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.

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 like J.D. Power. With that in mind, we've compiled a list of the finest models to help you see which BMW is the most reliable.

UPDATE: 2024/04/08 20:38 EST BY MONDAY GOMA

How we made our model selections: HotCars thoroughly checked J.D. Power for the most reliable BMW models ever made. In order to qualify, a BMW model had to have a reliability score of at least 80 percent. The selected models are ranked in descending order from the least reliable to the most reliable, based on the J.D. Power scores provided alongside each of the selected models.

In addition to sourcing reliability ratings from J.D. Power, we also gathered information on maintenance costs from CarEdge and RepairPal, recalls from the NHTSA, and safety data from the IIHS.

17 2011 BMW 3 Series: 81/100

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.

• J.D. Power Quality & Reliability Score: 81/100
• Avg. Yearly Maintenance Cost: $821 (RepairPal)
• Est. Maintenance Costs During First 10 Years: $13,219 (CarEdge)
• Total Recalls: 8

2011 BMW 3 Series Safety

The IIHS crash-tested the 2011 BMW 3 Series in four categories. The small luxury sedan earned the highest rating of "Good" in three categories and an "Acceptable" rating in the roof strength test.

16 2017 BMW i3: 82/100

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.

• J.D. Power Quality & Reliability Score: 82/100
• Avg. Yearly Maintenance Cost: $1,173 (RepairPal)
• Est. Maintenance Costs During First 5 Years: $5,304 (Edmunds)
• Total Recalls: 3

2017 BMW i3 Safety

The IIHS conducted crash tests on the 2017 BMW i3 in five categories. The luxury electric car earned the highest rating of 'Good' in four categories and an 'Acceptable' rating in the rear crash protection test. In addition, it received an 'Advanced' rating for front crash prevention and an 'Acceptable' rating for the headlights.

15 2016 BMW 3 Series: 83/100

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. The 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.

• J.D. Power Quality & Reliability Score: 83/100
• Avg. Yearly Maintenance Cost: $744 (RepairPal)
• Est. Maintenance Costs During First 10 Years: $13,219 (CarEdge)
• Total Recalls: 4

2016 BMW 3 Series Safety

The IIHS conducted crash tests on the 2016 BMW 3 in five categories. The SUV earned the highest rating of 'Good' in four of these categories and a 'Marginal' rating in the small overlap front driver test. In addition, it received ratings of both 'Advanced' and 'Basic' in front crash prevention.

14 2021 BMW X7: 83/100

The X7 is BMW's largest SUV and is considered one of the most reliable BMW models to buy used, as its overall reliability has been commendable since its initial release. That being said, car enthusiasts on Reddit strongly recommend the base xDrive40i trim due to its reputation for reliability and easier maintenance. This trim is equipped with the dependable B58 engine, a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six cylinder capable of delivering 335 horsepower and 330 lb-ft of torque.

On the higher end of the X7 scale is the M50i grade, which offers a more powerful turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 engine that produces 523 hp and 553 lb-ft of torque. Sadly, some commenters caution potential buyers about this powertrain, as it can be more expensive to maintain and has a history of being less reliable than the six-cylinder version. Therefore, it is advisable to exercise caution when considering the M50i grade of the BMW X7.

2021 BMW X7 Reliability, Recalls & Maintenance Costs

The 2021 BMW X7 has been recognized for its good reliability, as evidenced by its outstanding J.D. Power reliability score of 83 out of 100. Here’s an overview of its reliability, recalls, and maintenance costs.

• J.D. Power Quality & Reliability Score: 83/100
• Avg. Yearly Maintenance Costs (RepairPal): N/A
• Est. Maintenance Costs During First 10 Years (CarEdge): $18,550
• Total Recalls (NHTSA): 9

2021 BMW X7 Safety

While the 2021 BMW X7 has not undergone crash testing by either the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) or the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), it is equipped with a wide array of advanced safety technologies that prioritize the safety and well-being of the vehicle's occupants. Some of these technologies include:

• Forward collision warning
• Forward automatic emergency braking
• Blind-spot monitoring
• Lane-departure warning
• Speed limit recognition
• Stop-and-go adaptive cruise control (optional)
• Lane-keep assist (optional)
• Front and rear cross-traffic alert (optional)
• Automatic parking assist (optional)
• Surround-view parking camera system (optional)

13 2022 BMW 4 Series: 84/100

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 highest number of units in 2022.

2022 BMW 4 Series Reliability

The 2022 BMW 4 Series achieved an 84/100 quality and reliability score from J.D. Power and a 5/5 consumer rating from KBB.

• J.D. Power Quality & Reliability Score: 84/100
• Average Yearly Maintenance Cost: $1,229 (RepairPal)
• Est. Maintenance Cost During The First 10 Years: $14,121 (CarEdge)
• Total Recalls: 2

2022 BMW 4 Series Safety

The IIHS did not conduct crash testing on the 2022 BMW 4 Series. However, it does come with a comprehensive range of standard safety features that are designed to protect its owners. They include:

• Forward collision warning
• Forward automatic emergency braking
• Front and rear parking sensors
• Blind-spot monitoring
• Rear cross-traffic alert
• Pedestrian detection
• Driver attention monitoring
• Speed limit recognition
• Lane departure warning
• Automatic high-beam headlights

12 2018 BMW X5: 84/100

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.

