Are BMWs Reliable?

• BMW is a globally recognized luxury brand known for German engineering, initially producing aircraft engines before automobiles.
• Today, BMWs are mid-range in reliability due to their sophisticated technology. They offer high safety ratings, fuel efficiency, and a blend of sporty and luxurious features.
• Known issues include water pump failures, electrical problems, and steering wheel vibrations, with the brand offering several reliable models like the 2016 3 Series and 2020 X6.

BMW makes good cars, especially if you’re looking for a potent mix of sporty capabilities and luxurious creature comforts. Many automotive experts highlight the peculiarities that accompany owning a BMW, from citing “German engineering” to extolling the virtues of models bearing the coveted M badging. In most cases, owning and caring for a BMW simply requires understanding and accounting for its various faults. 

In many ways, determining how reliable an automotive brand really is compared to the competition requires viewing it from several angles. To gain a broader perspective of BMW reliability ratings, consider data from the following sources:

• J.D. Power dependability rewards 
• FuelEconomy.gov’s fuel efficiency ratings
• Safety ratings from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)
• Average repair costs reported by RepairPal
• Kelley Blue Book’s (KBB) 5-Year Cost to Own

You can use these ratings and reviews to create a cohesive image of how reliable BMWs are, from one model to the next. While individual opinions may vary, you can also rely on current BMW owner testimonials to inform your conception of BMW’s reliability. 

Automotive brands compete in several arenas to win over consumers and increase sales. Here’s how Bavarian Motor Works stands up in fuel efficiency, average repair costs, dependability, safety ratings, and cost of ownership. 

1. Dependability 

J.D. Power awarded BMW several awards for quality, dependability, and performance:

• 2022 BMW X3: Highest quality compact premium SUV
• 2022 BMW 7 series: Highest quality large premium car
• 2022 BMW 2 series: Highest quality small premium car
• 2022 BMW X1: Highest quality small premium SUV
• 2019 BMW 4 series: Most dependable compact premium car
• 2022 BMW X6: Best performance upper midsize premium SUV

Among J.D. Power’s Best SUVs of 2022, the new BMW X1, X3, and X6 dominated. The X1 ranked for cabin room, a powerful engine, and respectable fuel economy. The X3 shines in its refreshed styling, with cargo space and fuel efficiency ratings to match. The X6 won for overall appeal due to its sleek design features and potent German powerplant. 

2. Fuel economy 

FuelEconomy.gov reports the 2024 BMW 3 Series fuel-efficiency numbers. The 330e sedan maintains a 73 MPGe combined fuel efficiency rating with the gas and electric motors working in sync. The M340i model returns 23 city and 31 highway MPG, with 26 MPG combined. 

Compare that to the 2024 BMW 5 Series models, which return 30 MPG combined at their most fuel efficient. The iconic BMW X5 platform reveals modest fuel efficiency ratings across the board. The 2024 X5 tops out at 23 city and 27 highway MPG at its most efficient, while the X5 M Competition guzzles to the tune of 15 MPG combined. 

3. Safety features and ratings

BMW scores well across models regarding safety ratings. The IIHS reports the 2024 3 Series sedan and the 2024 X5 SUV rate “Good” in all categories, while the BMW 5 Series sedan was a 2023 Top Safety Pick+ and ranks “Good” for 2024 as well. The NHTSA ranks these models similarly, with five out of five stars for the 2024 3 Series and 2024 X3. However, the 2024 X5 currently has a four-out-of-five-star rating and two recalls, both of which concern knee airbags. 

4. Average repair costs

RepairPal reports the average annual repair cost for a BMW to be $968, much higher than the average of $652 for all car models. The brand received 2.5 out of five stars from RepairPal, putting it 30 among 32 car brands. The average probability of a severe repair is 15%, with a 0.9 average number of shop visits annually. 

5. Cost of ownership 

KBB reports that the 2024 BMW M3 ranks first in the Luxury High Performance Car category for the cost of ownership, posting a whopping $93,490 bill in the first five years. The 2024 BMW Z4 takes second place in the Luxury Sports Car category with a $64,731 five-year cost of ownership, with the Audi S3 taking first place. Third in the Luxury Full-Size SUV/Crossover segment is the 2024 BMW X7, a stately SUV that costs nearly as much as the M3 to own ($93,088 for five years). 

Individual BMW models suffer from various mechanical and electrical gremlins, just like any Mercedes-Benz or Porsche. Here are some of the most common problems associated with BMWs, depending on model year. 

1. Water pump failure 

Integral to the cooling system, water pumps that fail often lead to overheating and potential engine failure. BMW recently settled a lawsuit regarding the N20 and N26 powerplants found in 2012 through 2015 models across the entire lineup. Replacing the water pump costs upwards of $500, but failure can lead to further and more expensive damage if left unchecked. 

2. Battery safety terminal sensor 

The battery terminal incorporates a sensor on the positive side to disconnect power should a collision occur. While that’s all well and good German engineering, the sensor can trigger even with a minor hit to the curb. This failsafe can prevent the engine from turning over and cause no end of headaches if owners are unaware of its presence and sensitivity. 

3. Electrical issues

As is expected with any luxury car, electrical problems continue to plague several BMW generations. These electrical quirks can cause several infotainment systems to reboot on their own schedule or even malfunction. Electrical issues can also manifest as malfunctioning door lock actuators. 

4. Vibrating steering wheel 

Rampant among 3 Series models of various years, a vibrating steering wheel, especially under braking, can reveal fatigued thrust arm bushings. While a vibrating steering wheel doesn’t pose a significant safety threat on its own, it can contribute to loss of control at higher speeds. 

5. Engine failure 

Many of the engine issues listed for various BMW models stem from the abovementioned water pump failure. In addition, oil leaks and fuel pump failures can cause BMW engines to fail. A lack of oil will cause premature wear on internal engine components, while a weak fuel pump fails to provide the critical part of the mixture necessary for ignition. 

Members of the first-time car-buyer program often look for the most reliable vehicle that also meets their needs. Below are some of the most reliable BMWs you’ll find on the used car market. 

2016 BMW 3 Series 

Many consider the 3 Series a dependable entry-level platform to experience all that BMW has to offer. This particular year remains a favorite among enthusiasts for the near-indestructible engine and the restyling evident from the exterior to the car’s bones. 

2017 BMW 2 Series

An improvement from three model years previous, the 2017 2 Series checks many boxes. A sleek design and powerful engine remain a potent combination in this platform. In addition, you can find this 2 Series at a reasonable price point to match. 

2020 BMW X6

Though it may be ancient in luxury years, the 2020 X6 stands out as a luxury SUV that only accrued minimal complaints from buyers. In this case, flying low under the radar works well for this BMW model, which effortlessly blends power and capability in a sophisticated SUV platform. 

Repairing and maintaining a BMW costs more than your average sedan or SUV but less than other luxury automobiles in a slightly higher price tier. Average annual repair costs come in just under $1,000, but that’s typical of the territory for BMW. The imported heritage also lends itself to higher costs for repairs and replacement parts. 

Making your BMW last longer requires dedication to adhering to maintenance schedules and addressing concerns before they become a more significant issue. A careful review of all systems on used BMWs can help you determine what problems may arise in the future, potentially saving you hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars in repairs. Routine inspections also go a long way in extending longevity. 

BMWs are as reliable as most luxury vehicles, albeit with their own set of quirks. Advancements in technology and engine capabilities can put higher reliability ratings at risk for this brand, especially on newer models. However, you can find several used BMW models that are well worth the investment.