Known Problems & Diseases

BMW E90/E91/E92 3 Series — Every Known Problem and Solution Overview The E90 generation 3 Series (2005-2013) is one of BMW's most popular platforms. While generally reliable…

BMW F30/F31 3 Series — Common Problems, Diseases & Fixes Overview The F30 (sedan) and F31 (touring) 3 Series was produced from 2011 to 2019. It introduced the N20 4-cylinder…

BMW E46 3 Series — The Classic's Known Diseases & Solutions Overview The E46 (1997-2006) is arguably the most beloved 3 Series generation. Now 20+ years old, these cars have…

BMW Steering Wheel Vibration at Highway Speed Vibration through the steering wheel is one of the most common BMW complaints. Here's every possible cause, from most to least…

BMW F22/F23 2 Series — Known Issues Overview The F22 (coupe) and F23 (convertible) 2 Series (2014-2021) is the spiritual successor to the E82 1 Series. It's one of BMW's best…

BMW F25 X3 — Known Issues Overview The F25 X3 (2010-2017) was a significant improvement over the E83, sharing the F30 platform. Engine N20 (xDrive20i, xDrive28i) Timing chain…

BMW X5 Common Problems by Generation E53 X5 (1999-2006) Engine M54: VANOS seals, CCV, cooling system M62: Timing chain guides, valley pan gasket N62: Valve stem seals, coolant…

BMW F87 M2 — Known Issues Overview The F87 M2 (2016-2021) is BMW's compact M car, available with N55 (original M2) and S55 (M2 Competition/CS). N55 M2 (2016-2018) Cooling The…

BMW Rough Idle — 8 Causes Your BMW shakes, stumbles, or hunts at idle. Here are the causes, ordered from cheapest to most expensive fix. Vacuum Leak — €0-50 A cracked intake…

BMW F48 X1 / F39 X2 — FWD Platform Issues Overview The F48 X1 (2015-2022) and F39 X2 (2018-2023) are BMW's first front-wheel-drive-based SUVs, using the UKL platform shared with…

BMW F90 M5 — Common Issues Overview The F90 M5 (2017-2023) is BMW's first AWD M5, powered by the S63 4.4L twin-turbo V8 with 600-625 hp. Engine (S63TU) Oil Consumption Some S63…

BMW E39 5 Series — Classic Problems Overview The E39 (1996-2003) is widely considered the best 5 Series ever made. Now 20+ years old, age-related issues are the main concern…

BMW E65/E66 7 Series — The Troublesome Flagship Overview The E65 (2001-2008) was BMW's most technologically advanced car of its era — and also one of its most problematic. The…

BMW E60 5 Series — Every Known Problem Overview The E60 5 Series (2003-2010) was controversial for its styling but is a capable executive sedan. Common issues vary by engine. N52…

BMW E82/E88 1 Series — Common Problems Overview The E82 (coupe) and E88 (convertible) 1 Series (2007-2013) share most components with the E90 3 Series but in a smaller, lighter…

BMW N20 vs N26 — What's the Difference? Overview The N26 is a variant of the N20 sold in SULEV (Super Ultra Low Emission Vehicle) markets, primarily California and some US…

BMW E53 X5 — Common Problems Overview The E53 X5 (1999-2006) was BMW's first SUV ("Sports Activity Vehicle"). Now 20+ years old, these are aging but still capable vehicles…

Why Does My BMW Overheat? If your temperature gauge is climbing into the red, don't panic — but don't ignore it either. Here are the 7 most common reasons BMWs overheat, ranked…

The 10 Most Expensive BMW Repairs Owning a BMW doesn't have to break the bank — but ignoring maintenance will. Here are the costliest repairs and how to prevent each one. Rod…

Bought a Used BMW? Do These 12 Things First Congratulations on your purchase. Now let's make sure it doesn't become a money pit. Here's your day-one checklist. Immediate (Day 1)…

BMW Check Engine Light — What Every Code Means The check engine light (CEL) is the most anxiety-inducing light on your dashboard. Here's a guide to the most common BMW fault…

BMW "Drivetrain Malfunction" — What It Means This is one of the scariest messages your BMW can display. Here's what's actually happening and whether you should keep driving. What…

BMW Won't Start — Complete Diagnosis Guide Your BMW won't start. Before you call a tow truck, let's figure out what's happening based on what you hear (or don't hear) when you…

What Your BMW's Exhaust Smoke Means Exhaust smoke is your engine's way of telling you something is wrong. The color tells you exactly what. White Smoke Thin White Vapor on Cold…