2003 BMW 3-Series BMW 3-Series 2003

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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.
See TSBs and recalls for the 2003 BMW 3-Series.

2003 BMW 3-Series repair cost distribution

$2500+ (2%)

$1000 - $2499 (10%)

$500 - $999 (22%)

$100 - $499 (37%)

< $100 (29%)

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

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 2011

79000 mi

US $500
The front wheel bearing needed to be replaced 
BMW 3-Series in California, United States
Dec 2011 - Apr 2012
Jan 2012

US $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 2012

95000 mi

US $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 2007

55800 mi

C $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 

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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 2011

107000 mi

US $200
false low oil sensor reading 

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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 2008

106000 mi

US $70
front sway bar links 
Sep 2008

115000 mi

US $340
New rear springs. 
Feb 2009

124000 mi

US $250
Replace thermostat. 
Jun 2009

128000 mi

US $300
Replaced fuel pump and fuel filter 
Aug 2009

132000 mi

US $140
Install 2 pre-cat oxygen sensors. 
Dec 2009

143000 mi

US $20
Replaced final stage resistor for blower. Replaced secondary air relay. 
Apr 2010

140500 mi

US $160
New lower intake elbow. New rear shocks. New AT cooler pipes. 
Dec 2010

155000 mi

US $260
Replace DISA valve. Replace leaking valve cover gasket. 
Jul 2011

163000 mi

US $130
replace 2 after-cat O2 sensors replaced oil filter housing gasket 

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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 2011

125000 mi

US $1200
Replace water pump, replace starter 

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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 2011

112000 mi

US $853
Starter motor replaced due to failure. 
Nov 2013

161600 mi

US $500
Thermostat housing was leaking and needed to be replaced. 
Jun 2014

172000 mi

US $450
Emissions system error from faulty sensors. 
Sep 2015

192000 mi

US $500
Ignition coils replaced 
BMW 3-Series in North Carolina, United States
Sep 2007 - Feb 2010
Nov 2007

60000 mi

US $90
Window Requlator Front Driver Side 
Feb 2009

84000 mi

US $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 2012

73260 mi

C $32
Replaced the headlight washer pump. 
Dec 2012

77500 mi

C $100
Replaced the headlights washer spray nozzles. 
May 2013

84900 mi

C $150
Replaced valve cover gasket and VANOS pistons "O" rings. 
Sep 2013

91140 mi

C $50
Replaced rear right side wheel bearing. 
Dec 2013

93000 mi

C $250
Replaced front swaybar links. Changed radiator, expansion tank and transmission thermostat due to a leak. 
Feb 2014

96100 mi

C $400
Replaced starter. 

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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 2009

85043 mi

US $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 2010

110715 mi

US $709
replace valve cover gasket (oil leak) 
Feb 2011

115000 mi

US $581
replaced failed fuel pump (failed in mid-drive, needed towing and car rental) 
Apr 2011

118000 mi

US $98
replace starter replace starter 
Jun 2011

120000 mi

US $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 2011

122300 mi

US $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 2011

129000 mi
Vacuum leak behind motor, close to pollution control pump 
Jul 2012

137000 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 2009

46000 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 2010

67100 mi

US $500
Starter broke 
Mar 2010

60000 mi

US $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 2015

137000 mi

US $400
Replaced worn shocks and broken springs. 
Jul 2017

161000 mi

US $400
Replaced front differential Replaced both front cv shafts 
BMW 3-Series in Massachusetts, United States
Jul 2010 - Sep 2013
Jan 2010

62000 mi

US $800
Did rear struts, leaking. Replaced front control arms and bushings. Right side. 
Feb 2010

65000 mi

US $400
Replaced front control arms and bushings. Right left side 
Apr 2010

70000 mi

US $300
Did the first of what will eventually be a total (so far) 5 window regulators in a 4 window car. 
Jun 2010

60000 mi

US $1100
Replaced a few items. Sensors, fan, hose and charged. Worked great since. 
Aug 2012

115000 mi

US $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 2006

40000 mi
Stalling at cold start. Replaced airfilter 
Apr 2007

45000 mi

US $500
Rear brakes and rotors. Front sway bar link 
Aug 2007

47000 mi

US $700
SES light on. Codes indicated failed thermostat and O2 Sensor. Both replaced. 
Aug 2008

58000 mi

US $140
Broken clip in right inner CV Boot. 
Sep 2008

58000 mi

US $325
Valve cover gasket Leak..minor but was dripping on exhaust manifold causing odor in car. 
Dec 2008

61000 mi

US $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 2009

62000 mi

US $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 2010

78000 mi

US $76
Sunroof shade clip. 
Oct 2010

81000 mi

US $150
Swaybar endlinks were making noise. Replaced at selfservice repair shop. 
Jan 2014

113000 mi

US $600
outer ball joint, left lower control arm. 
BMW 3-Series in Ohio, United States
May 2016 - Sep 2020
Sep 2016

175000 mi

US $500
hood latch stopped working 
Jan 2018

181000 mi

US $20
hose to secondary air pump failed 
Mar 2018

181000 mi

US $500
fuel pump 

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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 2011

