Currently 5156 Recalls

BMW 3 Series – Common problems

Last update 16. 02. 2024

Common problems with the BMW 3 Series

Some problems will only occur after many years of operation, others are related to technical solutions and forced the manufacturer to issue a recall. In the following overview, you will find the most common problems for the BMW 3 Series, for which BMW has announced a recall through the EU Safety Gate system. For recalls and faults found in the UK, scroll down.

The BMW 3 Series is renowned for its blend of performance, comfort, and driving dynamics, making it one of the most popular models in the BMW lineup. It is generally considered to be a reliable vehicle, particularly in its more recent generations. However, like any car, it can have its share of issues.

Common problems reported by owners include issues with the electrical system, such as the infotainment display and sensor malfunctions, as well as mechanical concerns like cooling system leaks and wear and tear on suspension components. High-mileage vehicles may also face issues with the turbocharger system in models equipped with it. Despite these potential issues, the 3 Series is often praised for its build quality and longevity, especially when properly maintained.



Latest BMW 3 Series Issues in the EU

09/05/2025
Last update 12. 05. 2025The positive battery cable of the starter-generator may not have been manufactured correctly. This could r...
15/02/2025
The propellant in the inflator of the driver airbag may deteriorate over time. If the airbags deploy, it could result in fragments...
BMW-3-Series-2006-airbag-takata
26/10/2024
The propellant in the driver airbag may deteriorate over time. If the airbags deploy, it could result in fragments from the inflat...

BMW 3 Series issues reported by German KBA

10/02/2025
BMW is recalling 364,275 vehicles of the 1, 3, M3, X1, and X3 model series manufactured between 2008 and 2010. The reason for the ...
BMW-driver-airbag--recall
15/09/2024
BMW is recalling 6,503,996 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 Series and X1, X3, X5, and X6 SUVs manufactured between 2003 and 2018 to authorised wo...
BMW-X3-driver-airbag-recall-kba
03/09/2024
BMW is recalling 295,125 Series-1, Series-3 and X3 vehicles manufactured between 2004 and 2005 to authorised workshops worldwide. ...

If the recall problem is corrected in time, it may not affect the overall reliability of your BMW 3 Series. However, the fault can often remain unresolved because the previous owner didn´t know about the recall or ignored the manufacturer’s letter.

The good news is that automakers usually provide unlimited time to correct such defects for free. Check to see if all of the potential problems with your BMW 3 Series have been resolved in the past. How to do it, we give advice on a special page.

If you wish to know more about eventual problems of a specific car (e.g. real mileage, potential traffic accidents damages, odometer rollback, repairs, etc.), then we suggest going to this page.

Check the vehicle’s history


Latest BMW 3 Series Issues in the UK

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