Since the '70s, BMW has built a solid reputation as a producer of truly over-engineered vehicles that are widely sought after for their performance and reliability. The frequency of repairs, the severity of repair, and the maintenance cost are some factors that tell you about a car's reliability. That said, according to RepairPal, an average BMW car visits the repair shop about 0.9 times annually, which literally means the brand's vehicles are pretty reliable.

UPDATE: 2023/10/17 By Ron FP

We used cross-referenced vehicle reliability, maintenance, and pricing data from J.D. Power, Kelley Blue Book (KBB), Edmunds, RepairPal, CarEdge, and Consumer Reports (CR) to update this list and give you 13 of the most reliable BMW models on the used car market.

Now, that you have an idea of what makes a BMW model reliable, the big question that comes to mind is: how does one choose the most reliable model? Well, the first thing to do is to avoid BMW models with complex technologies. The truth is, that sophisticated parts tend to fail more often compared to simpler parts. Better still, you could use reliability ratings from trusted sites.

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13 2022 BMW 7 Series

J.D. Power Quality And Reliability Score: 85/100

2020 BMW 7 Series silver-gray luxury car parked
BMW

The BMW 7 Series is the Munich-based luxury brand's flagship sedan – a powerful, opulently designed, and tech-laden, full-size model that competes directly against the S-Class of Mercedes-Benz. For the 2022 model year, the BMW 7 Series came with 3 engines in the lineup: a 3.0-liter I-6 mill (up to 389 hp and 342 lb-ft of torque), a twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 (up to 600 hp, 590 lb-ft), and a range-topping 6.6-liter twin-turbo V12 that produces 600 hp and 627 lb-ft of twist.

2022 BMW 7 Series Reliability

JD Power regarded the 2022 BMW 7 Series with an 85/100 quality and reliability score, and KBB's expert reviews returned a very respectable 4.6/5 rating. Currently, a used 2022 BMW 7 Series can command roughly $79,000 to $167,000.

  • Average Yearly Maintenance Cost: $1,027 (RepairPal)
  • Est. Maintenance Cost During The First 10 Years: $14,453 (CarEdge)
  • Total Recalls: 1
  • Worst BMW 7 Series Year To Buy Used: 2006 BMW 7 Series (7 recalls, 314 NHTSA complaints, problems with airbags, roll-away tendencies, keyless ignition, rear shock absorbers, engine cooling, faulty door latches, and brake vacuum pump)

12 2022 BMW 4 Series

J.D. Power Quality And Reliability Score: 84/100

2022 BMW-4-Series_Gran_Coupe- 1500x750
BMW

Since the 2014 debut of the BMW 4 Series, its popularity has grown steadily among the patrons of entry-level BMW models. Initially, the BMW 4 Series came only with coupe and 2-door convertible variants, the line eventually featured a 4-door Gran Coupe sedan model. For 2022, the BMW 4 Series offered a 2.0-liter turbo I-4 mill (255 hp, 295 lb-ft of torque) and a 3.0-liter turbo I-6 engine (382 to 503 hp, 364 to 479 lb-ft). Among all non-SUV models in the BMW stable, the 4 Series sold the most number of units in 2022.

2022 BMW 4 Series Reliability

The 2022 BMW 4 Series achieved an 84/100 quality and reliability score from JD Power and a 5/5 consumer rating from KBB. Today, a used 2022 BMW 4 Series 430i Gran Coupe sells for about $39,000 to $43,000.

  • Average Yearly Maintenance Cost: $1,229 (RepairPal)
  • Est. Maintenance Cost During The First 10 Years: $14,121 (CarEdge)
  • Total Recalls: 2
  • Worst 4 Series Year To Buy Used: 2019 BMW 4 Series (3 recalls, 9 official complaints, problems with airbags and crankshaft sensor)

11 2020 BMW 8 Series Gran Coupe

J.D. Power Quality And Reliability Score: 85/100

2020 BMW-8-Series_Gran_Coupe- 1500x750
BMW

While the 7 Series is BMW's flagship sedan, the BMW 8 Series can be considered the brand's flagship sports car. In 2020, the BMW 8 Series welcomed the Gran Coupe variant, which was unique in the luxury segment as the only 4-door full-size sedan derived from a 2-door luxury sports car. The 2020 BMW 8 Series offered 2 engines for the lineup: a 3.0-liter turbo inline-6 mill (335 hp, 368 lb-ft of torque) and a twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 that produced 523 hp and 553 lb-ft of twist.