86400 mi

US $300
Oil level sensor failed for the 3rd time. Replaced. 
Sep 2011

88000 mi
Misfire under light throttle, intermittant. 
Apr 2012

93500 mi

US $70
Overflow tank leaking, needed replacement. 
May 2012

94100 mi

US $40
Replaced relays on remote locking controller circuit board. 
Jun 2012

96000 mi

US $1
Repaired driver's window regulator. 
Apr 2013

100200 mi

US $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 2009

33480 mi

C $1000
Front Control arm bushings needed work 
Jul 2011

47120 mi

C $500
Engine Valve gasket replaced, there was a slight oil leak developing. (also oil change performed) 
Apr 2012

50840 mi

C $140
Thermostat was stuck open, replaced part 
May 2013

57040 mi

C $200
Water Pump replacement 
Nov 2013

59920 mi

C $800
Front CV joints replaced Rear shock mounts repaired 
Dec 2015

69440 mi

C $1000
Coolant:thermostat 
BMW 3-Series in Missouri, United States
Jul 2009 - Jun 2013
Apr 2010

77000 mi

US $580
Starter replaced. 
Sep 2011

96000 mi
Leaking valve cover gasket replaced. Plugs changed.  
Aug 2012

110000 mi

US $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 2012

113700 mi

US $300
Replaced Disa valve in intake and all drive pullies due to squeaking. 

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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 2010

95000 mi

US $900
Front right CV boot/axle was cracked and replaced.  

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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 2006

42000 mi
Oxygen sensor replacement (check engine light), Seat belt TENS unit replacement (air bag light). All original warranty coverage. 
Feb 2007

46000 mi
Seat Belt tensioner unit driver's side malfunctioned causing air bag light to illuminate. 
Oct 2008

76000 mi

US $350
Oil filter housing gasket. $290 labor, $10 gasket! 
BMW 3-Series in California, United States
Mar 2009 - Jan 2018
Apr 2009

76000 mi

US $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 2015

104160 mi
radiator was leaking coolant. replaced the expansion tank. 
Apr 2015

105400 mi

C $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 2010

95000 mi

US $250
Idler pulley replaced. Idler pulley replaced 
BMW 3-Series in Illinois, United States
- Jan 2009
Jan 2009

75000 mi

US $200
Replace rim: 2/2 crack, had chronic slow leak. 
BMW 3-Series in Alabama, United States
May 2012 - Mar 2013
Jun 2012

127000 mi

US $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 2012

134700 mi

US $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 2017

187000 mi

US $3300
Transmission died. Replaced transmission. 
Mar 2018

189000 mi

US $50
Power steering fluid leak 
BMW 3-Series in California, United States
Jul 2012 - Aug 2012
Aug 2012

104000 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 2015

176000 mi

US $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 2013

107400 mi

US $200
Window motor failed. 
Apr 2014

111300 mi

US $680
Calipers and rotors Need to check blower. It stopped working. 
BMW 3-Series in California, United States
Mar 2014 - Mar 2015
Dec 2014

136000 mi

US $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 2011

91700 mi

US $600
Emission Control 

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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 2016

120000 mi

US $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 2011

92000 mi

US $600
Belts noisy. Tech replaced belts, checked tensioners (no problems), replaced water pump preventatively, replaced fan clutch because it was no longer working. 
Jun 2011

92000 mi

US $166
strong vibration at stop. Replaced plugs and wires; no change. 
Nov 2012

106100 mi

US $300
Replaced expansion tank and oil cooler valve. 
Feb 2014

112000 mi

US $200
Broken upper radiator hose neck. Upper radiator hose with integrated neck replaced 
Nov 2014

117000 mi

US $500
Leaking oil from valve cover gasket and oil filter housing. 
Jan 2015

109800 mi

US $360
Dash totally went out. After troubleshooting, replaced battery. 
Jul 2015

122000 mi

US $650
Rough idle and ses light was on. Replaced air intake valve and other intake plastic parts 
Jun 2016

126000 mi

US $320
replaced window regulator 
BMW 3-Series in New York, United States
Oct 2008 - Dec 2017
Nov 2008

37000 mi
The dynamic headlights were aiming too low at night. 
Sep 2009

44000 mi

US $50
Coolant sensor needed to be replaced. 
Feb 2010

48000 mi

US $600
Halogen lamp control unit(warranty) coolant hose, two engine belts 
Dec 2011

61000 mi

US $620
The CV boots were cracked on both front sides. Rear springs had cracks. 
Jun 2013

75000 mi

US $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 2013

77000 mi

US $640
Fan motor died, thermostat replaced. reservoir cracked, was replaced. 
Jan 2014

84000 mi

US $220
Battery died, not unexpected after 10 years of service... 
Aug 2014

80700 mi

US $65
Driver side headlight balast died. Dealer wanted 1400$ got a generic unit on ebay for $55 
Jan 2015

79800 mi

US $57
Driver side lock cylinder shaft broke. 
Feb 2016

96400 mi

US $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 2017

109000 mi

US $650
O2 sensors needed to be replaced.  Fuel injector failing. 
Sep 2017

115000 mi

US $98
O2 sensor replacement 
BMW 3-Series in South Carolina, United States
Dec 2016 - Apr 2017
Apr 2017

131000 mi

US $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 2008

42000 mi
Secondary air injection pump & valve replacement 
Feb 2013

120700 mi

US $650
Rear sub frame bushing change 
Mar 2014

136000 mi

US $450
Alternator replaced Oil leak from filter housing gasket Fuel pump. 
Nov 2014

