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2013 BMW 3 Series: problems, recalls and fuel economy
The 2013 BMW 3 Series has 377 owner complaints on file with NHTSA, and the engine group is the largest[1][2]. It also has 8 recalls, so check that the recall work was done before you buy[3].
Most reported problems
NHTSA has 377 owner complaints on file for this model year[1]. Of those, 36 mention a crash, 10 a fire and 22 injuries[1]. No deaths were reported[1]. These are unverified owner reports, and one complaint can name more than one component group.
| Component group | Complaints | Crashes | Fires | Injuries | Median miles at failure |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine[2] | 167 | 4 | 8 | 4 | 71,000 |
| Electrical system[6] | 83 | 3 | 0 | 2 | 65,768 |
| Air bags[7] | 66 | 15 | 2 | 15 | 46,000 |
| Power train[8] | 48 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 34,000 |
| Brakes[9] | 39 | 19 | 0 | 8 | 6,000 |
| Fuel/propulsion system[10] | 30 | 2 | 0 | 1 | 55,471 |
| Unknown or other[11] | 26 | 4 | 2 | 3 | 40,000 |
| Speed control[12] | 17 | 7 | 0 | 5 | 9,100 |
Engine complaints are the largest group, with 167 complaints and 8 fires[2]. Brakes have fewer complaints (39), but 19 of them mention a crash[9]. Air bag complaints include 15 crashes and 15 injuries[7].
We also read a small sample of complaint texts for four groups. It is not a count of all owners, but it shows what owners describe.
- Power train. In a sample of 12 texts we read, 8 describe a drivetrain or powertrain warning, a sudden loss of power, or both[8].
- Engine. In a sample of 12 texts, 4 describe sudden power loss or a drivetrain warning light, 2 describe the auto start/stop feature failing to restart the engine, and 2 describe a hard brake pedal with little braking[2].
- Air bags. In a sample of 12 texts, at least 5 describe air bag or seat belt warning lights, and 3 describe waiting for parts to finish an air bag recall repair[7].
- Electrical system. In a sample of 12 texts, owners describe a mix of problems, including door locks in 2 and iDrive or camera glitches in 2[6].
Recalls
NHTSA lists 8 recalls for this model year[3]. Each recall covers certain versions only, so the notes below say which ones. Newest first.
- Water pump connector (24V608). Dated Aug 13, 2024[13]. An electrical connector on the water pump may not be sealed well, so water can reach it and cause a short circuit[13]. That raises the risk of a fire[13]. The list of covered models includes the 328i and 328xi[13]. Dealers check the water pump and its connector, replace them if needed, and add a protective shield, free of charge[13].
- Diesel EGR cooler (21V907). Dated Nov 19, 2021[14]. This covers diesel 328d and 328d xDrive cars[14]. The EGR cooler can leak internally, and coolant can mix with soot[14]. Smoldering particles could melt the intake manifold, which raises the risk of a fire[14]. Dealers replace the EGR cooler, check the intake manifold and swap it out if it is damaged, free of charge[14]. Cars from the earlier recall 18V755 are included and need the new fix[14].
- Rear drive joint (20V185). Dated Mar 26, 2020[15]. This covers 2013 to 2016 328d xDrive sedans[15]. A damaged constant velocity joint can cut power to the rear wheels, which can affect control and raise crash risk[15]. If that happens and the parking brake is not on, a parked car can roll[15]. Dealers replace the joint and inspect the transfer case, free of charge[15].
- Driver air bag inflator (20V017). Dated Jan 15, 2020[16]. The covered list includes 2007 to 2013 328i, 328i xDrive, 335i, 335is and 335i xDrive coupes[16]. These cars may have replacement inflators that were used as a temporary fix in earlier Takata recalls[16]. An inflator can explode and throw sharp metal fragments, which risks serious injury or death[16]. BMW replaces the driver air bag, free of charge[16].
- Diesel EGR cooler, earlier recall (18V755). Dated Oct 25, 2018[17]. This covers 2013 to 2018 328d and 328d xDrive cars with the same leak and fire risk as 21V907[17]. Dealers inspect and replace the EGR cooler as needed, and replace the intake manifold if a leak already happened[17]. The later recall 21V907 includes these cars[17][14].