2020 BMW 8 Series Reliability

The 2020 BMW 8 Series garnered an 85/100 quality and reliability rating from JD Power and a laudable 4.6/5 consumer review score from KBB. As of this article's most recent update, a used 2020 BMW 8 Series 840i Gran Coupe sells for about $51,000 up to $56,000.

  • Average Yearly Maintenance Cost: $968 (RepairPal)
  • Est. Maintenance Cost During The First 10 Years: $14,548 (CarEdge)
  • Total Recalls: 0 (for 4-door Gran Coupe only)
  • Worst 8 Series Year To Buy Used: 2020 BMW 8 Series 2-door coupe and convertible (5 recalls, 2 official complaints, problems with airbags, seatbelts, backover prevention, and brakes)

10 2017 BMW X3

J.D. Power Quality And Reliability Score: 86/100

White 2017 BMW X3 on a mountainous road
BMW

Keeping things simple by sticking to basic models as we earlier advised, the BMW X3 is among the least problematic out there, thanks to the relative plainness of the early models. Launched in 2003, the X3 is now in its third generation and includes both M- and M Competition versions, further boosting its desirability.

2017 X3 Reliability

Narrowing things down, the 2017 X3 obviously seems like a BMW model that will stand the test of time. Notably, this model features an array of highly potent engines that include a 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbocharged engine that makes 240 horsepower and a 300-horsepower turbocharged 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine. These engines helped the 2017 BMW X3 earn a great reliability score of 86/100 on J.D. Power.

  • Avg. Yearly Maintenance Cost: $879 (RepairPal)
  • Est. Maintenance Costs During First 10 Years: $17,711 (CarEdge)
  • Total Recalls: 5
  • Worst BMW X3 Years To Buy Used: 2013 BMW X3 (Engine problems, drivetrain problems)

9 2007 BMW 7 Series

J.D. Power Quality And Reliability Score: 85/100

2005 BMW 7 Series E65 - front quarter
Via: BMW

The 2007 BMW 750i has everything going for it in terms of performance, safety, and comfort, so it's not surprising that it found its way to a list of the most dependable Bimmers. Getting its power from a 4.8-liter, 360-hp V8 engine, the BMW 750i has a smooth, swift, and silent operation that rivals the Mercedes-Benz S-Class, another full-size German luxury model.

2007 7 Series Reliability

Although there's no test data from regulatory agencies such as the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), nonetheless, earning an 85/100 score from reviewers on J.D. Power is enough to show how amazing this model is. The E65 BMW 7 Series didn't have the best of starts, but it turned out to be a pretty great model when BMW toned it down a bit.

  • Avg. Yearly Maintenance Cost: $1,027 (RepairPal)
  • Est. Maintenance Costs During First 10 Years: $14,453 (CarEdge)
  • Total Recalls: 6
  • Worst BMW 7 Series Years To Buy Used: 2012 BMW 7 Series (Engine problems, transmission problems, suspension problems)

8 2007 BMW Z4

J.D. Power Quality And Reliability Score: 85/100

2006 BMW Z4 M Coupe front third quarter view
Via: BMW

The BMW Z4 is a luxury sports convertible that offers comfort, all-weather functionality, and safety. The 2007 model boasts a 3.0-liter inline-6 that sends out 215 horses and 185 lb-ft of torque to give drivers a surge of adrenaline while remaining relatively silent.

2007 Z4 Reliability

With a reliability score of 85/100 on J.D. Power, the 2007 BMW Z4 can easily go head-to-head with some of the most dependable sports cars, such as the 2012 Audi TT. It also looks pretty great and is one of those underrated roadsters that many sometimes forget about.

