Are BMWs Reliable? [What Are the Most Reliable BMW Models?]

The popularity of BMW as a high-performance luxury car brand is undeniable. BMW vehicles provide high levels of comfort, a refined ride, and superb interiors. Not to mention that they are all equipped with the best technological features. But are BMWs reliable? And what are the most reliable BMW models?

In a report released by Consumer Reports in 2020, every BMW model earned an above-average score. The brand’s overall ranking as a luxury brand is 8th, and its most reliable vehicles include the X6 midsize SUV and the i3 electric vehicle.

Some of the most reliable BMW models of all time include the following:

  1. 2006 BMW E90 330i
  2. 2018 BMW i3
  3. 2019 BMW F40
  4. 2005 BMW 325i
  5. 2016 BMW M4
  6. 2012 BMW Z4
  7. 2008 BMW 750i
  8. BMW E36 M3
  9. 2002 BMW 318i
  10. BMW E83 X3

Read on to learn more about BMW vehicles, including their reliability and the best models.

Are BMWs Reliable? [What Are the Most Reliable BMW Models?]

are bmws reliable
2018 BMW i3

Consumer Reports released data gathered in 2020 showing that every BMW model earned an above-average score. The brand’s overall ranking as a luxury car brand is 8th, in which its most reliable vehicles include the X6 midsize sport utility vehicle (SUV) and the i3 electric vehicle.

Some of the most reliable BMW models of all time are the following:

  1. 2006 BMW E90 330i
  2. 2018 BMW i3
  3. 2019 BMW F40
  4. 2005 BMW 325i
  5. 2016 BMW M4
  6. 2012 BMW Z4
  7. 2008 BMW 750i
  8. BMW E36 M3
  9. 2002 BMW 318i
  10. BMW E83 X3

Let’s briefly talk about each one of them.

1. 2006 BMW E90 330i

The 2006 BMW E90 330i offers the ideal combination of performance and practicality. It surely does not compromise comfort and stability. No wonder it is the best luxury car in the 3 Series.

However, there’s more to merely being the best 3 Series model. It is also one of the best-selling luxury cars across the United States, having sold more than 336,232 units.

It even bagged the Top Safety Pick award in 2006, making it one of the safest vehicle choices regarding driver restraint features and injury measures.

2. 2018 BMW i3

The i3 is known as one of the most reliable BMW vehicles. It is the first mass-produced vehicle from this luxury car brand under the zero-emission electric vehicle category.

Its high roof hatchback feature is impressive, making it stand out from all other electric or gas-powered vehicles. If you are looking for a fun and environment-friendly vehicle, the 2018 BMW i3 is ideal.

3. 2019 BMW F40

Often, the simplest cars are the most reliable ones, as with the 2019 BMW F40. This 1 Series compact hatchback has basic maintenance requirements. Also, it has earned a 5-star overall rating after undergoing the Euro New Car Assessment Programs (NCAP) Test.

This makes the 2019 BMW F40 safe for pedestrians, adults, and children. With the development of this vehicle, BMW has remained the best hatchback manufacturer worldwide.

4. 2005 BMW 325i

The 2005 BMW 325i is greatly known for the following:

  • Reliability,
  • Design,
  • Comfort, and
  • Performance.

So, if you have gotten yourself one, it is all worth it. It doesn’t even matter what your level of driving experience is. This car is ideal for everyone.

The data released by Edmunds.com states that 83% of consumers have given the 2005 BMW 325i a perfect rating of 5 stars. At the same time, a survey conducted by Cars.com showed that more than 88 percent of drivers are willing to recommend this car to others.

5. 2016 BMW M4

2016 BMW M4 owners say that this vehicle delivers excellent engine performance. They describe it as the best car ever and that they have no regrets about buying one.

Regarding handling, performance, and appearance, you can rely on the M4. In a report released by Edmunds.com, this vehicle earned a perfect 5 rating.

This vehicle features a 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged V6 engine that delivers 425 hp. Impressively, it only has basic maintenance requirements.

6. 2012 BMW Z4

If you are looking for a luxury sports convertible, the 2012 BMW Z4 might be ideal. It has superb safety features, provides all-weather functionality, and offers ultimate comfort.

This vehicle features a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that delivers 240 hp and 265 lb-ft of torque. Its performance and critics’ ratings total 8.3 out of 10 points.

7. 2008 BMW 750i

Of course, everyone wants a car that offers the best in terms of comfort, safety, and performance. If you are considering a full-size sedan, the 2008 BMW 750i is one of the best in this category. It earned 8.4 out of 10 points in a review conducted by TheCarConnection.com.

The 2008 BMW 750i features a 4.8-liter engine that delivers 360 hp. Based on a report released by Edmunds.com, it also has a perfect 5-star rating. It runs smoothly, swiftly, and silently – there’s nothing more you can ask for. 