- Side marker lights (15V520). Dated Aug 17, 2015[18]. New software may have switched off the front side marker lights when the parking lights or headlights are on. The car is then harder to see at night, which raises crash risk. Covered cars include 2012 to 2015 320i, 328i, 335i and ActiveHybrid3 built in set date ranges[18]. Dealers upload corrected software, free of charge[18].
- Brake vacuum pump, expansion (14V627). Dated Oct 7, 2014[19]. It expands 13V454. The pump that helps the brakes work can fail because of poor lubrication, which cuts braking power and raises crash risk. Covered cars include 2012 to 2014 320i and 328i sedans[19]. Dealers install a locking ring in the camshaft to hold the seal disk in place, free of charge[19].
- Brake vacuum pump (13V454). Dated Sep 26, 2013[20]. The same lubrication problem, covering 2012 to 2014 320i, 328i, 320i xDrive and 328i xDrive sedans[20]. Dealers modify the cars to prevent the poor lubrication, free of charge[20].
Fuel economy
EPA combined ratings run from 19 to 28 MPG depending on version[21][4]. The ActiveHybrid 3 and the 320i with the automatic both rate 28 combined[4][22]. The 335is Coupe with the automatic and the 328i Coupe xDrive with the manual both rate 19[21][23]. EPA's estimated annual fuel cost runs from $2,950 to $4,350[22][21]. Every version below uses premium fuel.
| Version | City / highway / combined MPG | Est. annual fuel cost |
|---|---|---|
| 320i, 2.0L 4-cyl turbo, Automatic (S8), RWD[22] | 23 / 35 / 28 | $2,950 |
| 328i, 2.0L 4-cyl turbo, Automatic (S8), RWD[24] | 23 / 33 / 26 | $3,150 |
| 335i, 3.0L 6-cyl turbo, Automatic (S8), RWD[25] | 23 / 32 / 26 | $3,150 |
| 335i xDrive, 3.0L 6-cyl turbo, Automatic (S8), AWD[26] | 20 / 30 / 24 | $3,400 |
| 335is Coupe, 3.0L 6-cyl turbo, Automatic (AM-S7), RWD[21] | 17 / 23 / 19 | $4,350 |
| ActiveHybrid 3, 3.0L 6-cyl turbo, Automatic (S8), RWD[4] | 25 / 32 / 28 | $2,950 |
The 328i Coupe and Convertible with the 3.0L 6-cyl rate 19 to 22 combined[27][23][28][29][30][31]. EPA also lists manual versions, such as the 335i with the Manual 6-spd at 23 combined[32].
Safety ratings
NHTSA lists the 4 DR RWD version with overall 5 stars, frontal 4 stars, side 5 stars and rollover 5 stars[5]. Its rollover risk is 9.5%[5]. The same results appear under the 335i and ActiveHybrid 3 listings[33][34].
The 2 DR RWD and C RWD listings show only a rollover rating, 5 stars, with a rollover risk of 9.3%[35][36][37]. The 335is listings are not rated[38][39].
Engine and size
EPA lists these power ratings for the model year:
- 2.0L 4-cylinder: 181 to 241 hp, depending on version[40].
- 3.0L 6-cylinder: 230 to 320 hp, depending on version[41].
- Entries with an electric motor: 181 hp with the 2.0L[42], and 230 to 300 hp with the 3.0L[43].
Dimensions are Canadian-market specifications from Transport Canada via NHTSA. The 4-door sedans listed all share the same size: length 182 in, width 71 in, height 56 in and wheelbase 111 in[44]. Curb weight changes with the version.
