Written by: Trevor Mahoney
Last updated: February 16, 2025
When thinking about luxury sports cars, BMW is probably the first automaker that comes to mind. For years, BMW has been known for designing and building vehicles that are meant to be pushed to the limit on the racetrack and the highway. With their mix of highly engineered components and comfortable interiors, they are some of the best cars on the market, and they have a price tag to match. However, they are not known for being the most reliable vehicles, and it is important to understand why.
BMWs have some issues when it comes to their reliability and their tendency to break down. If you are considering purchasing a BMW, you should know what to expect and some of its most common problems. By taking the time to find out when BMWs start having issues and what the major repairs are usually needed, you can be ready when they come up.
Are BMWs Reliable?
While BMW makes some of the most high-performance cars on the consumer market, they are, unfortunately, also one of the least dependable. According to RepairPal, BMWs have a 2.5/5 reliability rating, which is considered incredibly low. This stems from the fact that they have an average repair shop visit frequency of 0.9 times per year, which is substantially higher than the average for all automakers of 0.4. If you purchase a BMW, you can expect to bring it to the shop for repairs and service more than twice as much as you would with another vehicle.
BMWs are also known for being incredibly expensive to repair whenever they have to go into the shop. On average, 15% of the issues they experience are severe compared to the overall average of 12%. On top of that, they have an annual repair cost of $968. When this is compared to the overall figure of $652 for other automakers, it is easy to see why owning a BMW is incredibly expensive, and their low reliability is something to keep in mind and be ready for if you are considering purchasing one.
One of the key things often attributed to BMWs lower reliability rating is the use of complex engineering and high-performance parts in German cars. While these enhance the driving experience and performance, they also tend to wear out faster than more conventional vehicle components. BMW vehicles incorporate advanced technologies like turbocharged engines, electronic control systems, and high-precision components, all of which can lead to more frequent and costly repairs. On top of this, BMW models focus on performance, which means that some components will be designed for optimal efficiency rather than automotive longevity.
When Do BMWs Start Having Issues?
How soon a BMW will develop serious issues heavily depends on the individual vehicle. The model, maintenance frequency, and type of driving that has been done on it will all affect how quickly it will begin having problems. Some BMWs last for well over 100,000 miles before any problems occur. However, others start to have issues right away. Depending on the reliability rating of the individual model and the model year, you may not have to bring your BMW into the shop for a long while.
With that being said, most BMWs start having some serious problems at around the 100,000-mile point. Buying a new BMW will come with a factory warranty that is good for four years or 50,000 miles, whichever comes first. If your car is still within this timeframe, you can take it to the dealership and have them repair it. If you purchased your BMW used, or it is out of the factory warranty, you will be responsible for getting it repaired.
Common BMW Problems
Before you purchase a BMW, you should know what problems you can expect so you can be prepared. While not all BMWs will develop the same issues, there are some incredibly common repairs that they tend to go into the shop for due to design flaws and component quality. Being able to keep an eye out for these problems and get them fixed right away can help prevent them from becoming even more serious later on.
Oil Leaks
BMWs are notorious for leaking oil no matter what model you end up purchasing. Specifically, the oil filter gasket and valve cover gasket tend to be very brittle and will wear out exceptionally fast. If a vehicle is leaking oil, it will not get the lubrication it needs to run smoothly, which can cause serious problems like warping and seizing. Keep an eye out for any oil leaks whenever you pull out of a parking space, and have a mechanic look at the gaskets if you notice stains on the ground.
Water Pump Failure
Over the years, BMW has issued several recalls for their water pumps due to design flaws and known issues. Unlike most cars, BMW’s water pumps are electrically powered and plastic, making them very susceptible to heat and wear, especially if you regularly drive in hot weather. If a vehicle’s water pump fails, the engine will overheat, which can be quite serious if it is happening all the time. Whether or not your specific BMW has had a recall on the water pump, you should keep an eye on the engine temperature and make sure it is regulated properly at all times.
Timing Chain Issues
One of the biggest issues that BMWs are known for is a problem with the timing chain. When the timing chain wears down, it can start to deteriorate, which will result in rough idling, strange noises, and metal shavings getting into the engine itself. What makes this such a big problem is that replacing the timing chain requires a major dismantling of the engine. Unlike a timing belt, which is easy to access, the timing chain is located within the engine. If you are thinking about buying a BMW, it is a good idea to keep your ears open for any unusual noises coming from under the hood.
Electrical System Failures
Many BMW owners report electrical problems including faulty window regulators, failing infotainment screens, and unpredictable sensor malfunctions. Since modern BMW cars come with a wide range of electronic components, these issues can be frustrating and expensive to fix, especially on luxury cars such as a BMW.
How to Keep a BMW Running Smoothly
To keep your BMW running at its best and to ensure it performs for years to come, the key will be regular and thorough maintenance. BMWs, as with all car brands, benefit from consistent maintenance schedules, which include oil changes, transmission fluid replacements, and coolant flushes, among other tasks. These essential services are designed to keep your engine, transmission, cooling system, and more functioning optimally.
By adhering to the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance intervals on your BMW, you can prevent small issues from snowballing into larger and more expensive problems down the line. A BMW that has regular maintenance performed on it at consistent intervals will be more reliable and more efficient, not to mention the fact that maintenance costs in the long-run will be lower. Performance, fuel economy, and general longevity will all see a boost.
Staying on top of service appointments will also be crucial for addressing common issues before they become too problematic. Neglecting regular maintenance can lead to known problems becoming aggravated, which may shorten the lifespan of your BMW x3, BMW x5, BMW 3 series, or whichever model you may have. Beyond these scheduled services, though, you should also stay in touch with any changes in your car’s behavior.
Reliable cars will all show signs of impending unreliability, such as sudden and unusual noises, strange odors, performance issues, and more. Pay attention to the issues your BMW shows you as they may be indicative of an underlying mechanical problem that needs to be addressed. Given that car problems tend to have a domino effect where unresolved issues trigger a cascade of additional damage, you will be able to avoid more expensive and complex repairs by addressing things early on.
Protect Your BMW With an Extended Warranty
For added peace of mind and protection on the road, think about adding an extended warranty to your BMW to ensure it stays in top condition. With comprehensive coverage options available, you can avoid any stress associated with unexpected repair costs by knowing you’ll have support for a wide array of issues.
An extended warranty will not only enhance your BMW’s reliability but also help to prepare you for any potential problems that may come up down the road, thereby giving you confidence that your vehicle will be well taken care of for the long haul. Explore our extended warranty provider reviews and buying guide to find out which extended warranty will work best for you and your vehicle so that you can hit the road with confidence that you’re covered.
