BMW 3-Series BMW 3-Series

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BMW 3-Series repairs by problem area

Engine (42%)

Transmission and Drivetrain (6%)

Brakes and Traction Control (4%)

Suspension and Steering (11%)

Electrical and Air Conditioning (25%)

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

Other (5%)

Chart based on 8820 repairs.
See TSBs and recalls for the BMW 3-Series.

BMW 3-Series other repair cost distribution

$2500+ (1%)

$1000 - $2499 (6%)

$500 - $999 (10%)

$100 - $499 (27%)

< $100 (55%)

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

Chart based on 348 repair trips. The repair cost chart excludes repairs made under warranty, do-it-yourself repairs, and repair trips that include maintenance.

2018 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

turbocharged 188hp 2.0L I4 Diesel 8-speed shiftable automatic AWD

42780 mi Recall 

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2016 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

turbocharged 320hp 3.0L I6 6-speed manual AWD

9920 mi The fuel filler flap ejection mechanism would fail in the winter, so a new one was ordered in and installed under warranty. 

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2016 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

turbocharged 240hp 2.0L I4 8-speed shiftable automatic AWD

23119 mi Check tires due to slight vibration at highway speeds. Tires cupped, decided to live with condition. 

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2016 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

turbocharged 180hp 2.0L I4 Diesel 8-speed shiftable automatic AWD

29000 mi Intermittent problems with the navigation system. Not yet resolved. It happened so rarely in this, my home area, that I could never make it happen for the BMW techs. However, it happened a lot in Louisiana, so much so techs from two different BMW dealers there saw it and wrote it up. It is likely that if the new owner drives the BMW in this area exclusively, he/she may never notice the problem. 

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2015 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

turbocharged 300hp 3.0L I6 8-speed shiftable automatic AWD

18000 mi

US $235
run flat tire 
30000 mi

US $900
replace tires 

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2015 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

turbocharged 240hp 2.0L I4 8-speed shiftable automatic AWD

30000 mi The navigation and radio would make a popping noise and restart itself from time to time. 
35000 mi The passenger door wouldn't open with the double pull (basically, in BMWs you pull the door once to unlock and again to open it), and could only be opened either from outside or by hitting the central locking button to unlock it that way. They told me it was a known problem where the cable would get snagged. Also, the door lock indicator would go up and down extremely slowly. 
38500 mi They had to replace the door latch due to the door not unlocking/opening when pulled. Also, the lock tab was slow to move up and down. This time they just replaced the entire assembly. 

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2015 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

turbocharged 180hp 2.0L I4 Diesel 8-speed shiftable automatic RWD

49000 mi

US $155
Fuel gauge reads high by 3/16 of tank after vehicle parked outside for greater than 15 minutes & until vehicle parked indoors overnight. 

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2015 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

turbocharged 180hp 2.0L I4 8-speed shiftable automatic AWD

43400 mi Passenger door unable to unlock from door handle. Tech rerouted cable as per puma case. But it is not working again and car is going back tomorrow. 

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2015 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

turbocharged 134hp 1.6L I4 8-speed shiftable automatic RWD

42160 mi The front LH lock mechanism failed and it was replaced. 

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2014 BMW 3-Series 4dr Wagon

turbocharged 240hp 2.0L I4 8-speed shiftable automatic RWD

32860 mi

C $400
Rear window latch was broken and was replaced 

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2014 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

turbocharged 300hp 3.0L I6 8-speed shiftable automatic AWD

8000 mi Washer fluid reservoir replaced, fluid level sensor was malfunctioning 

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2014 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

turbocharged 240hp 2.0L I4 8-speed shiftable automatic RWD

30000 mi Replaced the door latch 
24900 mi Passenger side trunk taillight falling out again. 
32000 mi Loose or broken latch causing a rattle. Replaced the part under warranty 

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2014 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

turbocharged 240hp 2.0L I4 8-speed shiftable automatic AWD

620 mi Rear seat belts not functioning. 
47000 mi

US $55
Noticed a thunking noise when turning hard. Diagnosis was that the tire shop had placed the front tires on the rear wheels (staggered setup) and placed them up front. This caused very low clearance with the strut and they would hit when the wheel was not under load. This was remedied by the tire shop (different location than diagnosis) 

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2014 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

turbocharged 180hp 2.0L I4 Diesel 8-speed shiftable automatic RWD

17000 mi At annual maintenance check, excessive tire wear was noted, consistent with overinflation by dealer when car was purchased 10 months earlier. Also, rain sensor fluid had partly leaked - sensor had to be replaced (under warrantee). 
46000 mi Rear passenger door lock and latch mechanism failed. Replaced with new parts under warranty. 

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2014 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

turbocharged 180hp 2.0L I4 Diesel 8-speed shiftable automatic AWD

72000 mi

US $60
Replaced passenger side door lock due to it not unlocking when pulling on handle 
19000 mi Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) leak in line, replaced line 
38000 mi Tire pressure was low on right front tire. Refilled to spec & has been fine since 
50000 mi greased window due to squealing 

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2014 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

turbocharged 180hp 2.0L I4 8-speed shiftable automatic RWD

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2014 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

turbocharged 134hp 1.6L I4 8-speed shiftable automatic RWD

14880 mi warning lights on due to all 4 tyres air pressure inadequate eventhough last tyre pressure check only 3 weeks ago. 

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2013 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

turbocharged 300hp 3.0L I6 8-speed shiftable automatic RWD

16000 mi Trunk taillight fell off 
22000 mi The trunk taillight on the opposite side of previous repair fell out. Has to do with weak clips that break over time when the trunk is closed. So now both sides have been replaced and time will tell if it is a design flaw that repeats. 

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2013 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

turbocharged 300hp 3.0L I6 8-speed shiftable automatic AWD

52700 mi Door lock failed. 
55000 mi Door lock fails to unlock when handle is pulled twice from inside. This happened to both front doors eventually and I had two separate trips to get them replaced. 

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2013 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

turbocharged 300hp 3.0L I6 6-speed manual RWD

15000 mi The gas door assembly was faulty and would not close 

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2013 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

turbocharged 300hp 3.0L I6 6-speed manual AWD

18300 mi Software upgrade, engine compartment water drain replacement 
69000 mi Hood latch replacement 

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2013 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

turbocharged 240hp 2.0L I4 8-speed shiftable automatic RWD

107000 mi

US $850
Wheel cracked, and both wheel and tire needed to be replaced. A curb, I think. But didn't notice anything until a flat tire 200 miles later in the middle of Idaho. 

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2013 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

turbocharged 240hp 2.0L I4 8-speed shiftable automatic AWD

15000 mi Hood release wouldn't work so couldn't get the hood open. 
29800 mi Windshield washer system 

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2013 BMW 3-Series 2dr Hardtop conv.

turbocharged 320hp 3.0L I6 6-speed manual RWD

19000 mi Rear seat back latch was not securing seat back. Replaced under warranty. 

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2013 BMW 3-Series 2dr Coupe

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

14720 mi Seat belt extender would not push forward seat belt. Arm was replaced. 
26040 mi Driver seat belt doesn't extend consistently. Seat belt slips off. 
26440 mi Driver seat belt doesn't extend consistently. Seat belt slips off. 

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2013 BMW 3-Series 2dr Coupe

turbocharged 300hp 3.0L I6 6-speed manual AWD

26040 mi The right side headlight washer jet cover failed to close after use. Broken spring. Replaced part and touched up cover. 

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2012 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

turbocharged 300hp 3.0L I6 8-speed shiftable automatic RWD

39000 mi Original factory installed Tail lights. Both tail lights became loose and we're not secure. Connectors showed corrosion due to water being able to get into the housing. Both tail lights secured in place and connectors replaced. 

