sensor. Total cost was approximately $500. Third Party Extended Warranty (Mercury) paid all but my $100 deductible. 
BMW 3-Series in New Jersey, United States
May 2014 - Jun 2014
Jun 2014

29000 mi
System checked. Found OK. Routine scheduled maintenance performed one month ahead of schedule. 
BMW 3-Series in North Carolina, United States
Sep 2011 - Dec 2013
Dec 2012

25000 mi
iDrive Controller trim was showing bubbles - entire controller replaced under warranty with updated model. 
Nov 2013

44000 mi
Dealer forgot to reset steering angle sensor 
Dec 2013

44000 mi
Dealer had to add DEF 
BMW 3-Series in California, United States
Jun 2012 - Jul 2014
Jan 2013

27700 mi
Radio loses set stations. 
May 2013

21800 mi
Diesel fuel tank "tick" when taking slow 90 degree turns 
BMW 3-Series in Texas, United States
Oct 2010 - Aug 2013
Mar 2011

5000 mi
Missing front clamps for rocker panels on both sides of the car. 
Jan 2012

15000 mi
Stop pad with ejector for fuel filler not working properly. 
Feb 2013

28000 mi
Indicator light in FZD module failed. Replaced indicator light. 
BMW 3-Series in Texas, United States
Oct 2011 - Jul 2013
Jan 2013

49000 mi
Service Engine Soon light illuminated. Passive tank sensors in DEF tank reading incorrectly. Replaced active/passive tank assembly. 
BMW 3-Series in Indiana, United States
Nov 2011 - Jun 2018
Dec 2012

40000 mi
Repaired broken passenger cup holder. 
Sep 2014

79000 mi

US $2000
Replaced Selective Catalytic Reduction tank due to faulty sensor. Replaced Selective Catalytic Reduction tank due to faulty sensor. 
May 2015

91000 mi
Replaced hot-film airmass meter and SCR temperature sensor 
Sep 2015

97000 mi

US $50
Check engine light. Updated car software & replaced two (2) NOx sensors. 
Dec 2015

98000 mi
BMW Germany said to replace catalytic converter. Said not covered by extended warranty. Bargained and will pay $500 labor and BMW will supply converter. Not in yet from Germany 
Apr 2016

109500 mi

US $463
Catalytic converter replaced. Dealer provided part and I paid labor ($463) 
Nov 2017

33933 mi

US $179
Replace leaking turbocharger oil line (pipe) Replace OEM battery 
BMW 3-Series in Connecticut, United States
Mar 2012 - Jun 2014
May 2014

25000 mi
Emissions repair, needed new catalytic converter 
BMW 3-Series in Texas, United States
Oct 2011 - Jun 2018
Aug 2014

15600 mi
Check engine light - problem with the "Adblue", or urea injection system. CEL came back on within 100 miles of leaving dealership. Check engine light, and warning -> "Engine Will Not Restart in 100 Miles". Dealer reset CEL and fault codes. CEL and restart warning came back within 100 miles of leaving dealership. Check engine light. Warning -> "Engine Will Not Restart in 100 Miles". Urea / Adblue injector cleaned and 2 sensors were replaced. IIRC one of the failed sensors was for differential pressure on the DPF (Diesel particulate filter), the other O2. 
Dec 2017

50000 mi

US $1500
BMW can’t seem to understand that it actually gets cold in some parts of the US. And as such engineer a diesel exhaust emissions system that can function properly in the winter months. 
Feb 2018

52000 mi

US $1100
Cylinder #5 fuel injector was replaced. The harmonic balancer was replaced. Carbon buildup was cleaned out of the intake manifold. 
BMW 3-Series in New Hampshire, United States
Feb 2011 - Dec 2013
Sep 2011

26000 mi
Replaced bad glow plug. Replaced engine mount. 
Mar 2012

41000 mi
Diesel exhaust fluid tank replaced due to low pressure problem 
Jun 2013

75000 mi

US $900
Def injection system repair 
Dec 2013

79000 mi

US $3000
Carbon buildup in engine 
BMW 3-Series in Texas, United States
Mar 2015 - Mar 2016
Sep 2015

59000 mi

US $50
EGR cooler malfunction with CE light on. Part replaced under extended warranty 
Dec 2015

62000 mi

US $10
Rear taillight bulb out. Required substantial disassembly to replace. 

Return to top

2011 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

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

BMW 3-Series in Texas, United States
Nov 2010 - Feb 2018
Jul 2011

6000 mi
SES light on Oxygen sensor showed Secondary Air Valve failed. 
Feb 2013

23700 mi
Grinding noise while turning. Needed to replace fluid 
BMW 3-Series in Pennsylvania, United States
Mar 2014 - Oct 2016
Jun 2014

26000 mi
A bracket was loose on a piece of leather trim on the center part of the dashboard, which was replaced. 
BMW 3-Series in California, United States
Oct 2012 - Jul 2018
Jul 2015

58300 mi
Tire pressure monitoring system 
Apr 2016

63300 mi
Thermostat for emission control system 
Jul 2017

70000 mi

US $3600
Transmission fluid leak repair 
BMW 3-Series in North Carolina, United States
Mar 2011 - Dec 2019
Jan 2012

8000 mi
grinding noise with low speed turns. resolved with changing the differential fluid. Dealer resolved problem quickly. 
Dec 2012

18000 mi
replace oxygen sensor 
Nov 2017

50000 mi

US $1200
throttle actuator bank 2 failed. replaced both complete actuators at the same time. 
BMW 3-Series in Maryland, United States
Oct 2011 - Oct 2015
Jun 2015

51000 mi

US $300
Oil drain plug was messed up. I had to have the dealer helicoil and install a new one. 

Return to top

2011 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

414-horsepower 4.0L V8 6-speed manual RWD

BMW 3-Series in Georgia, United States
Sep 2010 - Mar 2018
Jan 2013

68500 mi
"Increased Emissions" message, needed a fuel system vent valve. 
Mar 2014

54000 mi

US $150
Front wheel speed sensor failed, disabled abs & stability 
Apr 2016

74200 mi

US $1000
Replaced thermostat. 
Sep 2016

75000 mi

US $3500
Replaced clutch Replaced wheel sensor Replaced battery 

Return to top

2011 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

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

BMW 3-Series in Arizona, United States
Oct 2010 - Sep 2013
Mar 2012

7000 mi
Car in for 1st scheduled maintenance: Oil change. Also wiper blades replaced (BMW noticed blades cracked). Both free as part of BMW warranty. BMW noticed AC noise. Leaking evaporator replaced. DIAG code D6450 00000000 19 01. Also Free. 
Oct 2012

7000 mi
Air conditioner not working. Air blowing but is not cold. Leaking evaporator replaced. This is the second time BMW has replaced the part. Service representative said they have been seeing issues with evaporators. Covered under BMW warranty. 
BMW 3-Series in Texas, United States
Jul 2014 - Jul 2016
Jul 2016

50000 mi
Replaced another coil pack. This makes a total of 5. Constantly going out. Had a yaw sensor come on on dash and then the ESC shut off. 
BMW 3-Series in Oregon, United States
Aug 2014 - Dec 2016
Aug 2016

31000 mi

US $50
bad coil 
Nov 2016

32300 mi

US $50
All kinds of computer messages in error. Took TWO WEEKS for them to sort it out, replacing CPU and other stuff. 
BMW 3-Series in North Carolina, United States
Jun 2011 - Sep 2014
Mar 2013

41000 mi
Wind noise on driver side door. Dealership replaced weatherstripping which helped dampen the noise. Replacement was done at no cost. 
BMW 3-Series in Texas, United States
Jan 2012 - Jun 2018
Apr 2012

11300 mi
The sensor that senses engine problems was faulty and was replaced. 
Apr 2013

18200 mi
Lumbar support on driver's side malfunctioned. 
Jul 2013

19800 mi
Lumbar support on driver's side malfunctioned. Wasn't fixed properly in April. 
Nov 2013

24000 mi
Car wouldn't start. After jumping it the electrical system flickered off and on, then the next morning, the car wouldn't jump. Had to tow it to dealer 
Aug 2014