  • Avg. Yearly Maintenance Cost: $698 (RepairPal)
  • Est. Maintenance Costs During First 10 Years: $13,999 (CarEdge)
  • Total Recalls: 2
  • Worst BMW Z4 Years To Buy Used: 2003 BMW Z4 (Engine and steering problems)
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7 2011 BMW 3 Series

J.D. Power Quality And Reliability Score: 81/100

2011 BMW 3 Series 
BMW

The 2011 BMW 3 Series holds a spot in this reliability list thanks to feedback and reviews from numerous gearheads who have encountered the BMW 3 Series' N52 engine, which is arguably the most reliable BMW 6-cylinder engine ever. A naturally aspirated straight-six gasoline engine, the N52 found its way under the hoods of several BMW models from 2004 to 2015. Looking back at the awesomeness of this mill, many believe that the BMW models that received it were a lucky bunch.

2011 3 Series Reliability

One such reliable BMW 3 Series model is the 328i, a variant of the E90 3 Series that debuted in 2007. This model received the N52, an engine with relatively high reliability, which, among other factors, is due to its lack of an HPFP or direct injection, which caused problems in subsequent engine types. The 2011 BMW 3 Series has a J.D. Power reliability rating of 81/100.

  • Avg. Yearly Maintenance Cost: $821 (RepairPal)
  • Est. Maintenance Costs During First 10 Years: $13,219 (CarEdge)
  • Total Recalls: 8
  • Worst BMW 3 Series Years To Buy Used: 2007 BMW 3 Series (Engine problems, cooling system problems, transmission problems)

6 2022 BMW X1

J.D. Power Quality And Reliability Score: 86/100

gray 2022 BMW X1 parked
BMW

The production of alluring, yet potent luxury cars is one art BMW has mastered. However, with the X1, the German company has managed to add dependability to the package. Introduced in 2009, the X1 is a compact luxury crossover SUV designed for a wide range of automotive enthusiasts as the model offers increased efficiency, a more compact body style, and a relatively lower price tag.

2022 X1 Reliability

All models of the 2022 BMW X1 feature a turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine with an output of 228 horses. That's enough power to tug the rather compact X1 anywhere with ease. Thanks in part to its dependable mill, the 2022 X1 earned an 86/100 reliability score from reviewers on J.D. Power, attesting to its awesome reliability. Besides reliability, we also have 10 more things we'd want you to know before getting the BMW X1.

  • Avg. Yearly Maintenance Cost: $915 (RepairPal)
  • Est. Maintenance Costs During First 5 Years: $17,516 (CarEdge)
  • Total Recalls: 2
  • Worst BMW X1 Years To Buy Used: 2016 BMW X1 (Worst model according to CarComplaints.com)

5 2016 BMW 3 Series

J.D. Power Quality And Reliability Score: 83/100

BMW-3-Series-2016-1600-03
BMW

The BMW 3 Series is making a rare second appearance on this list and for good reasons. Having been totally restyled for the 2016 model year, the BMW 3 Series was given a new engine and a revised chassis. Competition had gotten fiercer, as rival models like the Audi A4, Cadillac ATS, and Mercedes-Benz C-Class were upping the ante. Hence, the update that came with the 2016 BMW 3 Series couldn't have been more timely.

2016 3 Series Reliability

For power, along with the N20 turbocharged fours, the 2016 BMW 3 Series also featured a then-new 3.0-liter turbo-six modular engine with an output of 320 horsepower at 6500 rpm and peak torque of 330 lb-ft arriving at 1380 rpm. According to J.D. Power, these engines are bulletproof. They helped get the 2016 BMW 3 Series a reliability rating of 83/100 on the automotive review site.

  • Avg. Yearly Maintenance Cost: $744 (RepairPal)
  • Est. Maintenance Costs During First 10 Years: $13,219 (CarEdge)
  • Total Recalls: 4
  • Worst BMW 3 Series Years To Buy Used: 2007 BMW 3 Series (Engine problems, cooling system problems, transmission problems)
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4 2017 BMW i3

J.D. Power Quality And Reliability Score: 82/100

2017 BMW i3 electric car
BMW

The i3 is the first mass-produced zero-emission electric vehicle manufactured by BMW. The high-roof hatchback has been free of complaints, which is quite surprising, and it's another reason why we miss the BMW i3. So, if you are big on saving the environment, or just need a fun car to use around town or in the city, the BMW i3 is among your most reliable options.

