ADVERTISEMENT
Sort

Filter & Refine

Dealer used
View Layout

BMW 3 SERIES Used Car Review

The 3 Series is German car maker BMW's signature model - a compact luxury passenger car that has existed in multiple generations since its 1975 debut. Since 2014, the 3 Series name has applied to sedan and wagon body styles only, with coupe and convertible models adopting the 4 Series nomenclature. The 3 Series has long been considered one of the most entertaining cars to drive in its class, and the flagship M3 performance variant is especially famous.

Pros

Cons

  • Entertaining to drive with beautiful handling
  • Fuel efficiency consistently excellent, and often class-leading
  • Superb performance of six-cylinder engines
  • Good build quality
  • Run-flat tyres (introduced in 2007 in lieu of a spare wheel) bring a firmer ride
  • Four-cylinder turbos replaced brand's famous six-cylinders in performance but not sound
  • Adaptive suspension (optional on many models) needed for best ride quality
  • Interior presentation has generally lagged behind rival Audi A4
This is general information and should not be relied on as purchasing advice.
BMW3Is your car registered?: YesDealer usedClear all

Top2007 BMW 320i E90 Grey 6 Speed Auto Steptronic Sedan

  • 179333 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

** 2007 BMW 320i E90 MPFI 2.0L 6 SPEED AUTOMATIC STEPTRONIC Only $10,990 Or Finance From Only $55 P/w ** This Vehicle Is Absolutely Immaculate! Come Down And Test Drive Today!** Economical But Powerful 2.0 Petrol Engine With a Sporty 6 Speed Automatic Steptronic Transmission This is Highly Sought After Combination** **Comes with Owners Manuals & Log Books with Good Service History** **Only travelled a super low 179,000 Ks!!** Credit to the previous owner!**Don't miss out on this one!** -L

$10,990 Excl. Gov. Charges
Osborne Park, WA

Dealer used
01/05/2024

Top2003 BMW 3 30Ci

  • 155700 km
  • Convertible
  • Auto
  • 6 cyl 3.0L

2003 BMW 330i convertible Only 155,000klms, automatic and leather trim An excellent example, super smooth and powerful 171KW 3.0L 6cyl. Has all books from new and near new Pirelli tyres. Fully operating electric convertible roof. Be different and stand out in this sporty and luxurious coupe! Our Service Menu Includes: ✅ Top trade in valuations (even if you don't buy from us). ✅ Finance to suit all budgets. ✅ Great range of Warranty. ✅ Lunch time test drives (we come to you in yo

$11,995 Excl. Gov. Charges
Derwent Park, TAS

Dealer used
01/05/2024

Top2014 BMW 3 Series F30 MY0814 328i High-Line Luxury Line Silver 8 Speed Sports Automatic Sedan

  • 166149 km
  • Other
  • Auto
  • 4

We have over 300 good quality cars at unbeatable prices, Auto or Manual, SUV or Wagon, Coupe or Convertible, Sunroof , Hatch or Sedan, Petrol or Turbo Diesel, 4x4 or 4x2 All cars are workshop tested, and optional parts and labour warranties are available .• *Pension Finance Available (Single Parent Payments, Parenting Payment, Disability Pension) • *Fee Free, No Interest Loan for Vehicles That Can Be Paid Off with Simple Fortnightly for ppl on Government payments. • *Dealer Charges Apply. •

$16,995 Excl. Gov. Charges
Minchinbury, NSW

Dealer used
30/04/2024

Top2003 BMW 3 Series E46 MY2002 318i Steptronic Silver 5 Speed Sports Automatic Sedan

