The E90 3 Series, which debuted in 2005 and replaced the exceptionally well-received E46 generation, had huge shoes to fill. Even though it was bigger and heavier than the model it replaced, it managed to provide much more space for passengers in the back seats and a bigger trunk, making it more comfortable and useful than its before.
It was available in sedan (E90), wagon (E91), coupe (E92), and convertible (E93) body styles, and it was an immediate success, winning numerous honors at the time, including the 2006 World Car of the Year title.
The 325i and 328i featured normally aspirated engines, while the 335i featured a twin-turbo engine in pre-LCI (facelift) vehicles and an upgraded single-turbo engine in LCI variants. The lineup in North America was primarily focused on six-cylinder gas engines.
There were options for rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive, as well as manual and automatic transmissions. Curiously, one outlier in the lineup was the 335d, which was only available in sedan form and had a six-cylinder turbo diesel engine with plenty of torque.
The 2.5-liter and 3.0-liter variants of the N52 engine, respectively, are what make the 325i and 328i versions of the BMW 3 Series among the most dependable ones you’ll find. Instamotor named the 328i in particular as one of the top five used BMW models you can purchase.
The ‘VANOS’ variable valve timing system, which can have problems on earlier examples of the N52 but is common on BMWs of the era, and the hydraulic lifters, which can also become oil-starved in earlier examples, are both issues with the N52. However, BMW redesigned the cylinder head for 2009 to address these problems.
The 2007 and 2008 twin-turbo versions of the 335i are even listed by Car Complaints as being among the five worst BMWs based on the volume of customer complaints it has received, despite the fact that they are undoubtedly more faster than the 325i and 328i.
Particularly often reported difficulties include turbo failure, overheating problems, malfunctioning ABS and high-pressure fuel pumps, all of which require expensive repairs.
The average private party value of an E90 now is $9,717, and the trade-in value for a good-condition 2009 328i sedan is $7,503, according to Kelley Blue Book. This makes them a very cost-effective purchase.
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Why are models without turbochargers more dependable?
BMW’s N52 engine, which Bimmer Life believes is one of the most dependable motors BMW has ever produced, was utilized in the 325i and 328i. In comparison, the 335i had the N54 engine, which according to BMW Tuning was noticeably less dependable. A performance icon, the BMW E90 M3’s V8 engine is also prone to rod-bearing failure, according to Jalopnik. BMW Tuning states that while there aren’t as many afflicted engines as there are with the IMS bearing in the 996 911, if left unchecked, it might lead to engine failure.
But the less potent BMW E90 3-Series has a lot to offer in other areas as well. They still handle well while being roomier and more comfortable than the previous E46, according to Road & Track. Additionally, according to R&T, the F30 3-Series that followed it actually featured lower-quality interior components and was less enjoyable to drive. Even though it possessed a smaller 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, the F30 was only marginally more fuel-efficient and also let more noise into the interior.
The E90 3-Series is also quite contemporary in many aspects. There was satellite navigation available, and traction and stability control were standard.
View Models of BMW 3 Series
All of our reviews for the BMW 3 Series can be found right here. Prices for the BMW 3 Series range from $17,200 for the 325i to $40,920 for the 325i.
In-depth analysis of the 3 Series’s features, design, utility, fuel efficiency, engine and gearbox, safety, ownership costs, and driving experience can be found in our evaluations.
The most recent reviews are located at the top of the page, but if you’re searching for a used car or an older model year, scroll down to read reviews for BMW 3 Series going back to 1995.
Alternatively, if you simply want to read the most recent BMW 3 Series news, you can find it all here.
What BMW model is the most dependable?
Do you want to know which BMW is the most dependable in the company’s lineup of top-notch automobiles? Although the BMW E90 325I and 328i appear to be some of the most dependable BMWs, they are not fault-proof, it is crucial to remember this. Every BMW engine produced after 1990 included VANOS. A variable valve timing system is known as VANOS. It has been in use since 1992 and is utilized by BMW on a variety of vehicle engines.
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As long as you discover a properly maintained vehicle with a service history, they are just as dependable as a Honda or Toyota. The secret to purchasing a used BMW is that (or any car for that matter). Lack of service history is a time-consuming hassle. If this is your first time visiting BMW, make sure you follow these instructions because failing to do so may leave you with a very unpleasant and expensive aftertaste.
What issues does a 325i BMW have?
- From the lower engine area, oil leaks.
- Fan resistor in the last stage of the blower may fail.
- Rear window control.
- Coolant Loss from Expansion Tank Leak.
- Bushings on the front control arm bracket could break.
- Engine overheating and/or the Check Engine light.
- Multiple Power Steering Hoses Could Fail At Once
Are vintage BMWs dependable?
When examining whether or not BMWs are reliable, the subject of age is crucial. It is frequently discovered that older BMWs—generally those produced in the late 1990s and early 2000s—are more dependable than newer BMWs. Though not always the case, take note. This applies to the majority of other brands as well, not only BMW. Early automobiles from the era have rudimentary engineering and construction. There is less of a possibility that something could go wrong because of the simplicity of the mechanical or electronic components.