2017 i3 Reliability

Besides being electric, the i3 has a chic and futuristic styling. It also has a high-tech platform with carbon fiber parts and battery electric propulsion. All these improvements helped make it a zippy vehicle that would do wonders in congested city traffic. To back these claims up, the 2017 BMW i3 received a reliability score of 82/100 from J.D. Power.

  • Avg. Yearly Maintenance Cost: $1,173 (RepairPal)
  • Est. Maintenance Costs During First 5 Years: $5,304 (Edmunds)
  • Total Recalls: 3
  • Worst BMW i3 Years To Buy Used: 2014 BMW i3 (Interior accessories problems, electrical problems)

3 2016 BMW 5 Series

J.D. Power Quality And Reliability Score: 88/100

2014 BMW-5-Series- 1500x750-1
BMW

A cat with more than nine lives, the BMW 5 Series seems to be the longest-produced Bimmer on this list, and for good reasons. An incredibly dependable model, the BMW 5 Series won't let you down. Introduced in 1972, the 5 Series is BMW's second best-selling model ever, and the true cost of owning a BMW 5 Series isn't outrageous.

2016 5 Series Reliability

The 2016 model of the BMW 5 Series seems to have a chokehold on Bimmer enthusiasts. Powered by a range of potent mills that include the base 4-cylinder, mid-tier turbocharged inline-6, and the twin-turbo V8 among others, the 2016 BMW 5 Series has a reliability score of 88/100 on J.D. Power, ranking it among the most dependable BMW models ever.

  • Avg. Yearly Maintenance Cost: $892 (RepairPal)
  • Est. Maintenance Costs During First 5 Years: $13,530 (CarEdge)
  • Total Recalls: 6
  • Worst BMW 5 Series Years To Buy Used: 2011 BMW 5 Series (Engine problems)

2 2017 BMW 2 Series

J.D. Power Quality And Reliability Score: 88/100

White 2017 BMW 2-Series
BMW

Although BMW is among the top German automakers, it doesn't have a strong sports car lineup as it mostly builds luxury vehicles. BMW has been trying to change that, which is why it built the 2 Series in 2014. The 2 Series has been a success since and is now in its second generation. There's a lot to love about the 2 Series – it has a sleek design, peppy engines, and a reasonable price point in the luxury segment. In fact, the BMW 2 Series is among the most affordable luxury performance cars today.

2017 2 Series Reliability

The 2 Series is not only cheap to buy, but it's also cheap to run. Take the 2017 BMW 2 Series, for example. With a J.D. Power reliability score of 88/100, it's up there with the highest-rated sports cars in the reliability category.

  • Avg. Yearly Maintenance Cost: $922 (RepairPal)
  • Est. Maintenance Costs During First 10 Years: $13,780 (CarEdge)
  • Total Recalls: 0
  • Worst BMW 2 Series Years To Buy Used: 2014 BMW 2 Series (Interior accessories problems)
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1 2018 BMW X5

J.D. Power Quality And Reliability Score: 84/100

Gray 2018 BMW X5 parked
BMW

Throughout its history, BMW has built certain models that drastically changed the course of the brand's history. The BMW X5 is one of those models. Introduced in the late '90s, the X5 was BMW's first crossover SUV model, helping set the brand up for success in the current SUV-dominated automotive market.

2018 X5 Reliability

If you own a BMW luxury car, you better have a flatbed driver on speed dial. At least that's what many gearheads seem to believe. However, while this may apply to some notorious BMW models, the truth is most Bimmers can be reliable daily drivers if you follow the correct care and maintenance procedures to the letter. The 2018 X5, for example, has a J.D. Power reliability score of 84/100, which is excellent for a luxury SUV.

  • Avg. Yearly Maintenance Costs: $1,186 (RepairPal)
  • Est. Maintenance Costs During First 10 Years: $18,390 (CarEdge)
  • Total Recalls: 4
  • Worst BMW X5 Year To Buy Used: 2009 X5 (Engine problems, lights problems)