149700 mi

US $243
Coolant reservoir leaking 
Sep 2015

162000 mi
Ignition coil failure, replaced all coils 
Mar 2016

174000 mi

US $2200
Front differential shot 
Dec 2016

182000 mi

US $226
brake line corrosion 

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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 2007

44000 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 2017

34940 mi

US $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 2016

145000 mi

US $400
Rear Emblem Sticker fell off; Engine protector and front/right fenders need replacing 
Jul 2017

148000 mi

US $1500
Completely repainted the outside of the car. The sun had destroyed the clear coat and the whole thing needed repainting. 
Jul 2018

150000 mi

US $500
ECU needed replacing. 
BMW 3-Series in Illinois, United States
Aug 2015 - Jun 2018
Jan 2016

112200 mi

US $300
Cooling expansion tank failed and was leaking. Replaced all consumables. 
Jan 2017

118000 mi

US $10
Upper strut mounts making creaking noise while steering. Added grease 
Apr 2017

118200 mi

US $300
Fuel pump died. Replaced with new OE pump, and replaced fuel filter as preventative maintenance during this time. 
Jun 2017

119517 mi

US $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 2017

120399 mi

US $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 2018

124000 mi

US $80
Repaired original DISA/manifold runner valve with replacement flapper, bellcrank, and seal. Cleaned throttle body (not bad), cleaned ICV. 
Apr 2018

124000 mi

US $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 2011

106000 mi

US $400
CD player continuously trying eject disc. Unit replaced. 
Sep 2012

128000 mi
Fuel pump failed, pump and filter replaced Air pump replaced 
Oct 2012

128200 mi

US $680
No starter engagement, entire starter unit had to be replaced 
BMW 3-Series in New York, United States
Mar 2008 - Nov 2008
Jun 2008

46000 mi

US $1000
Water pump failure. 
BMW 3-Series in North Carolina, United States
Mar 2009 - Jun 2011
Sep 2009

70000 mi

US $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 2006

36000 mi
Replaced steering wheel (peeling fabric) 
BMW 3-Series in Maryland, United States
Nov 2015 - Sep 2016
Apr 2016

112500 mi

US $100
Expansion tank was leaking 

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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 2012

110000 mi
Both Rear Coil Springs Broken Leaking Rear Differential Seals 
Feb 2013

112000 mi

US $200
Fuel pump failed, so I replaced the fuel pump and filter. 
Apr 2013

114500 mi

US $600
Front control arms, inner and outer ball joints, and front control arm bushings replaced. 
May 2013

115400 mi

US $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 2013

117000 mi

US $200
Valve cover gasket leaking and replaced. Spark plugs replaced. VANOS seals replaced. 
Jan 2014

112300 mi

US $5
Center Support Bearing failed and required replacement. Oil filter housing gasket was leaking and required replacement. 
Apr 2014

124300 mi

US $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 2014

127100 mi
Crank position sensor failed. DISA valve rebuilt. Rubber air intake boot torn. 
Sep 2014

128000 mi

US $50
Door lock cylinder broke (the remote would open the door but the key would not. Replaced cylinder. 
Dec 2014

130000 mi

US $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 2015

137000 mi

US $100
Replaced parking brake and parking brake hardware. 
Dec 2016

144000 mi

US $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 2018

149000 mi

US $600
Play in left front wheel bearing - replaced and re-aligned. 
BMW 3-Series in Colorado, United States
Jun 2014 - Jul 2014
Jul 2014

126000 mi

US $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 2015

106640 mi

C $909
Replace trailing arm bushings and differential seal 
Jan 2016

C $500
Thermostat 
Jun 2016

116560 mi

C $950
Rear shocks and wheel alignment 
Oct 2016

117180 mi
Vanos track system 
BMW 3-Series in Georgia, United States
Jun 2014 - Jun 2014
Jun 2014

126000 mi

US $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 2008

102000 mi

US $600
Water pump, pulleys, and belts replaced. 
Mar 2009

112000 mi

US $400
Secondary air pump failed. Unit replaced. 
BMW 3-Series in Michigan, United States
Jan 2010 - Mar 2016
Jun 2010

75000 mi

US $400
AC lost charge 
Mar 2012

102000 mi

US $1700
New clutch and cv boot covers 
Jun 2012

105000 mi

US $1000
MAF sensors, O2 sensors, MAf replacement wiring issue with chipmunk nest in air filter 
Jun 2014

127000 mi

US $850
Bad sensor 

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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 2014

82000 mi

US $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 2013

104000 mi
Fuel system was shot. Had to replace tank, pump, filler neck, and filter as they are all one piece. 
Nov 2013

104600 mi

US $500
Control arm bushings, and control arm (including balljoints) were replaced. 
Apr 2014

106300 mi
Rear Shocks blew out. 
Aug 2014

108600 mi

US $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 2015

115200 mi

US $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 2016

US $25
Replaced power steering lines 
BMW 3-Series in New Mexico, United States
Jun 2012 - Aug 2012
Jul 2012

16000 mi

US $300
Multiple leaks in radiator. In hoses and overflow tank. 
Aug 2012

16000 mi

US $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 2012

119000 mi

US $800
Oil pan gasket leak, oil filter housing gasket leak 
BMW 3-Series in California, United States
Dec 2014 - Jan 2015
Jan 2015