Even if they do, correcting them won’t be that expensive. Newer cars, on the other hand, are quite high-tech. The iDrive entertainment system, external safety sensors, as well as the extensive web of wiring, computers, and electrics running throughout the full length of the car, are just a few of the many electrical components found in BMWs in particular. The modern engineering of newer BMWs can make them more prone to problems. Not to mention pricey, particularly once the warranty expires.
In reality, the majority of the components and labor needed to maintain and repair BMWs are identical to those for other models. Certain parts inevitably need to be replaced. The same issues might arise with a regular Honda or Toyota, but BMW’s high-performance parts will cost more just for the raw materials. In addition, labor costs are greater for BMWs because they require more time from mechanics than the ordinary vehicle. In general, you can easily expect your BMW repair price to be $1,000 or more.
How far is a BMW 325i capable of traveling?
But how far is a BMW 3 Series capable of traveling? When maintained properly, you can anticipate your 3 Series to endure between 200,000 and 250,000 kilometres.
Which BMW year is the most dependable?
When it comes to the creation of sport sedans, BMW has established the benchmark for premium vehicles with the E90 330i that Acura and Volvo aspire to match. The BMW E90 330i is your best option if you’re looking for a sedan that provides the ideal balance of functionality and performance without sacrificing stability and comfort.
The BMW E90 330i is one of the most popular luxury vehicles in the United States and is not only the best-selling model in the 3 Series. It also sold over 336,232 units. Even in the mid-size luxury automobile category, the BMW 3 Series received the Top Safety Pick designation in 2006. The best car options in terms of driver injury prevention and driver restraint features are highlighted by this award.
BMWs still dependable after 100,000 miles?
BMW is renowned for producing opulent vehicles with outstanding handling and driving dynamics. Do BMWs still be reliable after more than 100,000 miles on the road?
JD Power and other reliability evaluations have routinely placed BMW among the top ten most trustworthy cars.
Furthermore, having driven a BMW myself, I can vouch to the reliability of these vehicles, even after more than 100,000 miles on them. Some models are trustworthy while others are not, therefore it also depends on the models. They require maintenance, but any vehicle that you want to keep in good running order requires maintenance as well.
It heavily depends on the circumstances. It has been said that several BMW models, including the E46 and the E90, can go more than 300,000 miles on a single charge.
This, however, depends on a number of variables. For instance, it’s possible that your car may need significant repairs after 100,000 miles if you don’t change the oil in it frequently or maintain it properly.
Which BMW engine is the most dependable?
BMW is known for producing high-end vehicles. You could be wondering if they are trustworthy, and the answer is that they are absolutely trustworthy. Even though they have quite high price tags, they are still worth the money. They have superb and potent engines that will allow you to use them at their maximum speed.
- 1. BMW B58 Motor
- 2. BMW M20 Motor
- 3. BMW M50 Motor
- 4. BMW S62 Motor
- 5. BMW N52 Motor
- 6. BMW M54 Motor
Are BMW repairs challenging?
How challenging it is to repair a BMW depends on its age, model, engine, and level of luxury amenities. Older vehicles with simpler parts may be simpler to fix than more recent BMWs with all the frills.
BMWs are regarded as luxury vehicles, thus they are more likely to be equipped with cutting-edge technology than a regular family hatchback.
The likelihood that a piece of advanced technology would malfunction increases along with the difficulty of diagnosing and repairing the vehicle.
The main reason why earlier BMWs are simpler to fix is that they don’t have as many bells and whistles as newer models, making it simpler to identify issues and get to the broken parts.
Which BMW has the fewest issues?
The 325i was the entry-level model when the E90 made its début in 2006. A 2.5-liter six-cylinder engine with 215 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque was installed in it. The E90 range was then revised in 2008, and the 325i was replaced with the 328i. It had a 2.8-liter six-cylinder engine that produced 200 lb-ft of torque and 230 horsepower. The 268-hp 330i, according to BimmerLife, is one of the most potent naturally-aspirated BMWs ever produced.
Older BMWs are they worth it?
BMW is renowned for producing some of the best driving machines the world has ever seen, yet the majority of mechanics will advise you to steer clear of pre-owned models.
Once upon a time, BMW was a renowned automaker, a premium German brand with a lengthy history and an amazing collection of vehicles crisscrossing the globe. Sadly, though, circumstances are now different for the employees at the Bavarian Motor Works. The brand has been permanently damaged with prior owners and do-it-yourselfers due to an emphasis on producing mass-market automobiles that don’t age well.
August 2021 revision: You’ll be delighted to know that we’ve updated this post and go into more detail about the many issues a Bavarian automobile owner may run into if they decide to purchase a used BMW. This should assist you in making the greatest choice for your upcoming automobile purchase.
The majority of knowledgeable owners and mechanics will advise you to avoid used BMWs, especially those manufactured within the previous 20 years or so. Simply put, they are not worth the money you will undoubtedly have to invest in them. They are expensive to repair, have expensive replacement parts, and require a lot of labor.
They certainly have a cool appearance and a certain charm. But when you force personal checks to pour in at the neighborhood Euro repair shop, that beautiful siren tune will finally hit a string of unfavorable notes. Here are 15 compelling arguments against buying a used BMW.