Photo: Norbert Aepli, Switzerland (User:Noebu) / CC BY 3.0 / Wikimedia Commons
2016 BMW 3 Series: common problems and reliability
· F30An average 3 Series year.
279 owner complaints, most about engine. No recalls.
Should I buy a 2016 3 Series?The 2016 BMW 3 Series has 279 owner-filed NHTSA complaints and 0 recalls on record. The most-reported areas are engine and electrical system. Owners most often flag timing chain failure on the n20 four-cylinder: with repair quotes ranging from $12,000 to $22,000 for a new engine.
Safety record for the 2016 model year
Source: NHTSA complaints and recalls filed for 2016 BMW 3 Series vehicles (US, public record).
The Year Score compares this year with other 3 Series years only. How we score it
Is 2016 a good year for the 3 Series?
Across the 31 3 Series model years we track, complaint volume runs from 10 (2022) to 1,920 (2011). With 279 complaints, the 2016 3 Series sits about the same as the model's median of 279.
These are raw NHTSA complaint totals, not adjusted for how many cars sold or how long each model year has been on the road. Older and higher-selling years accumulate more complaints.
Where owners report problems
What owners report on the F30 3 Series
Owner sentiment on the F30 is mixed but leans positive when the car has been maintained.
- RecurrentTiming chain failure on the N20 four-cylinder
With repair quotes ranging from $12,000 to $22,000 for a new engine.
- RecurrentOil leaks, described as a matter of when rather than if on the N55
- RecurrentWater pump and thermostat failure on high-mileage cars
- IsolatedWorn front thrust rod bushings around 75,000 miles
- IsolatedTurbo oil feed lines worn at 36,000 miles
Owner insights for the F30 3 Series. Read the full F30 owner report.
Typical used price
Used 3 Series listings typically run $9,995–$26,395.
Other 3 Series model years
Compare every 3 Series year side by side to see how 2016 ranks against the rest.
Compare the 3 Series against its rivals
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