The Lemon Index

All cars · BMW 3 Series · 2025

2025 BMW 3 Series. Advanced data.

The raw numbers: engines, recall campaign numbers, failure mileage and manufacturer communications.

Lemon Index–100 = average car
Complaints8NHTSA, first 3 years
Sold72,410U.S. model year
Per 100K sold11complaints

Engines and drivetrains 5

EngineTransmissionDriveCity / hwy / combinedFuelFuel cost/yr
3.0L 6-cyl turboManual 6-spdRWD16 / 23 / 19Premium$4,050
3.0L 6-cyl turboAuto (S8)RWD16 / 23 / 19Premium$4,050
3.0L 6-cyl turboAuto (S8)AWD16 / 23 / 18Premium$4,300
4.4L 8-cyl turboAuto (S8)AWD15 / 22 / 17Premium$4,550
4.4L 8-cyl turbo plug-in hybridAuto (S8)AWD12 / 17 / 14Premium$5,550

EPA test versions for this model year. Fuel cost is the EPA's current estimate, not the price in that year.

Complaints by system

SystemShare of complaints
Brakes25%
Lane assist12%
Electrical12%
Backup camera12%
Wipers & visibility12%

One complaint can name more than one system, so shares can add to more than 100%.

Severity, all complaints

TotalCrashesFiresInjuriesDeathsTows
821102

As reported by owners to NHTSA. Not verified.

Recall campaigns 1

  • 25V202000 Apr 2025 Electrical System / Starter Assembly

    Defect. BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2025 330i, 330i xDrive, 530i, 530i xDrive, 4 Series Coupe (430i, 430i xDrive), 4 Series Convertible (430i, 430i xDrive), 4 Series Gran Coupe (430i, 430i xDrive) and X3 30 xDrive vehicles. The electrical connection between the starter-generator and battery may come loose.

    Risk. A loose starter-generator connection can result in an engine stall, increasing the risk of a crash. In addition, the wiring may overheat, increasing the risk of a fire.

    Remedy. Dealers will inspect and replace the starter-generator and positive battery cable as necessary, free of charge. Interim owner letters notifying owners of the safety risk were mailed May 28, 2025. Second letters will be sent once the remedy is available. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.

Manufacturer communications 47

BMW filed 47 service communications for this car with NHTSA.

  • Due to a manufacturing defect, there might be an internal leakage of the brake fluid expansion…
  • There may be an internal leakage in the brake fluid expansion tank (aka brake fluid reservoir)

Crash ratings by version

VersionOverallFrontSideRollover
BMW 3 Series Sedan 4 DR AWD★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★
BMW 3 Series Sedan 4 DR RWD★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★

Safety equipment

Electronic stabilityForward collision warningLane departure warning
StandardNoNo

Nearby model years

YearLemon IndexComplaintsSoldTop system
202211967,354Tires
2023–1584,774Electrical
2024–1173,938Engine
2025–872,410Brakes

Sources: NHTSA complaints, recalls, investigations and manufacturer communications; EPA fuel economy data; YouTube video titles. Complaints are owner reports, not proof of a defect.

Updated

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