Known Problems & Diseases

BMW G01 X3 / G02 X4 — Reliability Report Overview The G01 X3 (2017-2024) and G02 X4 (2018-present) are among BMW's best-selling models. Generally very reliable. Engine B48…

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 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 E84 X1 — Common Problems Overview The E84 X1 (2009-2015) is BMW's first compact SAV, based on the E90 3 Series platform with RWD/xDrive. Engine Issues N20 (xDrive20i…

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 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 E89 Z4 — Roadster Problems Overview The E89 Z4 (2009-2016) features a retractable hardtop and was available with N52, N54, and N55 engines. Engine Issues N52 (sDrive23i…

BMW E71 X6 — Common Problems Overview The E71 X6 (2008-2014) created the "Sports Activity Coupe" segment. It shares most components with the E70 X5. Engine N55 (xDrive35i)…

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 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…

BMW E36 3 Series — Common Problems Overview The E36 (1990-2000) is the third-generation 3 Series. Now 25+ years old, these are aging classics with predictable wear patterns…

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 Timing Chain Problems — Which Engines Are Affected Overview Timing chain failure is one of the most expensive and potentially catastrophic problems on BMW engines. Not all…

BMW Oil Leaks — The Most Common Leak Points Why BMWs Leak Oil BMW engines use many gaskets and seals that are subjected to high temperatures and thermal cycling. Over time…

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 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 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 G30 5 Series — Early Issues Overview The G30 5 Series (2016-2023) is one of BMW's most refined sedans. Generally reliable, with fewer issues than the F10. Engine B48 (520i…

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 F15 X5 — Common Issues Overview The F15 X5 (2013-2018) improved significantly over the E70 in reliability, but still has some common issues. Engine N55 (xDrive35i) Valve…

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 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 F10 5 Series — Common Issues Overview The F10 5 Series (2010-2017) is more reliable than the E60 but still has its quirks. N20 (528i) Timing chain stretch — the big one…