CarBrief

NHTSA has 829 owner complaints on file for the 2011 BMW 3 Series, and the engine group draws the most of them[1][2]. The car also has 12 recalls on file, so check each one by VIN before you buy or keep it[3].

829owner complaints[1]
12recalls[3]
19–27MPG combined (EPA)[4]

Reported problems

NHTSA lists 829 owner complaints for this model year[1]. Of those, 27 mention a crash, 35 a fire and 32 an injury, and none report a death[1]. These are unverified reports from owners. One complaint can name several parts, and the counts are not adjusted for how many cars were sold.

Here are the component groups with the most complaints:

Component group Complaints Fires Median mileage at failure
Engine[2] 458 19 95,000
Electrical system[5] 179 18 90,000
Air bags[6] 155 0 68,500
Unknown or other[7] 60 5 69,500
Fuel/propulsion system[8] 47 0 68,500
Power train[9] 41 1 57,000
Exterior lighting[10] 26 1 119,000
Speed control[11] 23 0 38,000

Engine. In a sample of engine complaints we read, owners describe the car stalling or losing power, at idle and while driving[2]. Several of the sampled reports also mention the camshaft bolt recall, including a dealer saying the repair part was not available[2].

Electrical system. The sample includes stalls and total power loss, plus burning smells and overheated parts such as a blower motor resistor and a heated steering wheel[5]. The electrical group has 18 fires among its 179 complaints[5].

Air bags. This group has 18 crashes and 23 injuries among 155 complaints[6]. In a sample of air bag complaints we read, owners describe air bags that did not deploy in a crash, and warning messages about the air bag or seat belt system[6]. A few of the sampled reports also describe the car surging forward at low speed[6].

Fuel and propulsion. In the sample we read, owners describe fuel pump trouble, a reduced power mode, and the car losing power while driving[8]. This group has 47 complaints, far fewer than the engine group[8].

Recalls

NHTSA lists 12 recalls for this model year[3]. Many cover several models and model years, and some cover only certain versions or build dates. Check your VIN with NHTSA or a BMW dealer to see which apply to your car and which are already done. Newest first:

Fuel economy

EPA lists many versions of this car. The gasoline versions listed use premium fuel[24][25]. Here is a sample, with the EPA estimated annual fuel cost:

Version City / highway / combined MPG Annual fuel cost
328i, manual 6-speed, rear-wheel drive[25] 19 / 28 / 22 $3,750
328i xDrive, automatic (S6), all-wheel drive[26] 18 / 25 / 20 $4,100
335i, automatic (S6), rear-wheel drive[27] 19 / 28 / 22 $3,750
335i xDrive, automatic (S6), all-wheel drive[28] 18 / 26 / 21 $3,900
335is Coupe, automatic (S7), rear-wheel drive[29] 17 / 23 / 19 $4,350
335d diesel, automatic (S6), rear-wheel drive[4] 23 / 35 / 27 $3,550

The 335d diesel has the best combined rating in the list at 27 MPG[4]. The 335is with the automatic (S7) has the lowest at 19 MPG[30][29]. Fuel cost estimates use EPA's current fuel price assumptions, not the price when the car was new.

Safety ratings

Our NHTSA data for this model year covers rollover only. Versions labeled 2 DR and C in rear-wheel drive get 5 stars, with a 9.3% rollover risk[31][32]. The 2 DR all-wheel drive version also gets 5 stars and 9.3%[33]. Versions labeled 4 DR and SW get 4 stars, with a 10.3% rollover risk[34][35][36][37]. One all-wheel drive version labeled C is not rated[38].

Engine and size

The EPA test car list shows the 3.0L 6-cylinder rated from 230 to 320 hp depending on version[39]. It also lists a version with an electric motor rated from 230 to 300 hp[40].

Dimensions below are Canadian-market specifications and can differ slightly from US models[41].