• J.D. Power Quality & Reliability Score: 84/100
• Avg. Yearly Maintenance Costs: $1,186 (RepairPal)
• Est. Maintenance Costs During First 10 Years: $18,390 (CarEdge)
• Total Recalls: 4

2018 BMW X5 Safety

The IIHS conducted crash tests on the BMW X5 in two categories: the moderate overlap front test and side impact test. The SUV earned the highest rating of 'Good' in both categories. It also received an 'Acceptable' rating for its headlights and was recognized as both 'Superior' and 'Advanced' in front crash prevention.

11 2020 BMW X2: 84/100

The 2020 BMW X2 is one of the more affordable SUVs in BMW's lineup, which means it doesn't offer the highest level of luxurious features. However, if you are looking for a vehicle with acceptable and reliable performance, stylish esthetics, as well as an ergonomic and reasonably spacious cabin, the 2020 BMW X2 is an excellent choice. In fact, it has received an impressive reliability score of 84 out of 100 from J.D. Power, making it one of the most dependable BMWs available.

2020 BMW X2 Reliability, Recalls & Maintenance Costs

So far, the 2020 BMW X2 has been subject to only one recall, according to the NHTSA. This serves as evidence of the rigorous quality control measures implemented in the production of this compact SUV.

• J.D. Power Quality & Reliability Score: 84/100
• Avg. Yearly Maintenance Costs (RepairPal): $968 (brand average)
• Est. Maintenance Costs During First 10 Years (CarEdge): $17,602
• Total Recalls (NHTSA): 1

2020 BMW X2 Safety

As well as being reliable, the 2020 BMW X2 is a very safe SUV, according to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The X2 received the highest rating of Good in all six crash tests, which is great news for those who are in the market for a safe and reliable BMW. In fact, the organization named it a Top Safety Pick.

As for its headlight performance, the 2020 X2 received the second-highest rating of Acceptable. It also earned a midtier rating of Advanced for its standard vehicle-to-vehicle front crash prevention system.

10 2022 BMW 7 Series: 85/100

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

J.D. 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.

• J.D. Power Quality & Reliability Score: 85/100
• Average Yearly Maintenance Cost: $1,027 (RepairPal)
• Est. Maintenance Cost During The First 10 Years: $14,453 (CarEdge)
• Total Recalls: 1

2022 BMW 7 Series Safety

The 2022 BMW 7 Series hasn't been crash-tested by the IIHS. However, it offers a broad array of standard driver assistance systems, such as:

• Forward collision warning
• Automatic emergency braking
• Blind-spot monitoring
• Lane departure warning
• Front and rear parking sensors
• Parallel and perpendicular park assist
• Driver drowsiness monitoring
• Traffic sign recognition
• Surround-view parking camera system
• Crash protection system

9 2020 BMW 8 Series Gran Coupe: 85/100

While the 7 Series is BMW's flagship sedan, the BMW 8 Series can be considered the brand's flagship grand tourer. 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.

• J.D. Power Quality & Reliability Score: 85/100
• 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)

2020 BMW 8 Series Gran Coupe Safety

The IIHS didn't crash test the 2020 BMW 8 Series Gran Coupe. However, it still boasts a wide array of advanced driver-assist technologies, including:

• Forward collision warning
• Forward automatic emergency braking
• Daytime pedestrian detection
• Stop-and-go adaptive cruise control
• Blind-spot monitoring
• Lane departure warning
• Lane keep assist
• Front and rear parking sensors
• Night vision with pedestrian detection
• Driver fatigue and focus monitoring

8 2007 BMW 7 Series: 85/100

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), a score of 85/100 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.

• J.D. Power Quality & Reliability Score: 85/100
• Avg. Yearly Maintenance Cost: $1,027 (RepairPal)
• Est. Maintenance Costs During First 10 Years: $14,453 (CarEdge)
• Total Recalls: 6

2007 BMW 7 Series

The 2007 BMW 7 Series has not undergone crash testing by the IIHS. However, it features numerous safety amenities specifically designed to keep owners safe. They include:

• Stability control
• Traction control
• Rear parking sensors
• Driver airbag
• Passenger airbag
• Front side airbag
• Rear side airbag

7 2007 BMW 6 Series: 85/100

The 6 Series is a grand tourer that tends to generate mixed opinions among enthusiasts. While some admire its attractive styling, comfortable seats, sharp steering, and exceptional driving dynamics, others criticize it for being impractical and overpriced.

Regardless of which side you lean toward, the 6 Series is one model you'll often include in your lists if you're trying to determine which BMW is the most reliable. For the 2007 model year, it received an impressive J.D. Power reliability score of 85 out of 100.

2007 BMW 6 Series Reliability, Recalls & Maintenance Costs

On average, owning a BMW 650i will cost around $1,012 per year in repairs, according to RepairPal data. Here's an overview of its reliability score, maintenance costs, and recalls.

