| 1 | 0 | 3 | 4 | 3 | 4 |
2003 BMW 3-Series repairs by problem area
Engine (43%)
Transmission and Drivetrain (9%)
Brakes and Traction Control (4%)
Suspension and Steering (15%)
Electrical and Air Conditioning (22%)
Paint, Rust, Leaks, Rattles, and Trim (4%)
Other (3%)
Chart based on 590 repairs.
2003 BMW 3-Series repair cost distribution
$2500+ (2%)
$1000 - $2499 (10%)
$500 - $999 (22%)
$100 - $499 (37%)
< $100 (29%)
Chart based on 457 repair trips. The repair cost chart excludes repairs made under warranty, do-it-yourself repairs, and repair trips that include maintenance.
2003 BMW 3-Series
Engine not specified
| BMW 3-Series in Colorado, United States Nov 2011 - Dec 2011 | |||
| Dec 201179000 miUS $500 | The front wheel bearing needed to be replaced | ||
| BMW 3-Series in California, United States Dec 2011 - Apr 2012 | |||
| Jan 2012US $400 | Battery gave out early, was replaced in February 2011. Car wouldn't start, needed to be jumpstarted, and took a day at the shop to repair. | ||
| Apr 201295000 miUS $700 | Entire body of electronics, from clock to ECU, reset themselves whenever the car was turned off. DISA valve was ticking and needed replacement. Guibo joint was disintegrating and made car nearly undrivable. | ||
| BMW 3-Series in Tennessee, United States Apr 2012 - Apr 2012 | |||
| Apr 2012 | Undiagnosed vibration | ||
| BMW 3-Series in Nova Scotia, Canada Feb 2007 - Mar 2010 | |||
| Mar 200755800 miC $80 | emission control system sensor, over 1,000 to repair, doesnt affect the performance of the vehicle so i said dont fix, and after a day the light went off | ||
2003 BMW 3-Series 4dr Wagon
225-horsepower 3.0L I6 5-speed shiftable automatic RWD
| BMW 3-Series in Illinois, United States Sep 2010 - Jan 2012 | |||
| Dec 2011107000 miUS $200 | false low oil sensor reading | ||
2003 BMW 3-Series 4dr Wagon
225-horsepower 3.0L I6 5-speed shiftable automatic AWD
| BMW 3-Series in New York, United States Nov 2007 - Aug 2012 | |||
| Jun 2008106000 miUS $70 | front sway bar links | ||
| Sep 2008115000 miUS $340 | New rear springs. | ||
| Feb 2009124000 miUS $250 | Replace thermostat. | ||
| Jun 2009128000 miUS $300 | Replaced fuel pump and fuel filter | ||
| Aug 2009132000 miUS $140 | Install 2 pre-cat oxygen sensors. | ||
| Dec 2009143000 miUS $20 | Replaced final stage resistor for blower. Replaced secondary air relay. | ||
| Apr 2010140500 miUS $160 | New lower intake elbow. New rear shocks. New AT cooler pipes. | ||
| Dec 2010155000 miUS $260 | Replace DISA valve. Replace leaking valve cover gasket. | ||
| Jul 2011163000 miUS $130 | replace 2 after-cat O2 sensors replaced oil filter housing gasket | ||
2003 BMW 3-Series 4dr Wagon
225-horsepower 3.0L I6 5-speed manual AWD
| BMW 3-Series in New Jersey, United States Nov 2011 - Dec 2017 | |||
| Dec 2011125000 miUS $1200 | Replace water pump, replace starter | ||
2003 BMW 3-Series 4dr Wagon
184-horsepower 2.5L I6 5-speed shiftable automatic RWD
| BMW 3-Series in California, United States Jan 2011 - Mar 2016 | |||
| Feb 2011112000 miUS $853 | Starter motor replaced due to failure. | ||
| Nov 2013161600 miUS $500 | Thermostat housing was leaking and needed to be replaced. | ||
| Jun 2014172000 miUS $450 | Emissions system error from faulty sensors. | ||
| Sep 2015192000 miUS $500 | Ignition coils replaced | ||
| BMW 3-Series in North Carolina, United States Sep 2007 - Feb 2010 | |||
| Nov 200760000 miUS $90 | Window Requlator Front Driver Side | ||
| Feb 200984000 miUS $300 | Intermittent sticking of Thermostat Fault recorded in DME. Secondary Air Pump Control Valve Sticking Open - Fault Recorded in DME. | ||
| BMW 3-Series in Ontario, Canada Mar 2012 - Jun 2014 | |||
| Jul 201273260 miC $32 | Replaced the headlight washer pump. | ||
| Dec 201277500 miC $100 | Replaced the headlights washer spray nozzles. | ||
| May 201384900 miC $150 | Replaced valve cover gasket and VANOS pistons "O" rings. | ||
| Sep 201391140 miC $50 | Replaced rear right side wheel bearing. | ||
| Dec 201393000 miC $250 | Replaced front swaybar links. Changed radiator, expansion tank and transmission thermostat due to a leak. | ||
| Feb 201496100 miC $400 | Replaced starter. | ||
2003 BMW 3-Series 4dr Wagon
184-horsepower 2.5L I6 5-speed shiftable automatic AWD
| BMW 3-Series in New Jersey, United States Mar 2009 - Jul 2012 | |||
| Mar 200985043 miUS $1010 | replace power steering reservoir and reclamp lines replace wiper inserts, right front sway bar link, change gear oil in differential water pump, thermostat & housing (2 belts, antifreeze, fan clutch) | ||
| Dec 2010110715 miUS $709 | replace valve cover gasket (oil leak) | ||
| Feb 2011115000 miUS $581 | replaced failed fuel pump (failed in mid-drive, needed towing and car rental) | ||
| Apr 2011118000 miUS $98 | replace starter replace starter | ||
| Jun 2011120000 miUS $180 | Vibration while driving higher mph. Needed new tires to be remounted and balanced. Balancing solved half of the problem. Suggested to get control arm and joints checked out. | ||
| Oct 2011122300 miUS $100 | Error code that basically means any of these: air pollution control valve is faulty, vacuum leak or your motor is falling apart. Air pollution control valve was replaced so vacuum leak exists though the car runs great. | ||
| Dec 2011129000 mi | Vacuum leak behind motor, close to pollution control pump | ||
| Jul 2012137000 mi | The BMW had an oil consumption problem. It still drove fairly well, but with a little blue smoke out the tailpipe upon heavy acceleration and, recently, a CEL for Bank 1. | ||
| BMW 3-Series in Virginia, United States Jan 2009 - Feb 2011 | |||
| Mar 200946000 mi | Pullies, tensioner in accessory drive replaced in attempt to eliminate rattling noise. Some guy from BMW corp. looked at this and said it's normal for M54 engines. | ||
| Jan 201067100 miUS $500 | Starter broke | ||
| Mar 201060000 miUS $230 | Front suspension bushing (CAB) replaced due to uneven wear of the right tire. | ||
| BMW 3-Series in Maryland, United States Mar 2015 - Oct 2017 | |||
| Mar 2015137000 miUS $400 | Replaced worn shocks and broken springs. | ||
| Jul 2017161000 miUS $400 | Replaced front differential Replaced both front cv shafts | ||
| BMW 3-Series in Massachusetts, United States Jul 2010 - Sep 2013 | |||
| Jan 201062000 miUS $800 | Did rear struts, leaking. Replaced front control arms and bushings. Right side. | ||
| Feb 201065000 miUS $400 | Replaced front control arms and bushings. Right left side | ||
| Apr 201070000 miUS $300 | Did the first of what will eventually be a total (so far) 5 window regulators in a 4 window car. | ||
| Jun 201060000 miUS $1100 | Replaced a few items. Sensors, fan, hose and charged. Worked great since. | ||
| Aug 2012115000 miUS $90 | Alternator died on the way to a business meeting. Went to shop nearby for diagnosis, had my local tech do it for less. Rear sway bar end links and bushings. Seems like I have done suspension and bushing work 2x a year since I got it. | ||
| BMW 3-Series in Minnesota, United States Sep 2006 - Feb 2015 | |||
| Dec 200640000 mi | Stalling at cold start. Replaced airfilter | ||
| Apr 200745000 miUS $500 | Rear brakes and rotors. Front sway bar link | ||
| Aug 200747000 miUS $700 | SES light on. Codes indicated failed thermostat and O2 Sensor. Both replaced. | ||
| Aug 200858000 miUS $140 | Broken clip in right inner CV Boot. | ||
| Sep 200858000 miUS $325 | Valve cover gasket Leak..minor but was dripping on exhaust manifold causing odor in car. | ||
| Dec 200861000 miUS $552 | Oil Separator was upgraded to cold weather version due to record breaking cold in Minnesota. I upgraded since I have a short commute, Oil Separators can freeze burst. Issue addressed in a BMW TSB. I am planning on asking BMW for reimbursement of repair. | ||
| Feb 200962000 miUS $600 | Vanos Seal (Device that controls the Valve Timing) failed and turned on check engine light. Car also had misfire at idle. Vanos unit was rebuilt using new seals from Beisan Systems which are more durable than the OEM BMW seals. | ||
| Jul 201078000 miUS $76 | Sunroof shade clip. | ||
| Oct 201081000 miUS $150 | Swaybar endlinks were making noise. Replaced at selfservice repair shop. | ||
