Since the ’70s, BMW has built up a solid reputation as a producer of wildly over-engineered vehicles that are widely sought after for their reliability. The frequency of repairs, the severity level of repair, and maintenance cost are some of the factors that tell you whether a car is reliable or not.
- So, an average BMW car may cost roughly $1,000 for annual maintenance.
- According to RepairPal, an average BMW visits the repair shop about 0.9 times annually, which means the brand’s vehicles are pretty reliable.
- Now, 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, sophisticated parts tend to fail more often compared to simpler parts. So, the rule of thumb for selecting a reliable BMW car is to stick with basic models. On this backdrop, here are the 10 most reliable cars BMW ever produced.
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How many miles a BMW will last?
Almost any BMW has the potential to run for up to 200,000 or even 250,000 miles with proper maintenance–and there are always going to be outliers that go further. Since every new BMW includes complimentary factory-recommended maintenance through BMW Ultimate Care, it’s easy to start off on the right foot.
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Are older BMWs worth it?
BMW was once a storied automaker, a fine German brand with a rich history, and an awesome collection of cars roaming the Earth. But sadly, things have changed for the folks at the Bavarian Motor Works. An emphasis on making mass-market cars that don’t age well has forever tarnished the brand with previous owners and DIY tinkerers.
Updated August 2021: If you’re considering buying a used BMW, you’ll be happy to know that we’ve updated this article and explain in greater detail the various problems you may encounter as the owner of a Bavarian car. Hopefully, this will help you make the best possible decision for your next automotive purchase.
Many experienced owners and mechanics will tell you to stay far away from used BMWs, especially ones from the last 20 years, or so. They are simply not worth the money you will no doubt have to pour into them, They break easily, the parts are expensive, and the labor costs are astronomical.
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Are there any reliable BMWs?
5. BMW 3-series – 
Source: Rutger van der Maar / Flickr The iconic 3-series is a symbol of the BMW. The car’s near-perfect dimensions hide one of the world’s best sports sedans. BMW has perfected the formula to such an extent that other rivals have a hard time outshining the overall abilities of the 3-series.
- So far, the latest generation of the 3-series BMW shows promising signs of improved reliability.
- Especially when compared with the troublesome F30 generation model.
- In the What Car? reliability study, the G20 generation model scored a reliability rating of 97.3%, while the older model had 92.6%.
- However, this doesn’t mean the 3-series is trouble-free.
There were several cases of oil leaks from the rear differential. Other common problems are related to iDrive infotainment glitches and the Cross Traffic Alert system.
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What is the most common problem with BMW?
Oil Leaks – As much as it is not an issue with newer BMW models, oil leaks are one of the most common problems you encounter with BMWs. Most times, oil leaks witnessed with BMWs come from the valve corners or at the transmission. It may also be a result of a failing fuel pump. Often, oil leaks in BMW are discovered through a puddle of oil under the car at the front.
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Which BMW engines have timing chain Problems?
The BBC 1 Watchdog program on 12 th June 2013 showed that BMW have had significant issues and complaints from BMW owners about total engine failure in the BMW 1-Series, 3-Series and 5-Series vehicles built between 2007 and 2009 due to BMW N47 timing chains.
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Are second hand BMW reliable?
Reliability – Simply by choosing to go for a used BMW, you’re almost guaranteed to get a reliable car. It’s often one of the things the brand is criticised for, but we beg to differ. With the correct maintenance, BMWs are actually highly reliable, regardless of model.
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What 3 series are most reliable?
The best used 3 Series is the newest one you can afford – 
The most reliable used car is a used car with a warranty | BMW Really, that strategy applies to buying any used BMW. Buy the newest, nicest BMW 3 Series you can get. Otherwise, you’ll end up spending far more money than you want to. And, if possible, try to swing for a CPO 3’er.
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What is better BMW or Audi?
BMW often edges out Audi in handling, with their cars designed to offer the ‘ultimate driving experience.’ Audi cars are slightly less agile than BMW because their overall stiffer suspension systems maximize a smooth, comfortable ride. For reliability, BMW consistently ranks higher.
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