How 2013 compares with other years
Show the numbers
| Model year | Complaints | Recalls |
|---|---|---|
| 1995 | 44 | 2 |
| 1996 | 42 | 1 |
| 1997 | 36 | 1 |
| 1998 | 56 | 0 |
| 1999 | 243 | 7 |
| 2000 | 689 | 7 |
| 2001 | 477 | 7 |
| 2002 | 399 | 7 |
| 2003 | 461 | 7 |
| 2004 | 554 | 4 |
| 2005 | 227 | 4 |
| 2006 | 1,232 | 12 |
| 2007 | 1,023 | 7 |
| 2008 | 676 | 7 |
| 2009 | 365 | 7 |
| 2010 | 265 | 10 |
| 2011 | 829 | 12 |
| 2012 | 167 | 10 |
| 2013 | 377 | 8 |
| 2014 | 403 | 12 |
| 2015 | 212 | 8 |
| 2016 | 105 | 6 |
| 2017 | 79 | 4 |
| 2018 | 73 | 7 |
| 2019 | 41 | 9 |
| 2020 | 53 | 12 |
| 2021 | 33 | 9 |
| 2022 | 8 | 3 |
| 2023 | 13 | 4 |
| 2024 | 11 | 2 |
| 2025 | 6 | 1 |
| 2026 | 1 | 0 |
These counts come from NHTSA, are not adjusted for how many cars were sold, and compare only years of the same model. Here is how 2013 sits next to the years around it[3].
| Model year | Complaints | Recalls |
|---|---|---|
| 2011[3] | 829 | 12 |
| 2012[3] | 167 | 10 |
| 2013[3] | 377 | 8 |
| 2014[3] | 403 | 12 |
| 2015[3] | 212 | 8 |
| 2016[3] | 105 | 6 |
Among the years in this table, 2013 has more complaints than 2012, 2015 and 2016, and fewer than 2011 and 2014[3]. On recalls, 2013 has 8, fewer than 2011 (12), 2012 (10) and 2014 (12), and the same as 2015 (8)[3]. Some earlier years have far more complaints, such as 2006 with 1,232[3].
Should you buy a used 2013 3 Series?
Engine complaints are the largest group (167), and in the samples we read, owners describe sudden power loss and drivetrain warnings[2][8]. Ask the seller for proof that the recalls that apply to that exact car were done, since the air bag inflator recall names serious injury or death as a risk[16] and diesel cars have two EGR cooler recalls with a fire risk[14][17]. Fuel economy varies by version, from 19 to 28 combined, so check which version you are looking at[21][4].
Frequently asked questions
- Does the 2013 BMW 3 Series have recalls?
- Yes, NHTSA lists 8[3]. They cover brake vacuum pumps (13V454, 14V627)[20][19], side marker lights (15V520)[18], diesel EGR coolers (18V755, 21V907)[17][14], the driver air bag inflator (20V017)[16], a rear drive joint (20V185)[15] and a water pump connector (24V608)[13]. Each recall covers certain versions only.
- What are the most common problems with the 2013 BMW 3 Series?
- In NHTSA complaints, the engine group is the largest with 167 of 377 complaints[2][1]. Electrical system has 83[6] and air bags 66[7]. One complaint can name more than one group.
- What gas mileage does the 2013 BMW 3 Series get?
- EPA combined ratings run from 19 to 28 MPG depending on version[21][4]. The 328i with the Automatic (S8) rates 26 combined[24].
- Is the 2013 BMW 3 Series safe?
- NHTSA gives the 4 DR RWD version 5 stars overall, with 4 stars in the frontal test[5]. Some versions, such as the 335is, are not rated[38].
- Is 2013 a better year than 2012 or 2014 for the BMW 3 Series?
- NHTSA has 377 complaints and 8 recalls for 2013, against 167 and 10 for 2012, and 403 and 12 for 2014[3]. The counts are not adjusted for sales, so they are not a reliability ranking.
