BMWs are exceptional cars with a long track record of speed, comfort, and reliability, there is no question about that. However, even the best designed and most luxurious cars will have some mechanical issues from time to time or and no car is without its drawbacks, car shopping is a matter of giving and take after all.
BMWs are usually sleek, fast, and have incredibly comfortable interiors that roll smoothly around on whatever platform they're built on. But machines are still machines, and every machine breaks down eventually. If you are about to splurge on that Beemer of your dreams, keep these things in the back of your mind, they could save a lot of trouble in the long run.
9 Oil Leaks Are One Of Their Most Common Maintenance Problems
An issue that is commonly reported among BMWs of all models is oil leakage. Google the words “BMW maintenance issues” and the first results that will come up will talk about oil leaks, which mechanics and BMW owners claim are usually caused by faulty or worn-out caskets.
The issue usually does not arise until the car hits over 60,000 miles, which is common for most cars, not just BMW. So a 60,000-mile run is pretty good when you think about it and most gaskets are very easy to replace. So if you see your BMW leaking oil, check those gaskets first.
8 Steering Wheels In The 3 Series Would Sometimes Vibrate
An issue that is commonly reported by BMW drivers is steering column and steering wheel issues, particularly in any of the cars in the 3 series. Apparently, many have reported the car steering wheel can start to vibrate when braking.
This is usually caused by thrush arm bushings needing attention, these bushings are rubber bearings critical for a BMWs suspension system. If the BMW has this issue, correct it immediately, especially if the car is over 60,000 miles.
7 Engine Cooling Systems Often Require Extra Maintenance
Several BMW engines have issues with overheating caused by a cooling system failure, including the impressive M240i. Engine cooling systems for a BMW can run into all kinds of different issues which can be caused by several different factors. Things like coolant leaks and failing water pump lines are the most common causes among BMWs cooling system issues.
But, cooling systems in BMW could also have trouble if owners use the wrong kind of coolant. Before any BMW owner takes their car into a dealership for cooling or overheating issues, they should check their owner's manual and be sure they are using the appropriate fluids for their car.
6 Faulty Ignition Coils Have Been A Problem For Several Models
BMW X5s and several other models have been reported to have noticeably faulty ignition coils. Symptoms of faulty coils can include reduced acceleration times, poor fuel economy, rough idling, or even failure to start.
Ignition coils can be affected by oil leaks, bad electrical connections, or even something as simple as a blown fuse. Whatever the cause, the primary solution is usually just to find the cause, repair it, then replace the coils.
5 BMWs Are Some Of The Most Frequently Stolen Cars
While not a maintenance issue, it is an issue that BMW owners should be well aware of for their safety. BMWs, because they are quite expensive compared to other cars and have notorious reputations for speed and luxury, are one of the most frequently stolen car brands in the world.
In fact, the X5 series is reportedly the most stolen and returned model of BMWs. Don’t worry too much though, the most commonly stolen car is actually the Honda Civic.
4 Alloy Wheels Can Corrode Easily
This is an issue reportedly connected to any BMW that stands on their brand name alloy wheels. The wheels are more delicate than one might think and are prone to chipping and faster corrosion than other, more heavy-duty types of metal wheels.
While the issue is a bit harder to repair, because wheels are a very expensive component for any car, the damage done to the wheels is usually difficult to notice without removing the tire.
3 Fuel Pump Issues Are Common
If your "check engine" light is illuminated on your BMW's dash, it's a good idea to first check the fuel pump. Fuel pump issues are common issues for BMWs of all kinds. Causes for fuel pump issues vary, but engines with decreased power or those that have begun stalling could be signs of an issue with the fuel pump.
Leaking oil and engine coolant can also cause problems for the fuel pump, so if those issues come up as mentioned above, be sure to also take a look at the BMW's fuel pump, an issue with coolant or oil could also be affecting the pump.
2 Electrical Issues With Locks And Windows Are Also Common
Electrical issues are common in BMWs because many of the systems in a BMW have been digitized. A faulty electrical system can lead to all kinds of challenges that could set an otherwise perfectly good BMW behind.
Bad fuses, miswired connections, or failures in some of the car's digitized programs can lead to things like electric windows sticking and can even cause security systems to fail, like the car's remote locking and unlocking systems.
1 Most Of These Issues Are Easily Repaired
Now, before any diehard BMW stans get offended by these warnings, it should be noted that most of these problems are easily repairable. In fact, a good DIY mechanic could repair most of the issues on this list pretty easily if they have access to the right parts.
Some of the broader diagnostic issues, like issues with fuel pumps or electrical systems, might require professional attention, but if the issue happens while the car is still under warranty it’s nothing to panic about. BMWs, despite their issues, are still great cars.