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2012 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

turbocharged 240hp 2.0L I4 8-speed shiftable automatic RWD

44020 mi the hood wouldn't open when the release handle was pulled twice. 
40000 mi Bad windshield washer fluid reservoir integrated fluid sensor triggering a persistent low fluid level indication. Replaced entire washer fluid reservoir. 

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2012 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

turbocharged 181hp 2.0L I4 Diesel 8-speed shiftable automatic RWD

24180 mi Left stop light got detached from car body. 

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2012 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

13200 mi fixed wipers 

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2012 BMW 3-Series 2dr Coupe

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

14000 mi

US $65
Front wheels shimmy at high speeds - took for a rebalance, no improvement 

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2012 BMW 3-Series 2dr Coupe

414-horsepower 4.0L V8 6-speed manual RWD

19000 mi Back screen 
25100 mi The Rear Sun Screen continues to get stuck 

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2011 BMW 3-Series 4dr Wagon

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

46500 mi Headlight washing nozzles are leaking and they were replaced. My reservoir was losing washer fluid. 
55200 mi

US $120
Rear hatch assist struts failed 

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2011 BMW 3-Series 4dr Wagon

230-horsepower 3.0L I6 6-speed manual RWD

32300 mi Leaky headlight washer nozzle replaced 

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2011 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

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

42000 mi broken hid headlight mounting bracket. 
40000 mi Trunk latch would intermittently not latch on closure. Dealer replaced latch under warranty. 
53000 mi

US $290
All washer fluid drained from vehicle. 

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2011 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

turbocharged 300hp 3.0L I6 6-speed manual RWD

24000 mi Repeat visit: trunk fails to latch in freezing weather. This is now the 5th repair attempt. 
25000 mi Passenger front seat replaced due to "screeching" sound when using power seat adjustment. 

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2011 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

turbocharged 300hp 3.0L I6 6-speed manual AWD

50000 mi Seat lumbar support replaced 

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2011 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

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

15000 mi Stop pad with ejector for fuel filler not working properly. 
79000 mi

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

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2011 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

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

18200 mi Lumbar support on driver's side malfunctioned. 
19800 mi Lumbar support on driver's side malfunctioned. Wasn't fixed properly in April. 
32000 mi Lumbar in drivers seat does not stay fixed for 24 hours. Could not be fixed. Second attempt to fix it. 
12000 mi Trunk latch sticking 
32000 mi Driver's side mirror making grinding noise when folding Passenger side seatbelt would not fasten 
44000 mi Passenger door lock opening extremely slowly. Suspect problem with actuator with driver's side having already been replaced. Dealer would not replace. 
13200 mi Trunk wouldn't close. Not sure what repair work (if any) was done but the trunk closes now. 

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2011 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

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

Headlights not aligned properly from factory. 
19800 mi trunk lid does not close properly. replaced striker and spacer 
5000 mi Windshield washer fluid froze in tank and would not dispense fluid onto windshield. The fluid level was low and the temperature dipped about 20 degrees overnight. Dealer added some antifreeze and I was good to go. 
30000 mi Rear window rubber trim came loose, this time on the opposite side. Dealer put it back together, and hopefully it stays put like the other side. All else is good, the car doesn't feel like it has even aged a bit after 2 years 30,000 miles. 
44000 mi Tire pressure system was inactive. Dealer fixed it. 
60000 mi

US $500
door lock mechanism 
20000 mi Rubber strip along bottom of rear window (where it meets top of trunk lid) kept coming loose and had to be replaced. Was not yet actually leaking water though. 
37300 mi Passenger side headlight was tilting downwards (halogen). Clip broke inside. Replaced under warranty. 
61000 mi

US $10
Windshield washer reservoir leaking. Replaced both pump seals. 
44000 mi Trunk latch wouldn't always close when the trunk was closed. The dealer said it was a known issue and replaced the latch under warranty. 
52000 mi

US $400
Straighten wheels 
53000 mi

US $300
Hit massive pothole at 80 mph, causing the passenger front tire to develop a bulge. Tire deemed non-salvageable by the mechanic, brand new matching tire installed. 

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2011 BMW 3-Series 2dr Hardtop conv.

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

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

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2011 BMW 3-Series 2dr Coupe

turbocharged 300hp 3.0L I6 6-speed manual AWD

23560 mi cap of headlight wash spray broke 

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2011 BMW 3-Series 2dr Coupe

414-horsepower 4.0L V8 6-speed manual RWD

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

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2011 BMW 3-Series 2dr Coupe

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

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

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2011 BMW 3-Series 2dr Coupe

230-horsepower 3.0L I6 6-speed manual AWD

400 mi Ran diagnostics on speedometer. Confirmed that it read 5% higher than actual speed, but said it was normal. 

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2010 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

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

29500 mi The passenger side fog light has been loose since I purchased the car CPO 3/12. No signs of getting hit. They glued the light back to the body. True fix will require a new front bumper to anchor the fog light. I opted for glue. 
78000 mi

US $350
Stuck hood latch. Cable replaced 

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2010 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

turbocharged 300hp 3.0L I6 6-speed manual AWD

58700 mi

US $50
Pothole dislodged vertical adjustment on adaptive headlight, causing light to point straight toward ground. Only labor to fix -- wanted $140, but convinced them to do it for $50 CPO warranty charge. There is a BMW issued TSB on this issue. 
62000 mi Large bumps/smaller potholes will dislodge passenger headlight. Had to remove bumper, realign, reassemble (~2hrs). Dealer will not replace headlight under CPO (not covered until MY2014). They recommended calling BMW customer relations. Likely to repeat. 

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2010 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

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

43000 mi Headlight washer nozzle leaking washer fluid. 

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2010 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

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

25714 mi Rear left Wheel Rim was cracked causing tire to go flat. Dealer replaced the wheel under warranty. 
74000 mi Rear sunshade stopped working, dealership wanted $250.00 to diagnose problem. I decided I could live without paying close to over $600 to fix/replace a sunshade 

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2010 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

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

54000 mi

US $415
The driver side headlight washer jet failed causing leaking wiper fluid. Part was ~$90 but repair required bumper removal and was labor intensive. 

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2010 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

230-horsepower 3.0L I6 6-speed manual RWD

12500 mi Replaced alternator 
43000 mi Broken spring in drivers seat required replacing backrest frame. Replaced broken rear view mirror. Day/night adjustor failed and resulted in misaligned mirror reflector and inability to adjust or move mirror. 

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2010 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

230-horsepower 3.0L I6 6-speed manual AWD

94860 mi

C $65
Replaced trunk shocks, factory ones wore out. 
140120 mi

C $350
Headlight washer leaking and malfunctioning Replaced headlight washer and problem solved 

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2010 BMW 3-Series 2dr Hardtop conv.

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

101000 mi

US $470
R2 cracked front windshield. It looked like a reverse L shape... 7 inches down from the top of the windshield and 4 inches to the left. Perhaps a stress crack or cracked in the heat. It was due to something striking it externally.  

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2010 BMW 3-Series 2dr Coupe

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

30000 mi Front tires reported chopped, resulting in roaring noise when breaking 

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2009.5 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

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

49600 mi Exterior driver door handle sticking 
77500 mi

A $2500
Leaking windscreen tank 

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2009 BMW 3-Series 4dr Wagon

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

71500 mi

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

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2009 BMW 3-Series 4dr Wagon

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

18000 mi Sun roof mechanical drive components had to be replaced under warranty.Car was at the dealer for 4 days. 

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2009 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

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

27000 mi I had forgotten to report this previously. The adaptive Xeon lights fall off their fixture and they don't illuminate properly. Dealer has tried to repair and even replace the parts on one side, without too much success. Blame the road here. 
57000 mi Loss of windshield washer fluid. Dealer stated the whole washer fluid reservoir was replaced. 

