BMW 3 Series F30
2011 to 2018
Based on 5 sources, each with its own reference date
Based on 5 sources, see the topics below
Key points to know
- Recalls
3 results 路 NHTSA, data up to and including 20/10/2023
- Recalls
1 result 路 EU Safety Gate, data up to and including 18/09/2026
- Complaint patterns
7 results 路 NHTSA, data up to and including 20/10/2023
- Manufacturer bulletins
8 results 路 NHTSA Manufacturer Communications, data up to and including 2018
- Safety rating
3 results 路 NHTSA SafetyRatings, data up to and including 2018
Recalls
Our EU Safety Gate feed only goes back to 17 July 2026
Show the full list (3)
Official item from NHTSA: engine and engine cooling / cooling system / fan
Campaign number: 12E029000.
Official item from NHTSA: engine and engine cooling / exhaust system / emission control / crankcase (pcv)
Campaign number: 22V119000.
Official item from NHTSA: engine and engine cooling / engine
Campaign number: 23V707000.
Show the full list (1)
Official item from EU Safety Gate
Complaint patterns
US complaint data
Official item from NHTSA: engine
24 of the 93 of all NHTSA complaints for this model year.
Official item from NHTSA: electrical system
23 of the 93 of all NHTSA complaints for this model year.
Official item from NHTSA: service brakes
18 of the 93 of all NHTSA complaints for this model year.
Official item from NHTSA: unknown or other component
16 of the 93 of all NHTSA complaints for this model year.
Official item from NHTSA: power train
13 of the 93 of all NHTSA complaints for this model year.
Official item from NHTSA: engine and engine cooling
12 of the 93 of all NHTSA complaints for this model year.
Official item from NHTSA: fuel/propulsion system
10 of the 59 of all NHTSA complaints for this model year.
Manufacturer bulletins
Not a recognised defect, only a bulletin from the manufacturer
NHTSA manufacturer communications: 3 SERIES
The manufacturer has published 186 technical bulletins about 3 SERIES, mainly about ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (50 of 186), EQUIPMENT (45 of 186), ENGINE (28 of 186). These are messages from the manufacturer to the dealer network, for example repair instructions, software updates or warranty programmes. They are not recalls themselves and not a proven problem with this model. That also holds when the text mentions a recall. The count says nothing about the quality of this car.
NHTSA manufacturer communications: 3 SERIES
The manufacturer has published 642 technical bulletins about 3 SERIES, mainly about ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (151 of 642), EQUIPMENT (126 of 642), ENGINE (80 of 642). These are messages from the manufacturer to the dealer network, for example repair instructions, software updates or warranty programmes. They are not recalls themselves and not a proven problem with this model. That also holds when the text mentions a recall. The count says nothing about the quality of this car.
NHTSA manufacturer communications: 3 SERIES
The manufacturer has published 687 technical bulletins about 3 SERIES, mainly about ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (165 of 687), EQUIPMENT (127 of 687), ENGINE (78 of 687). These are messages from the manufacturer to the dealer network, for example repair instructions, software updates or warranty programmes. They are not recalls themselves and not a proven problem with this model. That also holds when the text mentions a recall. The count says nothing about the quality of this car.
NHTSA manufacturer communications: 320I
The manufacturer has published 573 technical bulletins about 320I, mainly about ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (134 of 573), EQUIPMENT (109 of 573), ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING (66 of 573). These are messages from the manufacturer to the dealer network, for example repair instructions, software updates or warranty programmes. They are not recalls themselves and not a proven problem with this model. That also holds when the text mentions a recall. The count says nothing about the quality of this car.
NHTSA manufacturer communications: 320I
The manufacturer has published 505 technical bulletins about 320I, mainly about ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (120 of 505), EQUIPMENT (101 of 505), ENGINE (55 of 505). These are messages from the manufacturer to the dealer network, for example repair instructions, software updates or warranty programmes. They are not recalls themselves and not a proven problem with this model. That also holds when the text mentions a recall. The count says nothing about the quality of this car.
NHTSA manufacturer communications: 320I
The manufacturer has published 465 technical bulletins about 320I, mainly about ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (110 of 465), EQUIPMENT (87 of 465), ENGINE (54 of 465). These are messages from the manufacturer to the dealer network, for example repair instructions, software updates or warranty programmes. They are not recalls themselves and not a proven problem with this model. That also holds when the text mentions a recall. The count says nothing about the quality of this car.
NHTSA manufacturer communications: 320I
The manufacturer has published 389 technical bulletins about 320I, mainly about ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (89 of 389), EQUIPMENT (72 of 389), ENGINE (43 of 389). These are messages from the manufacturer to the dealer network, for example repair instructions, software updates or warranty programmes. They are not recalls themselves and not a proven problem with this model. That also holds when the text mentions a recall. The count says nothing about the quality of this car.