| Jan 2014113000 miUS $600 | outer ball joint, left lower control arm. | ||
| BMW 3-Series in Ohio, United States May 2016 - Sep 2020 | |||
| Sep 2016175000 miUS $500 | hood latch stopped working | ||
| Jan 2018181000 miUS $20 | hose to secondary air pump failed | ||
| Mar 2018181000 miUS $500 | fuel pump | ||
2003 BMW 3-Series 4dr Wagon
184-horsepower 2.5L I6 5-speed manual RWD
| BMW 3-Series in New York, United States Mar 2011 - Oct 2013 | |||
| Aug 201186400 miUS $300 | Oil level sensor failed for the 3rd time. Replaced. | ||
| Sep 201188000 mi | Misfire under light throttle, intermittant. | ||
| Apr 201293500 miUS $70 | Overflow tank leaking, needed replacement. | ||
| May 201294100 miUS $40 | Replaced relays on remote locking controller circuit board. | ||
| Jun 201296000 miUS $1 | Repaired driver's window regulator. | ||
| Apr 2013100200 miUS $1200 | Stalling and failure to start. Four trips to dealer, he replaced crank position sensor, EWS, fuel pump, and fuel filter. | ||
| BMW 3-Series in British Columbia, Canada Jul 2008 - Dec 2015 | |||
| Aug 200933480 miC $1000 | Front Control arm bushings needed work | ||
| Jul 201147120 miC $500 | Engine Valve gasket replaced, there was a slight oil leak developing. (also oil change performed) | ||
| Apr 201250840 miC $140 | Thermostat was stuck open, replaced part | ||
| May 201357040 miC $200 | Water Pump replacement | ||
| Nov 201359920 miC $800 | Front CV joints replaced Rear shock mounts repaired | ||
| Dec 201569440 miC $1000 | Coolant:thermostat | ||
| BMW 3-Series in Missouri, United States Jul 2009 - Jun 2013 | |||
| Apr 201077000 miUS $580 | Starter replaced. | ||
| Sep 201196000 mi | Leaking valve cover gasket replaced. Plugs changed. | ||
| Aug 2012110000 miUS $150 | Replaced fuel pump in tank. DIY repair took less than 1 hour. It was weak for several weeks (power down). Then failed to start. | ||
| Nov 2012113700 miUS $300 | Replaced Disa valve in intake and all drive pullies due to squeaking. | ||
2003 BMW 3-Series 4dr Wagon
184-horsepower 2.5L I6 5-speed manual AWD
| BMW 3-Series in Connecticut, United States Mar 2009 - Oct 2012 | |||
| Nov 201095000 miUS $900 | Front right CV boot/axle was cracked and replaced. | ||
2003 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan
225-horsepower 3.0L I6 5-speed shiftable automatic RWD
| BMW 3-Series in Delaware, United States Dec 2006 - Mar 2010 | |||
| Aug 200642000 mi | Oxygen sensor replacement (check engine light), Seat belt TENS unit replacement (air bag light). All original warranty coverage. | ||
| Feb 200746000 mi | Seat Belt tensioner unit driver's side malfunctioned causing air bag light to illuminate. | ||
| Oct 200876000 miUS $350 | Oil filter housing gasket. $290 labor, $10 gasket! | ||
| BMW 3-Series in California, United States Mar 2009 - Jan 2018 | |||
| Apr 200976000 miUS $1235 | Burning oil smell. Engine valve cover gasket was replaced. No more oil smell now. | ||
| BMW 3-Series in Ontario, Canada Feb 2015 - Jun 2015 | |||
| Feb 2015104160 mi | radiator was leaking coolant. replaced the expansion tank. | ||
| Apr 2015105400 miC $500 | car went into "limp mode" -- transmission limited to 3rd gear. turns out it was an alternator issue and had to deal with dropping voltage. | ||
| BMW 3-Series in Massachusetts, United States Aug 2010 - Jun 2011 | |||
| Oct 201095000 miUS $250 | Idler pulley replaced. Idler pulley replaced | ||
| BMW 3-Series in Illinois, United States - Jan 2009 | |||
| Jan 200975000 miUS $200 | Replace rim: 2/2 crack, had chronic slow leak. | ||
| BMW 3-Series in Alabama, United States May 2012 - Mar 2013 | |||
| Jun 2012127000 miUS $1700 | radiator, pump, gasket changed, $1300 oil line, seal ring, filter housing gasket changed auxiliary belt replaced, left and right rear lower control arms bolts, bushings replaced | ||
| Oct 2012134700 miUS $1100 | 1) rear brake pads, rotors, calipers replaced. 2) real differential axle seal replaced. 3) engine oil changed. 4) hazard light switch replaced. | ||
| BMW 3-Series in Pennsylvania, United States Feb 2017 - Jul 2020 | |||
| Mar 2017187000 miUS $3300 | Transmission died. Replaced transmission. | ||
| Mar 2018189000 miUS $50 | Power steering fluid leak | ||
| BMW 3-Series in California, United States Jul 2012 - Aug 2012 | |||
| Aug 2012104000 mi | Broken belt pre-tensioner bearing. Wire harness for left rear tail light melted, burned out. Found out there is a recall. | ||
| BMW 3-Series in Florida, United States Apr 2015 - Jun 2015 | |||
| Jun 2015176000 miUS $240 | 2 of the 6 coils were bad, causing the engine to misfire | ||
| BMW 3-Series in New Jersey, United States Jun 2013 - Jun 2014 | |||
| Nov 2013107400 miUS $200 | Window motor failed. | ||
| Apr 2014111300 miUS $680 | Calipers and rotors Need to check blower. It stopped working. | ||
| BMW 3-Series in California, United States Mar 2014 - Mar 2015 | |||
| Dec 2014136000 miUS $1700 | Tie rods damaged from previous owner, Steering boots torn due to age. R&R brake rotors and pads for general maintenance, also replaced broken brake pad wear sensor. | ||
| BMW 3-Series in Illinois, United States Jul 2011 - Aug 2012 | |||
| Aug 201191700 miUS $600 | Emission Control | ||
2003 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan
225-horsepower 3.0L I6 5-speed shiftable automatic AWD
| BMW 3-Series in Minnesota, United States Jan 2016 - Feb 2016 | |||
| Feb 2016120000 miUS $962 | Replace the CV joint, U joint and boots on the front axle. In addition repair work was done on the the intake | ||
| BMW 3-Series in North Carolina, United States Mar 2011 - Aug 2016 | |||
| May 201192000 miUS $600 | Belts noisy. Tech replaced belts, checked tensioners (no problems), replaced water pump preventatively, replaced fan clutch because it was no longer working. | ||
| Jun 201192000 miUS $166 | strong vibration at stop. Replaced plugs and wires; no change. | ||
| Nov 2012106100 miUS $300 | Replaced expansion tank and oil cooler valve. | ||
| Feb 2014112000 miUS $200 | Broken upper radiator hose neck. Upper radiator hose with integrated neck replaced | ||
| Nov 2014117000 miUS $500 | Leaking oil from valve cover gasket and oil filter housing. | ||
| Jan 2015109800 miUS $360 | Dash totally went out. After troubleshooting, replaced battery. | ||
| Jul 2015122000 miUS $650 | Rough idle and ses light was on. Replaced air intake valve and other intake plastic parts | ||
| Jun 2016126000 miUS $320 | replaced window regulator | ||
| BMW 3-Series in New York, United States Oct 2008 - Dec 2017 | |||
| Nov 200837000 mi | The dynamic headlights were aiming too low at night. | ||
| Sep 200944000 miUS $50 | Coolant sensor needed to be replaced. | ||
| Feb 201048000 miUS $600 | Halogen lamp control unit(warranty) coolant hose, two engine belts | ||
| Dec 201161000 miUS $620 | The CV boots were cracked on both front sides. Rear springs had cracks. | ||
| Jun 201375000 miUS $600 | The alternator died a sudden death. Red battery light dashboard light came on, and the battery was the only source of electricity after that point. Just made it home. | ||
| Sep 201377000 miUS $640 | Fan motor died, thermostat replaced. reservoir cracked, was replaced. | ||
| Jan 201484000 miUS $220 | Battery died, not unexpected after 10 years of service... | ||
| Aug 201480700 miUS $65 | Driver side headlight balast died. Dealer wanted 1400$ got a generic unit on ebay for $55 | ||
| Jan 201579800 miUS $57 | Driver side lock cylinder shaft broke. | ||
| Feb 201696400 miUS $4700 | Air mass sensor and a variety of other ignition related items replaced as the car would not start/run anymore. starter failed over the course of 2 days | ||
| Mar 2017109000 miUS $650 | O2 sensors needed to be replaced. Fuel injector failing. | ||
| Sep 2017115000 miUS $98 | O2 sensor replacement | ||
| BMW 3-Series in South Carolina, United States Dec 2016 - Apr 2017 | |||
| Apr 2017131000 miUS $850 | Replaced all cooling components. Water pump, expansion tank, fan clutch, both belts upper and lower hoses, radiator, thermostat and transmission thermostat. Clutch went out on fan and causes all components to fail one after the other. Would recommend doing all at once to avoid future problems. | ||
| BMW 3-Series in Connecticut, United States Jan 2008 - Mar 2018 | |||