114000 mi

US $600
O2 sensors and Mass Air Flow sensor - 
BMW 3-Series in Texas, United States
Nov 2012 - Mar 2016
Sep 2013

101000 mi

US $400
power steering pump replaced 
Dec 2015

116000 mi
replaced bushings 
BMW 3-Series in Texas, United States
Oct 2012 - Apr 2013
Dec 2012

82000 mi
Three coils were worn out. Changed without costs. 
BMW 3-Series in California, United States
Feb 2010 - Jun 2011
Jun 2010

41000 mi

US $300
Leaking from drain pan 
BMW 3-Series in Georgia, United States
Mar 2008 - Feb 2011
Dec 2009

89000 mi

US $255
Air control valve repaired and cleaned. 
Jul 2010

96000 mi

US $800
Replaced worn pulley and idler set 
Feb 2011

100000 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 2008

55000 mi
CV joint in left front failed. 
BMW 3-Series in New Jersey, United States
Feb 2009 - Nov 2010
Mar 2009

98500 mi

US $35
Replaced valve cover gasket. 
BMW 3-Series in Oregon, United States
May 2007 - Jun 2011
Jun 2007

57000 mi

US $270
control arm bushings replaced 
Aug 2007

60000 mi

US $150
outside trim fell off 
Apr 2008

69000 mi

US $50
Blower motor replaced. 
May 2008

70000 mi

US $50
Window regulator replaced. Washer fluid pump replaced. 
Oct 2008

74000 mi

US $50
Belt tensioner and pulley had to be replaced.  Replaced another window regulator too. 
Aug 2010

92000 mi

US $350
thermostat 
BMW 3-Series in Ontario, Canada
May 2007 - Jul 2022
Jun 2007

31620 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 2008

39060 mi

C $35
Drive side seatbelt tensioner replaced threw srs light on dash. 
May 2010

50000 mi

C $200
ebrake DSR came off the hangers. 
Aug 2012

65920 mi

C $210
Scan done, misfire cylinder #5, replaced coil and plugs. All ok. 
Jul 2016

87520 mi

C $600
Rear shocks, springs and brakes. 
Jul 2018

92380 mi

C $300
Belt tensioners (3), 2 belts 
BMW 3-Series in Pennsylvania, United States
Jul 2007 - Jun 2018
Aug 2007

39000 mi
Slipping transmission 
Jan 2008

43000 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 2009

54000 mi

US $400
Control arms and bushings 
Jan 2011

72000 mi

US $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 2012

84300 mi

US $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 2012

85000 mi
Replaced leaking/ seeping high pressure power steering line, PS fluid 
Jan 2014

86300 mi

US $400
Cooling system leak. Replaced radiator. 
Jun 2014

95000 mi

US $50
Oil leak since 65K or so, smoking, leaking onto driveway. Replaced valve cover gasket. Seemed to do the trick. 
Feb 2016

105300 mi
Rotor frozen; repaired. 
May 2016

106300 mi
Leak, oil filter housing 
Aug 2016

108300 mi

US $150
Sinking rear spring. Bad stabiliser bar end links. 
Jan 2017

107200 mi
Intermittent outage of fuel pump Leaks in the crankcase oil recirc system were throwing lean codes. Unable to get car inspection. 
Jun 2017

122000 mi

US $450
Drive belt, tensioner, pulleys 
Apr 2018

126000 mi
Locking system fails to unlock 
BMW 3-Series in New Jersey, United States
Feb 2007 - Jun 2012
Jun 2007

41000 mi
Refill AC , remap software Replace window regulators. Remap software. 
May 2008

52000 mi

US $320
Flushed transmission fluid 
Mar 2009

59000 mi

US $700
Thermostat replaced. Inspection II performed 
Dec 2009

69000 mi

US $1000
Control arm bushing replaced Rear brake pad + rotor replaced Front brake pad replaced Water pump replaced 
Sep 2010

76000 mi

US $500
1. Belts (pulley) 2. air intake valve 
Jun 2011

81000 mi

US $500
AC sensor replaced, AC fan capacitor replaced, Tune up, Oil change  
Dec 2011

88000 mi
Oil leak Coolant leak 
Jan 2012

89000 mi

US $400
Coolant tank leak 
BMW 3-Series in California, United States
Jan 2007 - Dec 2016
Mar 2007

27000 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 2007

40000 mi
Rear taillight bulb went out. 
Mar 2010

79000 mi

US $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 2010

85000 mi

US $450
Starter failed, car would not start, replaced with a re manufactured starter. 
Apr 2011

93500 mi

US $500
The thermostat was stuck open, so I decided to replace the whole cooling system for preventative maintenance. 
Sep 2011

98000 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 2012

110000 mi

US $330
Control arm and bushings worn 
Dec 2012

112000 mi

US $60
Steering guibo was worn, caused loose steering while cruising at high speeds and wiggly steering 
Mar 2014

