Complaints peak with the 2006 (1,243 of 10,004). Tap any bar or generation.
What 3 Series owners report across recent generations
Owner summary2019–present (7th generation, G20)
Complaint counts are modest and CarComplaints has no reports for this generation, so the data is thin. The 2020 draws the most complaints, and about two thirds of NHTSA owners of the 2020 M340i describe engine oil pump failures, while some 330i owners report starter faults. A G20 Bimmerpost thread discusses the plastic oil pump parts on some 2020 cars, though several members call failures rare. Recalls cover starters on some 2020 models that may overheat after repeated start attempts, seat belt buckles on 2020 models and tie rods on some 2019–2020 xDrive and M340i models. [1] [2] [3]
2012–2018 (6th generation, F30)
The 2013 and 2014 draw the most complaints. NHTSA owners of the 2013 328i most often describe timing chain failures, electric coolant pump failures and loss of brake assist, while owners of the 2014 328d diesel report EGR, injector and high pressure fuel pump failures. CarComplaints lists fuel pump failure, battery and alternator problems and defective wheels for 2013, a seized engine from the timing chain, water leaks and an exploding moonroof for 2014, and injection pump failure for the 2014 328d. Recalls cover brake vacuum pumps on 2012–2014 models, coolant pumps on 2012–2016 models and diesel EGR coolers. [4] [5] [6] [7] [8]
2006–2011 (5th generation, E90)
The 2006 and 2007 draw the most complaints. NHTSA owners of the 2006 most often describe passenger occupant sensor faults that switch off the air bag, while owners of the 2007 report central locking failures, electric steering lock warnings and fuel pump problems that cause stalling. CarComplaints lists electric water pump failure for the 2007 328i, turbo failure and overheating for the 2007 335i, a broken belt for the 2008 335i, and oil leaks and a spun rod bearing for the 2011 328i. Recalls cover passenger seat sensors on 2006 models, PCV valve heaters on 2006–2011 models that may start a fire, and VANOS bolts on 2010–2011 models. [9] [10] [11] [12] [13] [14]
Owner summary updated September 25, 2026.