  • 180117 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

2003 BMW 3 Series E46 MY2002 318i Steptronic Silver 5 Speed Sports Automatic Sedan

$6,990 Excl. Gov. Charges
Minchinbury, NSW

Dealer used
30/04/2024

Top2018 BMW 3 Series F30 LCI 320i M Sport Black 8 Speed Sports Automatic Sedan

  • 93791 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

NEW ARRIVAL!! // SAME DAY FINANCE AVALIBLE!! 2018 BMW 320I M SPORT SEDAN FINSIEHD IN BLACK SAPPHIRE SERVICE HISTORY INTERIOR OPTIONS - LEATHER INTERIOR - HEATED FRONT SEATS - SUNROOF - GPS - BLUETOOTH/USB/FM - CRUISE CONTROL - LANE DEPARTURE ASSIST - HANDS FREE EXTERIOR OPTIONS - FRONT & REAR SENSORS - ALLOY WHEELS - REVERSE/SIDE CAMERAS AND MUCH MORE!! PLEASE MAKE AN INQUIRY OR GIVE US A CALL TO ARRANGE A TEST DRIVE!!! ALL OUR VEHICLES ARE WORKSHOP TESTED AND UNDERGO A VIGOROUS

$30,990 Drive Away^
Camberwell, VIC

Dealer used
24 hours ago

Top2020 BMW 3 Series G21 330i Touring Steptronic M Sport Grey 8 Speed Sports Automatic Wagon

  • 21020 km
  • Wagon
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

NEW ARRIVAL!! // SAME DAY FINANCE AVALIBLE!! 2020 BMW 330I M SPORT WAGON FINSIHED IN OXIDE GREY METALLIC 1 OWNER / FULL-SERVICE HISTORY INTERIOR OPTIONS - LEATHER INTERIOR - HEATED FRONT SEATS - APPLE CARPLAY & ANDROID AUTO - GPS - DIGITAL DASH - PANORAMIC SUNROOF - BLUETOOTH/USB/FM - RADAR CRUISE CONTROL - BLIND SPOT SENSOR - LANE DEPARTURE ASSIST - HANDS FREE EXTERIOR OPTIONS - FRONT & REAR SENSORS - ALLOY WHEELS - REVERSE CAMERA AND MUCH MORE!! PLEASE MAKE AN INQUIRY OR GIVE US

$60,990 Drive Away^
Camberwell, VIC

Dealer used
01/05/2024

2017 BMW 320d F34 LCI MY17 Sport Line Gran Turismo White 8 Speed Automatic Hatchback

  • 208485 km
  • Hatchback
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

F34 LCI GT 2.0L TURBO DEISEL 8 SP AUTOMATIC**IMMACULATE CONDITION LOG BOOKS WITH FULL ON BOARD SERVICE HISTORY**2 KEYS**LOTS OF OPTIONS**DRIVES LIKE NEW**REGO TILL 23/07/2024**12 MONTHS WARRANTY**TRADE-INS WELCOME**FINANCE AVAILABLE**

$16,999 Excl. Gov. Charges
North St Marys, NSW

Dealer used
15 minutes ago

2013 BMW 3 Series F30 MY0813 328i Luxury Line Mineral White 8 Speed Sports Automatic Sedan

  • 155162 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

09/2013 B.M.W 3 SERIES F30 MY0813 328I LUXURY LINE SEDAN, 2.0L Twin Turbo-Intercooled 8 Speed Sports Automatic, With Only 155xxxKm And Service History All In Book's With Manuals.......12V Socket(s) - Auxiliary, 19" Alloy Wheels, 9 Speaker Stereo, ABS (Antilock Brakes), Adjustable Steering Col. - Tilt & Reach, Air Cond. - Climate Control 2 Zone, Air Conditioning - Charcoal Filter (Odour Reducer), Air Conditioning - Rear, Air Conditioning - Sensor for Solar/Sun, Airbag - Driver, Airbag - Passenge

$21,990 Drive Away^
Pakenham, VIC

Dealer used
15 minutes ago

2007 BMW 320d E90 Executive Blue 6 Speed Auto Steptronic Sedan

  • 160654 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

2007 BMW 320 Diesel Automatic, navy blue with tan leather interior, factory alloy wheels with near new tyres, books and history, excellent condition throughout, a pleasure to drive and one of the most economical cars in its class. BMW luxury and style at an affordable price, Finance available t.a.p for around $60 a week