27100 mi
A/C controller 
Feb 2015

30600 mi
Sensor malfunction caused one cylinder to not fire. All 6 sensors were replaced. 
Jun 2015

32000 mi
Lumbar in drivers seat does not stay fixed for 24 hours. Could not be fixed. Second attempt to fix it. 
May 2017

45000 mi

US $600
Engine bolt 
BMW 3-Series in Hawaii, United States
Jul 2011 - Oct 2012
May 2012

6000 mi

US $5400
Rear bumper repaired, rear deck lid replaced and paint. BMW does not have there own repair facility in Hawaii. 
BMW 3-Series in Washington, United States
Apr 2013 - Sep 2014
Jun 2013

12000 mi
Trunk latch sticking 
BMW 3-Series in California, United States
Jul 2017 - Jun 2018
May 2018

64000 mi

US $600
Replaced ignition coils and spark plugs after "check engine" light came on and car briefly sputtered. Apparently it was a failure of the #4 ignition coil. 
BMW 3-Series in California, United States
Jan 2014 - Feb 2016
Nov 2014

68100 mi
Camshaft sprocket retaining bolts failed and dropped into motor caused about 3200 in damage. Covered by BMW, recall. Engine misfire diagnosed bad ignition coil on cylinder 1 
Dec 2014

71000 mi

US $133
Car was dying at idle. Replaced intake vanos solenoid. Issue was resolved Vanos exhaust solenoid failed shortly after replacing intake solenoid. Replaced second solenoid. 
BMW 3-Series in California, United States
Nov 2014 - Jun 2015
Dec 2014

60000 mi

US $4000
oil measurement function stopped. oil sensor still doesn't function with replacement and new system with computer controller will cost ~$1700. Main computer on car is dead and replacement will cost ~$2300. 
Jan 2015

60200 mi
Main computer replaced. Water pump died and replaced 
BMW 3-Series in Arkansas, United States
Oct 2011 - Oct 2014
May 2012

14000 mi
Radio Screen washing out (fading).Bmw replaced with new radio. rubber seal on outside lower back window detached 
Jun 2012

15000 mi
Lower Right Corner Trim piece on the rear of Driver's Seat fell off. 
Jul 2013

32000 mi
Driver's side mirror making grinding noise when folding Back window trim came loose again Passenger side seatbelt would not fasten 
Aug 2013

32800 mi
IBS Battery cable failed 
Sep 2013

35000 mi
DMTL Pump(Emissions) replaced 
Dec 2013

37000 mi
Cylinder 5 misfiring, spark plug chipped.Replaced spark plug and ignition coil. Heat not working on passenger side.Heater core stopped up.Replaced heater core unit and topped off with coolant and bled system. Driver's side door lock malfunctioning. Driver's door lock actuator drive unit replaced Rear sunshade not operating. Replaced rear sunshade assembly. 
Apr 2014

43800 mi
AC blowing roughly. Blower Motor replaced Rear glass molding detaching from glass. Replaced rubber molding of rear windscreen. 
Jun 2014

44000 mi
Car would not shift out of first gear. Dealer tried to duplicate but could not do so. Passenger door lock opening extremely slowly. Suspect problem with actuator with driver's side having already been replaced. Dealer would not replace. 
Jul 2014

45200 mi
Rear window molding detached from window again. 
Oct 2014

51000 mi
Back window trim came loose for fourth time Torque converter failed 
BMW 3-Series in Rhode Island, United States
Oct 2013 - Dec 2015
Dec 2015

59000 mi

US $80
Engine check light was on. Cylinder 3 misfire. Changed all spark plugs, totally 6 
BMW 3-Series in California, United States
Feb 2016 - Jul 2018
Jun 2017

67818 mi

US $50
Cylinder #6 Coil failed. Dealer replaced ALL (6) Bosch Coils per SIB 12 18 14 with Delphi Coils. 
BMW 3-Series in North Carolina, United States
Mar 2011 - Dec 2015
Jul 2011

21000 mi
The pump that pressurizes the fuel tank had failed. It was replaced under warranty.  
BMW 3-Series in California, United States
Jan 2013 - Nov 2015
Nov 2015

30000 mi

US $250
Ignition coils failed for 2 cylinders 
BMW 3-Series in Arizona, United States
Sep 2015 - Nov 2018
Sep 2015

28000 mi

US $331
battery died and we were stranded until BMW roadside service came along. Dealer said we had ruined battery by leaving radio on. Utter nonsense. Battery should have been covered by warranty - I was charged $332. 
Jan 2018

46000 mi

US $800
Replaced upper control arm bushings 
BMW 3-Series in District of Columbia, United States
Mar 2012 - Jun 2014
May 2012

11000 mi
Sunroof motor stopped working and needed replaced 
BMW 3-Series in New Jersey, United States
Mar 2011 - May 2015
Jul 2013

10200 mi
Adaptive headlights malfunction. 
BMW 3-Series in Washington, United States
Apr 2015 - Jun 2021
Feb 2016

48000 mi

US $35
Misfire in #5 cylinder reported through ORB II diagnostic port. Replaced coil on plug unit in cylinder #5 and cleared fault codes, engine runs fine now with no warning codes. 
BMW 3-Series in California, United States
Feb 2016 - Jun 2018
Mar 2016

19000 mi
RPM would dip low (near stall, but no stall) at idle occassionaly. Also car would occasionally tug at brakes while idle. The RPM issue has not reappeared. The problem was an internal BMW TSB of known software glitch. 
Jul 2016

24200 mi

US $500
Belt tensioner required replacement 
Mar 2017

36500 mi

US $1000
Rodent wire damage required wire replacement. also either a VANOS or fuel injector issue, can't remember 
BMW 3-Series in Connecticut, United States
May 2011 - Oct 2013
Oct 2011

4000 mi
The transmission of the car would shift erratically during the first few minutes of driving-transmission would rev unreasonably high disproportional to throttle input. Problem seems to be gone after dealer inspected computer and updates. 
Jan 2013

14600 mi
Trunk wouldn't close. Not sure what repair work (if any) was done but the trunk closes now. 
BMW 3-Series in California, United States
Aug 2013 - Oct 2016
Nov 2013

31700 mi
Had a metallic rubbing noise at 30mph or higher. similar to the noise you get with bad engine mounts. Replace differential. 
Jun 2014

36000 mi
rattle in aluminium trim in dashboard on rough roads. problem not fixed. 
Sep 2016

50000 mi

US $360
tensioner belt 
Oct 2016

50000 mi

US $696
All 6 ignition coils replaced 
BMW 3-Series in California, United States
Jun 2015 - Feb 2018
Mar 2016

41000 mi

US $150
Battery replacement 
Mar 2017

51000 mi

US $50
Engine misfiring due to bad ignition coils 
BMW 3-Series in Ontario, Canada
Oct 2011 - Jun 2014
Oct 2012

37200 mi
In at least six attempts to fix squeaky noise while going around the bumps entire suspension replaced. Noise reduced but still there, sounds like an old car. Now living with it.  
Jan 2013

42440 mi
This time Squeeky rear suspension. 
Nov 2013

46480 mi
One of the angle eyes failed. 
Feb 2014

48540 mi
Day time running light replaced. 
BMW 3-Series in North Carolina, United States
Oct 2012 - Mar 2014
Nov 2012

8500 mi
Accelerator pedal assembly was replaced due to malfunction. 
BMW 3-Series in Alabama, United States
Jan 2017 - Apr 2022
Sep 2021

64000 mi

US $300
spark plugs and coils 

Return to top

2011 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

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

BMW 3-Series in Delaware, United States
May 2011 - Apr 2018
Oct 2016

68000 mi
Power steering fluid changed. Dirty. Car was driving funny. Fine now. 
BMW 3-Series in Utah, United States
Jul 2014 - Jun 2018
Dec 2015

44000 mi
Trunk latch wouldn't always close when the trunk was closed. The dealer said it was a known issue and replaced the latch under warranty. 
Sep 2017