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2009 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

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

17000 mi Wiper blades were replaced under warranty. Replacement blade was not touching the glass upon usage. Further inspection revealed a defective wiper blade arm, which was replaced under warranty. 
19300 mi Rt front door, hinge seal replaced 

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2009 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

turbocharged 300hp 3.0L I6 6-speed manual RWD

7500 mi

US $105
Windshield chip 
7000 mi windshield washer fluid leak. replaced right front headlight washer assembly. 
50300 mi

US $200
Leak in windshield washer tank. Pump replaced 

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2009 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

414-horsepower 4.0L V8 6-speed manual RWD

33000 mi Leak in washer system 

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2009 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

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

60000 mi

US $300
At 9 years bits are starting to fail. Had to replace the trunk handle with micro switch as the plastic had disintegrated.  
31700 mi

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

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2009 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

230-horsepower 3.0L I6 6-speed manual RWD

46000 mi Adaptive headlight arm failed. Fixed under warranty. 

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2009 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

230-horsepower 3.0L I6 6-speed manual AWD

10354 mi Heated steering wheel 

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2009 BMW 3-Series 4-door

turbocharged 4-cylinder diesel manual 2WD

84320 mi

$200
Cracked windshield, OEM replacement.  

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2009 BMW 3-Series 2dr Hardtop conv.

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

32860 mi

C $440
Driver's seatbelt retractor replaced. Would not allow the belt to be extracted. At first just difficult, then not at all. 
100000 mi

US $200
Seat belt restraint failure 

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2009 BMW 3-Series 2dr Hardtop conv.

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

52000 mi Adaptive Headlight (right) replaced 

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2009 BMW 3-Series 2dr Hardtop conv.

414-horsepower 4.0L V8 6-speed manual RWD

Rollover bar deployment system fault--warning went off as I drove off the lot. Eventually the entire mechanism was changed and problem solved. 

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2009 BMW 3-Series 2dr Coupe

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

32000 mi

US $100
replaced drivers door handle reinforcement bracket 
63000 mi

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

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2009 BMW 3-Series 2dr Coupe

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

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

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2009 BMW 3-Series 2dr Coupe

414-horsepower 4.0L V8 6-speed manual RWD

3000 mi Map light rattled over rough surfaces and when you would tap it. Plastic clip broken inside rolling around (factory defect). Parts ordered, replaced - took 1.5 days to "re-program" car after light assembly installed. 

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2009 BMW 3-Series 2dr Coupe

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

59000 mi

US $50
Windshield washer pump leaking, still worked, but slowly leaked all the fluid out. 

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2008 BMW 3-Series 4dr Wagon

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

63800 mi

US $1120
Windshield washer fluid leaking onto garage floor. 

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2008 BMW 3-Series 4dr Wagon

230-horsepower 3.0L I6 6-speed manual AWD

100000 mi

US $40
Headlight washer leaking, replaced. 

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2008 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

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

29000 mi rear driver seat belt malfunction 
31300 mi seatbelt malfunction, required replacement. second replacement. 
31800 mi seat belt failed and replaced 

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2008 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

turbocharged 300hp 3.0L I6 6-speed manual RWD

84000 mi

US $200
inspection 

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2008 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

turbocharged 300hp 3.0L I6 6-speed manual AWD

70300 mi

US $60
Passenger side xenon headlight needed adjustment. Leveling motor appears to not be working. Still needs to go back for more work on that light (either a repair or possible complete light assembly replacement) 

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2008 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

turbocharged 174hp 2.0L I4 Diesel 6-speed shiftable automatic RWD

104160 mi

€350
The BMW "I Drive", this multi-position knob on the center console would not react when I pushed down on it. Pushing on the knob is the "enter" button, so without this function you cannot change dozens of functions. 

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2008 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

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

20000 mi Seat Belt sticky - replaced 
82000 mi

US $350
Driver door lock assembly 

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2008 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

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

11000 mi Leaky tire valve was fixed. 
123000 mi

US $150
Right rear window regulator failed 
57000 mi

US $670
Original battery needed replaced and registered. 
620 mi License plates brackets vibrates annoyingly. 
39000 mi Driver side window chatters due to misaligned gasket. 

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2008 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

230-horsepower 3.0L I6 6-speed manual AWD

42800 mi

US $560
Small plastic tabs that hold 5 cent headlamp bulb retainer clip was broken off in light bucket. Replaced light assembly. Without it bulb rattles in housing and filament breaks. Poor design, very easy to move retainer clip past its range of motion. 

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2008 BMW 3-Series 2dr Hardtop conv.

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

2000 mi Leak at convertible roof seal where roof meets a-pillar/windshield frame. Leaks presented themselves on both driver and passenger side. 
2000 mi Unresolved water leaks at A-pillar/Windshield frame junction with Convertible roof. Water drip trails occure on both driver and passenger windows. 
2000 mi Continuing unresolved water leak where convertible roof meets A-Pillar/Windshield frame. 

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2008 BMW 3-Series 2dr Hardtop conv.

turbocharged 300hp 3.0L I6 6-speed manual RWD

75500 mi

US $450
Headlight washer cover came off. Had to replace the pump to get the new cover. 
47840 mi Buffeting sound at 60-65 km/h & 90-95 km/hr 
48360 mi

C $500
Wheels balanced and aligned to fix buffeting sound. Sound still there, and now the dealer says its because of feathering and uneven wear on tires. Had to pay for the above 

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2008 BMW 3-Series 2dr Hardtop conv.

414-horsepower 4.0L V8 6-speed manual RWD

35000 mi  

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2008 BMW 3-Series 2dr Hardtop conv.

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

30000 mi Headlamp washer stuck. Attempted repair. Needed new unit 

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2008 BMW 3-Series 2dr Coupe

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

26000 mi Replaced Driver-side seatbelt assembly. It was so sensitive that it would lock when pulling the belt out. 
74900 mi

US $50
Fuel filler door lock actuator failure, repaired under warranty. 

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2008 BMW 3-Series 2dr Coupe

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

84000 mi

US $2000
Replaced belly pan under front right side/wheelwell 
43000 mi Had windshield wipers replaced at last visit. One of these wipers was too long and overhung windshield. That wiper blade was replaced at this visit. 

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2008 BMW 3-Series 2dr Coupe

turbocharged 300hp 3.0L I6 6-speed manual RWD

112000 mi Tilt-forward of the passenger seat broke, making it unable to stay upright. Required a simple fix. 
35000 mi Driver and passenger seats' latches (to fold seatback for rear entry)not working correctly. 

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2008 BMW 3-Series 2dr Coupe

414-horsepower 4.0L V8 6-speed manual RWD

10540 mi The driver's seat handle. No could get in to the back seat as the handle to get in the back seat was not working for some odd reason. 
27000 mi shocks from the hood stopped working and they were not holding the hood while open 

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2008 BMW 3-Series 2dr Coupe

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

29000 mi Excessive headlight vibration corrected per BMW issued SIB. 
69000 mi automatic seatbelt dispensing arm repaired and parts replaced. 

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2008 BMW 3-Series 2dr Coupe

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

26000 mi Brake light housing faulty.  
63000 mi

US $125
Tire has slow leak. Determined that BMW rim has very small crack in hub area that was causing leak 

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2007 BMW 3-Series

Engine not specified

47000 mi Seat moving during acceleration or braking. Fixed by replacing seat.  