$8,990 Excl. Gov. Charges
Ascot Park, SA

Dealer used
25 minutes ago

2011 BMW 3 Series E93 MY11 320d Steptronic White 6 Speed Sports Automatic Convertible

  • 98238 km
  • Convertible
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

WOW....WHAT A HEAD TURNER !! LUXURY EURO AUTO CONVERTIBLE WITH LOGBOOKS, SERVICE HISTORY, ONLY98,000 KILOMETRES & REGISTRATION TILL JUNE 2024 !! FROM YOUR LOCAL NEW CASTLE DEALER !!" Just Arrived !! Exceptional 2011 BMW 3 Series 320d 2.0DT Steptronic Hard Top Convertible !! Finished in Pristine White with Features Including: * Satellite Navigation, * Full Black Leather Trim * Air Conditioning

$19,980 Excl. Gov. Charges
Maryville, NSW

Dealer used
35 minutes ago

2019 BMW 3 Series G20 320i Steptronic M Sport Black 8 Speed Sports Automatic Sedan

  • 73210 km
  • Other
  • Auto
  • 4

Absolutely stunning blacked out 2020 BMW 320I M sport with full service history! Exceptionally well maintained by the one previous owner. Black alloys, black front grill, sunroof, heads up display, illumination package, carbon fibre spoiler, digital dash, leather interior, electric seats, wireless charge pad & much much more standard. We have business managers on site to discuss finance options to suit your needs. Extended warranty packages available for purchase. Call today to arrange a test d

$47,490 Drive Away^
Nundah, QLD

Dealer used
45 minutes ago

2010 BMW 320i E90 MY10 Lifestyle White 6 Speed Auto Steptronic Sedan

  • 120152 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

Impeccable 2010 BMW 320i Lifestyle Sedan - Automatic, Drives Like a Dream! Are you ready to elevate your driving experience? Look no further! We present to you a remarkable 2010 BMW 320i Lifestyle Sedan that's sure to turn heads and make every journey unforgettable. This elegant and well-maintained BMW is the epitome of style, comfort, and performance, and it's ready to be your next ride. **Year:** 2010 **Make:** BMW **Model:** 320i **Transmission:** Automatic **Condition:** Used, but in

$15,990 Drive Away^
Gympie, QLD

Dealer used
0 minutes ago

2021 BMW 3 Series G20 330i Steptronic M Sport Black Sapphire 8 Speed Sports Automatic Sedan

  • 47134 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

Step into the world of luxury with this stunning 2021 BMW 3 Series. This sophisticated sedan has been meticulously maintained and has only 47134 kilometres on its odometer, a testament to its prime condition. It's finished in a sleek, alluring exterior, while the interior is adorned with high-quality leather seats, offering a comfortable and stylish driving experience. Experience advanced technology at your fingertips with features such as Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, allowing seamless c

$53,900 Excl. Gov. Charges
Burswood, WA

Dealer used
2 hours ago

2008 BMW 3 Series E90 MY08 320i Steptronic Gold 6 Speed Sports Automatic Sedan

  • 199594 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

We have over 300 good quality cars at unbeatable prices, Auto or Manual, SUV or Wagon, Coupe or Convertible, Sunroof , Hatch or Sedan, Petrol or Turbo Diesel, 4x4 or 4x2 All cars are workshop tested, and optional parts and labour warranties are available .• *Pension Finance Available (Single Parent Payments, Parenting Payment, Disability Pension) • *Fee Free, No Interest Loan for Vehicles That Can Be Paid Off with Simple Fortnightly for ppl on Government payments. • *Dealer Charges Apply. •