NHTSA manufacturer communications: 320I
The manufacturer has published 129 technical bulletins about 320I, mainly about ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (31 of 129), EQUIPMENT (25 of 129), ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING (16 of 129). These are messages from the manufacturer to the dealer network, for example repair instructions, software updates or warranty programmes. They are not recalls themselves and not a proven problem with this model. That also holds when the text mentions a recall. The count says nothing about the quality of this car.
Safety rating
American crash test (NHTSA)
NHTSA safety rating: 3 SERIES
NHTSA scores the 3 SERIES from model year 2016 at 5 out of 5 stars (front 4/5, side 5/5, rollover 5/5). This is an American test. It follows the NHTSA protocol and is not a worldwide safety score. Other countries test differently, for example Euro NCAP, and can reach another rating.
NHTSA safety rating: 3 SERIES
NHTSA scores the 3 SERIES from model year 2017 at 5 out of 5 stars (front 4/5, side 5/5, rollover 5/5). This is an American test. It follows the NHTSA protocol and is not a worldwide safety score. Other countries test differently, for example Euro NCAP, and can reach another rating.
NHTSA safety rating: 3 SERIES
NHTSA scores the 3 SERIES from model year 2018 at 5 out of 5 stars (front 4/5, side 5/5, rollover 5/5). This is an American test. It follows the NHTSA protocol and is not a worldwide safety score. Other countries test differently, for example Euro NCAP, and can reach another rating.
Insurance loss
Compared with the US average. Not a chance of defects
IIHS/HLDI loss index: 3 series 2dr 2WD
According to IIHS/HLDI, the "all coverages combined" loss index for 3 series 2dr 2WD is 137. Basis 100 is the US national average for all passenger cars under this coverage. Note: this is an index figure or rating class, an insurance statistic about the whole model. It is not a chance of defects and not a prediction for this car.
IIHS/HLDI loss index: 3 series 4dr 2WD
According to IIHS/HLDI, the "all coverages combined" loss index for 3 series 4dr 2WD is 118. Basis 100 is the US national average for all passenger cars under this coverage. Note: this is an index figure or rating class, an insurance statistic about the whole model. It is not a chance of defects and not a prediction for this car.
IIHS/HLDI loss index: 3 series 4dr 2WD
According to IIHS/HLDI, the "all coverages combined" loss index for 3 series 4dr 2WD is 117. Basis 100 is the US national average for all passenger cars under this coverage. Note: this is an index figure or rating class, an insurance statistic about the whole model. It is not a chance of defects and not a prediction for this car.
IIHS/HLDI loss index: 3 series 4dr 2WD
According to IIHS/HLDI, the "all coverages combined" loss index for 3 series 4dr 2WD is 118. Basis 100 is the US national average for all passenger cars under this coverage. Note: this is an index figure or rating class, an insurance statistic about the whole model. It is not a chance of defects and not a prediction for this car.
IIHS/HLDI loss index: 3 series 4dr
According to IIHS/HLDI, the "all coverages combined" loss index for 3 series 4dr is 123. Basis 100 is the US national average for all passenger cars under this coverage. Note: this is an index figure or rating class, an insurance statistic about the whole model. It is not a chance of defects and not a prediction for this car.
IIHS/HLDI loss index: 3 series 4dr
According to IIHS/HLDI, the "all coverages combined" loss index for 3 series 4dr is 121. Basis 100 is the US national average for all passenger cars under this coverage. Note: this is an index figure or rating class, an insurance statistic about the whole model. It is not a chance of defects and not a prediction for this car.
IIHS/HLDI loss index: 3 series 4dr
According to IIHS/HLDI, the "all coverages combined" loss index for 3 series 4dr is 116. Basis 100 is the US national average for all passenger cars under this coverage. Note: this is an index figure or rating class, an insurance statistic about the whole model. It is not a chance of defects and not a prediction for this car.
Inspection statistics for these model years
- 6 to 8 years: 45,821 inspections
- 9 to 11 years: 63,036 inspections
- 12 to 14 years: 81,914 inspections
- 15 to 19 years: 144,844 inspections
15 to 19 years: 144,844 inspections
Official inspection point: Chassis and chassis attachments
Note: this is a share of the cars tested in this age band. It is not a chance of defects and predicts nothing for this car. 49512 of the 144844 Czech inspection data, age 15-19 yr.
Official inspection point: Braking equipment
Note: this is a share of the cars tested in this age band. It is not a chance of defects and predicts nothing for this car. 38149 of the 144844 Czech inspection data, age 15-19 yr.
Official inspection point: Lighting equipment and parts of the electrical system
Note: this is a share of the cars tested in this age band. It is not a chance of defects and predicts nothing for this car. 33384 of the 144844 Czech inspection data, age 15-19 yr.
