Most Common Failures Of The BMW 3 Series: Problems And Solutions
The BMW is one of the most iconic cars on the road. With many variations and affiliations over the years, the 3 series is certainly one of the best known models. If you are interested in a car of this model, find out here the common faults of the BMW 3 Series , so that you are prevented.
The 3-series, which has received several awards throughout its life, has had several versions, including 2-door sports coupes and 5-door MPVs. There is a supercharged version of the vehicle known as the M3.
Common failures of the BMW 3 Series
With a history dating back to 1975, it is the German manufacturer’s best-selling vehicle and accounts for 30% of its annual turnover. With so many cars rolling off the production line, there will always be some reported bugs on various models.
Like any other car, owning a BMW 3 Series can come with its own set of problems. Whether you’re thinking about buying a new or used 3 Series, it’s important to know what common 3 Series problems are, and what to expect.
If you have this car, what should you consider? Here we bring you the most common failures of the BMW 3 Series.
1- Engine problems
One of the most common engine failures are problems with fuel pumps and injectors. You will see these problems most commonly on 2006-2007 335i models . This is especially true with the turbocharged 4 and 6 cylinder engines appearing in newer models.
These problems will cause hard idling and can affect the car’s fuel economy, increasing stalling and causing rough driving and long starting times. You will have to consult your mechanic to solve this problem.
There are also frequent problems with the valve timing system known as VANOS, which can become clogged with dirt and road debris. This, in turn, leads to the car running very slowly and not picking up proper levels of power with the vehicle going into limp mode.
2- Electricity problems
There are a couple of common BMW 3 Series failures that are widely reported, these are the 3 Series electrical system, with consumer reports highlighting models built between 1999-2005.
The first is the one for the key, which can stop working in the ignition and cause your steering lock light to come on. This is due to failures in the steering column and in the computer, which will need serious diagnosis.
There is also a problem with the battery connectors that can lead to the loss of electrical power to the vehicle. The positive battery connector is prone to degrade and corrode over time, increasing the chances of stalling the vehicle and even leading to a complete misfire.
3- Failure in the cooling system
Some of the common problems of the BMW 3 Series are in the cooling system of the car with faulty water pumps that cause the engine to overheat quickly. It is always advisable to keep an eye on such problems as this could lead to other parts being damaged in the vehicle.
Cracks in the vehicle’s cooling system could also cause coolant leaks. So it’s wise to change your water pump, thermostat, and thermostat housing every 30K miles and replace your pipes every 100K miles, even if they seem fine.
4- Rattle problems
Many owners report noises coming from inside the BMW 3 series engine, including vibrations and slow rattles that can cause discomfort and frustration while driving.
These effects can even mask real car problems , leaving more serious faults undetected. We recommend that the vehicle be checked by an official mechanic to find the origin of these problems.
5- Tire failures
BMWs, in general, are known for using expensive and uncomfortable tires to drive on, which degrade quickly and need to be replaced frequently. Make sure the tires are in good condition in the usual way and have more regular service than you would with a standard family car.
To end
The 3 Series remains a great-looking vehicle that represents a quality city car at a good price, giving you access to sporty-style engineering. With a smooth ride and the power to go the distance, you can see why it’s such a popular vehicle throughout the Western world. Second-hand cars are a good way to save money.
Before buying a 3 Series it is important to do a complete inspection of the vehicle you are interested in buying. You should also be aware of technical service bulletins and make sure that the vehicle you wish to buy has been subjected to all technical service bulletins.