60000 mi

US $120
A/C recharge. 
Dec 2017

62000 mi

US $50
Leaking o ring in the transfer case adjuster. Lock actuator in drivers door failing. 
Jun 2018

68000 mi

US $1000
Pads and rotors replaced. Control arm bushings replaced, mechanic recommended. 
BMW 3-Series in Wisconsin, United States
Aug 2014 - Mar 2015
Aug 2014

49000 mi
The engine valve cover gasket needed replacement. 
Nov 2014

55000 mi

US $205
One of the ignition coils needed replacement 
Jan 2015

US $200
Another ignition coil needed replacement. 
Mar 2015

55000 mi

US $250
Severe misfire. All remaining coils replaced and all spark plugs replaced. Air injection hose was knocked loose during a prior repair. 
BMW 3-Series in New Jersey, United States
Jan 2015 - Jan 2017
Feb 2015

37300 mi
Passenger side headlight was tilting downwards (halogen). Clip broke inside. Replaced under warranty. Driver side door lock failed upon delivery. Replaced under warranty. 
Mar 2015

39000 mi
Front bushings gone bad - squeaking sound when turning far to the right or left. Power steering pump went bad. Groaning sound when turning. 
Sep 2015

48000 mi
Driver side (rear) door lock gets stuck. Door lock actuator replacement. 
BMW 3-Series in Quebec, Canada
Nov 2015 - Jan 2022
Jan 2016 about 2 weeks of ownership the check engine light up. it was a valve selenoid regarding valvetronic, well documented on the internet. they replaced the valve/selenoid comfort access stopped working from driver door, exterior handled was warm (it is winter). dealer replaced the handle and everything is ok. 
BMW 3-Series in Quebec, Canada
Jul 2015 - Sep 2018
Apr 2017

35030 mi

C $350
Replace rear brake pads and rotors 
BMW 3-Series in Manitoba, Canada
Aug 2014 - Nov 2017
Mar 2016

42780 mi

C $300
two ignition coils needed to be replaced 
Sep 2017

54560 mi

C $70
Headlight washer pump 
BMW 3-Series in New York, United States
Dec 2014 - Jan 2015
Jun 2014

47000 mi
all spark plugs and ignition coils replaced with new, drive belt replaced with new, all under warranty 
BMW 3-Series in Minnesota, United States
Jun 2015 - Jul 2017
Apr 2017

86000 mi

US $800
Leaky valve cover gasket 
BMW 3-Series in Texas, United States
Sep 2011 - Nov 2011
Oct 2011

10000 mi
Evaporator core replaced 
BMW 3-Series in Illinois, United States
Jan 2015 - Oct 2016
Apr 2015

46300 mi
Idrive replaced through warranty. Idrive knob was peeling off the plating. Fuel splashes everytime the fuel tank is filled at any gas station. Dealer said they could not replicate the issue. Going back to the dealer with evidence (took s video of the spill last time I filled up gas). 
Aug 2015

48000 mi
Fuel splashes out everytime car is fueled. First trip (under warranty), dealer said could not reproduce the problem. Second trip outside of warranty: took some videos as evidence. Dealer mechanic came and verified. Attemped but couldn't repair. 
Oct 2015

48300 mi

US $200
Fixed the fuel tank issue. Replaced the whole fuel tank. Dealer/Manufacturer paid for 95% of the cost. Owner paid for 5%. 
BMW 3-Series in Ontario, Canada
Jul 2011 - Jul 2015
Sep 2013

26040 mi
Transmission shifting was hesitating and so they upgraded the software. 
May 2015

46500 mi
Check Engine light came on. Took it to the dealer and it had something to do with a valve adjustment - they kept the car overnight and had to replace the valve gaskets as well. 
BMW 3-Series in British Columbia, Canada
Mar 2015 - Jun 2022
Jun 2015

37200 mi

C $1500
59,100km Rough Idle and check engine came on. Loss of power noticed, rpm were bouncing 900-1200 at idle, normal is around 800. New coil, eccentric shaft sensor, gasket. Cost 1500$ CAD covered in CPO warranty Driver Cup Holder malfunction (spring broken) New Cupholder installed Covered under warranty 
Mar 2016

43400 mi
Coilpack failed again second time this year. New coilpack installedrnNew ignition coils Steering was grunting Dealer found faulty steering wheel pump Replaced steering wheel pump + fluid Caliper seized Required new rotors and pads in the front computer was acting up, Maintaince section was frozen( km remaining not changing) Computer was restored to factory settings and updated 
Oct 2017

60760 mi

C $2700
Navigation / multi music system short circuited full replacement 
Dec 2018

76260 mi

C $800
Coil pack replaced because misfiring, spark plugs done as well 
Jan 2020

79980 mi

C $600
Radiator and radiator hose replaced 
Nov 2020

83080 mi

C $900
Oil leak found. Oil housing gasket replaced. 
Dec 2021

87420 mi

C $300
Coolant hose cracked and replaced 
Jun 2022

88660 mi

C $1800
Oil pan failed. Replaced oil pan. 
BMW 3-Series in New Jersey, United States
Apr 2014 - Jun 2022
Nov 2014

12600 mi
Radio was acting erratically including occasional loud vibration-like sound coming from rear speakers & randomly changing audio sources. Dealer replaced radio under warranty, but not without an argument. Had to show them a TSB for the issue. 
Sep 2015

20000 mi
Rubber strip along bottom of rear window (where it meets top of trunk lid) kept coming loose and had to be replaced. Was not yet actually leaking water though. A/C was not blowing real cold, needed recharge. 
Dec 2016

25000 mi

US $637
Replaced thrust rod bushings. Dealer said they were starting to fail. 
BMW 3-Series in Ontario, Canada
Dec 2014 - Jun 2018
Mar 2016

21080 mi
valve cover cracked and was replaced under extended warranty 
Jun 2018

27280 mi

C $80
replaced engine ground cable 
BMW 3-Series in Colorado, United States
Nov 2014 - Jun 2018
Jun 2016

61000 mi

US $10
Windshield washer reservoir leaking. Replaced both pump seals. 
BMW 3-Series in Alabama, United States
Sep 2014 - Oct 2015
Aug 2015

38400 mi
Ignition coil replacement. 
BMW 3-Series in Colorado, United States
Nov 2014 - Jun 2017
Mar 2015

27000 mi
Passenger airbag sensor (seatbelt indicator) mat has gone bad, seatbelt indicator always triggering even when no passenger in the seat. 
Jan 2016

25200 mi
Cracked gasket cover, which was replaced 
Jan 2017

35300 mi

US $65
Engine stumbling when cold and throwing CEL. #1 ignition coil changed out. spark plugs changed out. 
BMW 3-Series in Ontario, Canada
Sep 2015 - Oct 2016
Feb 2016

43260 mi

C $70
Misfire, replaced coil and spark plug on cylinder #1. 
BMW 3-Series in Colorado, United States
Jul 2015 - Apr 2017
Apr 2016

93200 mi

US $50
Cylinder misfire. Covered under CPO 
BMW 3-Series in Pennsylvania, United States
Nov 2014 - Aug 2016
Jan 2015

53000 mi
One of the coil packs failed 
Dec 2015

56000 mi

US $100
Engine would not idle, stalled after starting - engine sensor replaced under certified warranty less deductible 
BMW 3-Series in California, United States
Mar 2012 - Jul 2014
Jun 2014

27000 mi
Sunroof misaligned when auto closed. 
BMW 3-Series in New York, United States
Dec 2016 - Jun 2018
Apr 2017

53000 mi

US $300
Hit massive pothole at 80 mph, causing the passenger front tire to develop a bulge. Tire deemed non-salvageable by the mechanic, brand new matching tire installed. 
BMW 3-Series in California, United States
Dec 2013 - Mar 2018
Nov 2015

79000 mi
Battery not charging. Alternator replaced under CPO warranty. 
Mar 2016

81000 mi
Communication problem between two electrical modules causing various dashboard lights to illuminate. 
BMW 3-Series in Michigan, United States
Feb 2012 - May 2014
Jan 2014 TPMS module malfunctioned 
BMW 3-Series in Quebec, Canada
Jul 2015 - Sep 2020
Sep 2017