Official inspection point: Axles, wheels, tyres, suspension
Note: this is a share of the cars tested in this age band. It is not a chance of defects and predicts nothing for this car. 31245 of the 144844 Czech inspection data, age 15-19 yr.
Official inspection point: Steering
Note: this is a share of the cars tested in this age band. It is not a chance of defects and predicts nothing for this car. 16686 of the 144844 Czech inspection data, age 15-19 yr.
Show more age groups (3)
6 to 8 years: 45,821 inspections
Official inspection point: Chassis and chassis attachments
Note: this is a share of the cars tested in this age band. It is not a chance of defects and predicts nothing for this car. 2641 of the 45821 Czech inspection data, age 6-8 yr.
Official inspection point: Braking equipment
Note: this is a share of the cars tested in this age band. It is not a chance of defects and predicts nothing for this car. 2139 of the 45821 Czech inspection data, age 6-8 yr.
Official inspection point: Axles, wheels, tyres, suspension
Note: this is a share of the cars tested in this age band. It is not a chance of defects and predicts nothing for this car. 2131 of the 45821 Czech inspection data, age 6-8 yr.
Official inspection point: Lighting equipment and parts of the electrical system
Note: this is a share of the cars tested in this age band. It is not a chance of defects and predicts nothing for this car. 1821 of the 45821 Czech inspection data, age 6-8 yr.
Official inspection point: Visibility
Note: this is a share of the cars tested in this age band. It is not a chance of defects and predicts nothing for this car. 1293 of the 45821 Czech inspection data, age 6-8 yr.
9 to 11 years: 63,036 inspections
Official inspection point: Chassis and chassis attachments
Note: this is a share of the cars tested in this age band. It is not a chance of defects and predicts nothing for this car. 7722 of the 63036 Czech inspection data, age 9-11 yr.
Official inspection point: Axles, wheels, tyres, suspension
Note: this is a share of the cars tested in this age band. It is not a chance of defects and predicts nothing for this car. 6504 of the 63036 Czech inspection data, age 9-11 yr.
Official inspection point: Braking equipment
Note: this is a share of the cars tested in this age band. It is not a chance of defects and predicts nothing for this car. 6079 of the 63036 Czech inspection data, age 9-11 yr.
Official inspection point: Lighting equipment and parts of the electrical system
Note: this is a share of the cars tested in this age band. It is not a chance of defects and predicts nothing for this car. 5488 of the 63036 Czech inspection data, age 9-11 yr.
Official inspection point: Visibility
Note: this is a share of the cars tested in this age band. It is not a chance of defects and predicts nothing for this car. 2530 of the 63036 Czech inspection data, age 9-11 yr.
12 to 14 years: 81,914 inspections
Official inspection point: Chassis and chassis attachments
Note: this is a share of the cars tested in this age band. It is not a chance of defects and predicts nothing for this car. 19195 of the 81914 Czech inspection data, age 12-14 yr.
Official inspection point: Braking equipment
Note: this is a share of the cars tested in this age band. It is not a chance of defects and predicts nothing for this car. 13916 of the 81914 Czech inspection data, age 12-14 yr.
Official inspection point: Axles, wheels, tyres, suspension
Note: this is a share of the cars tested in this age band. It is not a chance of defects and predicts nothing for this car. 13895 of the 81914 Czech inspection data, age 12-14 yr.
Official inspection point: Lighting equipment and parts of the electrical system
Note: this is a share of the cars tested in this age band. It is not a chance of defects and predicts nothing for this car. 12718 of the 81914 Czech inspection data, age 12-14 yr.
Official inspection point: Steering
Note: this is a share of the cars tested in this age band. It is not a chance of defects and predicts nothing for this car. 5505 of the 81914 Czech inspection data, age 12-14 yr.
- 6 to 8 years: 10,229 inspections
- 9 to 11 years: 78,607 inspections
- 12 to 14 years: 64,846 inspections
- 15 to 17 years: 35,449 inspections
9 to 11 years: 78,607 inspections
Official item from DVSA MOT-statistiek
Note: this is a share of the cars tested in this age band. It is not a chance of defects and predicts nothing for this car. 18073 of the 78607 British MOT statistics, age 9-11 yr.
Official item from DVSA MOT-statistiek
Note: this is a share of the cars tested in this age band. It is not a chance of defects and predicts nothing for this car. 2803 of the 14572 British MOT statistics, age 9-11 yr.
Official item from DVSA MOT-statistiek
Note: this is a share of the cars tested in this age band. It is not a chance of defects and predicts nothing for this car. 212 of the 1152 British MOT statistics, age 9-11 yr.
Show more age groups (3)
6 to 8 years: 10,229 inspections
Official item from DVSA MOT-statistiek
Note: this is a share of the cars tested in this age band. It is not a chance of defects and predicts nothing for this car. 1741 of the 10229 British MOT statistics, age 6-8 yr.
