Faults:

I purchased a car from a dealer in Folsom, California for a total cost of

$24,999.00.

The car had a one-year rental history, and within that year, it broke down

near San Diego. The issues were:

1) The camshaft broke and tore into the air conditioning system. It was replaced along with new air conditioning hoses and liquid.

2) The run-flat tires were replaced because they were too noisy.

3) The oil pan leaked four times, and these issues were fixed.

4) The water pump was replaced.

5) The PCV valve needed to be replaced.

6) The BMW coolant was replaced.

7) I had the six spark plugs and coils tuned up twice in total.

8) The starter motor was replaced in 2019 after it suddenly died.

9) The battery had to be replaced five times due to issues. It needed to be jump-started multiple times, but a mobile technician later discovered that the wrong screw was fitted.

General Comments:

Ride quality was good, handling was exceptional. Braking was great. The car actually saved me in many situations.

The only issue was that this rear-wheel drive (RWD) vehicle had a problem with heavy snow and required snow tires. Otherwise, I couldn't use all-season tires in deep snow or icy conditions.

The spacing inside the car was not adequate, and I felt cramped on long drives. However, city driving was perfect.

Faults:

Water pump went out at about 105,000 miles; usually occurs with most BMWs; also had to change the engine gasket at the same time.

Engine oxygen sensors have gone out at about 125,000 miles. $500 to fix to remove a check engine light. Also normal at high mileage.

Airbag sensors are malfunctioning. Also an expensive fix, dealer quoted some $450 for the passenger airbag.

Battery and tires replaced at recommended intervals.

Parking lights (Angel eyes) also went out at about 140,000. Replaced with LEDs. Difficult to access and DIY, have to remove wheels and go through the wheel well to replace. Tail light went out at a similar time; a very easy fix from the trunk of the car.

General Comments:

I am tempted to get something new with this car now at nearly 10 years and 152,000 miles, but it is a great drive. It's now full depreciated, and despite being in near mint condition, a dealer only offered me $4000 for a trade. Mind that the vehicle is fully loaded with premium package, cold weather, premium sound system, navigation, moonroof, etc. It's annoying to have to spend $1,000 - 2,000 annually to maintain, but it is better than having a more expensive payment. I may keep this one around, even if I do go with an X5 next.

3 Series are great cars; just be aware that regular things do go wrong, and they require maintenance and care. Factor in water pumps going out every 80-100K miles as well as occasional sensor glitches. Other than that, the car is amazing!

Faults:

My steering column lock went out at 41000 miles.

My brake sensors both went out at 52000 miles.

My rear window regulator, for both sides, went out at 65000 and 66000 miles.

The paint on my roof started peeling at 60000 miles.

General Comments:

The car drives reasonably well.

However, both window regulators should not have gone out.

Also, the paint should not be peeling all over the roof panel.