| Jan 200842000 mi | Secondary air injection pump & valve replacement | ||
| Feb 2013120700 miUS $650 | Rear sub frame bushing change | ||
| Mar 2014136000 miUS $450 | Alternator replaced Oil leak from filter housing gasket Fuel pump. | ||
| Nov 2014149700 miUS $243 | Coolant reservoir leaking | ||
| Sep 2015162000 mi | Ignition coil failure, replaced all coils | ||
| Mar 2016174000 miUS $2200 | Front differential shot | ||
| Dec 2016182000 miUS $226 | brake line corrosion | ||
2003 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan
225-horsepower 3.0L I6 5-speed manual RWD
| BMW 3-Series in Minnesota, United States Apr 2007 - Jun 2007 | |||
| May 200744000 mi | Control arms replaced to eliminate some movement. Engine mounts and transmission mounts replaced due to vibration at idle. | ||
| BMW 3-Series in Colorado, United States Jan 2013 - Jun 2018 | |||
| May 201734940 miUS $215 | OBD code p0128: Coolant Thermostat (Coolant Temperature Below Thermostat Regulating Temperature). Per technician, frequently related to failing thermostat. Asked that thermostat be replaced. No repeat of code since this repair. | ||
| BMW 3-Series in Texas, United States Dec 2014 - Jul 2018 | |||
| Jan 2015 | Window regulator was broken, performed the "zip tie fix" by removing regulator, applying zip-ties, and putting it back in. Works prefectly now. | ||
| Apr 2016145000 miUS $400 | Rear Emblem Sticker fell off; Engine protector and front/right fenders need replacing | ||
| Jul 2017148000 miUS $1500 | Completely repainted the outside of the car. The sun had destroyed the clear coat and the whole thing needed repainting. | ||
| Jul 2018150000 miUS $500 | ECU needed replacing. | ||
| BMW 3-Series in Illinois, United States Aug 2015 - Jun 2018 | |||
| Jan 2016112200 miUS $300 | Cooling expansion tank failed and was leaking. Replaced all consumables. | ||
| Jan 2017118000 miUS $10 | Upper strut mounts making creaking noise while steering. Added grease | ||
| Apr 2017118200 miUS $300 | Fuel pump died. Replaced with new OE pump, and replaced fuel filter as preventative maintenance during this time. | ||
| Jun 2017119517 miUS $300 | Intake hoses were ripped/dry rotted. Replaced upper and lower intake hoses, as well as connector and vacuum line. VANOS variable valve timing unit internal seals had failed, causing poor running and rough takeoffs. Replaced seals with aftermarket upgraded Viton parts (from Beisan Systems), changed valve cover gasket, replaced spark plugs with OE NGKs during this time. | ||
| Jul 2017120399 miUS $900 | Brake noise and vibration returned. Resurfaced front rotors (were new recently) and replaced front caliper slide pins/bushing.s Clutch throwout bearing was worn and hanging. ZF manual transmission detent pins became sticky, making 3rd gear difficult to locate, and shifting difficult. Removed transmisison to service all the shift pins and overhaul clutch. installed fresh clutch kit w/ TOB, new guide sleeve, pivot pin and clip, guibo, pilot bearing, 5x new shift detent pin kits, new reverse and 5th pins, delrin shift console bushings, new OE rear console bushings, new rod joint and clips, e60 545 shift lever, new cup bushing, new nuts with old guibo bolts, new e46 M3 trans mounts, new exh downpipe gaskets and copper nuts. Fresh Redline MTL (1qt) and D4ATF (remainder, 0.7qt), magnetic trans drain plug. | ||
| Mar 2018124000 miUS $80 | Repaired original DISA/manifold runner valve with replacement flapper, bellcrank, and seal. Cleaned throttle body (not bad), cleaned ICV. | ||
| Apr 2018124000 miUS $30 | Front brakes vibrating again, removed rotors, cleaned with steel wool and wire wheel. Visible pad imprints remain Installed new reman front brake calipers, freshly turned rotors, and new Stoptech Sport pads. Flushed and bled all 4 brakes with ATE 200. | ||
| BMW 3-Series in California, United States Dec 2010 - Sep 2013 | |||
| Mar 2011106000 miUS $400 | CD player continuously trying eject disc. Unit replaced. | ||
| Sep 2012128000 mi | Fuel pump failed, pump and filter replaced Air pump replaced | ||
| Oct 2012128200 miUS $680 | No starter engagement, entire starter unit had to be replaced | ||
| BMW 3-Series in New York, United States Mar 2008 - Nov 2008 | |||
| Jun 200846000 miUS $1000 | Water pump failure. | ||
| BMW 3-Series in North Carolina, United States Mar 2009 - Jun 2011 | |||
| Sep 200970000 miUS $1100 | Service II inspection plus anti-freeze and brake fluid change. Problem was an acceleration issue at ~3000 rpm. Vehicle "misses" at that rpm. Repeat problem, still was not resolved by dealer. (Later fixed with reflash of chip.) | ||
| BMW 3-Series in California, United States - Aug 2006 | |||
| Aug 200636000 mi | Replaced steering wheel (peeling fabric) | ||
| BMW 3-Series in Maryland, United States Nov 2015 - Sep 2016 | |||
| Apr 2016112500 miUS $100 | Expansion tank was leaking | ||
2003 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan
225-horsepower 3.0L I6 5-speed manual AWD
| BMW 3-Series in New York, United States Oct 2012 - Mar 2018 | |||
| Dec 2012110000 mi | Both Rear Coil Springs Broken Leaking Rear Differential Seals | ||
| Feb 2013112000 miUS $200 | Fuel pump failed, so I replaced the fuel pump and filter. | ||
| Apr 2013114500 miUS $600 | Front control arms, inner and outer ball joints, and front control arm bushings replaced. | ||
| May 2013115400 miUS $250 | Driveshaft was rumbling under acceleration load due to failed support bearing carrier. Rear driveshaft center support bearing and carrier replaced and transfer case/transmission mount replaced. Front brake pads were wearing unevenly due to seized calipers. Front calipers, pads, rotors replaced. Stainless steel brake lines install on all 4 corners. Brake fluid flushed. | ||
| Jun 2013117000 miUS $200 | Valve cover gasket leaking and replaced. Spark plugs replaced. VANOS seals replaced. | ||
| Jan 2014112300 miUS $5 | Center Support Bearing failed and required replacement. Oil filter housing gasket was leaking and required replacement. | ||
| Apr 2014124300 miUS $350 | Water pump replaced because of bad bearing. Rear brake pipes leaking near reservoir, replaced both rear lines from reservoir to rear brake hoses. Starter failed and replaced. Needed a tow for either issue. | ||
| Aug 2014127100 mi | Crank position sensor failed. DISA valve rebuilt. Rubber air intake boot torn. | ||
| Sep 2014128000 miUS $50 | Door lock cylinder broke (the remote would open the door but the key would not. Replaced cylinder. | ||
| Dec 2014130000 miUS $200 | CCV/oil separator valve failing and hoses plugged up with oil sludge. (Oil consumption was over 1qt per 1000 miles (previously was 1qt per 3000 miles)) Replaced CCV valve and hoses. | ||
| Nov 2015137000 miUS $100 | Replaced parking brake and parking brake hardware. | ||
| Dec 2016144000 miUS $150 | Blower motor was squealing loudly (audible both inside and outside vehicle) in cold weather and/or with A/C on due to bad bearings - replaced blower motor. | ||
| Mar 2018149000 miUS $600 | Play in left front wheel bearing - replaced and re-aligned. | ||
| BMW 3-Series in Colorado, United States Jun 2014 - Jul 2014 | |||
| Jul 2014126000 miUS $400 | Airbag error code. Not covered by recall, although it is the same airbag unit as that being recalled. I paid to replace all wiring leading to the airbag, which did not fix the problem. | ||
| BMW 3-Series in Manitoba, Canada Mar 2015 - Oct 2016 | |||
| Mar 2015106640 miC $909 | Replace trailing arm bushings and differential seal | ||
| Jan 2016C $500 | Thermostat | ||
| Jun 2016116560 miC $950 | Rear shocks and wheel alignment | ||
| Oct 2016117180 mi | Vanos track system | ||
| BMW 3-Series in Georgia, United States Jun 2014 - Jun 2014 | |||
| Jun 2014126000 miUS $4100 | Power steering pump ran dry and melted. Pump replaced, along with reservoir and hoses. AC compressor clutch damaged when power steering pump melted and locked up. New compressor and aux fan. Fan clutch worn and slipping. Replaced clutch. | ||
| BMW 3-Series in Wisconsin, United States Mar 2008 - Jul 2009 | |||
| Sep 2008102000 miUS $600 | Water pump, pulleys, and belts replaced. | ||
| Mar 2009112000 miUS $400 | Secondary air pump failed. Unit replaced. | ||