Official item from DVSA MOT-statistiek
Note: this is a share of the cars tested in this age band. It is not a chance of defects and predicts nothing for this car. 7819 of the 50941 British MOT statistics, age 6-8 yr.
Official item from DVSA MOT-statistiek
Note: this is a share of the cars tested in this age band. It is not a chance of defects and predicts nothing for this car. 2669 of the 19785 British MOT statistics, age 6-8 yr.
12 to 14 years: 64,846 inspections
Official item from DVSA MOT-statistiek
Note: this is a share of the cars tested in this age band. It is not a chance of defects and predicts nothing for this car. 20524 of the 64846 British MOT statistics, age 12-14 yr.
Official item from DVSA MOT-statistiek
Note: this is a share of the cars tested in this age band. It is not a chance of defects and predicts nothing for this car. 5269 of the 18703 British MOT statistics, age 12-14 yr.
15 to 17 years: 35,449 inspections
Official item from DVSA MOT-statistiek
Note: this is a share of the cars tested in this age band. It is not a chance of defects and predicts nothing for this car. 11821 of the 35449 British MOT statistics, age 15-17 yr.
Official item from DVSA MOT-statistiek
Note: this is a share of the cars tested in this age band. It is not a chance of defects and predicts nothing for this car. 8389 of the 26697 British MOT statistics, age 15-17 yr.
- 6 to 8 years: 13,221 inspections
- 9 to 11 years: 22,316 inspections
- 12 to 14 years: 18,953 inspections
- 15 to 19 years: 32,817 inspections
15 to 19 years: 32,817 inspections
Official inspection point: Lighting equipment and parts of the electrical system
Note: this is a share of the cars tested in this age band. It is not a chance of defects and predicts nothing for this car. 6204 of the 32817 Dutch inspection data, age 15-19 yr.
Official inspection point: Axles, wheels, tyres, suspension
Note: this is a share of the cars tested in this age band. It is not a chance of defects and predicts nothing for this car. 6149 of the 32817 Dutch inspection data, age 15-19 yr.
Official inspection point: Braking equipment
Note: this is a share of the cars tested in this age band. It is not a chance of defects and predicts nothing for this car. 3315 of the 32817 Dutch inspection data, age 15-19 yr.
Official inspection point: Visibility
Note: this is a share of the cars tested in this age band. It is not a chance of defects and predicts nothing for this car. 1375 of the 32817 Dutch inspection data, age 15-19 yr.
Official inspection point: Chassis and chassis attachments
Note: this is a share of the cars tested in this age band. It is not a chance of defects and predicts nothing for this car. 773 of the 32817 Dutch inspection data, age 15-19 yr.
Show more age groups (3)
6 to 8 years: 13,221 inspections
Official inspection point: Axles, wheels, tyres, suspension
Note: this is a share of the cars tested in this age band. It is not a chance of defects and predicts nothing for this car. 1717 of the 13221 Dutch inspection data, age 6-8 yr.
Official inspection point: Lighting equipment and parts of the electrical system
Note: this is a share of the cars tested in this age band. It is not a chance of defects and predicts nothing for this car. 902 of the 13221 Dutch inspection data, age 6-8 yr.
Official inspection point: Visibility
Note: this is a share of the cars tested in this age band. It is not a chance of defects and predicts nothing for this car. 203 of the 13221 Dutch inspection data, age 6-8 yr.
Official inspection point: Braking equipment
Note: this is a share of the cars tested in this age band. It is not a chance of defects and predicts nothing for this car. 173 of the 13221 Dutch inspection data, age 6-8 yr.
Official inspection point: Chassis and chassis attachments
Note: this is a share of the cars tested in this age band. It is not a chance of defects and predicts nothing for this car. 53 of the 13221 Dutch inspection data, age 6-8 yr.
9 to 11 years: 22,316 inspections
Official inspection point: Axles, wheels, tyres, suspension
Note: this is a share of the cars tested in this age band. It is not a chance of defects and predicts nothing for this car. 3197 of the 22316 Dutch inspection data, age 9-11 yr.
Official inspection point: Lighting equipment and parts of the electrical system
Note: this is a share of the cars tested in this age band. It is not a chance of defects and predicts nothing for this car. 2144 of the 22316 Dutch inspection data, age 9-11 yr.
Official inspection point: Braking equipment
Note: this is a share of the cars tested in this age band. It is not a chance of defects and predicts nothing for this car. 452 of the 22316 Dutch inspection data, age 9-11 yr.
Official inspection point: Visibility
Note: this is a share of the cars tested in this age band. It is not a chance of defects and predicts nothing for this car. 446 of the 22316 Dutch inspection data, age 9-11 yr.
Official inspection point: Chassis and chassis attachments
Note: this is a share of the cars tested in this age band. It is not a chance of defects and predicts nothing for this car. 142 of the 22316 Dutch inspection data, age 9-11 yr.
