A BMW is one of the foremost luxury brand cars on the market. They’re not all bells and whistles, either. BMW backs the hype for their cars up with good safety features, handling, and are highly rated among the industry average.
German automobiles always have the latest in luxury sedans, and BMW is no exception. Still, many cars by different automakers get praise just as good as BMW. So that raises the question, are BMWs reliable cars?
The Reliability of BMW Cars
BMW has looks and features already going for most of their cars, with very few bad-looking vehicles. Car shoppers look for reliability, and for the most part, BMW has a good standing and track record.
According to several consumer reports and J.D. Power, BMW often ranks in the top ten in reliability ratings when it comes to the most reliable automakers and cars.
However, BMW consistently outperforms Kia, Toyota, and Lexus in reliability ratings. Even so, new BMW models continue to improve reliability scores with each year.
BMWs need to be as reliable as possible because the regular maintenance and upkeep of a BMW are reported to be higher than the industry average. This is mainly due to BMW using its newest, most up-to-date models with tech and electronic features.
Similarly, these features may also experience different issues depending on the model. You may find better luck and reliability with some BMW cars than others.
The Lifetime of a BMW Vehicle
The average lifetime of a BMW model is relatively average compared to other cars from different manufacturers. They can last anywhere from 200,000 to 250,000 miles, translating to about 15 years of use.
The average driver gets a new car after 10 to 15 years. For this reason, you may see some BMWs from the 2000s still rolling down the streets. A BMW’s more expensive and essential parts are proven to be just as reliable as well.
Common BMW Problems That Affect Its Reliability
Newer BMW models are more prone to some of the following major issues. The good news is that auto shops can remedy these issues and aren’t too detrimental to the car’s functionality.
However, suppose the car’s warranty is expired or has hundreds of thousands of miles and years on it. In that case, your annual repair costs may become more expensive to maintain if this issue persists. These vehicle reliability issues can be:
- Electrical issues - Things such as windows, locks, restraints, and other BMW features depend on electricity to work. There may be some times when the electrical system may falter, and they may not work. It helps to get these electrical faults looked at to avoid permanent power loss.
- Oil leaks - Different BMW car models commonly suffer from engine oil leaks. This usually occurs in the oil filter gasket as it wears out sooner than expected. This is widely reported when the BMW passes 50,000 miles on the odometer. Unfortunately, this is one of the more expensive repairs you can have done on a BMW.
- Failing coolant system - The coolant system of any vehicle is one of the most important parts because it keeps the engine from overheating. Issues with coolant leaks in BMWs arise when it passes 80,000 miles on its odometer. This should be looked at immediately to avoid permanent engine damage.
- Steering wheel vibrations - Steering wheel shakes, and vibrations are reported by BMW drivers when they exceed 60,000 miles on their odometer. This is caused by what is known as thrush arm bushings, a strut within the steering column that can be easily worn with specific BMW models.
Costs of BMW Repairs And Maintenance
Reliability and a good vehicle are almost always guaranteed when you purchase a BMW. The cost of maintenance and repair are what upset most drivers.
An engine oil filter gasket for a leak can cost a minimum of $469, depending on the BMW model. In comparison, a Coolant system overall haul is known for costing an average of $1,338.
The Best And Worst BMWs
All BMWs boast a modest fuel economy, luxurious cabin, and comfortable seats, and even have quick acceleration for thrilling performance and easy handling.
The most reliable models of BMWs are the 2006-2011 BMW 3 Series, the BMW 5 Series, and the BMW 1 Series from 2013.
The longevity of some of these models highlights just how dependable and durable these BMWs can be over time.
Good fuel efficiency and a comfortable ride are reported with each of these models, along with less chance of the previously mentioned issues occurring.
The BMW cars that receive the opposite criticism would be any base model with an N54 engine, the 2014-2019 BMW X6, and the BMW E46 M3.
The N54 has largely been met with lukewarm reception due to the tendency of the fuel pump to fail as it ages and more engine faults.
The BMW X6 did have some gearbox issues, but newer models have since resolved those issues.
The BMW E46 M3 has an unhealthy habit of electrical failures and a more frail frame.
Finding a reliable vehicle with plenty of power to last from BMW can be easy with all this information in mind. They are undoubtedly good cars, but some are better than others in their catalog.
Choose your BMW based on the standard features you need and good reliability ratings for the best results. Safe and reliable cars typically get discounts on their car insurance premiums.