| BMW 3-Series in Michigan, United States Jan 2010 - Mar 2016 | |||
| Jun 201075000 miUS $400 | AC lost charge | ||
| Mar 2012102000 miUS $1700 | New clutch and cv boot covers | ||
| Jun 2012105000 miUS $1000 | MAF sensors, O2 sensors, MAf replacement wiring issue with chipmunk nest in air filter | ||
| Jun 2014127000 miUS $850 | Bad sensor | ||
2003 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan
184-horsepower 2.5L I6 5-speed shiftable automatic RWD
| BMW 3-Series in Oregon, United States Apr 2013 - Apr 2014 | |||
| Mar 201482000 miUS $1400 | Cooling system sensor (?) malfunction - was drawing more power from the alternator which eventually killed the alternator. New battery, sensor and alternator. | ||
| BMW 3-Series in Illinois, United States Sep 2013 - Jun 2018 | |||
| Sep 2013104000 mi | Fuel system was shot. Had to replace tank, pump, filler neck, and filter as they are all one piece. | ||
| Nov 2013104600 miUS $500 | Control arm bushings, and control arm (including balljoints) were replaced. | ||
| Apr 2014106300 mi | Rear Shocks blew out. | ||
| Aug 2014108600 miUS $1310 | Complete suspension overhaul. Shocks were completely done, both rear were blown. Front struts had no resistance. Steering guibo was worn and there was play in steering. End links clunking. Complete cooling system. The engine and transmission thermostats had soft failed open. Fan clutch was loose, and water pump would gave probably started to seep in next 5000 miles. Expansion tank was entirely preventative due to it being a common issue. | ||
| Jul 2015115200 miUS $250 | Alternator's voltage regulator failed, so I ordered a new Bosch unit and I installed it myself. | ||
| BMW 3-Series in Illinois, United States Mar 2015 - Jan 2016 | |||
| Jan 2016US $25 | Replaced power steering lines | ||
| BMW 3-Series in New Mexico, United States Jun 2012 - Aug 2012 | |||
| Jul 201216000 miUS $300 | Multiple leaks in radiator. In hoses and overflow tank. | ||
| Aug 201216000 miUS $40 | The alternator had to be replaced three times. The first two alternators were bought at O'Reily autoparts, and installed by DIY. Both gave out, and an auto shop finally replaced it themselves with a new alternator. Power steering gave out and had to be replaced. The belt to both rear windows gave out. | ||
| BMW 3-Series in Georgia, United States Mar 2012 - Apr 2014 | |||
| Sep 2012119000 miUS $800 | Oil pan gasket leak, oil filter housing gasket leak | ||
| BMW 3-Series in California, United States Dec 2014 - Jan 2015 | |||
| Jan 2015114000 miUS $600 | O2 sensors and Mass Air Flow sensor - | ||
| BMW 3-Series in Texas, United States Nov 2012 - Mar 2016 | |||
| Sep 2013101000 miUS $400 | power steering pump replaced | ||
| Dec 2015116000 mi | replaced bushings | ||
| BMW 3-Series in Texas, United States Oct 2012 - Apr 2013 | |||
| Dec 201282000 mi | Three coils were worn out. Changed without costs. | ||
| BMW 3-Series in California, United States Feb 2010 - Jun 2011 | |||
| Jun 201041000 miUS $300 | Leaking from drain pan | ||
| BMW 3-Series in Georgia, United States Mar 2008 - Feb 2011 | |||
| Dec 200989000 miUS $255 | Air control valve repaired and cleaned. | ||
| Jul 201096000 miUS $800 | Replaced worn pulley and idler set | ||
| Feb 2011100000 mi | Squeel, oiginally diagnosed and "repaired"as worn pulleys, was in reality a bad water pump. | ||
| BMW 3-Series in New Jersey, United States Nov 2008 - Mar 2010 | |||
| Dec 200855000 mi | CV joint in left front failed. | ||
| BMW 3-Series in New Jersey, United States Feb 2009 - Nov 2010 | |||
| Mar 200998500 miUS $35 | Replaced valve cover gasket. | ||
| BMW 3-Series in Oregon, United States May 2007 - Jun 2011 | |||
| Jun 200757000 miUS $270 | control arm bushings replaced | ||
| Aug 200760000 miUS $150 | outside trim fell off | ||
| Apr 200869000 miUS $50 | Blower motor replaced. | ||
| May 200870000 miUS $50 | Window regulator replaced. Washer fluid pump replaced. | ||
| Oct 200874000 miUS $50 | Belt tensioner and pulley had to be replaced. Replaced another window regulator too. | ||
| Aug 201092000 miUS $350 | thermostat | ||
| BMW 3-Series in Ontario, Canada May 2007 - Jul 2022 | |||
| Jun 200731620 mi | delay from Reverse to Drive, took about 30 seconds for transmission to engage after selecting "D". SA said that there was a leak of some sort and the Compressor was replaced. | ||
| Jul 200839060 miC $35 | Drive side seatbelt tensioner replaced threw srs light on dash. | ||
| May 201050000 miC $200 | ebrake DSR came off the hangers. | ||
| Aug 201265920 miC $210 | Scan done, misfire cylinder #5, replaced coil and plugs. All ok. | ||
| Jul 201687520 miC $600 | Rear shocks, springs and brakes. | ||
| Jul 201892380 miC $300 | Belt tensioners (3), 2 belts | ||
| BMW 3-Series in Pennsylvania, United States Jul 2007 - Jun 2018 | |||
| Aug 200739000 mi | Slipping transmission | ||
| Jan 200843000 mi | Slipping transmission on cold start; a commonly reported flaw on web; reflash seems to solve it; first reflash did not hold Burned wiring to left rear taillight; wiring replaced | ||
| Aug 200954000 miUS $400 | Control arms and bushings | ||
| Jan 201172000 miUS $80 | Engine idle revs from 800 to 1200, repeatedly, dangerous surge almost caused accident, brakes barely able to control. Apparently an error in computer, or in throttle body, or in wiring between throttle body and computer. Just went away. | ||
| Nov 201284300 miUS $200 | Thermostat defective (prob for 2 years). Also replaced water pump, hoses, antifreeze as preventative (but they all looked good despite 84,000 miles). | ||
| Dec 201285000 mi | Replaced leaking/ seeping high pressure power steering line, PS fluid | ||
| Jan 201486300 miUS $400 | Cooling system leak. Replaced radiator. | ||
| Jun 201495000 miUS $50 | Oil leak since 65K or so, smoking, leaking onto driveway. Replaced valve cover gasket. Seemed to do the trick. | ||
| Feb 2016105300 mi | Rotor frozen; repaired. | ||
| May 2016106300 mi | Leak, oil filter housing | ||
| Aug 2016108300 miUS $150 | Sinking rear spring. Bad stabiliser bar end links. | ||
| Jan 2017107200 mi | Intermittent outage of fuel pump Leaks in the crankcase oil recirc system were throwing lean codes. Unable to get car inspection. | ||
| Jun 2017122000 miUS $450 | Drive belt, tensioner, pulleys | ||
| Apr 2018126000 mi | Locking system fails to unlock | ||
| BMW 3-Series in New Jersey, United States Feb 2007 - Jun 2012 | |||
| Jun 200741000 mi | Refill AC , remap software Replace window regulators. Remap software. | ||
| May 200852000 miUS $320 | Flushed transmission fluid | ||
| Mar 200959000 miUS $700 | Thermostat replaced. Inspection II performed | ||
| Dec 200969000 miUS $1000 | Control arm bushing replaced Rear brake pad + rotor replaced Front brake pad replaced Water pump replaced | ||
| Sep 201076000 miUS $500 | 1. Belts (pulley) 2. air intake valve | ||
| Jun 201181000 miUS $500 | AC sensor replaced, AC fan capacitor replaced, Tune up, Oil change | ||
| Dec 201188000 mi | Oil leak Coolant leak | ||
| Jan 201289000 miUS $400 | Coolant tank leak | ||
| BMW 3-Series in California, United States Jan 2007 - Dec 2016 | |||
| Mar 200727000 mi | The read brake light, turn signals and right headlight would occasionally go out. The dealer reported that the sockets were corroded and replace them and the bulbs. When sifted into reverse, the side view mirror would tilt down for you to see, but when sifted back into drive, it would not go up. | ||
| Jul 200740000 mi | Rear taillight bulb went out. | ||
| Mar 201079000 miUS $1000 | Steering components broke, loud grinding noise when turning. Replaced steering shaft and power steering pump with used parts. Engine oil filter housing leaking, replaced with a new housing. | ||
| Sep 201085000 miUS $450 | Starter failed, car would not start, replaced with a re manufactured starter. | ||
| Apr 201193500 miUS $500 | The thermostat was stuck open, so I decided to replace the whole cooling system for preventative maintenance. | ||
| Sep 201198000 mi | The check engine light was signaled from a faulty secondary air pump, because this was a M56 engine(SULEV) it has a 15 year/150,000 mile warranty on emission related components (a lot of dealers don't know this) | ||
