An exceptional car that combines the reliability of German brands with technological innovation. The BMW is generally a car that comes with its own package of innovation. The downside of this advantage is, of course, its propensity for minor breakdowns. Because innovation is as much a part of this German brand’s DNA as its taste for luxury, you should anticipate the usual glitches that your BMW model might experience so as not to be surprised.
Why find out about common BMW breakdowns?
BMWs are acclaimed for their innovative design. But these top-of-the-range vehicles can also suffer costly breakdowns. So it’s a good idea to be aware in advance of any potential problems that could arise with your BMW.
To anticipate potential problems before buying a used BMW
Knowing what breakdowns are common on a particular BMW model can help you make an informed decision when buying a used BMW. Potential buyers can find out about recurring breakdowns on certain models and years, and make an informed choice.
Getting ready for regular BMW maintenance
Knowing which breakdowns occur most frequently on a BMW will enable the owner to organize regular maintenance so as to minimize the factors leading to these frequent breakdowns. It also helps to watch out for the warning signs of these common breakdowns and do everything possible to prevent them.
To prepare financially
Finally, as some BMW parts can be particularly expensive, being aware of the possibility of a failure related to one of these parts can help you prepare mentally and financially for such an eventuality.
Recurring electrical faults on BMWs
Electrical failures are not the exclusive preserve of BMWs. Any vehicle model is likely to experience electrical failures more or less frequently, even if the BMW often comes with its share of innovative electronics.
Battery problems
On virtually all BMW models (1-series, 3-series, 5-series, X3, etc.), the most common battery-related faults reported by users are few and far between. They generally report that the battery discharges too quickly. This is more frequent in the years before 2010. Battery problems can be linked to a faulty battery, insufficient charging or a charging system failure.
Starting system malfunctions
In some BMW models, electronic system malfunctions can prevent or complicate vehicle start-up. On models released before 2009, we’ve noticed that the ignition lock malfunctions more easily than on more recent models. Electronic faults have also been noted in the engine management system.
Sometimes starting problems are also linked to the battery, starter or alternator. These may be worn electrical contacts or faulty solenoids.
Electronic sensor failures
Finally, it’s not uncommon for a sensor to stop working, causing other problems for the vehicle. Other drivers have reported error messages or noises that precede a malfunction. On some models, too, ignition coils are frequently replaced by the mechanic.
Common mechanical faults on BMWs
Mechanical breakdowns involve mechanical parts such as the engine, gearbox, water pump or power steering. They are not really wear-related failures, although wear can contribute to malfunctions.
Overheating problems
These failures usually involve the cooling system. Among the BMW models studied, water pump, radiator and cooling breeze problems are the most common.
Transmission malfunctions
Occasionally, malfunctions on the fuel pump or gearshift may require the intervention of a specialist professional mechanic. Clutch problems are recurrent on BMW 1-series models from 2004 to 2011. On the whole, however, transmission problems are not as common as that. On pre 2008-2009 diesel engines rather than others, we also noticed that the turbocharger could easily fail.
Breakdowns due to wear and tear of parts
Finally, certain breakdowns linked to the age of parts occur more easily on BMWs than on other makes of vehicle.
Brake problems
Some BMW drivers find it easier to wear out their brake pads or discs. While this can be explained by their driving style and certain environmental factors, it should be recognized that brake fluid, and indeed the entire system, is prone to frequent failure.
Problems with tires
We noticed that the tire pressure monitoring system became defective after some time on models from the German brand dating from before 2007.
Tips to avoid breakdowns
There are a few simple tips and methods for anticipating and avoiding certain breakdowns.
The importance of regular maintenance
In many cases, regular maintenance is all that’s needed to keep your vehicle safe from mechanical breakdowns. Constant vehicle maintenance involves a whole host of useful gestures to be adopted for your own safety and the good condition of your BMW.
Pre-trip checks
Regular maintenance doesn’t mean you don’t have to carry out the usual pre-trip checks, but it can save your life. Checking that everything’s in working order, especially before a long journey, can save you from certain breakdowns.
Steps to take to protect mechanical parts
Finally, the way you drive has an impact on the vehicle’s condition. Driving with your foot on the brake is clearly not good for the system. Likewise, driving as if you were on an F1 track when the track and the vehicle are not suited to it is of no benefit to anyone.
Conclusion
The most common breakdowns on BMWs have more to do with electronic accessories than with mechanics or wear and tear. This is due to the innovative nature of the German brand. However, this does not detract from the brand’s reliability. Many of the breakdowns reported also involve human error on the part of the driver.