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2007 BMW 3-Series 4dr Wagon

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

26000 mi Dealer broke rear wiper assembly when they replaced wiper blade. 
27000 mi Previous dealer in Ocala FL broke the rear wiper when replacing wiper blade. Fell off somewhere on the road. Collected repair part from Ocala dealer and took it to a different dealer in Orlando. 
30000 mi

US $120
Hood latch broken. 
41092 mi fuel tank vent seal replaced fuel tank breather replaced 
59527 mi

US $50
drivers lock replaced 

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2007 BMW 3-Series 4dr Wagon

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

31000 mi driver seat rail cover had been loose since delivery...dealer did not have part, otherwise it would have been replaced at 1 year maintenance rear left wind deflector (under side) broke off sometime last winter...dealer would have replaced at 1 year service but did not have part. It was replaced on same trip as seat rail cover. 
50000 mi Wind noise from sunroof...roof sealer/gasket needed replacing. was not sealing properly. 
54000 mi Rear window wiper intermittent since April 08. Finally stopped at a time I could get to dealer. Needs new shaft. This was 2nd week in October. They ordered it from Germany. By 20 November it had not yet arrived. 
60000 mi Rear window wiper had failed, outside of warranty. Dealer finally got part, replaced. All OK and there was no charge. 
31000 mi Windshield washer fluid line became clogged. Dealer replaced check valve and blew out line with air. Covered under warranty.  
39000 mi Driver's side lower window seal was making noise when window was rolled down. Dealer said seal was damaged, ordered seal and replaced at later visit. Have since used Gummi Pflege on all seals. BMW warranty is great.  

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2007 BMW 3-Series 4dr Wagon

230-horsepower 3.0L I6 6-speed manual RWD

25000 mi Replaced seal on windshield wash fluid tank. 
39000 mi 2nd time replace leaking windshield washer pump and seals. Prior replacement pump installed <2 years ago so this was a warranty repair. 

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2007 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

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

21000 mi Replaced the right rear seat belt -- it was difficult to put on as it would lock unless it was removed at the slowest pace possible. 
30000 mi

US $900
windshield washer broken 
139000 mi

US $32
Hood props worn, not holding hood open (gas-filled struts). Part replaced. 
48000 mi Rear passenger side exterior door handle was sticking in "out" position. Dealer is ordering 4(!) new door handles. May have been a TSB on this problem.  
49000 mi Installed door handles ordered before.  
75000 mi My rear window went down and would not go back up. I repaired it myself - stuck window regulator due to kinked cable. 
122000 mi Fog light became loose - required removing wheel well and replacing missing screw. 
125000 mi

US $450
Rear passenger window stuck in down position. Removed door panel and forced window back up. 
8000 mi replaced passenger-side dash cupholder, which was broken when a passenger's knee bumped it. These cupholders are the typical afterthoughts offered by German carmakers, who don't think people should be drinking or eating in their cars (I happen to agree) 

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2007 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

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

34000 mi The gas fill cover pops open on its own. Dealer replaced mechanism under warranty. 
23000 mi Side signal light unit clips broke. Replaced under warranty. 

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2007 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

turbocharged 300hp 3.0L I6 6-speed manual RWD

20000 mi Experienced 3 "Engine Malfunction - Reduced Power" messages. Dealer read codes and needs car for several days to diagnose. Haven't returned for service yet, put a new tank of gas in, problem seems to be resolved on its own. Suspecting a bad tank of gas. 
8000 mi Headlights shake excessively over rough pavement. 
1000 mi Had "Service engine soon" light come on. Stopped by Schuck's to have it scanned, turned out to be a loose gas cap warning 
67000 mi

US $39
Replaced rear passenger side window regulator. 
76000 mi

US $39
Replaced rear driver side window regulator. 
13000 mi Aluminum alloy window trim oxidized, replaced under warranty. Aluminum alloy window trim oxidized, replaced under warranty; repair faulty and new part ordered. Aluminum alloy window trim oxidized, replaced under warranty 
136000 mi

US $37
Filler tube for windshield washer fluid tank cracked and leaked. 

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2007 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

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

22900 mi Passenger door would not completely latch shut. The door would close and lock, but there was wind noise when driving and a noticeable gap when viewed from outside. The door could also be pushed in from the outside, but wouldn't stay. 
46000 mi Driver side mirror had manufacturing defect and would not adjust properly 
72000 mi

US $50
Trunk release latch sealing gasket broken. 
92000 mi

US $300
Rear passenger window regulator replaced 

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2007 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

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

22000 mi Locking system stopped working.  
35000 mi

US $448
Wanted dealer to rebalance both front wheels from a vibration discovered in the steering wheel after rotating the wheels from back to fronts for even wear pattern. Dealer replaced a 'bent' wheel which it wasn't bent in fact. 
94000 mi 6 cyl started misfiring...became hard fault the more often it's driven, the earlier the problem appears. 
40000 mi

US $925
While recalibrating sensors following lock sensor replacement. Right rear passenger window failed to go back up. Problem was traced to broken wind regulator cable. Window regulator was replaced. 
40700 mi

US $85
Headlight washer valve/orfice froze up and was leaking washer fluid 
59000 mi

US $650
Drivers side mirror would not adjust. If you touched position button it would fold to either forward or rear park position. Drivers side Mirror assembly with servo was repaced. 
17000 mi Windshield wiper fluid leaking. 
46000 mi trunck latch rubber cover was worn and peeling 
60000 mi

US $700
Headlamp washer leaking. Washer unit replaced 
134000 mi

US $100
Rear passenger window does not open or close. Window regulator cable snapped. 
135000 mi

US $100
Rear driver side window will not open or close. Window regulator cable broke 

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2007 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

230-horsepower 3.0L I6 6-speed manual RWD

46000 mi hood latch failed to engage. 
26200 mi Windshield washer jets plugged 
45000 mi

US $35
Replace trunk struts. 
24800 mi Check engine light came on and off periodically for about 6 weeks. I thought that retightenng the gas cap solved it but wasn't sure. 
74000 mi Trunk release switch became disconnected inside trunk (could hear it moving around when trunk was opened by remote). Was able to reconnect switch to trunk lid...no new parts required. 

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2007 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

230-horsepower 3.0L I6 6-speed manual AWD

48000 mi

US $50
rear window fell down into car. Had to be re-set and items holding it replaced. Covered under extended warranty minus deductible. 

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2007 BMW 3-Series 4-door

6-cylinder automatic 2WD

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2007 BMW 3-Series 2dr Hardtop conv.

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

2000 mi REARVIEW MIRROR COMPASS STUCK ON SAME POSITION 
28000 mi Driver seatbelt buckle jammed at times. Replaced. 

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2007 BMW 3-Series 2dr Hardtop conv.

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

34000 mi

US $300
Windshield washer pump stopped working. Replaced pump and screen. 
97000 mi

US $3000
Rims were cracked, rear tires bad, clutch bad. Sold me problems 

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2007 BMW 3-Series 2dr Hardtop conv.

230-horsepower 3.0L I6 6-speed manual RWD

30000 mi Rubber piece inside door frame came loose. It is a rubber square mounted near the rear window inside the door jamb. Have called to see if the part is in, but have had no call back. tires are wearing out on edges after 4k miles 
36000 mi wheel had cracks on the rim 

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2007 BMW 3-Series 2dr Coupe

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

40000 mi Seat belt handing arm on passenger side failed to retract properly. Temporary fix made, arm still works, but new parts ordered. 
43600 mi seat back release mechanism needed repair 
5000 mi Bubbles appeared in the windshield. Bubbles determined to be in safety glass laminate (appear to be in between the panes of glass) and the windshield has to be replaced. Part on order. 
6000 mi Windshield replaced under warranty because bubbles formed in the laminate. 
10000 mi Brake force bulb and housing replaced. 
20000 mi Headlights vibrating when hitting bumps on highway, additional support brackets installed per SIB.  
3000 mi Driver's side hood latch not closing properly. Driver's seat latch catching when lifting seat forward to allow rear passenger to enter or exit. 
73780 mi

C $20
Windshield washer fluid low warning, so removed/inspected reservoir, thinking leak, but still full. Replaced windshield washer pump anyway. Warning light still on, so must be grime build-up preventing indicator float from moving freely. 