| Sep 2012110000 miUS $330 | Control arm and bushings worn | ||
| Dec 2012112000 miUS $60 | Steering guibo was worn, caused loose steering while cruising at high speeds and wiggly steering | ||
| Mar 2014130000 mi | SES light for secondary air pump, cylinder misfire. | ||
| Nov 2014135900 mi | fuel pump died | ||
| Jun 2016157000 miUS $120 | The crankshaft position sensor was replaced Power steering hoses replaced, power steering resivoir/filter replaced | ||
| BMW 3-Series in Alberta, Canada Feb 2003 - Mar 2010 | |||
| Dec 20034960 mi | Check engine ligh on, replace oxygen sensors | ||
| Aug 200518600 mi | Engine runs roughly, replace ignition cord | ||
| Oct 20052480 mi | Check engine light on again, replace pre-cat oxygen sensor | ||
| Oct 200652080 miC $80 | Replace lower radiator hose | ||
| Nov 20066200 mi | Check engine light on, replace oxygen sensor under warranty | ||
| Dec 200652700 miC $500 | Replace heater core | ||
| Mar 200755800 miC $350 | Replace theromstate | ||
| Aug 200758900 miC $120 | Replace lower temperature sender | ||
| Sep 200758900 miC $1000 | Replace Power Steering Pump | ||
| BMW 3-Series in California, United States May 2010 - Jun 2018 | |||
| Apr 201349821 miUS $341 | Windshield washer replaced Windshield washer replaced | ||
| BMW 3-Series in New Jersey, United States Jul 2010 - Dec 2014 | |||
| Aug 201064000 miUS $200 | The rear driver side window doesn't close. The motor had to be replaced. | ||
| Nov 201072000 miUS $800 | Rear spring broken. Had to be replaced. Passenger side window regulator started to fail. Giving rattling sound when closing indicating a failing motor. | ||
| Feb 201389600 miUS $1500 | Fixed Oil Leak. Oil leak fix threw these errors: P0491: Second Air Injection System (Bank 1) and P0492: Second Air Injection System (Bank 2). Replacing vacuum hose fixed the above errors. | ||
| Apr 201390200 mi | Started Check Engine Light. The temperature sensor looks like is going bad. | ||
| Jul 201391500 mi | Fuel Gauge never goes below half tank because of a bad fuel sensor. Adding Fuel Injector fluid cleared the issue. Front Fender Liner worn and broke during car wash. This also took the temperature sensor from the wheel well. | ||
| Jan 201498000 miUS $605 | Two Window Regulators. Drivers side front and passenger side rear window regulators replaced. Battery has to be replaced as it discharged couple of times during winter season. $150 for battery. | ||
| Dec 2014103000 mi | P0128: Coolant Thermostat not working properly. Coolant leak. Parts worn out. | ||
| BMW 3-Series in New York, United States Nov 2010 - Jul 2018 | |||
| Dec 201084000 miUS $200 | Replaced leaking VANOS oil line. | ||
| Jan 2014114800 miUS $150 | Radiator expansion tank leaked and was replaced. | ||
| Apr 2017131000 miUS $3000 | Transmission rebuild | ||
| BMW 3-Series in Maryland, United States Sep 2016 - Oct 2016 | |||
| Oct 2016186000 miUS $600 | Entire cooling system had to be replaced, radiator, hoses, thermostat, water pump. | ||
2003 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan
184-horsepower 2.5L I6 5-speed shiftable automatic AWD
| BMW 3-Series in New Jersey, United States Feb 2009 - Nov 2017 | |||
| Oct 201060000 miUS $2100 | Front axle pulled out of differential due to worn engine mounts | ||
| Nov 201485300 miUS $600 | Repaired rust spot on right rear fender | ||
| Dec 201595000 miUS $450 | Replaced cracked C-V boots on each front wheel | ||
| Feb 201696000 miUS $500 | Suspect a coolant leak. Independant shop recommended radiator flush which they performed but low level light has returned. Engine overheated due to leak in radiator reservoir | ||
| Aug 2016101000 miUS $1750 | Dust cover came loose on front disc brake & ruined rotor & pads | ||
| Dec 2016106000 miUS $850 | VANOS pipe leaking oil Rear differential seal leaking oil Rear shocks replaced | ||
| Feb 2017107000 miUS $680 | Replaced (2) of (6) ignition coils | ||
| Sep 2017118000 miUS $1200 | Brakes, drums CV joint problem was found when brakes replaced | ||
| BMW 3-Series in Wisconsin, United States Sep 2014 - Dec 2020 | |||
| Sep 2014126000 miUS $125 | CV boot was torn, replaced axle and seal Replaced starter with a remanufactured Bosch Replaced fuel tank sending unit due to damage from a mouse chewing on it. Replaced right front axle due to a torn CV boot. Replaced front sway bar end links. Replaced right front axle due to a torn CV boot. | ||
| Nov 2014130300 miUS $20 | Replaced in warranty thermostat due to failed internal heater circuit | ||
| Dec 2014132000 miUS $10 | Leaking power steering pressure line replaced. Replaced oil filter housing to engine block gasket and oil filter. | ||
| Jan 2015132000 miUS $233 | Replaced alternator. No longer charging the battery consistently. I've changed the alternator on this car 4 times, mostly due to low quality store brand rebuilt units. Replaced pulleys. | ||
| Jun 2015133000 miUS $400 | Replaced front and rear springs. | ||
| Aug 2015140300 mi | Replaced left front axle fie to excessive vibration. | ||
| Dec 2015142000 mi | Cooling system leak. Replaced expansion tank and transmission thermostat. | ||
| Sep 2016141000 miUS $52 | Replaced front lower control arm outer ball joint | ||
| Dec 2016143000 miUS $168 | Fixed coolant leak, replaced expansion tank, mount, water pipe and heater return hose. | ||
| Jan 2017143000 mi | Disa valve broke, fixed with G.A.S. repair kit. | ||
| Sep 2017148000 mi | Replaced rear shocks and mounts. | ||
| Dec 2017151000 miUS $320 | Replaced RF axle and seal due to leaking cv boot. | ||
| Jan 2018151000 mi | Valve cover and gasket replaced. | ||
| Jun 2018151000 miUS $30 | Replaced worn front lower control arm bushings. | ||
| Aug 2018155000 mi | Reinstalled the transmission thermostat | ||
| Jan 2019156000 miUS $50 | replaced leaking thermostat | ||
| Oct 2019157000 miUS $290 | Had a noisy front axle, replaced it and the seal. The parts were warrantied so the only cost was only for return shipping. | ||
| BMW 3-Series in Minnesota, United States May 2007 - Jul 2016 | |||
| Jun 200752000 mi | Power steering hose was leaking and alternator belt was worn. Discoverd by BMW Dealer/Serviceduring pre-purchase inspection (purchased from local independent dealer). Repaired by selling dealer. | ||
| Jul 200753200 miUS $540 | Both front axle CV outer-boots need to be replaced. | ||
| Jul 200861000 miUS $240 | Driver side CV boot was torn | ||
| Sep 200865000 miUS $780 | Rear coils were broken. | ||
| Jul 200972000 miUS $700 | headlight switch needed replacement. | ||
| Sep 200973000 miUS $220 | Bad thermometer. Needed replacement. | ||
| Dec 200977000 miUS $177 | Catch in door lock broke | ||
| Jun 201081000 miUS $200 | Fuel pump failed. replaced fuel pump and relay | ||
| May 201295700 miUS $900 | replaced fuel vent valve cover gasket leak oil filter housing leak | ||
| Nov 2013108900 miUS $650 | Starter died. | ||
| Nov 2014117100 miUS $450 | CV boots replaced | ||
| BMW 3-Series in California, United States Feb 2007 - Apr 2013 | |||
| Apr 200726160 mi | Alternator belt and tensioner due to noise on cold start. Covered by mfg warranty. | ||
| Jan 200835000 miUS $50 | Replaced faulty window regulator. | ||
| Dec 200847000 miUS $499 | Replaced cracked RF inner CV boot. | ||
| Aug 200957000 miUS $50 | Replaced passenger side window regulator due to grinding noise. | ||
| Dec 200961000 miUS $152 | Replaced torn LF CV boot. | ||
| Sep 201072000 miUS $235 | Replaced both windshield washer and headlamp washer pumps | ||
| Jan 201178100 miUS $400 | Water was seeping inside the cabin on the driver side floor. Mechanic reglued water shedders inside both front and rear doors - leak fixed. - Oil change service. | ||
| Apr 201177200 miUS $285 | Replaced RR window regulator. | ||
| Jan 201276000 miUS $2000 | - CV boots torn on both sides. Replaced entire axle assemblies. - replaced worn lower control arm bushings - replaced leaky valve cover gasket | ||
| Apr 201281300 miUS $584 | Replaced faulty alternator due to car dying and not charging battery. Also replaced a couple of belts. Replaced faulty thermostat assembly, also installed new fan. | ||
| BMW 3-Series in New York, United States Feb 2013 - Mar 2013 | |||