$8,995 Excl. Gov. Charges
Minchinbury, NSW

Dealer used
2 hours ago

2019 BMW 3 Series G20 330i Steptronic M Sport White 8 Speed Sports Automatic Sedan

  • 124010 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

*** JUST ARRIVED *** *** 2019 * 2019 *** *** BMW 330I * M Sport *** *** FULL BMW SERVICE HISTORY *** *** 2 KEYS *** *** GLOSS BLACK M Sport WHEELS *** *** We can assist with Transport interstate *** *** ALL TRADES WELCOME *** Our highly experienced finance team can arrange a no obligation Tailored Quotation! We are a well-renowned, highly respected company in the Australian automotive industry with a great reputation spanning over 15 years. We operate a

$37,999 Excl. Gov. Charges
Croydon, NSW

Dealer used
2 hours ago

2007 BMW 3 Series E92 335i Steptronic Black 6 Speed Sports Automatic Coupe

  • 132047 km
  • Coupe (2 door)
  • Auto
  • 6 cyl 3.0L

2007 BMW 335I M SPORT COUPE***ORIGINAL LOW KM EXAMPLE***19" FACTORY ALLOYS AND PREMIUM TYRES***SUNROOF***SATNAV***FULL AND COMPLETE SERVICE HISTORY AND ALL NEW CAR HANDBOOKS***AMAZING PRESENTATION***EXAMPLES LIKE THIS ARE HARD TO FIND***INSPECTION WELCOME*** *** 1, 3 & 5 Year Warranty's & roadside assistance available for purchase with this vehicle. You can be confident that your new vehicle is covered with professionalism, enthusiasm, hard work and a high level of service, you can rest assure

$18,980 Excl. Gov. Charges
Port Melbourne, VIC

Dealer used
2 hours ago

2003 BMW 3 Series E46 MY2004 330Ci SMG Blue 6 Speed Seq Manual Auto-Clutch Convertible

  • 213100 km
  • Convertible
  • Auto
  • 6

This is an impressive vehicle that will not disappoint. Be sure to organise a test drive today! This 2003 BMW 3 Series will be enough to ignite your motoring passion. Cruise the beaches with the top down in this 2003 BMW 3 Series. Check out these safety features: - Driver airbag - Side airbags - ABS brakes - Passenger airbag FIND US; now with TWO convenient locations. * TRADE-INS welcome. * BUY with confidence; best price guarantee on new & used cars. * INSTANT finance with competitive rat

$12,990 Drive Away^
Strathpine, QLD

Dealer used
2 hours ago

2009 BMW 335i E93 MY09 Black 7 Speed Auto Direct Shift Convertible

  • 159450 km
  • Convertible
  • Auto
  • 6 cyl 3.0L

"Unleash the Power of the Open Road with this 2009 BMW 3 35i E93 MY09 Twin Turbo Convertible! Priced at $20,883.00 AUD, this sleek black beauty is ready to turn heads wherever you go. Equipped with a Twin turbocharged 3.0L engine, this BMW offers a thrilling driving experience. The 7-speed automatic transmission ensures smooth shifting, while features like Dynamic Stability Control, Sport Suspension, and Xenon Headlights add to the performance and style of this convertible. Step inside and yo

$19,832 Drive Away^
Traralgon, VIC

Dealer used
2 hours ago

2011 BMW 3 Series E90 MY11 320i Steptronic Lifestyle Grey 6 Speed Sports Automatic Sedan

  • 150841 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

2011 BMW 320i - POPULAR MODEL - IF YOU'RE AFTER A CLEAN & GENUINE EXAMPLE OF A 3 SERIES THIS IS THE ONE FOR YOU! - PLENTY OF POWER - WOOD GRAIN INSERTS - WHAT A CAR - CLEAN INSIDE & OUT - FINANCE AVAILABLE - RWC INCLUDED - SERVICE HISTORY - M SPORT WHEELS - HARD TO FIND - YOU WILL BE IMPRESSED BY THE CONDITION - PUSH BUTTON START - BODYKIT - REVERSE SENSORS - DUAL ZONE CLIMATE CONTROL For further information, or to view this stunning vehicle, contact us now on******5544 where one