130000 mi
SES light for secondary air pump, cylinder misfire. 
Nov 2014

135900 mi
fuel pump died 
Jun 2016

157000 mi

US $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 2003

4960 mi
Check engine ligh on, replace oxygen sensors 
Aug 2005

18600 mi
Engine runs roughly, replace ignition cord 
Oct 2005

2480 mi
Check engine light on again, replace pre-cat oxygen sensor 
Oct 2006

52080 mi

C $80
Replace lower radiator hose 
Nov 2006

6200 mi
Check engine light on, replace oxygen sensor under warranty 
Dec 2006

52700 mi

C $500
Replace heater core 
Mar 2007

55800 mi

C $350
Replace theromstate 
Aug 2007

58900 mi

C $120
Replace lower temperature sender 
Sep 2007

58900 mi

C $1000
Replace Power Steering Pump 
BMW 3-Series in California, United States
May 2010 - Jun 2018
Apr 2013

49821 mi

US $341
Windshield washer replaced Windshield washer replaced 
BMW 3-Series in New Jersey, United States
Jul 2010 - Dec 2014
Aug 2010

64000 mi

US $200
The rear driver side window doesn't close. The motor had to be replaced. 
Nov 2010

72000 mi

US $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 2013

89600 mi

US $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 2013

90200 mi
Started Check Engine Light. The temperature sensor looks like is going bad. 
Jul 2013

91500 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 2014

98000 mi

US $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 2014

103000 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 2010

84000 mi

US $200
Replaced leaking VANOS oil line. 
Jan 2014

114800 mi

US $150
Radiator expansion tank leaked and was replaced. 
Apr 2017

131000 mi

US $3000
Transmission rebuild 
BMW 3-Series in Maryland, United States
Sep 2016 - Oct 2016
Oct 2016

186000 mi

US $600
Entire cooling system had to be replaced, radiator, hoses, thermostat, water pump. 

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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 2010

60000 mi

US $2100
Front axle pulled out of differential due to worn engine mounts 
Nov 2014

85300 mi

US $600
Repaired rust spot on right rear fender 
Dec 2015

95000 mi

US $450
Replaced cracked C-V boots on each front wheel 
Feb 2016

96000 mi

US $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 2016

101000 mi

US $1750
Dust cover came loose on front disc brake & ruined rotor & pads 
Dec 2016

106000 mi

US $850
VANOS pipe leaking oil Rear differential seal leaking oil Rear shocks replaced 
Feb 2017

107000 mi

US $680
Replaced (2) of (6) ignition coils 
Sep 2017

118000 mi

US $1200
Brakes, drums CV joint problem was found when brakes replaced 
BMW 3-Series in Wisconsin, United States
Sep 2014 - Dec 2020
Sep 2014

126000 mi

US $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 2014

130300 mi

US $20
Replaced in warranty thermostat due to failed internal heater circuit 
Dec 2014

132000 mi

US $10
Leaking power steering pressure line replaced. Replaced oil filter housing to engine block gasket and oil filter. 
Jan 2015

132000 mi

US $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 2015

133000 mi

US $400
Replaced front and rear springs. 
Aug 2015

140300 mi
Replaced left front axle fie to excessive vibration. 
Dec 2015

142000 mi
Cooling system leak. Replaced expansion tank and transmission thermostat. 
Sep 2016

141000 mi

US $52
Replaced front lower control arm outer ball joint 
Dec 2016

143000 mi

US $168
Fixed coolant leak, replaced expansion tank, mount, water pipe and heater return hose. 
Jan 2017

143000 mi
Disa valve broke, fixed with G.A.S. repair kit. 
Sep 2017

148000 mi
Replaced rear shocks and mounts. 
Dec 2017

151000 mi

US $320
Replaced RF axle and seal due to leaking cv boot. 
Jan 2018

151000 mi
Valve cover and gasket replaced. 
Jun 2018

151000 mi

US $30
Replaced worn front lower control arm bushings. 
Aug 2018

155000 mi
Reinstalled the transmission thermostat 
Jan 2019

156000 mi

US $50
replaced leaking thermostat 
Oct 2019

157000 mi

US $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 2007

52000 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 2007

53200 mi

US $540
Both front axle CV outer-boots need to be replaced. 
Jul 2008

61000 mi

US $240
Driver side CV boot was torn 
Sep 2008

65000 mi

US $780
Rear coils were broken. 
Jul 2009

72000 mi

US $700
headlight switch needed replacement. 
Sep 2009

73000 mi

US $220
Bad thermometer. Needed replacement. 
Dec 2009

77000 mi

US $177
Catch in door lock broke 
Jun 2010

81000 mi

US $200
Fuel pump failed. replaced fuel pump and relay  
May 2012

95700 mi

US $900
replaced fuel vent valve cover gasket leak oil filter housing leak 
Nov 2013

108900 mi

US $650
Starter died. 
Nov 2014

117100 mi

US $450
CV boots replaced 
BMW 3-Series in California, United States
Feb 2007 - Apr 2013
Apr 2007

26160 mi
Alternator belt and tensioner due to noise on cold start. Covered by mfg warranty. 
Jan 2008

35000 mi

US $50
Replaced faulty window regulator. 
Dec 2008

47000 mi

US $499
Replaced cracked RF inner CV boot. 
Aug 2009

57000 mi

US $50
Replaced passenger side window regulator due to grinding noise. 
Dec 2009

61000 mi

US $152
Replaced torn LF CV boot. 
Sep 2010

72000 mi

US $235
Replaced both windshield washer and headlamp washer pumps 
Jan 2011

78100 mi

US $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 2011

77200 mi

US $285
Replaced RR window regulator. 
Jan 2012

76000 mi

US $2000
- CV boots torn on both sides. Replaced entire axle assemblies. - replaced worn lower control arm bushings - replaced leaky valve cover gasket 
Apr 2012

