The compact BMW 3 Series is one of the most popular cars among young drivers. And it's completely logical: the manufacturer BMW AG has done everything to ensure that its creation has a modern exterior, excellent equipment, increased comfort, power, and remarkable handling. However, BMW 3 problems also exist.
Among the advantages, we can mention the price of a «used» car.
What is the reliability reserve of this car and the «weak spots» to pay attention to when purchasing a used BMW 3 Series?
Common faults and issues of the used BMW 3 Series
It is worth noting that the body metal perfectly resists corrosion. Even in places where there are chips, there is no rust, despite several years of use and contact with reagents.
Unfortunately, the body equipment is not as reliable. After a couple of years of use, the front optics start to haze. Door handles stick. This inconvenience is exacerbated by the fact that both the handle and lock will need replacement.
Another issue with used BMW 3 Series is the seal falling out between the trunk lid and the glass. In principle, owners solve this minor problem on their own using glue.
In cold weather, the car needs a quality winter washer fluid (antifreeze). Otherwise, an attempt to wash the headlights in frost will lead to a breakdown.
Usually, BMW engines are reliable plus powerful. But with the units for BMW 3 Series, things are not that simple. The 2.0-liter engine has high oil consumption, requiring a specific type to avoid premature wear of the oil control rings.
On average, the eccentric shaft sensor needs replacement every 70,000 km, and the throttle valve after 100,000 km. This engine does not tolerate overheating. In such cases, the valve cover becomes deformed.
Other petrol units are less problematic. But among them, a common drawback is the catalyst's lifespan. It lasts no more than 70,000 km when using quality fuel. Fuel injectors last up to 100,000 km, and the timing chain, on average, around 150,000 km.
Among the diesel engines, the 2.0-liter also has the most problems. Its ailment is the camshaft drive chain jumping off. In this case, the repair costs around 800-900 dollars. Although for cars produced after 2008, this issue is non-existent.
Fuel injectors last from 50 to 80 thousand km. And the Mitsubishi turbocharger has a lifespan of up to 120,000 km.
Components of the fuel delivery system can prematurely fail due to low-quality fuel.
Suspension elements faults of the used BMW 3 Series
The BMW 3 Series chassis is a successful combination of excellent handling and sufficient comfort level. To reduce the car's weight, most front suspension parts are aluminum.
Although its reliability characteristics fully meet the manufacturer's image, after fifty thousand km, owners start complaining about strange noises.
Of course, this is mainly due to poor road conditions. This is not considered a malfunction, just a minor issue with the used BMW 3 Series, easily fixed by lubricating the bushings. Struts and stabilizer bushings are designed for a mileage of 30 to 40 thousand km. The remaining components have strength reserves for 100-150 thousand km (with proper operation).
The rear suspension is equally reliable. Although floating bushings can fail after 80 thousand km.
A characteristic feature is the accelerated wear of the rear tire tread (on the inner side). The reason is the installation of wheels «cambered» for increased stability.
Also, the power steering pump needs replacement (at 50-70 thousand km) and the steering rack (at 60-80 thousand km).
The BMW interior traditionally stands out for its assembly quality and material selection. But nothing lasts forever, and minor problems start with the electrical equipment of a used BMW 3 Series: the heater fan whistles, the radio receiver has worse reception, and the central lock responds poorly to the remote control.
The «yellow steering wheel» on the panel is a clear hint to visit the service. Sometimes it's a block reflash, but installing a new electronic board is also possible.
Conclusion
Used BMW 3 Series may have quite serious drawbacks. The reliability of these cars in our reality has its limits. Nevertheless, if you need a stylish, modern car, driving which is an incomparable pleasure, then in this price range, the BMW 3 Series is the optimal choice.
Car advantages:
- modern stylish design;
- excellent finish and high-quality materials;
- excellent driving characteristics and handling.
BMW 3 Series drawbacks:
- relatively high cost of car maintenance and potential repairs;
- BMW 3 engine issues;
- wear of the rear tire tread.
Models of this series often make it to the list of the best-selling cars in Europe. A total of 2,147,247 units have been produced.