8. BMW E36 M3

The E36 M3 was launched by BMW in 1992, featuring three body styles:

  • Sedan,
  • Coupe, and
  • Convertible.

It has an S52 straight-six engine that delivers 321 hp and 3.2-liter displacement. This car is capable of achieving 60 mph in about 5.5 seconds.

9. 2002 BMW 318i

The BMW E36 M3 is an entry-level sedan that has earned 4 out of 5 points on AA Cars in terms of reliability. It has also earned high scores in other car reviews. This vehicle features a 1.5-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine that delivers 141 hp.

10. BMW E83 X3

In 2003, BMW launched its first-generation 3 Series into the Sports Activity Vehicle market. It was none other than the BMW E83 X3, which has successfully entered the midsize SUV market. Its strong competitor was the Mercedes-Benz GLK Class.

This SUV ranks high in terms of safety as it has the essential technology for protecting adults and children.

Again, are BMWs reliable? Multiple agencies gave BMW an above-average reliability rating. In 2020, Consumer Reports gave every BMW lineup an above-average score, placing the brand 8th overall, with the i3 electric vehicle and X6 midsize SUV as its most reliable vehicles.

How Reliable Are BMWs

is bmw reliable in long term
2019 BMW F40

Many car reviewers can confirm the reliability of BMW vehicles. Some reliable ones include Consumer Reports, iSeeCars, and JD Power.

In a report released by iSeeCars, BMW M6 was once included in its Top 10 List of Longest Lasting Sports Cars. Some of the M6 models tested even lasted for more than 200,000 miles.

JD Power conducted a study in 2019, focusing on the mechanical issues encountered with 3-year-old cars over one year. In this study, BMW ranked above average, which confirms the reliability of this luxury car brand.

When Consumer Reports released its 2020 rankings, BMW was one of the brands that scored above average. It also ranked 8th in terms of reliability.

Back in 2018, a reliability study was also conducted by Consumer Reports in which BMW scored above average. It even outranked its competitors, including:

  • Acura,
  • Lincoln,
  • Porsche, and
  • Mercedes-Benz.

So, if you are wondering, “How reliable are BMWs?” Well, with all the above-average rankings, they sure are very reliable. Know more about this by visiting their website bmw.com.

BMW Reliability

Let’s further take a look at the reliability of the different BMW models by discussing the following:

  1. BMW X5 Reliability
  2. BMW X3 Reliability
  3. BMW M4 Reliability
  4. BMW 3-Series Reliability

1. BMW X5

Ranked 3rd in the Upper Midsize Premium SUV Category

The 2021 BMW X5 ranked 3rd in the Upper Midsize Premium SUV Category, according to a report released by JD Power. In terms of quality and reliability, it scores 77 out of 100 points. Regarding the driving experience, it scores 84 out of 100 points.

Overall Consumer Rating

This vehicle scores 79 out of 100 in-dealership experience and 74 out of 100 in resale. Its overall consumer rating totals 78 out of 100 points. This goes to show that the BMW X5 is a reliable car.

Owners Like Its Engine Power and High-quality Materials

X5 owners particularly like their vehicle’s engine power and high-quality materials. They also highly appreciate the quietness of the cabin while on the road.

2. BMW X3

Ranked 4th in the Compact Premium SUV Category

Based on data gathered by JD Power, the 2021 BMW X3 ranked 4th in the Compact Premium SUV Category. It scores 81 out of 100 points in terms of quality and reliability. Meanwhile, it scored 83 out of 100 points in the driving experience.

Overall Consumer Rating

Regarding resale, it has earned 77 out of 100 points and 79 out of 100 points for dealership experience. Its overall consumer rating is 80 out of 100 points.

Owners Like Its Engine or Motor Power

What X3 owners like about their vehicle is its engine or motor power. They appreciate its overall fuel economy, its driving range, and the speed and efficiency of charging the vehicle. Also, its excellent navigation system is worth mentioning.

3. BMW M4

The BMW M4 has been hailed as one of the best and most reliable luxury cars since its initial launch. The high demand for second-hand M4 is due to its superb quality and performance. And if that’s the case, can you imagine how it feels to drive a brand new M4?

Everything you want in a car is in the BMW M4 model. Name it: superb interior, stylish appearance, comfortable ride and handling, and excellent performance. You can never go wrong with the M4 model regarding value for money.

4. BMW 3-Series

Ranked 4th in the Compact Premium Car Category

The 2021 BMW 3 Series ranked 4th in the Compact Premium Car Category. It scores 79 out of 100 points in terms of quality and reliability. At the same time, it scores 85 out of 100 points in terms of driving experience.