Version Length Width Height Wheelbase Curb weight
323i/328i 4-door sedan, RWD[41] 178 in 72 in 56 in 109 in 3,362 lb
328i xDrive 4-door sedan, AWD[42] 178 in 72 in 56 in 109 in 3,605 lb
335i 4-door sedan, RWD[43] 178 in 72 in 56 in 109 in 3,594 lb
335i xDrive 4-door sedan, AWD[44] 178 in 72 in 56 in 109 in 3,814 lb
335d 4-door sedan, RWD[45] 178 in 72 in 56 in 109 in 3,825 lb
Cabriolet 328i, RWD[46] 181 in 70 in 54 in 109 in 3,792 lb

How 2011 compares with other years

1995: 44 complaints, 2 recalls19951996: 42 complaints, 1 recalls1997: 36 complaints, 1 recalls1998: 56 complaints, 0 recalls1999: 243 complaints, 7 recalls19992000: 689 complaints, 7 recalls2001: 477 complaints, 7 recalls2002: 399 complaints, 7 recalls2003: 461 complaints, 7 recalls20032004: 554 complaints, 4 recalls2005: 227 complaints, 4 recalls2006: 1,232 complaints, 12 recalls2007: 1,023 complaints, 7 recalls20072008: 676 complaints, 7 recalls2009: 365 complaints, 7 recalls2010: 265 complaints, 10 recalls2011: 829 complaints, 12 recalls82920112012: 167 complaints, 10 recalls2013: 377 complaints, 8 recalls2014: 403 complaints, 12 recalls2015: 212 complaints, 8 recalls20152016: 105 complaints, 6 recalls2017: 79 complaints, 4 recalls2018: 73 complaints, 7 recalls2019: 41 complaints, 9 recalls20192020: 53 complaints, 12 recalls2021: 33 complaints, 9 recalls2022: 8 complaints, 3 recalls2023: 13 complaints, 4 recalls20232024: 11 complaints, 2 recalls2025: 6 complaints, 1 recalls2026: 1 complaints, 0 recalls
Owner complaints filed with NHTSA for each 3 Series model year. The 2011 is highlighted[3].
Show the numbers
Model yearComplaintsRecalls
1995442
1996421
1997361
1998560
19992437
20006897
20014777
20023997
20034617
20045544
20052274
20061,23212
20071,0237
20086767
20093657
201026510
201182912
201216710
20133778
201440312
20152128
20161056
2017794
2018737
2019419
20205312
2021339
202283
2023134
2024112
202561
202610

Among 3 Series model years on file with NHTSA, 2011 has 829 complaints and 12 recalls[3]. Only 2006 (1,232) and 2007 (1,023) have more complaints[3]. The years next to it are quieter: 2010 has 265 complaints and 10 recalls, and 2012 has 167 complaints and 10 recalls[3]. For recalls, 12 ties with 2006, 2014 and 2020 for the highest count[3].

Complaint counts are not adjusted for sales, Complaint counts are not adjusted for sales.

Should you buy a used 2011 3 Series?

This model year has a heavy complaint count and a long recall list, so it deserves a careful check[1][3]. The engine group draws the most complaints, and two recalls cover the camshaft bolts that can loosen and stall the engine[2][13][21]. Ask for proof that the VANOS bolt, battery cable and air bag inflator recalls were done, and look up the VIN for any open recall. Two recalls, 22V119 and 17V676, had remedies that were not confirmed as available in our source, so ask what the dealer can do today[14][19]. If you want the best fuel economy in the lineup, the 335d diesel is rated 27 MPG combined[4].

Frequently asked questions

What are the most common problems with the 2011 BMW 3 Series?
The engine group has the largest number of NHTSA complaints at 458 out of 829 total[1][2]. Electrical (179) and air bags (155) follow[5][6].
How many recalls does the 2011 BMW 3 Series have?
NHTSA lists 12 recalls for this model year[3]. They cover engine camshaft bolts, battery cables, PCV valve heaters, heating and AC wiring, driveshaft parts and driver air bag inflators[12][13][14][15][16][19][20][23]. Check your VIN to see which apply.
What is the gas mileage of the 2011 BMW 3 Series?
EPA combined ratings run from 19 to 22 MPG for the gasoline versions in our data, and the 335d diesel is rated 27 MPG combined[30][25][4].
Is the 2011 BMW 3 Series reliable?
We have no reliability score. NHTSA has 829 complaints and 12 recalls on file for this model year, more complaints than the 2010 and 2012 model years[1][3].
What is the rollover rating of the 2011 BMW 3 Series?
NHTSA lists 5 stars for versions labeled 2 DR and C in rear-wheel drive, and 4 stars for versions labeled 4 DR and SW[34][35][31][32].