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2007 BMW 3-Series 2dr Coupe

turbocharged 300hp 3.0L I6 6-speed manual RWD

18800 mi Replaced passenger side headlight due to broken motor and bulb. 
17000 mi Seatbelt auto arms were sticking. The dealer installed two new ones. Then reprogrammed the computer. They are working fine. 
31000 mi side turn indicator lamp falling out of plastic center. covered by recall. 
14000 mi Right rear bulb socket was replaced. Seems to only happen on Coupe. Car thinks bulb is burned out, but it is not. tech said has happened on a few of the Coupes but not any on the Sedans. Replaced socket no issue since. 

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2007 BMW 3-Series 2dr Coupe

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

12000 mi Gas Door actuator replaced. 

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2007 BMW 3-Series 2dr Coupe

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

29000 mi Seat belt presenter was not grabbing seat belt properly. Unit replaced due to worn bushing. Drivers side retractable mirror was extending too far forward after folding back out. Travel stop was broken, mirror replaced. 
8680 mi Complimentary oil change after 1 year ownership. Exterior light error. Turns out it was ballast error. 
14260 mi Steering Wheel lock malfunction light appeared. Dealer reflashed software, and problem went away. 
66700 mi Passenger seat not moving properly. New rail needed but not in dealer stock. Covered under CPO warranty (6/100,000) 

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2007 BMW 3-Series 2dr Coupe

230-horsepower 3.0L I6 6-speed manual AWD

44500 mi Seatbelt assist. Went in 3 separate times until assist fixed and seatbelts replaced, original warranty up in june so did all of it before. 

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2007 BMW 3-Series 2-door

6-cylinder manual 2WD

3000 mi The door check was loose, making a sound when door opened. 

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2006 BMW 3-Series

Engine not specified

83100 mi

€500
headlamp washer nozzle leaked 

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2006 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

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

110000 mi

US $300
Trunk latch doesn't shut. Dealer can't fix 
27000 mi I started getting "Sliding Roof Anti-trap function" message in the console. Sun roof was not opening. Not sure what they did, but the problem stands fixed. 
30000 mi Driver door handle periodically sticking. Lubricated - problem has not returned. 
89000 mi

US $965
I was leaking fluids on the driveway. The transmission pan was leaking, plastic warped.  

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2006 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

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

77100 mi

US $300
Motor for auto window back/passenger quit working. 
58000 mi

US $1100
Washer system losing fluid. Leaking headlamp nozzles. 

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2006 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

255-horsepower 3.0L I6 6-speed manual RWD

129000 mi

US $15
Rear view mirror detached from windshield. Glass shop re-glued it. 
35000 mi Headlight washer jets sprang a leak. This had happened on my 330xi 06 as well. If I had this car out of warranty, I might disconnect the headlight washers as they are not that necessary, running out of washer fluid in the middle of winter is unpleasant. Headlight washer jets sprang a leak. This had happened on my 330xi 06 as well. I think the NJ dealer puts in the wrong washer fluid for my northern drives, causing the freezing and leak at the headlight jets. 
110000 mi

US $99
Diagnosis of trunk latch not working. Dealer was unable to fix and stated the Junction Box Module may be the culprit. This seems unlikely as the lock is mechanically activating but just not unlocking. (Sound) Dealer charged $99 to inspect 
66000 mi

US $142
Replace Fog Lamp, dealer had quoted 168.62 

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2006 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

255-horsepower 3.0L I6 6-speed manual AWD

57000 mi

US $446
Headlight washer motor/apparatus was leaking washer fluid. thia would empty the reservoir in a couple of hours and none of the washers would work. 
98000 mi

US $1363
Leaky headlight washer pumps 

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2006 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

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

31000 mi left fog light got loose - repaired by dealer at no cost 
136000 mi Washer fluid was leaking from car. would run out as you poured it in. I ordered a new pump and gasket from ebay less than $10 and removed and replaced it behind the fender liner. Side mirror would unfold and not stop kept going and clicking etc. I have attempted to fix this by cleaning terminals etc. Dielectric grease etc. I had it working at different times for a week or so and even somehow disabled the folding of the mirrors. I ended up not wanting to waste time and money on a feature I didn't care about so I cut the wire for the mirror and it has worked great since (no more folding is so no problem when it folds out) 
10540 mi Fix Rear air duct popping noise and replaced rear split folding chair mechanism due to rattling. 
189000 mi

US $90
Broken trunk strut replaced. 
7000 mi Steering column lock sensor faulty causing intermittant inability to start 
65000 mi

US $30
Windshield washer fluid bottle developed a leak and was replaced  
86000 mi

US $295
Replaced the left rear window mechanism. 
12000 mi Replaced gearshift knob, driver's door armrest and center console because of surface peeling. 
28000 mi Windshield washer system inoperable due to clogged fluid lines. 
94200 mi

US $167
Front passenger-side seat belt buckle stopped reliably locking on the seat belt. Based on forum advice, I decided to replace the part, identified specifically as the seat belt buckle and pretensioner. 
56000 mi Door handle didn't return to position after pulling out during opening. Bad spring. 
77000 mi

US $50
Electric folding mirror detent broken, so driver side mirror would continuously try to fold beyond fully closed position. Exterior mirror housing replaced. 

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2006 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

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

6200 mi In addition, all door handles were replaced because they frequently stuck open. There was also a routine oil change. 
7440 mi One door handle continued to stick and was successfully repaired. 
11160 mi Work was done in January. All door handles replaced for a second time due to manufacturing defect which causes them to stick in pulled position. 
19220 mi Rear left door handle replaced for third time because it was sticking in open position. 
42160 mi Sticky door handles  
40826 mi

US $900
Over heating, needed waterpump, also changed thermostat & coolant. 
31000 mi Idiots broke wire shroud in engine compartment at last service. 
37000 mi Whining noise from tires/engine/diff. 

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2006 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

215-horsepower 3.0L I6 6-speed manual RWD

87000 mi

US $50
driver's side seatbelt kept getting jammed; replaced. 
96000 mi passenger rearview mirror developed rust stains on edges of mirror; mirror had become delaminated. 
47000 mi Door handles replaced because they were sticking. Dealer told me this can be an issue on 06 models and they replace the sticking handles with re-designed ones. 
3000 mi The driver-side wiper flew off the car when I switched on the wipers. The dealer replaced it at no charge to me. 
53000 mi

US $250
Rear window regulator broke. Replaced. 
76040 mi

C $1000
Driver side mirror faulty 
46000 mi Small rubber-like "covers" at bottom of both trunk-lid cylinders cracked and tore; clearly case of defect in materials. Replaced under warranty. 
43000 mi Door handle ordered due to defective handle. 
48000 mi Driver and passenger door handles defective and needed to be replaced. 
79520 mi

C $300
Wiper-washer fluid filter clogged, flushed in shop. Replacement of other wear items (battery) required extra time in shop 
33000 mi Replacement of worn trunk struts. 
55700 mi

US $400
Right rear seatbelt tensioner failed. 

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2006 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

215-horsepower 3.0L I6 6-speed manual AWD

68000 mi

US $1030
It also had the right front headlight washer replaced (due to leak). 
89000 mi Now washer fluid seems to be leaking into engine??? Returning for service 2/3/16. 

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2006 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

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

61580 mi

C $538
Routine oil change, changed cabin filter & engine filter, replaced glass only on passenger side mirror after it fell off. Simple repair ordered mirror only, I snapped the black under mount off and the new unit snapped in with a healthy click. 

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2006 BMW 3-Series 4-door

6-cylinder manual 2WD

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2006 BMW 3-Series 4-door

6-cylinder automatic 2WD

18000 mi cup holder was stuck and repaired. 