| Mar 2013130000 miUS $165 | Rough Idle, replaced mass air flow sensor | ||
| BMW 3-Series in New York, United States Aug 2008 - Apr 2018 | |||
| Oct 200874000 miUS $275 | Seat belt tensioner was causing an airbag light (has happened multiple times). Dealership replaced the wiring harness which was faulty. | ||
| Dec 200981000 miUS $700 | New rear springs | ||
| Jun 201089000 mi | Control arm bushings | ||
| Mar 2012105000 miUS $900 | Car needed new fuel pump and filter | ||
| Oct 2012110800 miUS $210 | Faulty brake sensor light caused abs and traction control problems. No codes so only reset the light. | ||
| Dec 2012115000 miUS $250 | Brake, ABS and traction control lights started coming on again two weeks after reset. Codes this time. Brake light sensor was replaced and problem disappeared. | ||
| Dec 2014128000 miUS $700 | New Axle / CV Joint on Front Passenger Tire | ||
| Feb 2016135100 miUS $1000 | Oil leak | ||
| BMW 3-Series in Puerto Rico Mar 2009 - Jul 2011 | |||
| Oct 200971000 miUS $45 | Torn CV boot - the car's front vibrates when accelerating. Cornering while accelerating makes it worse. CV boot replaced but vibration didn't go away, it is less. | ||
| Dec 200976000 miUS $231 | 2 front axles went. Got the parts for $231 in a local shop, going to install soon. | ||
| Apr 201081000 miUS $500 | Control Arms, ball joints, bushings, sway bar links needs to be done. Have parts, replacing soon. | ||
| Jun 201194000 miUS $30 | cylinder 5 coil replaced | ||
| BMW 3-Series in New York, United States Mar 2013 - Oct 2015 | |||
| Sep 201398000 miUS $350 | Valve cover gasket | ||
| Aug 2015107300 miUS $600 | AC blowing warm | ||
| BMW 3-Series in Wisconsin, United States May 2011 - Dec 2012 | |||
| Nov 201196000 mi | Check engine light came on. Dealer diagnosed it as a random misfire. Replaced the spark plugs and it hasn't come on since. | ||
| Nov 2012114000 miUS $650 | Updated software to correct erratic cold-start idle. Oil leak from Oil Filter Housing Gasket | ||
| BMW 3-Series in North Carolina, United States Feb 2016 - Oct 2017 | |||
| Mar 2016123000 miUS $1200 | 3 repairs valve cover and gasket, plugs and coils as well as oil/filter/air filter change. Expansion tank for cooling system. Both front drive axles. | ||
| Oct 2017140000 miUS $1100 | Failed PCV Valve, Failed Fuel Pump, Failed/Cracked emissions vacuum lines | ||
2003 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan
184-horsepower 2.5L I6 5-speed manual RWD
| BMW 3-Series in California, United States Dec 2016 - Jul 2017 | |||
| Aug 2016126000 miUS $50 | DISA VALVE REPAIR | ||
| Jul 2017134000 miUS $300 | Noise from front of engine. Replaced Belts & Pulleys (some pulleys were definitely worn). Replaced Power steering pump with remanufactured unit due to play on shaft. | ||
| BMW 3-Series in California, United States Mar 2008 - Mar 2010 | |||
| Apr 200863000 miUS $300 | Window regulator Rear trailing arm bushing. | ||
| Feb 200979000 miUS $1200 | Transmission seal failure. | ||
| Mar 200979000 miUS $95 | Drive belts tensioner failure. | ||
| BMW 3-Series in Texas, United States - Apr 2004 | |||
| Apr 200410000 mi | All four interior leather door panels were replaced b/c they were bubbling. | ||
| BMW 3-Series in Georgia, United States Nov 2015 - Jul 2016 | |||
| Feb 2016160000 miUS $1600 | Switch to side view mirror smoking and window regulator gone bad. sunroof switch replaced. Radiator hose replaced Coolant flushed | ||
2003 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan
184-horsepower 2.5L I6 5-speed manual AWD
| BMW 3-Series in Wisconsin, United States Feb 2010 - Sep 2011 | |||
| Jul 2011130000 miUS $100 | Every 3 or 4 weeks, the car will not start. If you wait a bit more than 4 hours, car will work fine for another 3 or 4 weeks. Shop could not duplicate issue. | ||
| BMW 3-Series in Pennsylvania, United States Dec 2006 - Apr 2010 | |||
| Sep 200857000 miUS $2000 | Broken suspension coil. | ||
2003 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan
| BMW 3-Series in Queensland, Australia Jan 2010 - Jun 2018 | |||
| Jun 201140920 miA $2660 | PCV valve & Vacuum pipes. Vacuum pump leaking oil. Rocker cover gasket. Front compression bushes. Roof side gutter leaking. BMW make substandard cars. Be warned, do NOT buy. | ||
| Dec 201143400 miA $28 | Leak of coolant from rear of head. Another common problem. Dealer quoted over $500 to replace a $28 plastic cover plate. | ||
| Sep 201352700 miA $1200 | Oil separator, valve cover gasket, vacuum pump o ring, oil filter gasket. | ||
| Dec 201353320 miA $200 | radiator expansion tank cracked auto trans coolant thermostat control arm bushes replaced gutter fell off | ||
| Jun 201455180 miA $170 | Window lifter broken. Replaced with new one | ||
| Aug 201560340 miA $150 | New front RH wheel bearing. Old one was very noisy | ||
| Dec 201665100 miA $20 | "O" rings on valve solenoids replaced | ||
| Mar 201868820 miA $50 | Car started running on 3 cylinders. Needed a new ignition coil. Was able to source a single non genuine one Instead of whole set dealer wanted to sell me. | ||
| May 201869440 miA $10 | Leaking VANOS solenoid O-rings replaced | ||
2003 BMW 3-Series 4-door
6-cylinder automatic 2WD
| BMW 3-Series in California, United States Apr 2016 - May 2016 | |||
| May 201680000 miUS $1400 | The car would go in reverse but not move. | ||
2003 BMW 3-Series 2dr Coupe
333-horsepower 3.2L I6 6-speed manual RWD
| BMW 3-Series in Pennsylvania, United States Mar 2015 - Aug 2016 | |||
| Sep 2015110000 mi | Reprogram car because it stalls under deceleration. Resulted from transmission swap from SMG to 6MT. Shop is still solving this issue. | ||
| Mar 2016111000 mi | Installed switch to turn off cruise control, which was causing the stalling issue. | ||
| BMW 3-Series in Idaho, United States Jul 2014 - Dec 2021 | |||
| Dec 201579000 miUS $100 | oil pressure plug on side of engine block needed replacement. | ||
| BMW 3-Series in Saskatchewan, Canada Mar 2016 - Oct 2016 | |||
| Aug 201680480 miC $400 | Trouble with an injector and a coil. | ||
| BMW 3-Series in Texas, United States Jul 2010 - Aug 2011 | |||
| Jan 2010110000 mi | rear trailing arm bushing, exhaust manifolds replaced, transmission fluid, rear differential fluid, o2 sensors replaced | ||
| Aug 2011125000 miUS $500 | Alternator Alternator | ||
| BMW 3-Series in New York, United States Mar 2011 - Apr 2011 | |||
| Apr 2011111000 miUS $850 | Sunroof cassette replacement Sunroof cassette replacement | ||
| BMW 3-Series in Pennsylvania, United States Aug 2010 - Jun 2011 | |||
| Oct 201046000 miUS $175 | Rear axle seals need to be replaced. I am also getting ready to install a new power steering pump. | ||
| BMW 3-Series in California, United States Apr 2011 - Jun 2011 | |||
| Jun 201171000 miUS $636 | ps line was bad, also did coolant and oil change | ||
| BMW 3-Series in Minnesota, United States Feb 2012 - Dec 2015 | |||
| Sep 201486000 miUS $1100 | A/C compressor cracked and was replaced. | ||
| Mar 201589000 miUS $40 | Differential input leaking. Differential input seal replaced. | ||
| BMW 3-Series in Alberta, Canada Aug 2011 - Nov 2016 | |||
| Aug 2012107760 miC $800 | Main belt tensioner failed and belt broke. Had to replace all pulley and belts. | ||
| Oct 2016134540 miC $750 | Replaced thermostat, radiator hoses, fan switch, coolant bottle and fan clutch. All needed replacement. | ||
| BMW 3-Series in Texas, United States Aug 2011 - Mar 2013 | |||
| Oct 201171000 miUS $120 | drivers side xenon headlight began to not work and only come on on a hot start:car had been running more than 5 mins or outside temperature hot. Bulbs+ballasts swapped to diagnose problem.Ignitor replaced, very hard to disassemble headlight | ||
| BMW 3-Series in Maryland, United States Mar 2010 - Jun 2011 | |||
| May 201063000 miUS $1000 | A/C compressor replaced. Tension pulley for alternator/water pump replaced. | ||
| BMW 3-Series in Oregon, United States Feb 2010 - Mar 2010 | |||
| Mar 201061000 miUS $250 | Passenger side window actuator was making a loud clicking noise Rear trailing arm bushings needed replacement. | ||
| BMW 3-Series in Oregon, United States Sep 2009 - Oct 2017 | |||