33480 mi

C $300
Engine rough. Plugs had failed. Preventively also replaced ignition coils. 
BMW 3-Series in New Jersey, United States
Feb 2014 - Jun 2022
Nov 2015

46400 mi
Timing Chain Sensor replaced 
Mar 2016

50000 mi

US $550
The thrust rod bushings were leaking oil. A typical problem for BMWs. 
Jan 2018

64670 mi

US $132
Serpentine Belt Idler wheel was failing. Replaced using Continental Serpentine Belt Accessory Drive Component Kit. In kit instructions it clearly stated that the bolt retainer MUST be removed before installation. After removing original, I found the BMW factory never removed this clip! So much for German perfection. 
May 2018

67000 mi

US $122
Engine starting running rough. Replaced coil packs and the issue is fixed. 
Nov 2021

87000 mi

US $32
Replaced Oil Filter Housing gasket 
Jun 2022

89023 mi

US $120
Replaced valve cover gasket 
BMW 3-Series in Massachusetts, United States
Jun 2013 - May 2018
Sep 2015

73000 mi

US $180
New spark plugs 
May 2016

76000 mi

US $140
AC freon charge and diagnosis 
BMW 3-Series in Delaware, United States
Sep 2017 - Nov 2020
Oct 2017

75000 mi

US $450
replaced serpentine belt,tensioner and pulley. These repairs were purely preventative ! 
Nov 2019

88400 mi

US $1100
valve cover gasket replacement. oil filter housing gasket replacement 
Jan 2020

90000 mi

US $450
Replaced all spark plugs and replaced #1 coil pack. 
BMW 3-Series in Pennsylvania, United States
Feb 2012 - Oct 2015
Apr 2012 Headlights not aligned properly from factory. passenger mirror sometimes does not work or gets stuck in down position after car is in reverse 
Apr 2014

19800 mi
trunk lid does not close properly. replaced striker and spacer car would buck and idle rev at stop 
Oct 2015

34000 mi
have to look it up 
BMW 3-Series in New Jersey, United States
Apr 2017 - Mar 2018
Mar 2018

116000 mi

US $550
Replace [accessory] belt tension pully Gasket replacement. My Check Engine Soon light came on at 115,000 miles. The dealer did significant gasket work and charged me nothing under an "extended warranty." I will not purchase another BMW. Nice car to drive but the reliability has been very substandard. I don't abuse the car, I do all scheduled maintenance. I look forward to the day I sell it. 
BMW 3-Series in Utah, United States
Dec 2016 - Sep 2021
Sep 2017

69000 mi

US $350
the ecu required re programing 
BMW 3-Series in New York, United States
Oct 2014 - Oct 2017
Dec 2014

33000 mi
Trunk won't latch in cold weather. Replaced trunk striker and shim as per bulletin. Re-glued left side rain gutter, came loose at LR door. 
Feb 2015

36000 mi
Replaced RDC control unit and reprogrammed to fix inactive tire pressure monitoring system. 
Mar 2015

37000 mi
Replace front input shaft seal (leaking) and replace fluid. 
BMW 3-Series in New York, United States
Feb 2013 - Oct 2015
Nov 2014

45100 mi
replaced all coils 
BMW 3-Series in Virginia, United States
Nov 2011 - Jun 2016
Jan 2012

38500 mi
Passenger rear bumper uneven. Inside connector popped lose. Fixed by the dealer to original shape. 
Aug 2012

11000 mi
Very loud static from rear speaker. Multiple engine on off didn't correct. Only when car was locked and left for about 5min, noise stopped spontaneously. Unclear why. Has not recurred past 300 miles. Running normally now. 
Mar 2015

49000 mi
Drive door lock stuck. Actuator replaced. 
Feb 2016

64000 mi

US $225
Piston coil replaced 
Apr 2016

66500 mi

US $650
Engine piston coil x 5 and spark plug x6 replaced. 
BMW 3-Series in Michigan, United States
Feb 2014 - Mar 2016
Sep 2015

54000 mi

US $38
Car has a vibration, is still not fixed. 
BMW 3-Series in New York, United States
Jun 2013 - Nov 2018
Jul 2013

15300 mi
Radio/sound system repaired  Battery cable terminal end(s) replaced 
Dec 2017

48000 mi

US $750
HIgh pitch noise at high speed when driving 60+, front wheel bearing (passenger) was bad. Replaced and noise went away 
Nov 2018

52000 mi

US $400
Straighten wheels 
BMW 3-Series in Alberta, Canada
Feb 2011 - Jun 2018
Jun 2014

14260 mi
The evaporator had to be replaced 
Jun 2015

21700 mi
Warranty repair of last summer, one of the connections was not hooked up. 
Jan 2017

13600 mi

C $375
Warning light showed battery problems several times,replaced 7 year ol battery. 
Nov 2017

44020 mi

C $244
ON checkup Budd's service advisor told us we need battery replaced and tires. Asked to have battery replaced but were told they could not do so. Took car to Grand River BMW, checked things out and everything was okay. 
BMW 3-Series in Ontario, Canada
Jun 2014 - Jul 2015
Jun 2014

37200 mi
The iDrive failed and had to be reprogrammed. The std repair is to reprogram and monitor. If it fails again, they will have to replace the head unit. Thankful it was under warranty, I dread finding out how much this repair cost. The rear window weather stripping fell off for the second time. Appears to be a known issue a horrible design. This is the second time in 6 months that this part has been replaced. It is falling off again after a month. 
Oct 2014

38440 mi
Rear window weather stripping repaired. Required automotive glass subcontractor to remove rear window and use epoxy to attach the rear window stripping. Why on earth BMW uses tension clips for weather stripping we may never know. 
Feb 2015

39240 mi
Replace brake fluid 
BMW 3-Series in Michigan, United States
Jul 2010 - Aug 2013
Dec 2010

5000 mi
Windshield washer fluid froze in tank and would not dispense fluid onto windshield. The fluid level was low and the temperature dipped about 20 degrees overnight. Dealer added some antifreeze and I was good to go. 
Aug 2011

15300 mi
Rubber trim along bottom of rear window kept coming loose when opening trunk. 
Jun 2012

30000 mi
Rear window rubber trim came loose, this time on the opposite side. Dealer put it back together, and hopefully it stays put like the other side. All else is good, the car doesn't feel like it has even aged a bit after 2 years 30,000 miles. 
Aug 2012

32900 mi
The plastic door sill at the drivers door came loose, dealer fixed it. 
Mar 2013

44000 mi
Tire pressure system was inactive. Dealer fixed it. 
BMW 3-Series in Texas, United States
Jan 2019 - Feb 2022
Nov 2019

104781 mi

US $562
Thermostat replaced and cooling system drained, flushed, back-flushed, and refilled. 
Jul 2021

113331 mi

US $1566
Car would not start - Starter assembly replaced 
BMW 3-Series in Alberta, Canada
Oct 2020 - Oct 2021
Jun 2021

82460 mi

C $150
O2 sensors (upstream) both failed 
BMW 3-Series in Maine, United States
Dec 2011 - Aug 2018
Feb 2015

35500 mi
CEL illuminated and engine ran rough for a few minutes after wide open throttle at high RPM. Faults indicated misfire on cylinders 5&6: two ignition coils replaced. 
Aug 2015

40500 mi
Rough idle/surging at a stop in drive when warming up. 
May 2017

61000 mi

US $1100
Instrument cluster would stop working, and warning lights about brakes, TPMS, and the traction control/AWD system would illuminate and subsequently clear after the car went to sleep. Diagnosed as bad RDC module due to corrosion. Replaced the module and performed programming for new module. Replaced corroded grounding strap. 
Jan 2018

72000 mi

US $210
Intermittent misfires with transient service engine soon light. Replaced all coils and spark plugs. 
BMW 3-Series in New York, United States
Jul 2016 - Oct 2017
Oct 2017