12 to 14 years: 18,953 inspections
Official inspection point: Axles, wheels, tyres, suspension
Note: this is a share of the cars tested in this age band. It is not a chance of defects and predicts nothing for this car. 3275 of the 18953 Dutch inspection data, age 12-14 yr.
Official inspection point: Lighting equipment and parts of the electrical system
Note: this is a share of the cars tested in this age band. It is not a chance of defects and predicts nothing for this car. 2378 of the 18953 Dutch inspection data, age 12-14 yr.
Official inspection point: Braking equipment
Note: this is a share of the cars tested in this age band. It is not a chance of defects and predicts nothing for this car. 658 of the 18953 Dutch inspection data, age 12-14 yr.
Official inspection point: Visibility
Note: this is a share of the cars tested in this age band. It is not a chance of defects and predicts nothing for this car. 565 of the 18953 Dutch inspection data, age 12-14 yr.
Official inspection point: Chassis and chassis attachments
Note: this is a share of the cars tested in this age band. It is not a chance of defects and predicts nothing for this car. 290 of the 18953 Dutch inspection data, age 12-14 yr.
- 6 to 8 years: 1,456 inspections
- 9 to 11 years: 1,599 inspections
- 12 to 14 years: 2,678 inspections
- 15 to 19 years: 3,942 inspections
15 to 19 years: 3,942 inspections
Official inspection point: Braking equipment
Note: this is a share of the cars tested in this age band. It is not a chance of defects and predicts nothing for this car. 1854 of the 3942 Norwegian inspection data, age 15-19 yr.
Official inspection point: Lighting equipment and parts of the electrical system
Note: this is a share of the cars tested in this age band. It is not a chance of defects and predicts nothing for this car. 1575 of the 3942 Norwegian inspection data, age 15-19 yr.
Official inspection point: Axles, wheels, tyres, suspension
Note: this is a share of the cars tested in this age band. It is not a chance of defects and predicts nothing for this car. 1498 of the 3942 Norwegian inspection data, age 15-19 yr.
Official inspection point: Chassis and chassis attachments
Note: this is a share of the cars tested in this age band. It is not a chance of defects and predicts nothing for this car. 708 of the 3942 Norwegian inspection data, age 15-19 yr.
Official inspection point: Nuisance
Note: this is a share of the cars tested in this age band. It is not a chance of defects and predicts nothing for this car. 535 of the 3942 Norwegian inspection data, age 15-19 yr.
Show more age groups (3)
6 to 8 years: 1,456 inspections
Official inspection point: Axles, wheels, tyres, suspension
Note: this is a share of the cars tested in this age band. It is not a chance of defects and predicts nothing for this car. 190 of the 1456 Norwegian inspection data, age 6-8 yr.
Official inspection point: Braking equipment
Note: this is a share of the cars tested in this age band. It is not a chance of defects and predicts nothing for this car. 182 of the 1456 Norwegian inspection data, age 6-8 yr.
Official inspection point: Lighting equipment and parts of the electrical system
Note: this is a share of the cars tested in this age band. It is not a chance of defects and predicts nothing for this car. 153 of the 1456 Norwegian inspection data, age 6-8 yr.
Official inspection point: Visibility
Note: this is a share of the cars tested in this age band. It is not a chance of defects and predicts nothing for this car. 52 of the 1456 Norwegian inspection data, age 6-8 yr.
Official inspection point: Nuisance
Note: this is a share of the cars tested in this age band. It is not a chance of defects and predicts nothing for this car. 36 of the 1456 Norwegian inspection data, age 6-8 yr.
9 to 11 years: 1,599 inspections
Official inspection point: Braking equipment
Note: this is a share of the cars tested in this age band. It is not a chance of defects and predicts nothing for this car. 353 of the 1599 Norwegian inspection data, age 9-11 yr.
Official inspection point: Lighting equipment and parts of the electrical system
Note: this is a share of the cars tested in this age band. It is not a chance of defects and predicts nothing for this car. 280 of the 1599 Norwegian inspection data, age 9-11 yr.
Official inspection point: Axles, wheels, tyres, suspension
Note: this is a share of the cars tested in this age band. It is not a chance of defects and predicts nothing for this car. 223 of the 1599 Norwegian inspection data, age 9-11 yr.
Official inspection point: Chassis and chassis attachments
Note: this is a share of the cars tested in this age band. It is not a chance of defects and predicts nothing for this car. 53 of the 1599 Norwegian inspection data, age 9-11 yr.
Official inspection point: Other equipment
Note: this is a share of the cars tested in this age band. It is not a chance of defects and predicts nothing for this car. 52 of the 1599 Norwegian inspection data, age 9-11 yr.
12 to 14 years: 2,678 inspections
Official inspection point: Braking equipment
Note: this is a share of the cars tested in this age band. It is not a chance of defects and predicts nothing for this car. 862 of the 2678 Norwegian inspection data, age 12-14 yr.