| May 201144300 mi | Electrochromatic rear view mirror failure. Will order after market parts to replace instead of using OEM. | ||
| Jan 201247000 miUS $120 | Coil pack failure on one cylinder | ||
| Sep 201558000 miUS $10 | passenger seat sensor was going out | ||
| May 201660000 mi | Passenger airbag sensor keeps giving a fault. Had to clean the connectors under the seat | ||
| BMW 3-Series in California, United States Aug 2013 - Mar 2018 | |||
| Apr 201495500 miUS $170 | Replaced coils due to misfiring & rough performance. | ||
| BMW 3-Series in New Mexico, United States Dec 2006 - Jun 2017 | |||
| Mar 200885000 miUS $900 | Leaking oil pan. | ||
| Jan 2010113300 miUS $900 | Fuel Pump and fuel sensor went out. | ||
| Sep 2011126000 miUS $400 | SES light came on... Thermostat replaced, problem solved. | ||
| Feb 2013140300 miUS $257 | EWS needed to be reset, and had to purchase a new key as the old key was no longer communicating with the ignition switch. | ||
| BMW 3-Series in Maryland, United States Nov 2009 - Mar 2010 | |||
| Dec 200977000 mi | High vibration in front end at 2000 rpm and 40-60 mph. Over the past 1.5 years there have been multiple parts replaced. 3 of the 4 cv joint boots in 2 occurrences. Then both control arms. no help. both front end drive shafts replaced this time. Thermostat replaced. | ||
| BMW 3-Series in Texas, United States Dec 2009 - Jun 2018 | |||
| Aug 201025000 miUS $360 | right front window regulator replaced | ||
| Sep 201027000 miUS $200 | interior passenger door trip came loose and had to be re-glued. First re-gluing unsuccessful so car was returned to have the part re-glued. actuator for passenger door lock quit working. Door will not unlock with key fob (but will lock with it). Door must be manually unlocked from the inside. Not fixed due to lack of time and cost. Will repair at a later time. | ||
| Sep 201245000 miUS $150 | Headlight (HID) intermittently on/off on one headlight. | ||
| Nov 201355000 miUS $85 | Ballast on xenon headlamp needed replacement | ||
| Sep 201675000 miUS $600 | Passenger door not opening remotely Headlamp electrical not working | ||
| Dec 201676000 miUS $350 | Replaced right rear wheel bearing | ||
| Apr 201777000 miUS $1000 | Vanos refurbished | ||
| Mar 201882000 miUS $250 | hose that carried steering fluid broke- replaced the hose, also preventatively replaced pump | ||
| BMW 3-Series in Washington, United States Jun 2010 - Jun 2016 | |||
| Apr 201157000 miUS $184 | Driver side LED tail light assembly was $184 from tischer bmw online. I installed myself (3 bolts). My indy quoted $250 for the job installed. | ||
| BMW 3-Series in Georgia, United States Jan 2010 - Jun 2012 | |||
| Mar 201030000 miUS $33 | Replaced leaking oil cap. | ||
| Nov 201143000 miUS $900 | 3 alarm lights, brake wear, TPMS, traction control. The problem was faulty steering angle sensor. Also had valves adjusted, oil change and belts replaced | ||
2003 BMW 3-Series 2dr Coupe
333-horsepower 3.2L I6 6-speed automated manual RWD
| BMW 3-Series in Michigan, United States Jul 2010 - Sep 2018 | |||
| Jun 201171000 miUS $720 | Clutch slave cylinder position sensor was intermittent, causing no starts and transmission light to come on. | ||
| Sep 201174000 miUS $3500 | Transmission SMG pump causing vehicle to go into neutral intermittently and had check transmission light. Replaced hydraulic pump. | ||
| Aug 201278200 miUS $130 | Drivers power door lock intermittent operation. Sometimes had a hard time getting door to open from inside. | ||
| Apr 201379200 miUS $7 | Oil leak at CPV valve. Replaced o-ring. | ||
| May 201379600 miUS $150 | VANOS solenoid valve causing intermittent check engine light. Replaced with remanufactured unit. | ||
| Jun 201380000 miUS $90 | Crack found in chassis at rear subframe mounting point. Removed differential, exhaust, gas tank and rear subframe. Welded in reinforcement plates at subframe mounting points, cutout access holes and reinforced from inside and reassemble. Tie rod adjustment frozen and would not allow a proper alignment to be performed. | ||
| Jun 201585000 miUS $160 | Power steering pump noisy and not providing must boost. Replaced pump, pulley, fluid. | ||
| Jun 2018101000 miUS $7 | B pillar fabric covering came loose on both side. Removed panels and re-glued on fabric. | ||
| BMW 3-Series in Texas, United States Jun 2011 - Jan 2012 | |||
| Jul 201160000 miUS $3000 | Poor cooling | ||
| BMW 3-Series in Washington, United States Aug 2014 - Mar 2018 | |||
| Feb 2015122300 miUS $75 | ignition coil | ||
| Mar 2017125000 miUS $100 | replace #3 cyl ignition coil | ||
| Aug 2017125000 miUS $200 | replace plugs and coils. Inspect valve train and vanos. | ||
| BMW 3-Series in Kentucky, United States Sep 2012 - Jun 2013 | |||
| Mar 201370000 miUS $180 | Cpv constant pressure valve needed replacement | ||
| BMW 3-Series in Missouri, United States May 2012 - Mar 2013 | |||
| Mar 2013149000 miUS $200 | Gear position sensor replaced. | ||
2003 BMW 3-Series 2dr Coupe
225-horsepower 3.0L I6 5-speed shiftable automatic RWD
| BMW 3-Series in Texas, United States Dec 2012 - Jan 2017 | |||
| Jan 201376200 miUS $180 | Needed my torque converter replaced Ignition coil | ||
| May 201367000 miUS $4500 | Moonroof control mechanisms failed, requiring full replacement Steering wheel sensor, which replays to traction control system, was out, leading to intermittent traction control failure A/C would intermittently stop working: either cold air flow would cease, or the system would shut down entirely | ||
| Jun 201367000 miUS $210 | Ignition coil failed | ||
| Dec 201372000 miUS $250 | An ignition coil went out, for the third time in the past year; I had the mechanic replace the broken one as well as the other three that hadn't yet been replaced | ||
| Nov 201478000 miUS $600 | Starter died and needed replacement | ||
| Jan 201566700 miUS $400 | Bushing replacement | ||
| Sep 201688000 miUS $400 | External thermometer sensor was broken | ||
| Jan 201778000 mi | A/C not functioning - unknown reason | ||
2003 BMW 3-Series 2dr Coupe
225-horsepower 3.0L I6 5-speed manual RWD
| BMW 3-Series in Nevada, United States Nov 2014 - Dec 2014 | |||
| Nov 2014123000 miUS $375 | Water pump started to go out. Bought an aftermarket one and just paid for labor only. | ||
2003 BMW 3-Series 2dr Coupe
184-horsepower 2.5L I6 5-speed shiftable automatic RWD
| BMW 3-Series in Florida, United States Apr 2009 - Mar 2013 | |||
| Aug 200975000 miUS $600 | Thermostat failed in open position. Replaced thermostat to fix problem. Also replaced other cooling system components as a preventative measure. | ||
| Oct 201086000 mi | Sunroof was stuck in open position. Found that track mechanism has become tangled. Had to drop the headliner and perform extensive work to repair track mechanism. | ||
| Mar 201191000 miUS $30 | Low on refrigerant. Recharged. | ||
| May 201193000 miUS $725 | AC compressor went bad. Replaced compressor, condenser, expansion valve, and drier. | ||
| Jul 201196000 miUS $100 | Suspension a bit loose and car drifts at speed. Replaced Rear Trailing Arm Bushings. Symptoms better but not completely resolved. | ||
| Aug 201196500 mi | Small vacuum line to emissions control device broke. Replaced with new line and problem was resolved. | ||
| Jan 201288700 miUS $200 | Water pump leaking coolant. | ||
| Mar 2012102000 mi | Passenger seat would not lock into position. Removed the seat and reinstalled and it now functions properly. | ||
| Jul 2012105000 mi | Battery Safety Terminal (BST) was setting an SRS code even though the BST had never deployed. I used scanner software to deactivate the BST, otherwise the parts for the repair would have costs $250+. | ||
| Dec 2012108000 miUS $75 | Had to replace all crankcase ventilation lines due to leaks. Resolved leaks and poor cold-start performance issue. | ||
| BMW 3-Series in New York, United States Dec 2006 - Jun 2018 | |||
| Jan 200738000 mi | The car was shifting harshly down to the final gears. The dealer did a reset and the problem went away. | ||
| Nov 200752000 miUS $750 | Air intake sensor was damaged. | ||
| Sep 201084000 miUS $250 | Had to change the rear passenger wheel bearings. | ||