106000 mi

US $2500
Rear struts were replaced 
BMW 3-Series in Pennsylvania, United States
Mar 2014 - Sep 2016
Sep 2015

51000 mi

US $500
rear LED light replaced 
May 2016

60000 mi

US $500
door lock mechanism 
Jul 2016

61200 mi
vibration on highway 
Aug 2016

62000 mi
vibration 
Sep 2016

62000 mi
Vibration at speed 
BMW 3-Series in Tennessee, United States
Oct 2013 - Dec 2017
Jan 2014

81000 mi
missing badly on acceleration. bad coil replaced under warranty. 
Jun 2014

39000 mi
lower steering shaft replaced because of noise and loose 
Sep 2014

46000 mi
replaced all coils 
Sep 2016

87000 mi
steering noise while turning back and forth. design issue. said they have tried to repair but cannot due to design 
Dec 2016

90000 mi
valve cover gaskets 

Return to top

2011 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

230-horsepower 3.0L I6 6-speed manual RWD

BMW 3-Series in Florida, United States
Jan 2014 - Jun 2020
Nov 2015

39000 mi

US $50
Car threw CEL, replaced Leak Diagnosis (DMTL) Pump. Known problem with E90. Pump was promptly replaced by dealer. 
Nov 2016

47400 mi

US $50
Misfire in cylinder 1. Diagnosed as bad coil. Part of batch with open TSB. All 6 replaced under CPO warranty. 
BMW 3-Series in California, United States
Dec 2014 - Sep 2016
Sep 2016

77000 mi

US $500
Oil leak. Bad pistons misfiring. 
BMW 3-Series in Michigan, United States
Dec 2014 - Jun 2017
Jan 2015 The Heat/AC temperature control nob was broken. The controls were replaced. Window switches were broken on the drivers side. Lock button stuck. 
Apr 2015

18700 mi
Car had a sweet chemical like smell when the heat is on. The car was leaking on the driveway. Dealer replaced thermostat due to a coolant leak. Leak stopped but smell still occurs. 
May 2015

20000 mi

US $600
Return visit due to sweet smell from vents when the heat is on. Couldn't find any leaks, but found a piece of cookie in one of the vents. Fished it out. Didn't fix the problem. Suggested heater core leak, but was dismissed by mechanic. 
Sep 2015

25000 mi
Car continues to have irritating odor coming from the vents when the AC or heat is on. Dealer can't figure it out. They treated AC with chemical based on the idea that it might be mold but it didn't work. 
Dec 2015

29000 mi
Dealer replaced leaking AC evaporator. Didn't solve problem. 
BMW 3-Series in Ontario, Canada
Jun 2012 - Feb 2015
Feb 2015

37200 mi
Failed to start on a very cold day. Dealer service found Battery not holding full charge, replaced under warranty. 
BMW 3-Series in Florida, United States
Aug 2010 - Jun 2018
May 2013

32000 mi
Failed Battery 
Dec 2013

39000 mi
Rear drivers window would not auto close. Dealer had to re-calibrate the anti-trap feature on window. 
Sep 2014

49000 mi
Computer was reporting rear brakes needed service, was faulty error, had to have computer reprogrammed with new software. squeaking and squealing from ac blower motor fan on low speeds 
Feb 2015

55300 mi

US $950
Two coil packs failed. Replaced remaining coil packs and all spark plugs were replaced. No freon in system, evaporator was the source of leak. Replaced evaporator. 
Apr 2015

59500 mi

US $400
DMTL (Diagnostic Module Tank Leakage) Pump had failed and needed to be replaced 
Sep 2016

80000 mi
Car would not start, pressing the start button resulted in radio turning off, and all the dash lights going off then on again. Was able to jump start the car and drive to dealer for battery replacement. 
May 2018

108000 mi

US $1400
Replaced leaking valve cover gasket (VCG) and oil filter housing gasket (OFHG) 
BMW 3-Series in Nebraska, United States
May 2011 - Dec 2012
Jun 2012

23000 mi
electrical wiring issue caused gas gauge to malfunction 

Return to top

2011 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

230-horsepower 3.0L I6 6-speed manual AWD

BMW 3-Series in New Hampshire, United States
Sep 2014 - Jul 2018
Jun 2017

136000 mi

US $50
Replaced spark plugs Oil change 
Jun 2018

150000 mi

US $350
Valve cover gasket leaking. Replace gaskets. Car misfiring and running poorly - eccentric shaft sensor failed. Replaced sensor. Oil filter housing gasket leaking. Replace OFH gasket. 
BMW 3-Series in Texas, United States
Sep 2010 - Nov 2013
Jun 2012

25000 mi
Rear power sunshade was not retracting. Dealer replaced sunshade assembly. 
Nov 2013

45000 mi
The rear power sunshade quit working for the second time. I did not get it repaired before I sold the car to the dealer still under warranty. 
BMW 3-Series in Quebec, Canada
Mar 2013 - Jun 2018
Jan 2015

55380 mi

C $300
Steering column problem affected turning. 
Sep 2016

78740 mi

C $80
valves problem. oil cap broke 
Mar 2017

81008 mi

C $500
Battery needed replacement and electrical system reprogrammed.  Lost 1 stop bulb. 
BMW 3-Series in Pennsylvania, United States
Sep 2014 - Oct 2020
Mar 2016

20000 mi
Steering wheel made a slight noise turn left. The steering bushing assembly needed a small adjustment. 
Mar 2018

33000 mi

US $200
Battery replacement 
Jun 2018

35900 mi

US $230
Head gasket replacement due to oil leak. Repaired under warranty. 
Oct 2020

52000 mi

US $376
New idle coil 
BMW 3-Series in Indiana, United States
Feb 2013 - Oct 2015
Jan 2014

61000 mi
Wheel bearing was replaced Radio - no sound 
Jun 2015

72000 mi

US $1300
Engine was missing. Dealer replaced spark plugs and ignition coil 
BMW 3-Series in Ontario, Canada
Dec 2014 - Jun 2018
Nov 2016

96100 mi

C $400
Ignition coils needed to be replaced, cylinders were miss firing. 
Jan 2018

111600 mi

C $440
Battery wouldn't start car. 
BMW 3-Series in North Dakota, United States
Dec 2014 - Nov 2017
Jan 2015

US $175
Leaking rear transmission seal 
BMW 3-Series in Alberta, Canada
Aug 2011 - May 2013
Dec 2011

1240 mi
Car had swirl marks in paint from poor polishing job when I picked it up (with 19kms on it). Dealer apologized and re-polished, but they are still there. 

Return to top

2011 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

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

BMW 3-Series in Quebec, Canada
Mar 2011 - Jan 2015
Aug 2013

16080 mi
Check Coolant light came on. Dealer topped up coolant and stated this is normal when it gets cooler. Never heard that with any of my previous cars... 
Sep 2014

29140 mi
Oil leak detected during inspection, while performing oil change 
Nov 2014

29240 mi
Oil leak repaired. 

Return to top

2011 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

200-horsepower 2.5L I6 6-speed shiftable automatic RWD

BMW 3-Series in Ontario, Canada
Nov 2014 - Feb 2016
Jan 2016

38560 mi

C $90
Engine not turn over. Would crank forever but not start. After to towing to mechanic, no fault was found and it started first time. No errors pr misfires found on computer. 

Return to top

2011 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

141-horsepower 2.0L I4 6-speed manual RWD

BMW 3-Series in Switzerland
Feb 2013 - Jan 2022
Apr 2013

3820 mi
Replacement of ignition coils (done as part of an improvement program, free of charge) 
Sep 2013

5580 mi
DSC hydraulic unit replaced (sensor) 
Dec 2013

6820 mi
Recuring ESP Fault. Steering sensor reset, DSC ECU + DSC hydraulic unit replaced. 

Return to top

2011 BMW 3-Series 4-door

turbocharged 4-cylinder diesel automatic AWD

BMW 3-Series in Texas, United States
Mar 2015 - Aug 2015
Jul 2015

87000 mi

US $150
The bearings in the rear wheels failed and started to make a horrible noise. BMW indicated that it wasn't dangerous and it was quite common on the E90 BMW. 