Official inspection point: Axles, wheels, tyres, suspension
Note: this is a share of the cars tested in this age band. It is not a chance of defects and predicts nothing for this car. 792 of the 2678 Norwegian inspection data, age 12-14 yr.
Official inspection point: Lighting equipment and parts of the electrical system
Note: this is a share of the cars tested in this age band. It is not a chance of defects and predicts nothing for this car. 771 of the 2678 Norwegian inspection data, age 12-14 yr.
Official inspection point: Chassis and chassis attachments
Note: this is a share of the cars tested in this age band. It is not a chance of defects and predicts nothing for this car. 170 of the 2678 Norwegian inspection data, age 12-14 yr.
Official inspection point: Nuisance
Note: this is a share of the cars tested in this age band. It is not a chance of defects and predicts nothing for this car. 147 of the 2678 Norwegian inspection data, age 12-14 yr.
- 6 to 8 years: 2,560 inspections
- 9 to 11 years: 5,872 inspections
- 12 to 14 years: 6,411 inspections
- 15 to 19 years: 11,862 inspections
15 to 19 years: 11,862 inspections
Official inspection point: Axles, wheels and suspension
Note: these are fail items, not tests. One car can fail on several items in the same test. This figure can therefore be higher than the share of cars that failed. 7335 fail items across 11862 Finnish inspection data, age 15-19 yr.
Official inspection point: Lighting and electrical equipment
Note: these are fail items, not tests. One car can fail on several items in the same test. This figure can therefore be higher than the share of cars that failed. 6801 fail items across 11862 Finnish inspection data, age 15-19 yr.
Official inspection point: Braking systems
Note: these are fail items, not tests. One car can fail on several items in the same test. This figure can therefore be higher than the share of cars that failed. 3841 fail items across 11862 Finnish inspection data, age 15-19 yr.
Official inspection point: Environmental nuisance
Note: these are fail items, not tests. One car can fail on several items in the same test. This figure can therefore be higher than the share of cars that failed. 2040 fail items across 11862 Finnish inspection data, age 15-19 yr.
Official inspection point: Test drive and visibility
Note: these are fail items, not tests. One car can fail on several items in the same test. This figure can therefore be higher than the share of cars that failed. 2016 fail items across 11862 Finnish inspection data, age 15-19 yr.
Show more age groups (3)
6 to 8 years: 2,560 inspections
Official inspection point: Axles, wheels and suspension
Note: these are fail items, not tests. One car can fail on several items in the same test. This figure can therefore be higher than the share of cars that failed. 337 fail items across 2560 Finnish inspection data, age 6-8 yr.
Official inspection point: Lighting and electrical equipment
Note: these are fail items, not tests. One car can fail on several items in the same test. This figure can therefore be higher than the share of cars that failed. 177 fail items across 2560 Finnish inspection data, age 6-8 yr.
Official inspection point: Test drive and visibility
Note: these are fail items, not tests. One car can fail on several items in the same test. This figure can therefore be higher than the share of cars that failed. 147 fail items across 2560 Finnish inspection data, age 6-8 yr.
Official inspection point: Environmental nuisance
Note: these are fail items, not tests. One car can fail on several items in the same test. This figure can therefore be higher than the share of cars that failed. 83 fail items across 2560 Finnish inspection data, age 6-8 yr.
Official inspection point: Vehicle identification
Note: these are fail items, not tests. One car can fail on several items in the same test. This figure can therefore be higher than the share of cars that failed. 49 fail items across 2560 Finnish inspection data, age 6-8 yr.
9 to 11 years: 5,872 inspections
Official inspection point: Axles, wheels and suspension
Note: these are fail items, not tests. One car can fail on several items in the same test. This figure can therefore be higher than the share of cars that failed. 1091 fail items across 5872 Finnish inspection data, age 9-11 yr.
Official inspection point: Lighting and electrical equipment
Note: these are fail items, not tests. One car can fail on several items in the same test. This figure can therefore be higher than the share of cars that failed. 893 fail items across 5872 Finnish inspection data, age 9-11 yr.
Official inspection point: Braking systems
Note: these are fail items, not tests. One car can fail on several items in the same test. This figure can therefore be higher than the share of cars that failed. 546 fail items across 5872 Finnish inspection data, age 9-11 yr.
Official inspection point: Test drive and visibility
Note: these are fail items, not tests. One car can fail on several items in the same test. This figure can therefore be higher than the share of cars that failed. 475 fail items across 5872 Finnish inspection data, age 9-11 yr.
Official inspection point: Environmental nuisance
Note: these are fail items, not tests. One car can fail on several items in the same test. This figure can therefore be higher than the share of cars that failed. 192 fail items across 5872 Finnish inspection data, age 9-11 yr.