81300 mi

US $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 2013

130000 mi

US $165
Rough Idle, replaced mass air flow sensor 
BMW 3-Series in New York, United States
Aug 2008 - Apr 2018
Oct 2008

74000 mi

US $275
Seat belt tensioner was causing an airbag light (has happened multiple times). Dealership replaced the wiring harness which was faulty. 
Dec 2009

81000 mi

US $700
New rear springs 
Jun 2010

89000 mi
Control arm bushings 
Mar 2012

105000 mi

US $900
Car needed new fuel pump and filter 
Oct 2012

110800 mi

US $210
Faulty brake sensor light caused abs and traction control problems. No codes so only reset the light. 
Dec 2012

115000 mi

US $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 2014

128000 mi

US $700
New Axle / CV Joint on Front Passenger Tire 
Feb 2016

135100 mi

US $1000
Oil leak 
BMW 3-Series in Puerto Rico
Mar 2009 - Jul 2011
Oct 2009

71000 mi

US $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 2009

76000 mi

US $231
2 front axles went. Got the parts for $231 in a local shop, going to install soon. 
Apr 2010

81000 mi

US $500
Control Arms, ball joints, bushings, sway bar links needs to be done. Have parts, replacing soon. 
Jun 2011

94000 mi

US $30
cylinder 5 coil replaced 
BMW 3-Series in New York, United States
Mar 2013 - Oct 2015
Sep 2013

98000 mi

US $350
Valve cover gasket 
Aug 2015

107300 mi

US $600
AC blowing warm 
BMW 3-Series in Wisconsin, United States
May 2011 - Dec 2012
Nov 2011

96000 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 2012

114000 mi

US $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 2016

123000 mi

US $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 2017

140000 mi

US $1100
Failed PCV Valve, Failed Fuel Pump, Failed/Cracked emissions vacuum lines 

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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 2016

126000 mi

US $50
DISA VALVE REPAIR 
Jul 2017

134000 mi

US $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 2008

63000 mi

US $300
Window regulator Rear trailing arm bushing. 
Feb 2009

79000 mi

US $1200
Transmission seal failure. 
Mar 2009

79000 mi

US $95
Drive belts tensioner failure. 
BMW 3-Series in Texas, United States
- Apr 2004
Apr 2004

10000 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 2016

160000 mi

US $1600
Switch to side view mirror smoking and window regulator gone bad. sunroof switch replaced. Radiator hose replaced Coolant flushed  

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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 2011

130000 mi

US $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 2008

57000 mi

US $2000
Broken suspension coil. 

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2003 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

BMW 3-Series in Queensland, Australia
Jan 2010 - Jun 2018
Jun 2011

40920 mi

A $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 2011

43400 mi

A $28
Leak of coolant from rear of head. Another common problem. Dealer quoted over $500 to replace a $28 plastic cover plate. 
Sep 2013

52700 mi

A $1200
Oil separator, valve cover gasket, vacuum pump o ring, oil filter gasket. 
Dec 2013

53320 mi

A $200
radiator expansion tank cracked auto trans coolant thermostat control arm bushes replaced gutter fell off 
Jun 2014

55180 mi

A $170
Window lifter broken. Replaced with new one 
Aug 2015

60340 mi

A $150
New front RH wheel bearing. Old one was very noisy 
Dec 2016

65100 mi

A $20
"O" rings on valve solenoids replaced 
Mar 2018

68820 mi

A $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 2018

69440 mi

A $10
Leaking VANOS solenoid O-rings replaced 

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2003 BMW 3-Series 4-door

6-cylinder automatic 2WD

BMW 3-Series in California, United States
Apr 2016 - May 2016
May 2016

80000 mi

US $1400
The car would go in reverse but not move. 

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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 2015

110000 mi
Reprogram car because it stalls under deceleration. Resulted from transmission swap from SMG to 6MT. Shop is still solving this issue. 
Mar 2016

111000 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 2015

79000 mi

US $100
oil pressure plug on side of engine block needed replacement. 
BMW 3-Series in Saskatchewan, Canada
Mar 2016 - Oct 2016
Aug 2016

80480 mi

C $400
Trouble with an injector and a coil. 
BMW 3-Series in Texas, United States
Jul 2010 - Aug 2011
Jan 2010

110000 mi
rear trailing arm bushing, exhaust manifolds replaced, transmission fluid, rear differential fluid, o2 sensors replaced 
Aug 2011

125000 mi

US $500
Alternator Alternator 
BMW 3-Series in New York, United States
Mar 2011 - Apr 2011
Apr 2011

111000 mi

US $850
Sunroof cassette replacement Sunroof cassette replacement 
BMW 3-Series in Pennsylvania, United States
Aug 2010 - Jun 2011
Oct 2010

46000 mi

US $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 2011

71000 mi

US $636
ps line was bad, also did coolant and oil change 
BMW 3-Series in Minnesota, United States
Feb 2012 - Dec 2015
Sep 2014