Return to top

2011 BMW 3-Series 2dr Hardtop conv.

turbocharged 320hp 3.0L I6 7-speed automated manual RWD

BMW 3-Series in Pennsylvania, United States
Mar 2012 - Jun 2018
Nov 2012

11300 mi
instrument panel reported discharge issue. multiple trips to dealer before battery was replaced. no further problem 
Oct 2017

16000 mi

US $850
replaced all fluids, oil, radiator, brakes, and all wear items. Only transmission fluid not changed. replaced all filters. 
BMW 3-Series in Maryland, United States
Mar 2017 - Jun 2018
Jul 2017

46030 mi
Intake charge pipe blew, this is a known issue and BMW had just sent me a letter that extended the warranty on this part. Repair done under this warranty 
Sep 2017

46000 mi

US $167
Took it to the BMW dealer after a cylinder misfire code and very rough running, car returned to normal after restart. Dealer diagnosed the problem and recommended new plugs, coils and an intake cleaning (walnut blasting). Did not get any work done at dealer. Replaced coils and plugs, very easy to do on this vehicle, needed to buy special socket and a torque wrench. Coils and plugs bought online from FCPEuro 
Jun 2018

58000 mi

US $800
Replaced the transmission pan due to a leak 
BMW 3-Series in British Columbia, Canada
Jul 2012 - Mar 2014
Jun 2013

2480 mi
fuel evaporation system repaired under warranty 

Return to top

2011 BMW 3-Series 2dr Hardtop conv.

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

BMW 3-Series in California, United States
Dec 2015 - Jan 2016
Jan 2016

US $50
Cooling tank had a leak and had to be replaced. Thank God I had the certified warranty. Valve gasket leak. This is the 2nd engine oil leak to be fixed in 6 months, not including the cooling tank leak that was simultaneously fixed. 
BMW 3-Series in California, United States
Oct 2010 - Dec 2013
Jan 2013

16300 mi
At less than 17,000 miles the DME failed and had to be replaced 
BMW 3-Series in California, United States
Jul 2015 - Nov 2016
Sep 2016

19000 mi
Glove box did not open. 
BMW 3-Series in Texas, United States
Aug 2012 - Sep 2021
Jun 2017

38000 mi
flex plate replaced under recall, no cost to me 
BMW 3-Series in Illinois, United States
Nov 2010 - Apr 2015
Mar 2014

13000 mi
Replaced battery under recall 
Jan 2015

10000 mi
Battery not holding charge - replaced under warranty 

Return to top

2011 BMW 3-Series 2dr Hardtop conv.

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

BMW 3-Series in Nova Scotia, Canada
Feb 2016 - Sep 2017
May 2017

63240 mi

C $250
Right rear wheel bearing became noisy and required replacement 
Jul 2017

63240 mi

C $4800
Both turbos had to be replaced. 
Sep 2017

63240 mi

C $1800
Cooling fan assembly failed requiring replacement parts only available from Germany 

Return to top

2011 BMW 3-Series 2dr Hardtop conv.

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

BMW 3-Series in Texas, United States
May 2013 - Jun 2018
Jun 2014

52000 mi
Convertible top sticks when opening Side marker light malfunction 
Dec 2015

106000 mi
DCT Transmission overheated, had to be replaced 
Jun 2016

120000 mi

US $2000
Brake sensor failed causing brake booster pump to fail 
Oct 2016

124700 mi

US $400
Replaced right rear tire pressure sensor 
Dec 2016

128000 mi

US $300
Replace battery 
Jun 2017

139000 mi

US $3200
Compressor replaced Replaced fuel sensor 
Sep 2017

144000 mi

US $1700
Belt broke. Power steering became inoperable. 
Oct 2017

146000 mi

US $700
Rear wheel speed sensors replaced 
Jan 2018

156000 mi

US $3000
Spark plugs replaced 
Jun 2018

164000 mi

US $800
Main belt was squealing 
BMW 3-Series in Florida, United States
Jan 2013 - May 2014
Jul 2013

30300 mi
TPMS Failure, Dealer replaced RDC Wheel Electronic Module With top up, metal clunking sound from roof 

Return to top

2011 BMW 3-Series 2dr Hardtop conv.

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

BMW 3-Series in Connecticut, United States
Apr 2011 - Apr 2014
Nov 2011

8000 mi
Glove box door wouldn't open. Fixed door. 
Feb 2013

23700 mi
Multiple system error messages shown on dashboard 
BMW 3-Series in California, United States
Dec 2011 - Dec 2014
Dec 2012

9000 mi
Squeaking noise on hardtop. 
BMW 3-Series in California, United States
Jun 2014 - Jan 2020
Jun 2014

46000 mi

US $800
One coil failed. We replaced all 6 to prevent a future on the road problem. 
BMW 3-Series in Ontario, Canada
Jul 2014 - Jun 2022
May 2018

39060 mi

C $2300
rear brakes and valve cover gasket replaced 
BMW 3-Series in South Carolina, United States
Dec 2014 - Oct 2015
Sep 2015

72000 mi

US $50
Fuel sensor that is built into gas tank had failed. 
BMW 3-Series in North Carolina, United States
Aug 2014 - Jul 2016
Jul 2016

44000 mi
felt like the transmission was slipping...dealer said probably torque converter. They wanted to put an additive in the transmission for $550 and if that didn't work replace torque converter for $4000 
BMW 3-Series in Oklahoma, United States
Mar 2012 - Jun 2018
Jun 2015

50000 mi

US $868
Valve cover gasket windshield washer motor 
Dec 2016

63000 mi

US $3488
BMW developed an intermittent miss. All coils and plugs were replaced. Water pump and thermostat showed fault codes, both were replaced 
BMW 3-Series in California, United States
Sep 2013 - Jun 2018
Dec 2013

25000 mi
Passenger window broken by vandals, repaired at insurance-recommended shop, but still had 'rattles' in door. Upon inspection, BMW dealer found poor repair work. Dealer and shop negotiated payment and door was repaired by dealer at no cost. 

Return to top

2011 BMW 3-Series 2dr Hardtop conv.

230-horsepower 3.0L I6 6-speed manual RWD

BMW 3-Series in Ohio, United States
Jul 2013 - Feb 2022
Apr 2017

52000 mi

US $1100
Cylinder coil failed, needed replaced. Changed all 6 plugs; leaking in oil valve cover and sensor, so replaced sensor before it failed. A coil on #6 cyl shouldn't fail with only 52K miles! 
Mar 2021

85000 mi

US $2399
Valve cover leaking oil which affected various other hoses or attachments. Darn BMW are maintenance $$$ holes sometimes, then become wonderful handling and great to drive again. No other car has been so enjoyable to drive....but the occasional small item becomes a big expense at times. I've never had a valve cover etc leak in all the other Honda, Toyota, MG, BMW, Chevy, Ford, and Dodge I've owned. 

Return to top

2011 BMW 3-Series 2dr Coupe

turbocharged 320hp 3.0L I6 7-speed automated manual RWD

BMW 3-Series in California, United States
Jan 2015 - May 2015
May 2015

32000 mi

US $50
Check engine light came on. Dealer read code as transmission problem but then said resulted from being too low on fuel Door panel insert loose again. 
BMW 3-Series in Indiana, United States
Apr 2015 - Dec 2015
Apr 2015

66000 mi

US $800
AC Supply hose developed a leak at the connector. 
BMW 3-Series in Wisconsin, United States
Aug 2014 - Feb 2019
Dec 2014

36000 mi
Replacement of failed rear-view mirror (with garage door opener & auto dim function). Recharge of low battery. 
Sep 2015

45000 mi
Radio head was emitting a high pitch hum at all times through speakers. Factory reset was performed on radio and problem was resolved. 
Nov 2016

51100 mi

US $1300
Water pump. Known issue on BMW N54 Engine. No assistance from BMW. replaced thermostat since system was apart anyway. 
Feb 2017

54000 mi

US $300
Battery Replacement and coding (BMW requires battery to be coded to the computer, preventing owners from doing this ourselves.) 
BMW 3-Series in Washington, United States
Nov 2015 - Dec 2015
Dec 2015

53000 mi

US $1500
Service Engine Soon light on. Diagnosis revealed fault in High Pressure Fuel Pump. That pump had to be replaced. 