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2006 BMW 3-Series 4-door

6-cylinder automated manual 2WD

36000 mi Squeaky sound from fan. Originally, dealer said not problem could not hear it. But subsequently they did hear it and it was worse when brakes were applied. Going back to shop today 

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2006 BMW 3-Series 2dr Coupe

255-horsepower 3.0L I6 6-speed manual RWD

38000 mi Oil change, door handles sticky.  Lost drain plug cover for plastic cover on bottom of car. 

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2006 BMW 3-Series 2dr Coupe

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

75300 mi

US $70
Windshield washer pump started leaking. Replaced pump. 

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2006 BMW 3-Series 2dr Coupe

225-horsepower 3.0L I6 6-speed manual RWD

105200 mi

US $790
Replaced front and rear wheels. Shop balanced the new tires. 

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2006 BMW 3-Series 2dr Convertible

333-horsepower 3.2L I6 6-speed manual RWD

75000 mi

US $447
Lower engine cover bracket damaged. No evident cause, though happened about a week after I had a branch caught under the car. Shop discovered it while fixing the sway bar bracket, couldn't tell what caused it either. Replaced bracket. Glove box latch broken - couldn't open glove box. 

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2006 BMW 3-Series 2dr Convertible

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

19000 mi

US $449
leaking windshield washer pump and a couple of items that shop was "unable to duplicate" 

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2006 BMW 3-Series 2dr Convertible

235-horsepower 3.0L I6 6-speed manual RWD

43000 mi

US $150
Windshield/headlight washer reservoir leaking. O Rings on pumps replaced. Leak persisted. Found winshield pump leaking; headlight pump OK. Replaced windshield pump. 

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2006 BMW 3-Series 2dr Convertible

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

19000 mi PS rear window was replaced. A previous repair by another dealer caused this. They adjusted the window to repair a water leak incorrectly. This resulted in damaging the window. Now however the trim below the window rattles. 
31000 mi

US $1500
 

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2006 BMW 3-Series 2dr Convertible

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

10000 mi Passenger side seatbelt holder fixed a week later. 

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2006 BMW 3-Series 2dr Convertible

184-horsepower 2.5L I6 5-speed manual RWD

72000 mi

US $850
Glove compartment closure would not unlatch 

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2005 BMW 3-Series 4dr Wagon

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

38000 mi Headlight washer hose leaked. 

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2005 BMW 3-Series 4dr Wagon

184-horsepower 2.5L I6 5-speed manual RWD

20204 mi Right rear door seal replaced 
43700 mi

US $70
Both front Headlight washer jets went bad. 

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2005 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

235-horsepower 3.0L I6 6-speed manual RWD

28500 mi

US $674
Replaced right front and right rear window lifts which had become inoperable.  
62000 mi Driver's window regulator, that had failed and was replaced five months earlier, failed again. The mechanism was replaced free of charge under the shop's 1-year warranty on parts and labor. These regulators were very poorly designed by the manufacturer. Failure was not due to the previous repair and replacement - the mechanism simply failed. 

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2005 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

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

45000 mi Fuel door locking pin was not engaging. Tech reset seal on the locking pin. 
104200 mi Windshield washer fluid tank was leaking, removed the one bolt, reseated pump and OK for a while but pump appears to have failed since. Have ordered a replacement part and strainer for < $15 on Amazon. 

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2005 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

225-horsepower 3.0L I6 6-speed manual AWD

71000 mi Door brake bent out of alignment, causing door to "pop" loudly when the door is opened past a certain point. Part may be ordered and installed (DIY) within the next two weeks. Both Xenon headlights severely out of alignment, causing a dangerous lack of visible light during night driving. Manually adjusted lights by eye, visibility improved. Plan to adjust lights accurately within two weeks (DIY). 
86100 mi

US $350
While working on parking brake, dealer repaired door brake at no cost, likely just tightening the bolts. Finally that headache is gone! 

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2005 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

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

90380 mi

C $1224
windshield washer pump 
50000 mi

US $20
Replaced windshield washer pump. 
97000 mi

US $1400
Replaced oil filter housing gasket. 
36000 mi Routine oil change and rattling noise at idle in drive. 

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2005 BMW 3-Series 2dr Coupe

333-horsepower 3.2L I6 6-speed manual RWD

35000 mi BMW has an auto-dimming rear view mirror and a common problem with them is they leak the auto-dimming fluid inside. The fluid is highly toxic and caustic so if it drips on the interior it will damage it. Mine was starting to go bad, the left side no ... 

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2005 BMW 3-Series 2dr Coupe

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

41000 mi Driver's mirror 

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2005 BMW 3-Series 2dr Coupe

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

29140 mi Part broke off underneath passenger seat. Ordered in from BMW Germany. 
29140 mi Part for seat rail order in from Germany. Wrong part sent or ordered. Part reordered. Car scheduled for fixing on Oct 19, 2009. Passenger side mirror would tilt when put in reverse gear. Switch on drivers door was turned off. Switch turned back on. Problem solved. No charges to me. 
29760 mi

C $50
Driver seat part installed. 
35740 mi

C $245
Windshield washer pump leaking. Replaced windshield washer pump. 
84320 mi

C $185
as well as the drivers side wheel well cover 

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2004 BMW 3-Series

Engine not specified

78000 mi

US $30
Broken sunroof 

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2004 BMW 3-Series 4dr Wagon

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

139500 mi

C $125
Windshield washer fluid leaking 

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2004 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

235-horsepower 3.0L I6 6-speed manual RWD

66960 mi

C $250
Service Light ON. 
88000 mi

US $150
Windshield washer pump leaking 
100000 mi Sub-frame welds were failing on early issue 3 series (2001-2002). TSB was sent out for all e46 style BMWs. Mine was evaluated and given clean bill of health. 

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2004 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

225-horsepower 3.0L I6 6-speed manual RWD

101000 mi

US $115
Auto-dimming rear view mirror repaired by independent party. Mirror lost auto-dimming function and fluid leaked completely out of the mirror. 
168300 mi

US $300
Replaced low beam xenon headlight bowls. The reflective coating on the original plastic bowls were faded, burnt and cracked. This is a known issue on E46 models with ZKW xenon HID headlights. 

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2004 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

225-horsepower 3.0L I6 6-speed manual AWD

100000 mi

US $100
Washer fluid pump malfunction (leak) Covered under extended warranty 
138000 mi

US $15
Windshield washer pump 

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2004 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

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

102600 mi

US $100
Steering wheel/chassis vibration under acceleration; attempted to resolve with wheel balance but not resolved. 

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2004 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

184-horsepower 2.5L I6 6-speed automated manual RWD

24120 mi Self-Dimming Rear-View mirror replaced 
87000 mi The rear view mirror's tint was coming off, and needed to be replaced. 

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2004 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

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

120074 mi

US $618
Replace Expansion Tank, Thermostat Assembly, Coolant 
167000 mi

US $500
Rear passenger door trim fell apart after door was closed somewhat forcefully - not slammed, just harder than necessary. Door interior trim, locking mechanism, and window regulator detached. Nothing worked on door. 

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2004 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

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

69233 mi

C $299
Check coolant loss Pressure test cooling system Repl expansion tank hose 

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2004 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

184-horsepower 2.5L I6 5-speed manual RWD

32000 mi Left exterior mirror would not return to memory position 

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2004 BMW 3-Series 2dr Coupe

225-horsepower 3.0L I6 6-speed manual RWD

73000 mi

US $13
The ratchet closure for the fuel filler door failed. I purchased a new part for $13 from a dealer and installed it myself. Took less than 5 minutes. 

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2004 BMW 3-Series 2dr Coupe

225-horsepower 3.0L I6 6-speed automated manual RWD

62000 mi

US $50
Rear seat fold-down latch replaced. 60000 mile maintenance also done at this time. 