12 to 14 years: 6,411 inspections
Official inspection point: Axles, wheels and suspension
Note: these are fail items, not tests. One car can fail on several items in the same test. This figure can therefore be higher than the share of cars that failed. 2171 fail items across 6411 Finnish inspection data, age 12-14 yr.
Official inspection point: Lighting and electrical equipment
Note: these are fail items, not tests. One car can fail on several items in the same test. This figure can therefore be higher than the share of cars that failed. 2039 fail items across 6411 Finnish inspection data, age 12-14 yr.
Official inspection point: Braking systems
Note: these are fail items, not tests. One car can fail on several items in the same test. This figure can therefore be higher than the share of cars that failed. 959 fail items across 6411 Finnish inspection data, age 12-14 yr.
Official inspection point: Test drive and visibility
Note: these are fail items, not tests. One car can fail on several items in the same test. This figure can therefore be higher than the share of cars that failed. 703 fail items across 6411 Finnish inspection data, age 12-14 yr.
Official inspection point: Environmental nuisance
Note: these are fail items, not tests. One car can fail on several items in the same test. This figure can therefore be higher than the share of cars that failed. 305 fail items across 6411 Finnish inspection data, age 12-14 yr.
- 6 to 8 years: 4,331 inspections
- 9 to 11 years: 4,691 inspections
- 12 to 14 years: 6,866 inspections
- 15 to 19 years: 7,841 inspections
15 to 19 years: 7,841 inspections
Official inspection point: Steering, suspension, wheels and tyres
Note: these are fail items, not tests. One car can fail on several items in the same test. This figure can therefore be higher than the share of cars that failed. 5002 fail items across 7841 Irish inspection data, age 15-19 yr.
Official inspection point: Lighting equipment and parts of the electrical system
Note: these are fail items, not tests. One car can fail on several items in the same test. This figure can therefore be higher than the share of cars that failed. 2952 fail items across 7841 Irish inspection data, age 15-19 yr.
Official inspection point: Braking equipment
Note: these are fail items, not tests. One car can fail on several items in the same test. This figure can therefore be higher than the share of cars that failed. 2942 fail items across 7841 Irish inspection data, age 15-19 yr.
Official inspection point: Steering
Note: these are fail items, not tests. One car can fail on several items in the same test. This figure can therefore be higher than the share of cars that failed. 2314 fail items across 7841 Irish inspection data, age 15-19 yr.
Official inspection point: Nuisance
Note: these are fail items, not tests. One car can fail on several items in the same test. This figure can therefore be higher than the share of cars that failed. 1277 fail items across 7841 Irish inspection data, age 15-19 yr.
Show more age groups (3)
6 to 8 years: 4,331 inspections
Official inspection point: Steering, suspension, wheels and tyres
Note: these are fail items, not tests. One car can fail on several items in the same test. This figure can therefore be higher than the share of cars that failed. 1011 fail items across 4331 Irish inspection data, age 6-8 yr.
Official inspection point: Lighting equipment and parts of the electrical system
Note: these are fail items, not tests. One car can fail on several items in the same test. This figure can therefore be higher than the share of cars that failed. 506 fail items across 4331 Irish inspection data, age 6-8 yr.
Official inspection point: Other equipment
Note: these are fail items, not tests. One car can fail on several items in the same test. This figure can therefore be higher than the share of cars that failed. 370 fail items across 4331 Irish inspection data, age 6-8 yr.
Official inspection point: Braking equipment
Note: these are fail items, not tests. One car can fail on several items in the same test. This figure can therefore be higher than the share of cars that failed. 206 fail items across 4331 Irish inspection data, age 6-8 yr.
Official inspection point: Steering
Note: these are fail items, not tests. One car can fail on several items in the same test. This figure can therefore be higher than the share of cars that failed. 172 fail items across 4331 Irish inspection data, age 6-8 yr.
9 to 11 years: 4,691 inspections
Official inspection point: Steering, suspension, wheels and tyres
Note: these are fail items, not tests. One car can fail on several items in the same test. This figure can therefore be higher than the share of cars that failed. 1450 fail items across 4691 Irish inspection data, age 9-11 yr.
Official inspection point: Lighting equipment and parts of the electrical system
Note: these are fail items, not tests. One car can fail on several items in the same test. This figure can therefore be higher than the share of cars that failed. 1233 fail items across 4691 Irish inspection data, age 9-11 yr.
Official inspection point: Braking equipment
Note: these are fail items, not tests. One car can fail on several items in the same test. This figure can therefore be higher than the share of cars that failed. 511 fail items across 4691 Irish inspection data, age 9-11 yr.
Official inspection point: Other equipment
Note: these are fail items, not tests. One car can fail on several items in the same test. This figure can therefore be higher than the share of cars that failed. 476 fail items across 4691 Irish inspection data, age 9-11 yr.