Return to top

2011 BMW 3-Series 2dr Coupe

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

BMW 3-Series in Illinois, United States
Jan 2013 - Aug 2014
May 2013

38000 mi
Metal vibration sound from suspension when hitting bumps. Left rear suspension arm bolt loose. Metal rubbing noise when turning right and in reverse. Right rear backing plate was bent. 
Jan 2014

41800 mi
Car started rough and stalled after 5 seconds. Restarted and ran rough but normalized. Engine malfunction notification came on screen and warned of reduced power. Dealer found misfires in cylinders - replaced fuel injectors & spark plugs 
Jun 2014

45000 mi

US $800
Highway under construction, pavement changed drastically. Hit bump and alignment went off center. Thrust rod bushings had to be replaced and alignment performed. 
BMW 3-Series in Minnesota, United States
Jan 2014 - Jun 2018
Feb 2017

64000 mi

US $2000
Water pump failure. Replaced. Oil filter housing gasket leak. Had first been noted mid 2016. 
BMW 3-Series in Texas, United States
Apr 2015 - Dec 2015
May 2015

43700 mi
AC evaporation unit. Plus rear window shade replaced 
BMW 3-Series in Texas, United States
Feb 2014 - May 2014
May 2014

36000 mi
Persistent noise coming from steering when vehicle first pulls forwards while turning left. 
BMW 3-Series in Nevada, United States
Nov 2010 - Mar 2011
Jan 2011

1000 mi
Electrical failure for control switch for driver side window and mirror adjustments.  

Return to top

2011 BMW 3-Series 2dr Coupe

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

BMW 3-Series in Ontario, Canada
Oct 2010 - Mar 2017
Feb 2011

5580 mi
High Pressure Fuel Pump software upgrade. 
Jun 2011

9300 mi
Headlight washer cover replaced. 
Dec 2014

44640 mi

C $1500
Cooling fan began to cycle on/off. Caused by fault code. Symptom of water pump failure. Fault 377a pump deviation. Replace pump and thermostat 
Nov 2016

64360 mi

C $1000
Oil filter housing gasket replacement. Technician indicates they were starting to see slight leakage. 
BMW 3-Series in New Mexico, United States
Oct 2011 - Jul 2018
Sep 2013

17000 mi
leak at transmission output yoke 
BMW 3-Series in Ohio, United States
Nov 2012 - Sep 2014
Sep 2014

41000 mi

US $230
Airbag rattle 
BMW 3-Series in New York, United States
Oct 2015 - Oct 2016
Sep 2016

65000 mi

US $50
High pressure fuel pump. Covered under CPO 
BMW 3-Series in Minnesota, United States
Sep 2013 - Aug 2014
Aug 2014

34000 mi
The parking brake warning light would not shut off despite the brake being fully released. This was the second trip to diagnose and repair the issue. All seems to be ok now. During a repair visit for another issue, the technician noticed oil seeping from the turbo unit. He applied a tracer to the oil and diagnosed a leaky valve cover. 

Return to top

2011 BMW 3-Series 2dr Coupe

turbocharged 300hp 3.0L I6 6-speed manual RWD

BMW 3-Series in California, United States
Nov 2014 - Jun 2018
Oct 2015

29500 mi

US $50
Electric Water Pump fail. Was stranded on side of freeway. BMW CPO warranty sent tow truck and took it to dealer who repaired it next day. Apparently this is a common problem. $850 repair if out of warranty! 
Feb 2018

45000 mi

US $700
1) - gasket on oil filter mounting leaking.  2) - accessory belt idler pulley failure. 
Mar 2018

45000 mi

US $250
Coolant tank failed and leaked coolant. Coolant level sensor went into alarm mode. Coolant expansion tank was replaced. Apparently, this has been a common problem with BMWs for many years. A seam on the plastic tank split. According to the mechanic "they all eventually do this" and the replacement part has not been improved so it is susceptible to the same type of failure in the future. Not very encouraging. I no longer drive this car out of town as I am concerned about it's reliability. 
BMW 3-Series in Texas, United States
Mar 2015 - Mar 2017
Jun 2015

50000 mi

US $50
Battery dead and replaced. 
Jan 2016

70000 mi

US $50
Coolant reservoir leak detected and unit replaced. 
Apr 2016

70000 mi

US $50
Power steering failure. Pump replaced under CPO warranty. 
Nov 2016

75000 mi

US $50
Replaced worn drive belt. 
Mar 2017

84000 mi

US $50
Replaced belt tensioner. 
BMW 3-Series in Tennessee, United States
Feb 2011 - Jun 2016
Jan 2015

52000 mi

US $200
TPMS sensors were not transmitting. All 4 needed replacement. 
Mar 2016

55000 mi

US $2300
Had a check engine light with misfires in all 6 cyl. Ultimately needed to replace all 6 fuel injectors, all 6 spark plugs and the lambda sensor. 
May 2016

55000 mi

US $450
Speaker was blown. 
BMW 3-Series in Ontario, Canada
May 2013 - Jun 2017
Nov 2013

29140 mi
the 'service' light went on. however when checked by the dealer, the car's fluids were checked as well as tire pressures and 'no leaks' were cited in the report by the mechanic - it seems the 'service' light was on in error. 
Apr 2015

38420 mi
water pump failed leading to temperature increase of engine - water pump replaced under warranty. 

Return to top

2011 BMW 3-Series 2dr Coupe

turbocharged 300hp 3.0L I6 6-speed manual AWD

BMW 3-Series in Manitoba, Canada
Jun 2010 - Dec 2016
Aug 2011

13020 mi
exhaust rattle left exhaust tip 
Nov 2014

39040 mi

C $1030
water pump failure leading to engine overheated and limp mode 
BMW 3-Series in Washington, United States
Nov 2011 - Jul 2015
Dec 2011

13000 mi
Long starts, engine idle studder, engine stumbling 2nd time this has happened Paint on comfort access food handle was peeling 
Mar 2012

17000 mi
Car was idling erratically, stalling, going into limp mode and basically performing like an early model KIA Rio. 
Dec 2012

23000 mi
Car Messed up again...Idles Way too Low, feels like its going to stall out, Periodically when you depress the clutch on a slowdown the car will stall. At highway speeds you can feel a hesitation or a miss in the engine while driving. 
BMW 3-Series in Ontario, Canada
Mar 2011 - Jun 2014
Jul 2013

23560 mi
cap of headlight wash spray broke 

Return to top

2011 BMW 3-Series 2dr Coupe

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

BMW 3-Series in Manitoba, Canada
Apr 2012 - Jul 2022
Nov 2012

1240 mi
I had the first service done and the check engine light kept coming on after the oil change. The car went back twice to the dealer to get the light to stay off. Still not sure if they overfilled the oil or if the sensor was wrong... 
BMW 3-Series in Texas, United States
Dec 2013 - Sep 2016
Feb 2014

23000 mi
Needed to add oil. 
Aug 2014

29700 mi
Valve gasket replacement Evaporator replacement 
Apr 2015

38200 mi

US $100
HVAC Blower motor/Blower regulator/wiring replacement. 
Sep 2016

49000 mi

US $200
Oil pan plug stripped. 
BMW 3-Series in California, United States
Aug 2012 - Aug 2013
Sep 2012

15000 mi
Freon leak -- removed, cleaned and reassembled expansion valve; replaced inlet and outlet seals, recharged system breakdown of slip differential fluid causing grinding sound on hard turns 
BMW 3-Series in Colorado, United States
May 2017 - Jun 2018
Jul 2017

45000 mi

US $100
Replaced the passenger side (Bank 1) precat oxygen sensor that had failed and was giving a warning regarding "pre-heater failure" 
BMW 3-Series in Ontario, Canada
Jul 2010 - Jun 2011
Aug 2010

1240 mi
EDC Malfunction. Rear shocks and sensors replaced. 
BMW 3-Series in Rhode Island, United States
Sep 2010 - Apr 2014
Jan 2014

24300 mi
EDC control unit and sensor malfunction. Both replaced. 