Facts and sources

  1. NHTSA has 829 owner complaints on file for the 2011 BMW 3 Series (27 mention a crash, 35 a fire, 32 injuries, 0 deaths reported). NHTSA vehicle records
  2. 458 complaints name the engine component group (1 crashes, 19 fires, 3 injuries, median mileage at failure 95,000). NHTSA vehicle records
  3. Owner complaints and recalls for every BMW 3 Series model year (chart above). NHTSA recall database
  4. EPA rating for 335d, 3.0L 6-cyl turbo, Automatic (S6), Diesel, Rear-Wheel Drive: 23 city / 35 highway / 27 combined MPG; EPA estimated annual fuel cost $3,550. EPA / DOE fueleconomy.gov
  5. 179 complaints name the electrical system component group (1 crashes, 18 fires, 3 injuries, median mileage at failure 90,000). NHTSA vehicle records
  6. 155 complaints name the air bags component group (18 crashes, 0 fires, 23 injuries, median mileage at failure 68,500). NHTSA vehicle records
  7. 60 complaints name the unknown or other component group (3 crashes, 5 fires, 6 injuries, median mileage at failure 69,500). NHTSA vehicle records
  8. 47 complaints name the fuel/propulsion system component group (1 crashes, 0 fires, 0 injuries, median mileage at failure 68,500). NHTSA vehicle records
  9. 41 complaints name the power train component group (1 crashes, 1 fires, 1 injuries, median mileage at failure 57,000). NHTSA vehicle records
  10. 26 complaints name the exterior lighting component group (0 crashes, 1 fires, 0 injuries, median mileage at failure 119,000). NHTSA vehicle records
  11. 23 complaints name the speed control component group (6 crashes, 0 fires, 2 injuries, median mileage at failure 38,000). NHTSA vehicle records
  12. Recall 24V513, filed July 3, 2024: Air Bags › Frontal › Driver Side › Inflator Module. NHTSA recall database
  13. Recall 23V707, filed October 20, 2023: Engine And Engine Cooling › Engine. NHTSA recall database
  14. Recall 22V119, filed March 2, 2022: Engine And Engine Cooling › Exhaust System › Emission Control › Crankcase (Pcv). NHTSA recall database
  15. Recall 20V017, filed January 15, 2020: Air Bags › Frontal › Driver Side › Inflator Module. NHTSA recall database
  16. Recall 19V472, filed June 19, 2019: Electrical System › Wiring › Fuses And Circuit Breakers. NHTSA recall database
  17. Recall 18V314, filed May 14, 2018: Electrical System › Wiring › Fuses And Circuit Breakers. NHTSA recall database
  18. Recall 17V683, filed October 30, 2017: Engine And Engine Cooling › Exhaust System › Emission Control › Crankcase (Pcv). NHTSA recall database
  19. Recall 17V676, filed October 25, 2017: Electrical System › Wiring. NHTSA recall database
  20. Recall 17V067, filed February 2, 2017: Power Train › Driveline › Constant Velocity Joint. NHTSA recall database
  21. Recall 14V176, filed April 10, 2014: Engine And Engine Cooling › Engine. NHTSA recall database
  22. Recall 13V044, filed February 7, 2013: Electrical System › Wiring › Fuses And Circuit Breakers. NHTSA recall database
  23. Recall 11V476, filed September 15, 2011: Power Train › Driveline › Driveshaft. NHTSA recall database
  24. EPA rating for 328ci, 3.0L 6-cyl, Manual 6-spd, Premium, Rear-Wheel Drive: 19 city / 28 highway / 22 combined MPG; EPA estimated annual fuel cost $3,750. EPA / DOE fueleconomy.gov
  25. EPA rating for 328i, 3.0L 6-cyl, Manual 6-spd, Premium, Rear-Wheel Drive: 19 city / 28 highway / 22 combined MPG; EPA estimated annual fuel cost $3,750. EPA / DOE fueleconomy.gov
  26. EPA rating for 328i xDrive, 3.0L 6-cyl, Automatic (S6), Premium, All-Wheel Drive: 18 city / 25 highway / 20 combined MPG; EPA estimated annual fuel cost $4,100. EPA / DOE fueleconomy.gov
  27. EPA rating for 335i, 3.0L 6-cyl turbo, Automatic (S6), Premium, Rear-Wheel Drive: 19 city / 28 highway / 22 combined MPG; EPA estimated annual fuel cost $3,750. EPA / DOE fueleconomy.gov