Facts and sources
- NHTSA has 377 owner complaints on file for the 2013 BMW 3 Series (36 mention a crash, 10 a fire, 22 injuries, 0 deaths reported). NHTSA vehicle records
- 167 complaints name the engine component group (4 crashes, 8 fires, 4 injuries, median mileage at failure 71,000). NHTSA vehicle records
- Owner complaints and recalls for every BMW 3 Series model year (chart above). NHTSA recall database
- EPA rating for ActiveHybrid 3, 3.0L 6-cyl turbo, Automatic (S8), Premium, Rear-Wheel Drive: 25 city / 32 highway / 28 combined MPG; EPA estimated annual fuel cost $2,950. EPA / DOE fueleconomy.gov
- NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings, 4 DR RWD: overall 5 stars, frontal 4 stars, side 5 stars, rollover 5 stars; rollover risk 9.5%. NHTSA vehicle records
- 83 complaints name the electrical system component group (3 crashes, 0 fires, 2 injuries, median mileage at failure 65,768). NHTSA vehicle records
- 66 complaints name the air bags component group (15 crashes, 2 fires, 15 injuries, median mileage at failure 46,000). NHTSA vehicle records
- 48 complaints name the power train component group (1 crashes, 0 fires, 1 injuries, median mileage at failure 34,000). NHTSA vehicle records
- 39 complaints name the brakes component group (19 crashes, 0 fires, 8 injuries, median mileage at failure 6,000). NHTSA vehicle records
- 30 complaints name the fuel/propulsion system component group (2 crashes, 0 fires, 1 injuries, median mileage at failure 55,471). NHTSA vehicle records
- 26 complaints name the unknown or other component group (4 crashes, 2 fires, 3 injuries, median mileage at failure 40,000). NHTSA vehicle records
- 17 complaints name the speed control component group (7 crashes, 0 fires, 5 injuries, median mileage at failure 9,100). NHTSA vehicle records
- Recall 24V608, filed August 13, 2024: Electrical System › Wiring › Connectors / Plugs / Receptacles. NHTSA recall database
- Recall 21V907, filed November 19, 2021: Fuel System, Diesel. NHTSA recall database
- Recall 20V185, filed March 26, 2020: Power Train › Driveline › Constant Velocity Joint. NHTSA recall database
- Recall 20V017, filed January 15, 2020: Air Bags › Frontal › Driver Side › Inflator Module. NHTSA recall database
- Recall 18V755, filed October 25, 2018: Engine And Engine Cooling › Exhaust System › Emission Control › Gas Recirculation Valve (Egr Valve). NHTSA recall database
- Recall 15V520, filed August 17, 2015: Exterior Lighting. NHTSA recall database
- Recall 14V627, filed October 7, 2014: Service Brakes, Hydraulic › Power Assist › Vacuum › Hoses, Lines / Piping, And Fittings. NHTSA recall database
- Recall 13V454, filed September 26, 2013: Service Brakes, Hydraulic › Power Assist › Vacuum › Hoses, Lines / Piping, And Fittings. NHTSA recall database
- EPA rating for 335is Coupe, 3.0L 6-cyl turbo, Automatic (AM-S7), Premium, Rear-Wheel Drive: 17 city / 23 highway / 19 combined MPG; EPA estimated annual fuel cost $4,350. EPA / DOE fueleconomy.gov
- EPA rating for 320i, 2.0L 4-cyl turbo, Automatic (S8), Premium, Rear-Wheel Drive: 23 city / 35 highway / 28 combined MPG; EPA estimated annual fuel cost $2,950. EPA / DOE fueleconomy.gov
- EPA rating for 328i Coupe xDrive, 3.0L 6-cyl, Manual 6-spd, Premium, All-Wheel Drive: 16 city / 25 highway / 19 combined MPG; EPA estimated annual fuel cost $4,350. EPA / DOE fueleconomy.gov
- EPA rating for 328i, 2.0L 4-cyl turbo, Automatic (S8), Premium, Rear-Wheel Drive: 23 city / 33 highway / 26 combined MPG; EPA estimated annual fuel cost $3,150. EPA / DOE fueleconomy.gov
- EPA rating for 335i, 3.0L 6-cyl turbo, Automatic (S8), Premium, Rear-Wheel Drive: 23 city / 32 highway / 26 combined MPG; EPA estimated annual fuel cost $3,150. EPA / DOE fueleconomy.gov
- EPA rating for 335i xDrive, 3.0L 6-cyl turbo, Automatic (S8), Premium, All-Wheel Drive: 20 city / 30 highway / 24 combined MPG; EPA estimated annual fuel cost $3,400. EPA / DOE fueleconomy.gov