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2004 BMW 3-Series 2dr Coupe

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

33000 mi

US $125
Replaced rearview mirror, leaked auto-dimming material 

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2004 BMW 3-Series 2dr Convertible

333-horsepower 3.2L I6 6-speed manual RWD

Tire pressure monitor continually on. In addition, radio does not display all pixels. 
US $85 Repair stone chip in windshield. 
Trunk stopers replaced 
Convertible top not working - top drive unit repaired and replaced 
55974 mi

US $1514
Rear bumper reattached. 
60981 mi

US $417
New battery 
53000 mi

US $500
New bolt that attaches trunk to hinge. 

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2004 BMW 3-Series 2dr Convertible

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

25000 mi Inside rear view mirror no longer dimmed at night. 

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2004 BMW 3-Series 2dr Convertible

184-horsepower 2.5L I6 5-speed manual RWD

102000 mi

US $170
Headlight washer nozzle leaking 

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2004 BMW 3-Series 2-door

6-cylinder automatic 2WD

35000 mi Replaced wood gear shift knob and wood trim on passenger door panel. All of this was covered under the warranty. 

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2003.5 BMW 3-Series

Engine not specified

83000 mi Check engine light went on, problem was corrected just by resetting the light. No real problem with car. 

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2003.5 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

235-horsepower 3.0L I6 6-speed manual RWD

58000 mi

US $1
Window regulator malfunction. Repaired broken plastic clip by replacing with cable tie to reinforce clipped area. 
81500 mi

US $25
Windshield washer fluid leak through pump motor gasket. 
112300 mi

US $10
Leaking windshield washer fluid grommet 

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2003.5 BMW 3-Series 2-door

Engine not specified

53000 mi Replaced entire sunroof mechanism under goodwill. 

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2003 BMW 3-Series 4dr Wagon

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

77500 mi

C $100
Replaced the headlights washer spray nozzles. 
93000 mi

C $250
Changed radiator, expansion tank and transmission thermostat due to a leak. 

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2003 BMW 3-Series 4dr Wagon

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

175000 mi

US $500
hood latch stopped working 
85043 mi

US $1010
replace wiper inserts, right front sway bar link, change gear oil in differential 
110715 mi

US $709
replace valve cover gasket (oil leak) 

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2003 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

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

120700 mi

US $650
Rear sub frame bushing change 

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2003 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

225-horsepower 3.0L I6 5-speed manual AWD

128000 mi

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

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2003 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

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

91500 mi Front Fender Liner worn and broke during car wash. This also took the temperature sensor from the wheel well. 

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2003 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

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

77000 mi

US $177
Catch in door lock broke 
127000 mi

US $85
Replaced fuel tank sending unit due to damage from a mouse chewing on it. 

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2003 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

40920 mi

A $2660
Roof side gutter leaking. BMW make substandard cars. Be warned, do NOT buy. 
55180 mi

A $170
Window lifter broken. Replaced with new one 

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2003 BMW 3-Series 2dr Coupe

333-horsepower 3.2L I6 6-speed manual RWD

110000 mi rear trailing arm bushing, exhaust manifolds replaced, transmission fluid, rear differential fluid, o2 sensors replaced 
111000 mi

US $850
Sunroof cassette replacement 

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2003 BMW 3-Series 2dr Coupe

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

80000 mi

US $130
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. 

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2003 BMW 3-Series 2dr Coupe

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

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

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2003 BMW 3-Series 2dr Convertible

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

128000 mi

US $487
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 

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2003 BMW 3-Series 2dr Convertible

225-horsepower 3.0L I6 5-speed manual RWD

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

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2002 BMW 3-Series

Engine not specified

50000 mi

US $800
Had them check cooling system , bad water pump and theromstat both were replaced and covered by original warranty. Other things done were routine, all fluids were flushed. 
89000 mi dash warning that washer fluid low. hose to headlight washers was leaking. Major labor bill to pull off bumper to access. Not worth it for an useless accessory. Capped hose at tank so stop leak. Windshield washer works fine 

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2002 BMW 3-Series 4dr Wagon

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

62000 mi

US $474
Right rear window regulator failure. 

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2002 BMW 3-Series 4dr Wagon

184-horsepower 2.5L I6 5-speed manual RWD

112000 mi

US $75
Repair broken door lock 

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2002 BMW 3-Series 4dr Wagon

184-horsepower 2.5L I6 5-speed manual AWD

109500 mi

US $200
fuel pump failed 
189600 mi

C $800
wipers failed 

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2002 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

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

106000 mi

US $75
Windshield fluid pump leaked -- replaced. 
40925 mi

US $200
Rear light failure again. Replaced taillight connectors due to scorching around the connectors. 

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2002 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

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

126200 mi

US $102
Clip attaching window to window regulator broke leading to a cracking noise when using driver window. It was a $2 part but $100 in labor. Kinda sickening but that's the price you pay to drive a BMW.  

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2002 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

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

125000 mi Windshield pump leaking bad 

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2002 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

184-horsepower 2.5L I6 5-speed manual RWD

126480 mi

C $300
Hood would not open - latch inoperable Cables replaced, latches replaced 
134000 mi

US $250
Power seat motor replaced (Driver side) 

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2002 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

184-horsepower 2.5L I6 5-speed manual AWD

114000 mi

US $80
Window regulator failed again. Rear facing clip broke off of cable. 

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2002 BMW 3-Series 2dr Coupe

333-horsepower 3.2L I6 6-speed manual RWD

89000 mi

US $1500
subframe cracked and bmw would not repair because crack was to small, had turner motor sport repair and strenghten subframe 
136500 mi

US $3900
window washer repair, bumper repair. 
153000 mi

US $2400
frame cracking at swaybar mount 
59000 mi

US $800
Replaced PS wiper arm due to poor wiper performance on that side despite trying new blades and bending old arm to make better contact with windshield. 
62000 mi

US $75
Replaced windshield washer pump that was leaking and causing a low fluid condition. 
64000 mi

US $130
Rear view mirror electroluminant element started to cloud (known issue with the round mirrors). Elected to have it repaired by Radar-Mirror.com rather than have it replaced by OEM (not sure if that's still an option). 
114000 mi

US $30
Leak from wiper fluid 
53000 mi

US $14
The windshield washer pump was leaking. A service part and a short repair involving removing the passenger front wheelwell splash shield to access the part was all that was required. Not unheard of with 14yr old plastic seals. 

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2002 BMW 3-Series 2dr Coupe

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

60140 mi

R 100
Windscreen washer nozzles had failed and needed replacing. 

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2002 BMW 3-Series 2dr Coupe

225-horsepower 3.0L I6 5-speed manual RWD

99200 mi

C $131
Replaced broken windshield wiper linkage. 

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2002 BMW 3-Series 2dr Coupe

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

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2002 BMW 3-Series 2dr Convertible

225-horsepower 3.0L I6 5-speed manual RWD

45000 mi

US $350
Replace worn door mechanism on driver's side.  
86000 mi

US $450
Replaced engine thermostat as result of "Service Engine Soon" warning light. 
109200 mi

US $600
Leaking headlight washer, draining entire windshield/headlight washer reservoir. 
116000 mi

US $1028
Replace window regulators, both doors. Window drop function not working, and window alignment out of spec. Two window lift assemblies replaced. 
119000 mi

US $346
Seat belt drooping, getting hung in power seat track and/or closed in door. Replace drivers side seat belt and retractor mechanism, so belt retracts properly. 

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2001 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

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

196000 mi

US $719
He also re-attached the washer fluid hose,  
97000 mi

US $500
Window washer fluid leaks at motor. Motor still worked but fluid drips out of valve assembly. Replaced motor and strainer/grommet. 
78120 mi

C $235
windshield washer fluid pump replacement 
65000 mi

US $1200
Lubricated sticking sunroof. 
79200 mi

US $3995
Driver side external mirror replaced after becoming discolored/oxidized, hard to see through. 