  28. EPA rating for 335i xDrive, 3.0L 6-cyl turbo, Automatic (S6), Premium, All-Wheel Drive: 18 city / 26 highway / 21 combined MPG; EPA estimated annual fuel cost $3,900. EPA / DOE fueleconomy.gov
  29. EPA rating for 335is Coupe, 3.0L 6-cyl turbo, Automatic (S7), Premium, Rear-Wheel Drive: 17 city / 23 highway / 19 combined MPG; EPA estimated annual fuel cost $4,350. EPA / DOE fueleconomy.gov
  30. EPA rating for 335is Convertible, 3.0L 6-cyl turbo, Automatic (S7), Premium, Rear-Wheel Drive: 17 city / 23 highway / 19 combined MPG; EPA estimated annual fuel cost $4,350. EPA / DOE fueleconomy.gov
  31. NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings, 2 DR RWD: rollover 5 stars; rollover risk 9.3%. NHTSA vehicle records
  32. NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings, C RWD: rollover 5 stars; rollover risk 9.3%. NHTSA vehicle records
  33. NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings, 2 DR AWD: rollover 5 stars; rollover risk 9.3%. NHTSA vehicle records
  34. NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings, SW AWD: rollover 4 stars; rollover risk 10.3%. NHTSA vehicle records
  35. NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings, 4 DR AWD: rollover 4 stars; rollover risk 10.3%. NHTSA vehicle records
  36. NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings, SW RWD: rollover 4 stars; rollover risk 10.3%. NHTSA vehicle records
  37. NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings, 4 DR RWD: rollover 4 stars; rollover risk 10.3%. NHTSA vehicle records
  38. NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings, C AWD: not rated. NHTSA vehicle records
  39. EPA Test Car List, 2011 BMW 3 Series with 3.0L 6-cylinder: rated 230 to 320 hp depending on version. www.epa.gov
  40. EPA Test Car List, 2011 BMW 3 Series with electric motor: rated 230 to 300 hp depending on version. www.epa.gov
  41. Transport Canada specifications via NHTSA vPIC, 3 SERIES 323i/328i 4DR SEDAN RWD: length 178 in, width 72 in, height 56 in, wheelbase 109 in, curb weight 3,362 lb (converted from centimeters and kilograms). vpic.nhtsa.dot.gov
  42. Transport Canada specifications via NHTSA vPIC, 3 SERIES 328i XDRIVE 4DR SEDAN AWD: length 178 in, width 72 in, height 56 in, wheelbase 109 in, curb weight 3,605 lb (converted from centimeters and kilograms). vpic.nhtsa.dot.gov
  43. Transport Canada specifications via NHTSA vPIC, 3 SERIES 335i 4DR SEDAN RWD: length 178 in, width 72 in, height 56 in, wheelbase 109 in, curb weight 3,594 lb (converted from centimeters and kilograms). vpic.nhtsa.dot.gov
  44. Transport Canada specifications via NHTSA vPIC, 3 SERIES 335i XDRIVE 4DR SEDAN AWD: length 178 in, width 72 in, height 56 in, wheelbase 109 in, curb weight 3,814 lb (converted from centimeters and kilograms). vpic.nhtsa.dot.gov
  45. Transport Canada specifications via NHTSA vPIC, 3 SERIES 335D 4DR SEDAN RWD: length 178 in, width 72 in, height 56 in, wheelbase 109 in, curb weight 3,825 lb (converted from centimeters and kilograms). vpic.nhtsa.dot.gov
  46. Transport Canada specifications via NHTSA vPIC, 3 SERIES CABRIOLET 328i RWD: length 181 in, width 70 in, height 54 in, wheelbase 109 in, curb weight 3,792 lb (converted from centimeters and kilograms). vpic.nhtsa.dot.gov

Complaints submitted to NHTSA by owners; unverified reports, one complaint can name several components. Complaint counts are not normalized by sales; compare years of the same model, not different models. EPA annual fuel cost uses EPA's current fuel price assumptions, not the price when the car was new. Horsepower is the rating listed for EPA test vehicles. Dimensions are Canadian-market specifications and can differ slightly from US models.