Return to top

2011 BMW 3-Series 2dr Coupe

414-horsepower 4.0L V8 6-speed manual RWD

BMW 3-Series in New Jersey, United States
Jun 2010 - Jun 2018
Sep 2012

10000 mi
Ticking noise. Dealer say's it normal valve noise. I know what valves sound like. This ticking is coming from the crankcase. This is a known problem with main bearings. 
BMW 3-Series in Massachusetts, United States
Oct 2010 - Aug 2014
Feb 2011

2400 mi
Noise in front end. Loose air dam bolt. 
Jun 2012

13000 mi
leak in evap unit under dashboard 
Jan 2014

8300 mi
fuel tank replaced due to vapor lock up 
BMW 3-Series in Texas, United States
Nov 2012 - Feb 2022
Dec 2012

13003 mi
One of two passenger door storage compartment hinges had no closing-pressure and compartment vibrated while driving. Compartment doors replaced. 
Oct 2015

37300 mi

US $1300
Emissions fault, engine safe mode, caused by vacuum brake pressure sensor malfunction 
Oct 2017

51000 mi

US $500
TPMS System Malfunction - TPMS module replaced alternator has a slight clicking noise, generates and turns fine. Decided to live with it for now. 
Nov 2017

52000 mi

US $100
cup holder mechanism failed and cupholder was replaced 
Nov 2021

71000 mi

US $5000
Ten years old, track days, suspension was tired. New suspension is amazing, like driving a brand-new car. 
Feb 2022

73000 mi

US $250
Headliner completely delaminated, refurbed with similar material. 
BMW 3-Series in New York, United States
Nov 2013 - Mar 2016
Jun 2015

65000 mi

US $50
Traction control/hill assist deactivated. Wheel bearing on right rear needed replacing CEL came on. MAP sensor failed 
Mar 2016

74000 mi

US $50
Vacuum pump and thermostat replaced. Car went into limp mode on highway. 

Return to top

2011 BMW 3-Series 2dr Coupe

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

BMW 3-Series in Texas, United States
Dec 2013 - Sep 2019
Feb 2015

60000 mi

US $325
Biodegradable rubber molding around windshield was deteriorating and was replaced. 
BMW 3-Series in Oregon, United States
Apr 2011 - Jun 2022
Jan 2013

9000 mi
Warning light of extra discharge from battery 
Jun 2013

11000 mi
Replaced battery due too bad cell. 
Sep 2017

16000 mi
OEM battery replacement by owner and registered by Dealer to properly charge. Recall airbag replacement 
BMW 3-Series in Florida, United States
Jun 2015 - Mar 2018
Apr 2016

48000 mi

US $525
Car vibration due to brake pads warping when engaged. Did not have work done since it wasn't bad enough for warranty to cover Total Engine Tune up 
Oct 2016

53800 mi

US $50
Leak on the manfold 
Apr 2017

63000 mi

US $51
They didn't see the warning light, but as soon as I got home it was on again 
BMW 3-Series in North Carolina, United States
Mar 2018 - Jun 2018
Apr 2018

68000 mi

US $290
Rear wheel speed sensor 
BMW 3-Series in California, United States
Nov 2010 - Jun 2022
Apr 2012

17000 mi
There was a slight noise coming from steering column. Grease was applied to a bearing. 
Oct 2013

33800 mi
Car wouldn't start, cranked briefly and then power flickered on/off for a minute. Jump start worked. Dealer diagnosed as bad battery. No prior warnings, although with original battery, car used to fast idle after start. 
Nov 2017

75000 mi

US $1500
Differential seal was leaking and needed replacement. Also replaced bushings. 
Jun 2018

80000 mi

US $210
AC was blowing uncooled air. Leak test passed, AC recharged. 
Apr 2019

84869 mi

US $2000
Preventative replacement of original water pump and original serpentine belt. 
May 2021

96161 mi

US $800
Reseal of oil filter housing. 

Return to top

2011 BMW 3-Series 2dr Coupe

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

BMW 3-Series in Minnesota, United States
Feb 2014 - Mar 2017
Nov 2015

42000 mi
All 6 coils on each cylinder had to be replaced. A/C evaporator had to be replaced. 
Dec 2015

42000 mi
Car vibrates when idling. Increased idle speed. Problem solved. 
Oct 2016

46200 mi
Had to have the vehicle programmed per BMW bulletin #12 21 12. Also replace combox 1 84-10-9-257-164. Took so long because part was shipped to the wrong place 2 times. Also replaced brake fluid and micro filter. 
Jan 2017

47000 mi

US $376
Installed new battery. Combox recall. 
BMW 3-Series in New York, United States
Dec 2013 - Apr 2018
Aug 2014

30100 mi
Fuel door would not lock when vehicle was locked via central locking system. Locking pin was not engaging fully and appeared as though it was sheared off. Filler Flap Actuator was replaced and costs covered under warranty. 
Dec 2016

46000 mi

US $400
battery replaced 
Nov 2017

52000 mi

US $800
Faulty coil pack. Replaced all 6 coil packs. 
BMW 3-Series in Pennsylvania, United States
Oct 2013 - Dec 2015
Dec 2014

52000 mi

US $50
CEL came on, and car ran rough. Problem intermittent but persistent. #1 coil pack bad; dealer replaced all 6. 
BMW 3-Series in New York, United States
Nov 2010 - Jun 2013
Apr 2011

7000 mi
Leaky transmission. Replaced seal. 
Dec 2012

38000 mi
Tire pressure monitor failed. Replaced control unit under warranty. 
BMW 3-Series in New Jersey, United States
Sep 2014 - Feb 2017
Apr 2016

41500 mi
Coil packs causing misfire 

Return to top

2011 BMW 3-Series 2dr Coupe

230-horsepower 3.0L I6 6-speed manual RWD

BMW 3-Series in Georgia, United States
Feb 2015 - Jan 2017
Sep 2015

40000 mi

US $180
Battery died suddenly 
Jan 2017

55000 mi

US $2100
Engine was roughly accelerating. Suspected bad VANOS solenoids and had the solenoids replaced. This did not fix the issue. Front Control Arms had to be replaced as they were bad. 
BMW 3-Series in California, United States
Dec 2013 - Jun 2022
Jun 2018

47000 mi
VANOS bolts on intake side sheared off. Known vulnerability with this engine. Fixed under extended warranty. Vanos unit replaced on intake side, bolts on both vanos units replaced, and broken bolt heads recovered from oil pan. 
Aug 2020

53339 mi

US $700
Misfire on cylinder 6. Repaired by replacing coil pack and spark plug. 

Return to top

2011 BMW 3-Series 2dr Coupe

230-horsepower 3.0L I6 6-speed manual AWD

BMW 3-Series in Ohio, United States
Jun 2010 - Dec 2013
Nov 2010

400 mi
Ran diagnostics on speedometer. Confirmed that it read 5% higher than actual speed, but said it was normal. 
BMW 3-Series in Massachusetts, United States
Mar 2013 - Oct 2015
May 2014

43900 mi
The seat sensor would detect a person falsely when it was warm outside causing the seatbelt warning. 
Dec 2014

55000 mi

US $100
Ignition coil in #4 cylinder malfunctioned. Dealer replaced all 6. Oil changed at the same time. 
Feb 2015

57000 mi

US $282
Battery needed to be repalced 
Oct 2015

67000 mi

US $50
Needed thermostat (CEL came on) 

Return to top

2010.5 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

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

BMW 3-Series in South Africa
Nov 2015 - Dec 2015
Nov 2015

50220 mi
Minor oil leak, worn gasket 

Return to top

See TrueDelta's information for all Sedans and Wagons.
See TrueDelta's information for all BMW models.

2011 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 2011 BMW 3-Series problems occur, check out our car reliability stats.