86000 mi

US $1100
A/C compressor cracked and was replaced. 
Mar 2015

89000 mi

US $40
Differential input leaking. Differential input seal replaced. 
BMW 3-Series in Alberta, Canada
Aug 2011 - Nov 2016
Aug 2012

107760 mi

C $800
Main belt tensioner failed and belt broke. Had to replace all pulley and belts. 
Oct 2016

134540 mi

C $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 2011

71000 mi

US $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 2010

63000 mi

US $1000
A/C compressor replaced.  Tension pulley for alternator/water pump replaced. 
BMW 3-Series in Oregon, United States
Feb 2010 - Mar 2010
Mar 2010

61000 mi

US $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 2011

44300 mi
Electrochromatic rear view mirror failure. Will order after market parts to replace instead of using OEM. 
Jan 2012

47000 mi

US $120
Coil pack failure on one cylinder 
Sep 2015

58000 mi

US $10
passenger seat sensor was going out 
May 2016

60000 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 2014

95500 mi

US $170
Replaced coils due to misfiring & rough performance. 
BMW 3-Series in New Mexico, United States
Dec 2006 - Jun 2017
Mar 2008

85000 mi

US $900
Leaking oil pan. 
Jan 2010

113300 mi

US $900
Fuel Pump and fuel sensor went out. 
Sep 2011

126000 mi

US $400
SES light came on... Thermostat replaced, problem solved. 
Feb 2013

140300 mi

US $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 2009

77000 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 2010

25000 mi

US $360
right front window regulator replaced 
Sep 2010

27000 mi

US $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 2012

45000 mi

US $150
Headlight (HID) intermittently on/off on one headlight. 
Nov 2013

55000 mi

US $85
Ballast on xenon headlamp needed replacement 
Sep 2016

75000 mi

US $600
Passenger door not opening remotely Headlamp electrical not working 
Dec 2016

76000 mi

US $350
Replaced right rear wheel bearing 
Apr 2017

77000 mi

US $1000
Vanos refurbished 
Mar 2018

82000 mi

US $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 2011

57000 mi

US $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 2010

30000 mi

US $33
Replaced leaking oil cap. 
Nov 2011

43000 mi

US $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 

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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 2011

71000 mi

US $720
Clutch slave cylinder position sensor was intermittent, causing no starts and transmission light to come on.  
Sep 2011

74000 mi

US $3500
Transmission SMG pump causing vehicle to go into neutral intermittently and had check transmission light. Replaced hydraulic pump.  
Aug 2012

78200 mi

US $130
Drivers power door lock intermittent operation. Sometimes had a hard time getting door to open from inside. 
Apr 2013

79200 mi

US $7
Oil leak at CPV valve. Replaced o-ring. 
May 2013

79600 mi

US $150
VANOS solenoid valve causing intermittent check engine light. Replaced with remanufactured unit. 
Jun 2013

80000 mi

US $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 2015

85000 mi

US $160
Power steering pump noisy and not providing must boost. Replaced pump, pulley, fluid. 
Jun 2018

101000 mi

US $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 2011

60000 mi

US $3000
Poor cooling 
BMW 3-Series in Washington, United States
Aug 2014 - Mar 2018
Feb 2015

122300 mi

US $75
ignition coil 
Mar 2017

125000 mi

US $100
replace #3 cyl ignition coil 
Aug 2017

125000 mi

US $200
replace plugs and coils. Inspect valve train and vanos. 
BMW 3-Series in Kentucky, United States
Sep 2012 - Jun 2013
Mar 2013

70000 mi

US $180
Cpv constant pressure valve needed replacement 
BMW 3-Series in Missouri, United States
May 2012 - Mar 2013
Mar 2013

149000 mi

US $200
Gear position sensor replaced. 

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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 2013

76200 mi

US $180
Needed my torque converter replaced Ignition coil 
May 2013

67000 mi

US $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 2013

67000 mi

US $210
Ignition coil failed 
Dec 2013

72000 mi

US $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 2014

78000 mi

US $600
Starter died and needed replacement 
Jan 2015

66700 mi

US $400
Bushing replacement 
Sep 2016

88000 mi

US $400
External thermometer sensor was broken 
Jan 2017

78000 mi
A/C not functioning - unknown reason 

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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 2014

123000 mi

US $375
Water pump started to go out. Bought an aftermarket one and just paid for labor only. 

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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 2009

75000 mi

US $600
Thermostat failed in open position. Replaced thermostat to fix problem. Also replaced other cooling system components as a preventative measure.  
Oct 2010

86000 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 2011

91000 mi

US $30
Low on refrigerant. Recharged. 
May 2011

93000 mi

US $725
AC compressor went bad. Replaced compressor, condenser, expansion valve, and drier.  
Jul 2011

96000 mi

US $100
Suspension a bit loose and car drifts at speed. Replaced Rear Trailing Arm Bushings. Symptoms better but not completely resolved. 
Aug 2011

96500 mi
Small vacuum line to emissions control device broke. Replaced with new line and problem was resolved. 
Jan 2012

88700 mi

US $200
Water pump leaking coolant. 
Mar 2012

102000 mi
Passenger seat would not lock into position. Removed the seat and reinstalled and it now functions properly. 
Jul 2012

105000 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 2012

108000 mi

US $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 2007

38000 mi
The car was shifting harshly down to the final gears. The dealer did a reset and the problem went away. 
Nov 2007

52000 mi

US $750
Air intake sensor was damaged. 
Sep 2010

84000 mi

US $250
Had to change the rear passenger wheel bearings. 
Oct 2013

120000 mi

US $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 2013

108000 mi

US $400
Oil sealant needed replacement 
BMW 3-Series in District of Columbia, United States
Sep 2013 - Jan 2014
Sep 2013

68000 mi

US $4000
Thermostat 
Jan 2014

71000 mi
GM5 control unit died. Windows, locks don't work properly. 