| Oct 2013120000 miUS $350 | Wheel bearing on rear passenger side started to get loud. Wheel bearing replaced at independent shop. $80 for parts, and the rest was labor. | ||
| BMW 3-Series in New Hampshire, United States Oct 2013 - Oct 2013 | |||
| Oct 2013108000 miUS $400 | Oil sealant needed replacement | ||
| BMW 3-Series in District of Columbia, United States Sep 2013 - Jan 2014 | |||
| Sep 201368000 miUS $4000 | Thermostat | ||
| Jan 201471000 mi | GM5 control unit died. Windows, locks don't work properly. | ||
2003 BMW 3-Series 2dr Coupe
184-horsepower 2.5L I6 5-speed manual RWD
| BMW 3-Series in New York, United States May 2015 - Jun 2017 | |||
| Aug 2015197100 mi | Replaced idler pulley,replaced oil filter housing gasket that was leaking. | ||
2003 BMW 3-Series 2dr Convertible
333-horsepower 3.2L I6 6-speed manual RWD
| BMW 3-Series in Kentucky, United States Aug 2012 - Sep 2016 | |||
| Sep 201681000 miUS $250 | Convertible top wouldn't seal completely | ||
| BMW 3-Series in Florida, United States Jun 2015 - Apr 2016 | |||
| Oct 201536200 miUS $625 | The engine check light came was apparently due to a bad "post catalytic" oxygen sensor. The part was $248 and the remainder was labor. | ||
| BMW 3-Series in Delaware, United States Feb 2013 - Mar 2016 | |||
| Mar 201689000 miUS $50 | Left front brake caliper piston seized. Opted to replace with a good used part instead of rebuilding the caliper or buying rebuilt caliper. | ||
| BMW 3-Series in Connecticut, United States Aug 2016 - Jun 2021 | |||
| Mar 201732000 miUS $180 | Replaced leaking power steering hose. | ||
| Apr 201732000 miUS $135 | Power steering lines were leaking. Purchased new lines from independent hose shop and replaced them. | ||
| May 201835000 miUS $500 | New springs, rear trailing arm bushings, new upper shock mounts | ||
2003 BMW 3-Series 2dr Convertible
333-horsepower 3.2L I6 6-speed automated manual RWD
| BMW 3-Series in California, United States Nov 2006 - Mar 2015 | |||
| Jun 200621030 mi | replace SMG switch | ||
| Oct 200742090 miUS $625 | replace muffler hangers and voltage regulators | ||
| Aug 201389000 miUS $500 | needed a new exhaust hangar | ||
| BMW 3-Series in California, United States Oct 2012 - Jun 2015 | |||
| Nov 201276700 miUS $75 | Final Stage Unit (blower motor resistor) | ||
| May 201488000 miUS $160 | Coil pack Ecu cooling fan | ||
| Jan 201580500 miUS $735 | Fuel pump and relay | ||
2003 BMW 3-Series 2dr Convertible
225-horsepower 3.0L I6 5-speed shiftable automatic RWD
| BMW 3-Series in Florida, United States Nov 2012 - Sep 2013 | |||
| Dec 201281000 miUS $125 | Front kidney grills broken | ||
| Jun 201384000 miUS $500 | Rear trunk lip replaced | ||
| BMW 3-Series in California, United States Oct 2012 - Jun 2018 | |||
| Nov 2012128000 miUS $487 | Replace Front Lower Control Arm Bushings Parts: Control Arm Bushing Set cost 177.18 (parts) Work 2.5 hours at 90/hr (Labor) Passenger door wouldn't unlock. Had replaced the fuses, but still didn't seem to work. Thought the door was double locked due to bad engineering. Shop replaced the fuses again and it worked. Cost $0.00 Change RF turn signal bulb and broke the housing upon reinserting due to weak plastic. Has shop replace entire turn signal lens. Part cost: 53.47 Labor:0.00 | ||
| Apr 2013133700 miUS $651 | Intake Manifold Adjuster Part $300. Crankshaft Breather Hose Part $19. Intake Boot Part $19. 2nd Intake Boot Part $19. Labor 255. Mileage 133K | ||
| Jun 2013137000 miUS $220 | Put 4 new tires on car, ABS started acting up and then exclamation (orange) warning symbol next to drive mode lit up. Brake lights didn't work. Replaced brake module $80 part $40 labor(friend). Xenon headlight $100 part free labor | ||
| Sep 2014152000 mi | Alternator went out. Having it rebuilt by a private person who is a certified BMW mechanic. Car wanted to stall with air on. Wouldn't pass emissions. Engine code said it was running rich. Turned out to be clogged air filters with bugs. New filters. No more stalling, no more codes. | ||
| Apr 2015156000 miUS $450 | Transmission fluid leaking. | ||
| Apr 2018161000 miUS $600 | Engine was taken apart, new seals put in, hoses replaced. Self job. Engine still runs a little rough, but no more leaks. | ||
2003 BMW 3-Series 2dr Convertible
225-horsepower 3.0L I6 5-speed manual RWD
| BMW 3-Series in Ontario, Canada Apr 2011 - Jun 2022 | |||
| Sep 201197340 mi | Glove box lock stuck, but could be opened with key. | ||
| Oct 201197960 mi | Convertible roof jammed open and couldn't be operated. Used manual override to open roof, aligned broken part so roof could be temporarily operated. Re-aligned sensor so fault light would deactivate and trunk could be opened. | ||
| Nov 201198660 miC $600 | Oil leak. New gasket Rear suspension, joints worn Front suspesion links worn Trunk release switches inside car and at trunk not working | ||
| Dec 201199200 miC $180 | Electrical wire required repair to fix trunk valet lock function Convertible top liner trim part replaced | ||
| Jan 2012100440 miC $100 | Change driverside Xenon headlight bulb, requires removal of airbox | ||
| Feb 2012101140 mi | Convertible hardtop locator electical contact cracked and caused failure of rear defog and all interior lights. Discovered by a different shop than the one that caused it. Able to repair the connector. | ||
| Sep 2012109120 miC $160 | Convertible Flap Motor for Convertible Top Cover Flap gear worn | ||
| Aug 2013114700 miC $1000 | Control arm assembly and associated bushings Replace thermostat and water pump Replace pads | ||
| Sep 2013115320 mi | Cracked vent replaced. Likely from car detailing service, but not sure. | ||
| Nov 2013117180 miC $25 | Replaced upper intake hose. Intake boot had visible signs of wear and cracks, but no engine problems or warning lights had resulted yet. | ||
| Apr 2014121300 miC $800 | Seized rear caliper | ||
| Sep 2014126480 miC $700 | Middle muffler replaced due to crack at inlet pipe connection Rubber intake boot crack due to aging | ||
| Jan 2015120420 miC $1000 | Seized front caliper | ||
| Jun 2015132060 miC $3000 | Clutch slipping. Replace clutch and flywheel Low oil light on, level ok, replace oil level sensor | ||
| Oct 2015134220 miC $300 | Vacuum hose nipple to gas filter broken | ||
| Dec 2016145700 miC $350 | Expansion tank and hose replacement | ||
| Feb 2017146320 miC $1800 | Steering position sensor Gas peddle position sensor Front wheel bearing | ||
| Mar 2018155000 miC $1800 | Replace failed alternator Battery failure due to alternator failure Light control module failure due to alternator failure | ||
| Jul 2018157480 miC $100 | Convertible top liner c pillar repair Convertible top slide cover repair | ||
| Sep 2018158720 mi | Baker plate failure | ||
| Jan 2022180420 miC $1800 | Frozen pcv, valve leading to cover failure | ||
2003 BMW 3-Series 2dr Convertible
184-horsepower 2.5L I6 5-speed shiftable automatic RWD
| BMW 3-Series in Mississippi, United States Dec 2008 - Jun 2010 | |||
| Aug 200858000 miUS $300 | New alternator. Done at an independant shop. | ||
| Nov 200860000 miUS $125 | New thermostat. Independent shop. | ||
| Mar 200972000 miUS $857 | Replace control arm bushings. Replace valve cover gasket. It was leaking oil over the metal shields producing burning smell inside the cabine. | ||
| Jun 200978000 miUS $248 | Water pump failed. Replaced with updated one. (metal impeller) Water pump failed. Replaced with updated one (metal impeller) | ||
2003 BMW 3-Series 2dr Convertible
184-horsepower 2.5L I6 5-speed shiftable automatic AWD
| BMW 3-Series in North Carolina, United States Jul 2009 - Sep 2010 | |||
| Aug 201095000 miUS $670 | Red oil light intermittently flashed, then stopped. No power problems. Car still ran great. Mechanic checked oil level, filter, and oil pressure. No problems. Cluster working too. Determined that the oil pressure switch should be replaced. a quart of oil leaked out during a 24 hr period, had to change shops for reliability. | ||
2002.5 BMW 3-Series 4-door
turbocharged 4-cylinder diesel automatic 2WD
| BMW in South Africa Dec 2008 - Sep 2015 | |||
| Sep 2012115940 miR 8000 | Replaced faulty window regulator on driver window. Replaced control arm bushes on front suspension. | ||
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