Overall Consumer Rating

It scores 79 out of 100 points regarding resale and dealership experience. Overall, its consumer rating is 80 out of 100 points.

Owners Like the Ease of Going in and Out of the Vehicle

BMW 3 Series owners appreciate the silence inside the cabin while on the road. They also emphasize the ease of going in and out of the vehicle. Also, they have noticed the high-quality materials used to construct the 3 Series.

Frequently Asked Questions – Are BMWs Good Cars?

are bmw reliable after 100k miles

Here are some frequently asked questions about the reliability of BMW vehicles:

Are BMWs Good Cars?

BMW consistently ranked above average in reports JD Power and other car reviewers released. It even ranked above its rivals in terms of reliability, including Acura, Lincoln, Porsche, and Mercedes-Benz.

Are BMW Long-lasting cars?

Does BMW Have a Lot of Problems?

Like other car brands, BMW has also experienced issues with some of its units. Complaints about reliability are not new for any car maker. But in general, BMW vehicles typically surpass 100,000 miles without any issues. If there are, these are usually minor ones.

Is It Worth Buying a BMW?

BMW vehicles are definitely worth the money. They are undeniably high-performance luxury cars equipped with the best technological features.

If you are looking for a vehicle with a high level of comfort, a refined ride, and beautiful interiors, you can get all these in a BMW. You will have the ultimate driving and riding experience with a BMW vehicle.

Is BMW Expensive to Maintain?

Unfortunately, yes, BMWs are quite costly to maintain after the warranty. It has higher repair and maintenance costs than other car brands.

Compared to a Mercedes-Benz, a BMW repair is more costly by about $5,000 over ten years. Compared to a Toyota, a BMW repair is higher by $12,000.

How Long Will a BMW Last?

A BMW vehicle will most likely run up to about 250,000 miles if it undergoes proper and regular maintenance. It also depends on how you use it, as it can last up to 300,000 miles.

Typically, a brand new BMW comes with complimentary factory-recommended maintenance. This forms part of the car brand’s BMW Ultimate Care program. With this, starting on the right foot is more convenient and efficient.

Are BMW Good Cars to Buy Used?

A used BMW will most likely need repairs now and then. Unfortunately, its repair and maintenance cost is quite high. But we also all know how well-engineered and solidly built BMWs are.

As long as the first owner of the used car has good driving habits, the second owner will most likely still enjoy a BMW in good running condition.

What Are Common BMW Problems?

A common issue involving BMW vehicles is overheating. However, several factors contribute to this problem, including a faulty water pump or a coolant leak.

When you encounter this, it is always best to have your BMW checked by a certified automotive technician. That way, you can confirm the real issue that resulted in overheating.

Is BMW Reliable After 100k Miles?

A well-maintained and regularly serviced BMW will likely still be reliable after 100,000 miles. As long as it is not abused, your BMW has the potential to last for up to 250,000 miles. Some BMW owners even attest that theirs are still up and running at 300,000 miles.

What Is the Most Reliable BMW?

There are many reliable BMW vehicles. Some of the most reliable ones include:

  • 2006 BMW E90 330i,
  • 2018 BMW i3,
  • 2019 BMW F40,
  • 2005 BMW 325i,
  • 2016 BMW M4,
  • 2012 BMW Z4,
  • 2008 BMW 750i,
  • BMW E36 M3,
  • 2002 BMW 318i, and
  • BMW E83 X3.

Are BMW Engines Reliable?

BMW has always been a well-known maker of undeniably reliable luxury cars. They are costly cars, but they are all worth the price. Their engines are powerful and impressively reliable.

What Are BMWs Known For?

BMW vehicles are well-known ultramodern luxury vehicles equipped with the latest, not to mention the best, features and technologies. This car manufacturer may have been in business since 1916, but it has never failed always to integrate the most modern technologies into its units.

In Closing: Are BMWs Reliable?

To reiterate, Consumer Reports released a report in 2020 showing that every BMW model earned an above-average score. The brand’s overall ranking as a luxury car brand is 8th, in which its most reliable vehicles include the X6 midsize sport utility vehicle (SUV) and the i3 electric vehicle.

Some of the most reliable BMW models of all time are the following:

  1. 2006 BMW E90 330i
  2. 2018 BMW i3
  3. 2019 BMW F40
  4. 2005 BMW 325i
  5. 2016 BMW M4
  6. 2012 BMW Z4
  7. 2008 BMW 750i
  8. BMW E36 M3
  9. 2002 BMW 318i
  10. BMW E83 X3

If you plan to get a BMW, it is worth it no matter how hefty the price may be. This is because you are guaranteed to enjoy a reliable and powerful vehicle. For sure, you will have the ultimate driving experience with a BMW.

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