Used BMW 3 Series: Inspection checklist

Pick the model year you are going to see. Each sheet lists the checks for the problems owners reported on that year, in the order you would do them at the car. Owners filed 183 complaints across these 8 years; the 2018 drew the most.

Choose a model year

Problems that follow the 3 Series from year to year

Each of these is a top-three complaint area in at least two model years. Darker cells mean more complaints that year. Whatever year you are looking at, give these extra time.

Area	2018	2019	2020	2021	2023	Total
Electrical	9	3	16	6	2	36
Airbags	3	4	4	2		13
Engine	12	3	9	2		26
Transmission	4	4		2		10

3 Series generations and updates

First years of a new generation and mid-cycle updates are marked. Each year links to its checklist.

Seventh generation
2019–2023
2022 update: Exterior design updates; Interior enhancements including infotainment system; Powertrain updates
Sixth generation
2012–2019
- 2018
- 2019
2016 update: Updated exterior styling; New technology for infotainment and driver assistance features; Engine improvements

Mileages where 3 Series problems start

From owner reports for each model year, lowest mileage first. Compare these with the odometer of the car you are seeing.

Typical mileage	Problem	Year
40,000–60,000 miles	Oil filter housing and coolant leaks	2019
53,000–65,000 miles	Oil filter housing coolant leak	2018

Every 3 Series recall to confirm

29 recalls cover the 3 Seriesyears on this site. Open a campaign number for NHTSA's full notice. 9 campaigns span more than one model year. One told owners not to drive or to park outside until repaired.