• J.D. Power Quality & Reliability Score: 85/100
• Avg. Yearly Maintenance Costs (RepairPal): $1,012
• Est. Maintenance Costs During First 10 Years (CarEdge): $19,312 (brand average)
• Total Recalls (NHTSA): 4

2007 BMW 6 Series Safety

The 2007 BMW 6 Series wasn't crash-tested by the IIHS. However, it comes with many safety features to help instill a feeling of safety. These include:

• Stability control
• Traction control
• Driver airbag
• Passenger airbag
• Rear Side airbag
• Front Side airbag
• Rear parking sensors
• Child seat anchors

6 2007 BMW Z4: 85/100

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.

• J.D. Power Quality & Reliability Score: 85/100
• Avg. Yearly Maintenance Cost: $698 (RepairPal)
• Est. Maintenance Costs During First 10 Years: $13,999 (CarEdge)
• Total Recalls: 2

2007 BMW Z4 Safety

Although the BMW has not been crash-tested by the IIHS, it is equipped with a wide range of safety features specifically designed to ensure the safety and well-being of its owners. These include:

• Traction control
• Stability control
• Rear parking sensors
• Front side airbag
• Passenger airbag
• Driver airbag
• Rearside airbag

5 2022 BMW X1: 86/100

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.

• J.D. Power Quality & Reliability Score: 86/100
• Avg. Yearly Maintenance Cost: $915 (RepairPal)
• Est. Maintenance Costs During First 5 Years: $17,516 (CarEdge)
• Total Recalls: 2

2022 BMW X1 Safety

As well as being reliable, BMW made sure the 2022 X1 is safe and designed correctly according to relevant safety standards, as indicated by its high safety scores below.

4 2017 BMW X3: 86/100

Keeping things simple by sticking to basic models as we earlier advised, the BMW X3 is among the least problematic BMWs 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.

• J.D. Power Quality & Reliability Score: 86/100
• Avg. Yearly Maintenance Cost: $879 (RepairPal)
• Est. Maintenance Costs During First 10 Years: $17,711 (CarEdge)
• Total Recalls: 5

2017 BMW X3 Safety

Not only is it one of the best BMWs to buy, but the 2017 BMW X3 also offers a high level of occupant safety, scoring the highest rating of "Good" in all tested categories.

3 2016 BMW 5 Series: 88/100

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, putting it among the most dependable BMW models ever.

• J.D. Power Quality & Reliability Score: 88/100
• Avg. Yearly Maintenance Cost: $892 (RepairPal)
• Est. Maintenance Costs During First 5 Years: $13,530 (CarEdge)
• Total Recalls: 6

2016 BMW 5 Series Safety

The 2016 BMW 5 Series has earned top ratings in IIHS crash tests and offers safety features like forward collision warning, pedestrian detection, automatic braking, front and rear parking sensors, a night vision camera with pedestrian detection, adaptive cruise control, blind spot monitoring, and lane departure warning.

2 2017 BMW 2 Series: 88/100

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.

• J.D. Power Quality & Reliability Score: 88/100
• Avg. Yearly Maintenance Cost: $922 (RepairPal)
• Est. Maintenance Costs During First 10 Years: $13,780 (CarEdge)
• Total Recalls: 0

2017 2 Series Safety

In addition to being one of the best BMW models when it comes to reliability, the 2017 2 Series also excels in safety, earning good ratings in all IIHS crash tests. This, in turn, earned the 2-door coupe a Top Safety Pick+ designation that same year.

1 2013 BMW 1 Series: 89/100

With a stellar J.D. Power reliability score of 89 out of 100, the 2013 BMW 1 Series takes the top spot on this list as the most reliable BMW model ever produced. As well, the small luxury car is equipped with the renowned N52 3.0-liter inline-6 engine, which is widely regarded as one of the best BMW engines for reliability.

2013 BMW 1 Series Reliability, Recalls & Maintenance Costs

When it comes to answering the age-old question of 'What is the most reliable BMW?', very few cars can rival the 2013 BMW 1 Series, which boasts an impressive reliability score of 89 out of 100. As well as being reliable, the 1 Series is relatively more affordable to maintain, with a yearly maintenance cost of $801, according to RepairPal.

• J.D. Power Quality & Reliability Score: 89/100
• Avg. Yearly Maintenance Costs (RepairPal): $801
• Est. Maintenance Costs During First 10 Years (CarEdge): $19,312 (brand average)
• Total Recalls (NHTSA): 3

2013 BMW 1 Series Safety

Like some of the other models on this list of the best BMWs to buy, the 2013 BMW 1 Series was not crash-tested by the IIHS. However, potential owners can take comfort in the presence of various safety features and amenities, including:

• Stability control
• Traction control
• Rear parking sensors
• Driver airbag
• Passenger airbag
• Stability control
• Traction control
• Front head curtain airbag
• Front side airbag
• The rear head curtain airbag

Sources: BMW, J.D. Power, CarEdge, RepairPal, KBB, Edmunds, Reddit