Official inspection point: Steering
Note: these are fail items, not tests. One car can fail on several items in the same test. This figure can therefore be higher than the share of cars that failed. 324 fail items across 4691 Irish inspection data, age 9-11 yr.
12 to 14 years: 6,866 inspections
Official inspection point: Steering, suspension, wheels and tyres
Note: these are fail items, not tests. One car can fail on several items in the same test. This figure can therefore be higher than the share of cars that failed. 3332 fail items across 6866 Irish inspection data, age 12-14 yr.
Official inspection point: Lighting equipment and parts of the electrical system
Note: these are fail items, not tests. One car can fail on several items in the same test. This figure can therefore be higher than the share of cars that failed. 2603 fail items across 6866 Irish inspection data, age 12-14 yr.
Official inspection point: Braking equipment
Note: these are fail items, not tests. One car can fail on several items in the same test. This figure can therefore be higher than the share of cars that failed. 1384 fail items across 6866 Irish inspection data, age 12-14 yr.
Official inspection point: Steering
Note: these are fail items, not tests. One car can fail on several items in the same test. This figure can therefore be higher than the share of cars that failed. 1171 fail items across 6866 Irish inspection data, age 12-14 yr.
Official inspection point: Other equipment
Note: these are fail items, not tests. One car can fail on several items in the same test. This figure can therefore be higher than the share of cars that failed. 825 fail items across 6866 Irish inspection data, age 12-14 yr.
See the inspection statistics for all generations of 3 Series
Go to 3 SeriesInspections by country and age
This table shows, per age, how many cars of this model fail inspection, by country. An index of 100 is that country's average for that age.
| Age | Netherlands | United Kingdom | Czechia | Ireland | NO |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6-8 years | 20.5% failed (2711 of 13221) | 15.1% failed (12229 of 80955) | No data | 33.8% failed (1464 of 4331) | 34.2% failed (498 of 1456) |
| 9-11 years | 24.3% failed (5422 of 22316) | 22.4% failed (21088 of 94331) | No data | 46.5% failed (2179 of 4691) | 42.7% failed (683 of 1599) |
| 12-14 years | 30.4% failed (5755 of 18953) | 30.9% failed (25793 of 83549) | 8.5% failed (99 of 1159) | 60.3% failed (4143 of 6866) | 57.3% failed (1535 of 2678) |
| 15-19 years | 39.3% failed (12885 of 32817) | 32.7% failed (33343 of 102065) | 7.5% failed (549 of 7309) | 68.3% failed (5358 of 7841) | 71.6% failed (2823 of 3942) |
Czechia only counts serious defects, severity B or C. The Netherlands, the United Kingdom, Ireland and Norway count every inspection with a real defect.
Finland is not in this table. Finland counts defect points, not cars with a defect.
Buyer knowledge and checklist
Before you buy: the inspection requirement in this country, plus a checklist for the test drive.
Periodic inspection: APK (Algemene Periodieke Keuring, the Dutch periodic roadworthiness test): from 2 to 8 years old: every 2 years; diesel: annually from the first test onwards; other fuels: annually from 8 years old
Read the guideFrequently asked questions
What are the known problems with a BMW 3 Series F30?
Recalls: 3 results (NHTSA, data up to and including 20/10/2023). Recalls: 1 result (EU Safety Gate, data up to and including 18/09/2026). Complaint patterns: 7 results (NHTSA, data up to and including 20/10/2023). Manufacturer bulletins: 8 results (NHTSA Manufacturer Communications, data up to and including 2018). Safety rating: 3 results (NHTSA SafetyRatings, data up to and including 2018). Each point is worked out below with its source and reference date.
Are there any known recalls for the BMW 3 Series F30?
3 recalls recorded with NHTSA, data up to and including 20/10/2023. Reported in the United States: says nothing about the status in this country.
Which defects are found most often at inspection for a BMW 3 Series?
Official inspection point: Lighting equipment and parts of the electrical system. Note: this is a share of the cars tested in this age band. It is not a chance of defects and predicts nothing for this car. 6204 of the 32817 Dutch inspection data, age 15-19 yr. Dutch inspection data, data up to and including 03/09/2026. More age groups and categories are available in the inspection statistics on this page.
Where does this data come from?
NHTSA (data up to and including 20/10/2023), EU Safety Gate (data up to and including 18/09/2026), CZ STK (data up to and including 03/07/2026), DVSA MOT-statistiek (data up to and including 2025), NHTSA Manufacturer Communications (data up to and including 2018), NHTSA SafetyRatings (data up to and including 2018), IIHS/HLDI (data up to and including 2018), GDV Typklassenverzeichnis (data up to and including 2024), Dutch inspection data (data up to and including 03/09/2026), Norwegian inspection data (data up to and including 31/12/2025), Finnish inspection data (data up to and including 31/12/2025), Irish inspection data (data up to and including 31/12/2025). Every fact here has its own source and reference date.