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2001 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

225-horsepower 3.0L I6 5-speed manual RWD

104000 mi

US $15
Cracked rubber intake boot letting unmetered air into engine causing check engine light. Replaced lower intake boot, cleared code. 

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2001 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

184-horsepower 2.5L I6 5-speed manual RWD

154700 mi

US $607
Driver's side drip molding (exterior). $256 
173600 mi

R 100
Door handle cable turned out to be faulty as well. 
177400 mi

R 25
Door handle cable was replaced with part sourced from breakers yard 

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2001 BMW 3-Series 4-door

6-cylinder manual AWD

65000 mi

US $1500
DMTL Pump was faulty (fixed connection). They replaced the Thermostat. 

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2001 BMW 3-Series 4-door

6-cylinder manual 2WD

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2001 BMW 3-Series 4-door

6-cylinder automatic 2WD

69440 mi

$1100
Water pump broke, causing a Windshield fluid leak. Dealer replaced pump. 

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2001 BMW 3-Series 2dr Coupe

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

89000 mi

US $5
Clip that holds up the brake light cables broke 
119964 mi

US $579
Passenger side seat belt broken and replaced, roundel on front had to be replaced 

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2001 BMW 3-Series 2dr Coupe

225-horsepower 3.0L I6 5-speed manual RWD

129000 mi

US $6
Oil Filter Housing Gasket R&R 
128563 mi

US $75
R&R Fuel Filter *tested the fuel filter and pitch black gas came out of it. 

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2001 BMW 3-Series 2dr Coupe

184-horsepower 2.5L I6 5-speed manual RWD

89000 mi

US $30
Front driver side turn signal assembly removed itself from the car while travelling on the highway. Had to replace turn signal assembly. 

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2001 BMW 3-Series 2dr Convertible

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

81500 mi

US $280
rear window dropped out 
72000 mi

US $130
Driver side door-brake spring broke. New part installed. 
76000 mi

US $130
Drivers side door brake replaced. 

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2001 BMW 3-Series 2dr Convertible

225-horsepower 3.0L I6 5-speed manual RWD

51000 mi

US $800
Latch for convertible top. Part in trunk came off and jammed latch. Dealer said it was a design fault, BMW USA said tuff luck. No new BMW for me - TUFF LUCK BMW USA. 

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2001 BMW 3-Series 2dr Convertible

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

91000 mi

US $20
Windshield washer pump leaking. Replaced washer pump. 

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2001 BMW 3-Series 2-door

6-cylinder automatic 2WD

68000 mi

US $178
Defective (leaking) windshield washer fluid pump. Reservoir also found to be cracked. Both were replaced. 

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2000 BMW 3-Series 4dr Wagon

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

63024 mi

US $35
Windshield Washer Pump. 
73127 mi

US $37
Front Badge replaced. 
74656 mi

US $103
LED Third Brake Light replaced. 
111780 mi

US $45
Sunroof Shade Clips replaced. 

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2000 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

193-horsepower 2.8L I6 5-speed shiftable automatic RWD

120000 mi

US $400
Rear differential bushing replaced. 

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2000 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

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

180000 mi

US $40
Noticed windshield washer fluid puddle and found weep hole on windshield washer pump leaking, replaced pump. 

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2000 BMW 3-Series 4dr Sedan

170-horsepower 2.5L I6 5-speed manual RWD

126000 mi

US $50
Replaced leaking windshield washer pump. 
89900 mi

C $300
replacing aging gaskets. 

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2000 BMW 3-Series 4-door

4-cylinder automatic 2WD

78120 mi

A $340
Window lifter replaced. Plastic parts broken. Part replaced using guide posted by someone on internet.  

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2000 BMW 3-Series 2dr Coupe

170-horsepower 2.5L I6 5-speed manual RWD

126480 mi

C $1908
Repair: e46 rear subframe cracks repaired ($1,656) & rear subframe reinforcement kit installed ($252). 

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1999 BMW 3-Series

Engine not specified

189000 mi

US $50
Driver's door lock failed to open with key. Purchased cylinder repair kit on ebay. Simple fix for less than $50 
194700 mi

US $70
Window regulator wire snapped inside door. Resulted in non-functional window, driver side front. 
139000 mi Replaced both seat belt buckles. 

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1999 BMW 3-Series 4-door

6-cylinder manual 2WD

133000 mi

US $100
Leaky windshield washer pump. Replaced hoses, gaskets and wipers while I was at it. 
224000 mi

US $1317
Needed my fluids changed, transmission, differential, brakes bleed, coolant flushed and my expansion tank replaced. My radiator was cracked and additionally needed to be replaced along with my expansion tank. 
312000 mi

US $547
Passenger seatbelt tensioner replaced. 
355000 mi

US $100
Repaired the front passenger window regulator and both low beam light bulbs. 
356700 mi

US $100
Replaced driver's side window regulator clip. Clip broke during routine operation. 

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1999 BMW 3-Series 4-door

6-cylinder automatic 2WD

183000 mi

US $200
SubFrame Replaced due to Design Defect 

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1999 BMW 3-Series 4-door

4-cylinder manual 2WD

185460 mi

€1700
Replaced and aligned all four tyres due to replacement of shocks and bearings (all tyres where a bit out of alignment) 

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1999 BMW 3-Series 2-door

6-cylinder manual 2WD

105000 mi

US $40
Hood strut failed, replaced it with a new one. 
68000 mi

US $40
Worm gear in passenger seat (enables recline function) broke, so it was replaced 
223200 mi

C $400
Rear sub-frame torn out of car. Needed metal plates welded in place. 
49000 mi

US $130
replaced gas springs in convertible deck lid. 

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1998 BMW 3-Series

Engine not specified

180000 mi

US $13
Window regulator off track repaired and lubricated it myself. Passenger door outside door handle not working. Lubricated it and latch and now works properly. Cost about $5 for lubricants. 
303000 mi

US $30
gas pedal hinge broke. 

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1998 BMW 3-Series 4-door

6-cylinder manual 2WD

105400 mi

C $1000
Windshield wiper-linkage replacement. 

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1998 BMW 3-Series 2-door

6-cylinder manual 2WD

95000 mi

US $378
Replaced cruise control throttle cable 

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1997 BMW 3-Series

Engine not specified

186620 mi

C $180
replace the drivers side seat belt retainer for the second time 
170000 mi

US $20
Driver side window misaligned. Needed to realign the track and reattach modulator. 

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1997 BMW 3-Series 2-door

4-cylinder manual 2WD

154600 mi

US $300
Driver side window regulator had bent, window went off the track 

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1996 BMW 3-Series 4-door

6-cylinder manual 2WD

73000 mi

US $400
Cowl gasket was cracking; preventively replaced to avoid water damage to engine computer 
178000 mi Passenger front window would no longer move up or down. A common issue due to a gear wearing out. 

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1996 BMW 3-Series 2-door

4-cylinder manual 2WD

246860 mi Hood release latch corroded and sticking. Parts disassembled and cleaned before reinstalling. Not bad considering the mileage! 

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1995 BMW 3-Series 2-door

6-cylinder manual 2WD

152000 mi The front shields that enclose the engine bay and front bumper with duct work finally disintegrated and were due to be replaced. The estimated repair was $356.00 for parts and 2.0 hrs flat rate ($80/hr) at the local BMW specialist place (not the dealer). The driver's seat back broke and the car was unsafe. Hard to judge the repair price as the shop simply scratched their heads. It would require sourcing a 1995 M3 seat from a wreck with buffalo leather interior, rare as hen's teeth from what BMW told them. 
146300 mi Windows stall going up, lubricated regulators. Problem remains, probably window motors. 
165000 mi Driver's door outside handle does not work. Inside works. 

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

BMW 3-Series Other Problems

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