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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 2015

197100 mi
Replaced idler pulley,replaced oil filter housing gasket that was leaking. 

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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 2016

81000 mi

US $250
Convertible top wouldn't seal completely 
BMW 3-Series in Florida, United States
Jun 2015 - Apr 2016
Oct 2015

36200 mi

US $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 2016

89000 mi

US $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 2017

32000 mi

US $180
Replaced leaking power steering hose. 
Apr 2017

32000 mi

US $135
Power steering lines were leaking. Purchased new lines from independent hose shop and replaced them. 
May 2018

35000 mi

US $500
New springs, rear trailing arm bushings, new upper shock mounts 

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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 2006

21030 mi
replace SMG switch 
Oct 2007

42090 mi

US $625
replace muffler hangers and voltage regulators 
Aug 2013

89000 mi

US $500
needed a new exhaust hangar 
BMW 3-Series in California, United States
Oct 2012 - Jun 2015
Nov 2012

76700 mi

US $75
Final Stage Unit (blower motor resistor) 
May 2014

88000 mi

US $160
Coil pack Ecu cooling fan 
Jan 2015

80500 mi

US $735
Fuel pump and relay 

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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 2012

81000 mi

US $125
Front kidney grills broken 
Jun 2013

84000 mi

US $500
Rear trunk lip replaced 
BMW 3-Series in California, United States
Oct 2012 - Jun 2018
Nov 2012

128000 mi

US $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 2013

133700 mi

US $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 2013

137000 mi

US $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 2014

152000 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 2015

156000 mi

US $450
Transmission fluid leaking. 
Apr 2018

161000 mi

US $600
Engine was taken apart, new seals put in, hoses replaced. Self job. Engine still runs a little rough, but no more leaks. 

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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 2011

97340 mi
Glove box lock stuck, but could be opened with key. 
Oct 2011

97960 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 2011

98660 mi

C $600
Oil leak. New gasket Rear suspension, joints worn Front suspesion links worn Trunk release switches inside car and at trunk not working 
Dec 2011

99200 mi

C $180
Electrical wire required repair to fix trunk valet lock function Convertible top liner trim part replaced 
Jan 2012

100440 mi

C $100
Change driverside Xenon headlight bulb, requires removal of airbox 
Feb 2012

101140 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 2012

109120 mi

C $160
Convertible Flap Motor for Convertible Top Cover Flap gear worn 
Aug 2013

114700 mi

C $1000
Control arm assembly and associated bushings Replace thermostat and water pump Replace pads 
Sep 2013

115320 mi
Cracked vent replaced. Likely from car detailing service, but not sure. 
Nov 2013

117180 mi

C $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 2014

121300 mi

C $800
Seized rear caliper 
Sep 2014

126480 mi

C $700
Middle muffler replaced due to crack at inlet pipe connection Rubber intake boot crack due to aging 
Jan 2015

120420 mi

C $1000
Seized front caliper 
Jun 2015

132060 mi

C $3000
Clutch slipping. Replace clutch and flywheel Low oil light on, level ok, replace oil level sensor 
Oct 2015

134220 mi

C $300
Vacuum hose nipple to gas filter broken 
Dec 2016

145700 mi

C $350
Expansion tank and hose replacement 
Feb 2017

146320 mi

C $1800
Steering position sensor Gas peddle position sensor Front wheel bearing 
Mar 2018

155000 mi

C $1800
Replace failed alternator Battery failure due to alternator failure Light control module failure due to alternator failure 
Jul 2018

157480 mi

C $100
Convertible top liner c pillar repair Convertible top slide cover repair 
Sep 2018

158720 mi
Baker plate failure 
Jan 2022

180420 mi

C $1800
Frozen pcv, valve leading to cover failure 

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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 2008

58000 mi

US $300
New alternator. Done at an independant shop. 
Nov 2008

60000 mi

US $125
New thermostat. Independent shop. 
Mar 2009

72000 mi

US $857
Replace control arm bushings. Replace valve cover gasket. It was leaking oil over the metal shields producing burning smell inside the cabine. 
Jun 2009

78000 mi

US $248
Water pump failed. Replaced with updated one. (metal impeller) Water pump failed. Replaced with updated one (metal impeller) 

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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 2010

95000 mi

US $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. 

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2002.5 BMW 3-Series 4-door

turbocharged 4-cylinder diesel automatic 2WD

BMW in South Africa
Dec 2008 - Sep 2015
Sep 2012

115940 mi

R 8000
Replaced faulty window regulator on driver window. Replaced control arm bushes on front suspension. 

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See TrueDelta's information for all BMW models.

2003 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 2003 BMW 3-Series problems occur, check out our car reliability stats.