- EPA rating for 328i Coupe xDrive, 3.0L 6-cyl, Automatic (S6), Premium, All-Wheel Drive: 17 city / 25 highway / 20 combined MPG; EPA estimated annual fuel cost $4,100. EPA / DOE fueleconomy.gov
- EPA rating for 328i Convertible, 3.0L 6-cyl, Automatic (S6), Premium, Rear-Wheel Drive: 18 city / 26 highway / 21 combined MPG; EPA estimated annual fuel cost $3,900. EPA / DOE fueleconomy.gov
- EPA rating for 328i Convertible, 3.0L 6-cyl, Manual 6-spd, Premium, Rear-Wheel Drive: 17 city / 26 highway / 20 combined MPG; EPA estimated annual fuel cost $4,100. EPA / DOE fueleconomy.gov
- EPA rating for 328i Coupe, 3.0L 6-cyl, Automatic (S6), Premium, Rear-Wheel Drive: 18 city / 28 highway / 21 combined MPG; EPA estimated annual fuel cost $3,900. EPA / DOE fueleconomy.gov
- EPA rating for 328i Coupe, 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
- EPA rating for 335i, 3.0L 6-cyl turbo, Manual 6-spd, Premium, Rear-Wheel Drive: 20 city / 29 highway / 23 combined MPG; EPA estimated annual fuel cost $3,550. EPA / DOE fueleconomy.gov
- NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings, 4 DR RWD: overall 5 stars, frontal 4 stars, side 5 stars, rollover 5 stars; rollover risk 9.5%. NHTSA vehicle records
- NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings, 4 DR RWD: overall 5 stars, frontal 4 stars, side 5 stars, rollover 5 stars; rollover risk 9.5%. NHTSA vehicle records
- NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings, 2 DR RWD: rollover 5 stars; rollover risk 9.3%. NHTSA vehicle records
- NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings, C RWD: rollover 5 stars; rollover risk 9.3%. NHTSA vehicle records
- NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings, C RWD: rollover 5 stars; rollover risk 9.3%. NHTSA vehicle records
- NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings, C RWD: not rated. NHTSA vehicle records
- NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings, 2 DR RWD: not rated. NHTSA vehicle records
- EPA Test Car List, 2013 BMW 3 Series with 2.0L 4-cylinder: rated 181 to 241 hp depending on version. www.epa.gov
- EPA Test Car List, 2013 BMW 3 Series with 3.0L 6-cylinder: rated 230 to 320 hp depending on version. www.epa.gov
- EPA Test Car List, 2013 BMW 3 Series with electric motor: rated 181 hp. www.epa.gov
- EPA Test Car List, 2013 BMW 3 Series with electric motor: rated 230 to 300 hp depending on version. www.epa.gov
- Transport Canada specifications via NHTSA vPIC, 3 SERIES 320i 4DR SEDAN RWD: length 182 in, width 71 in, height 56 in, wheelbase 111 in, curb weight 3,252 lb (converted from centimeters and kilograms). vpic.nhtsa.dot.gov
- Transport Canada specifications via NHTSA vPIC, 3 SERIES 328i 4DR SEDAN RWD: length 182 in, width 71 in, height 56 in, wheelbase 111 in, curb weight 3,406 lb (converted from centimeters and kilograms). vpic.nhtsa.dot.gov
- Transport Canada specifications via NHTSA vPIC, 3 SERIES 328i xDRIVE 4DR SEDAN AWD: length 182 in, width 71 in, height 56 in, wheelbase 111 in, curb weight 3,594 lb (converted from centimeters and kilograms). vpic.nhtsa.dot.gov
- Transport Canada specifications via NHTSA vPIC, 3 SERIES 335i 4DR SEDAN RWD: length 182 in, width 71 in, height 56 in, wheelbase 111 in, curb weight 3,571 lb (converted from centimeters and kilograms). vpic.nhtsa.dot.gov
- Transport Canada specifications via NHTSA vPIC, 3 SERIES 335i xDRIVE 4DR SEDAN AWD: length 182 in, width 71 in, height 56 in, wheelbase 111 in, curb weight 3,710 lb (converted from centimeters and kilograms). vpic.nhtsa.dot.gov
- Transport Canada specifications via NHTSA vPIC, 3 SERIES ACTIVEHYBRID 3 4DR SEDAN RWD: length 182 in, width 71 in, height 56 in, wheelbase 111 in, curb weight 3,803 lb (converted from centimeters and kilograms). vpic.nhtsa.dot.gov