How much maintenance and repairs do BMW 3-series cars require?
I’m seriously considering a 328i because it meets almost everything that I need in a car. Unfortunately, I’ve heard from a few people that it requires frequent maintenance and also costs a lot to get simple things replaced. I just want to know the validity of these claims.
I’m pretty sure that there’s not much to them since other people have told me the opposite. But I just feel the need to ask here.
Thanks!
parts in bmw’s usually have a lifetime of 5 years. most are made of cheap plastic to save on cost.
if you like DIY’s Bimmers are the best cars to have. if you don’t like doing the maintenance yourself, it can get really pricey.
i put in $16k into my ‘96 328i before i sold it for $7k. then bought a ‘91 850i and put in $30k more into it. mostly labor on both cars.
December 17th, 2009 at 8:01 am
From my experience with my E36, yes, the parts are a bit high, only because they are original German made BMW OEM parts which assure you that the parts of the highest quality and will work for your BMW perfectly.
Some parts are special order from BMW Germany as well so thats another one to consider.
I made the mistake, I’ll admit at getting my brakes done at a regular chain brakes shop, the idiots that worked on my car left my brakes in shambles - missing parts, brakes squealing, brakes were not original so the stopping was not ideal, mushy, not accurate braking, just awful, dangerous! The idiot mechanic even GLUED the freakin’ brake sensor because he lost or dropped the sensor clip… yes - I’m a serious.
I found through some struggle a great mechanic who specializes in BMWs, a cool down to earth guy of European descent. After I complained about the brake job I had the brakes redone with ORIGINAL OEM brakes everything. The braking is great! I can avoid problems, Im more intune with the car, no noises, feels just RIGHT.
Did it cost me a lot? Sort of but not too much of a difference form a Toyota I had before. I wasnt hit too hard, the satisfaction that Im riding SAFELY and more in control of the car is worth the price. See what I’m saying?
Older BMWs will cost a bit, but thats the commitment and responsibility. Many buy BMWs for status, to impress people but skimp real bad on maintenance and invest in tints, body kits, Angel Eye’s, wheels, aftermarket air intakes. But when it comes the basics of the engine and other critical parts, they skimp out. Look at all the used BMW’s for sale, most are in very bad condition for this very reason.
Newer BMWs will cost a lot. You must consider your finances, what you are making, very carefully or not depending on the numbers… then you must be responsible because if you skimp on maintenance, you’re risking yourself.
If anything - this is important to be aware of - the reason people may say to you its expensive is because they go to mechanics that hike up the price of their services - even though they know nearly nothing about BMWs - just because the car is a BMW. Stick with BMW mechanics and SHOP around. Its work but well worth it.
Sorry for the long-winded response.
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Experience with my mid 90’s BMW 3 Series E36.
December 17th, 2009 at 8:06 am
They’re great-looking cars that handle well, but a couple of my friends have them and they have had a number of electrical problems. I don’t think people buy BMW’s for reliability, just performance and looks. The claims are valid…it’s just that people enjoy the cars so much they put up with that.
Then again it’s the 335i which has the good performance. The 328i isn’t in the same league.
I know you’re considering a BMW, but I’m very happy with my Acura. No it doesn’t have the same performance, but it is a premium brand with Honda reliability. I don’t race anyone, so it’s not a huge deal to me.
Get the BMW if you want it, but keep in mind that it will cost you more in maintenance and be less reliable. You just have to decide if BMW’s fun driving experience is worth that, which for many people it is.
"Did it cost me a lot? Sort of but not too much of a difference form a Toyota I had before."
^^ Trust me, it costs a lot more than a Toyota.
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December 17th, 2009 at 8:42 am
Are you considering the E90/92 328i or the E36 328?
The parts for me E36 aren’t that expensive, in fact some have been less then my 98 chevrolet 1500. Tie rod ends, to be specific. I had to replace my radiator on the BMW this spring (lasted for 15 years), about 300 bucks and 30 minutes of work. These cars are super easy to work on (E36), the best engineered car I have repaired in my experience bar none. (BMW, VW, Chevrolet, Porsche)
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December 17th, 2009 at 8:53 am
If you’re handy and willingly to do some diy, it shouldn’t be too bad.
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December 17th, 2009 at 9:19 am
parts in bmw’s usually have a lifetime of 5 years. most are made of cheap plastic to save on cost.
if you like DIY’s Bimmers are the best cars to have. if you don’t like doing the maintenance yourself, it can get really pricey.
i put in $16k into my ‘96 328i before i sold it for $7k. then bought a ‘91 850i and put in $30k more into it. mostly labor on both cars.
References :