$11,999 Excl. Gov. Charges
Laverton North, VIC

Dealer used
2 hours ago

2011 BMW 3 Series E90 323i Lifestyle Grey Automatic Sedan

  • 73513 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 6 cyl 2.5L

1 OWNER FROM NEW ** FIXED PRICE ** WHOLESALE VEHICLE SOLD DIRECT TO THE PUBLIC **

$15,888 Excl. Gov. Charges
Wangara, WA

Dealer used
2 hours ago

2009 BMW 320d E90 MY09 Executive Blue 6 Speed Auto Steptronic Sedan

  • 244748 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

Comes with a FREE official NSW Roadworthy Certificate. Full Vehicle History Check using Australian Government PPSR Register. All titles for this car are 100% clear Australia Wide, All States. * Never been a Repairable Write-Off * Never been on REVS or WOVR * Never had Storm, Flood or Hail Damage * No Finance Owing * No Debt or Money Owing * Has been checked if this car is reported as stolen, 100% Clear *** Information about our Car Dealership *** We accept Cash, Credit Cards, EFTPOS Cards,

Contact Dealer for Price
Granville, NSW

Dealer used
2 hours ago

2018 BMW 3 Series F30 LCI 340i M Sport Silver Sports Automatic Sedan

  • 51857 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 6 cyl 3.0L

We are dedicated to exceeding your expectations every time. For more information or a test drive please call John Carr on or email me directly at All our pre-owned vehicles comes complete with an extensive pre-sale inspection in our state of the art workshop onsite. *If you require a finance quote please speak to our very experiences business manager on site **Interstate enquiries are welcome ***Transport can be arranged for delivery t

$51,888 Drive Away^
Tullamarine, VIC

Dealer used
3 hours ago

2019 BMW 3 Series G20 320i Steptronic M Sport White 8 Speed Sports Automatic Sedan

  • 67330 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

| 2019 BMW| 320i M-Sport G20 | RWD Sedan | Mineral White - Metallic | ***Full BMW Servicing History*** __________________________________________________________ OPTION LIST: -M-Sport -Keyless Start -Digital Dashboard -Leather Electric Memory Seats -Digital Radio (DAB ) -Bluetooth -GPS Satellite Navigation -Heads-Up Display (HUD) -Front-End Collision Warning -Blind Spot Monitor -Lane Departure Warning -Heads-Up Display (HUD) -Wireless Charging Tray -Multi-Function Leather M-Sport Steering Whee

$42,990 Excl. Gov. Charges
Balwyn, VIC

Dealer used
3 hours ago

2015 BMW 3 Series 316i M Sport F30 MY1114 Black 8 Speed Automatic Sedan

  • 94252 km
  • Other
  • Auto
  • 4

This immaculate 2015 BMW 3 Series 316i M Sport F30 MY1114 Sedan offers a fantastic driving experience and its Key Features: - Parking sensor front & rear - Dual Zone Climate AC - Leather Seats - Push Start Button - Reverse Camera - Electric Sunroof - Bluetooth - M Sport - Odometer of 94,252 km - 3 Months Registration We are a family owned and operated dealership specialising in price range, value for money, and pre-owned vehicles. - Roadworthy Certificate - Full-Service His

$21,950 Excl. Gov. Charges
Altona, VIC

Dealer used
3 hours ago

2013 BMW 3 Series F34 MY0613 320i Gran Turismo Sport Line Silver 8 Speed Sports Automatic Hatchback

  • 220641 km
  • Hatchback
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

Unbeatable Deals on Vehicles at South West Sydneys Premier Dealership! Looking for a reliable and stylish vehicle? Look no further! Our dealership in South West Sydney, part of Australias largest automotive group, offers an extensive range of models with great finance options and the highest trade-in values around. Price Beat Promise - We will beat any genuine Dealer Quote on your next car. **Finance Options to Suit You** We understand that purchasing a vehicle is a significant investment,

$9,999 Excl. Gov. Charges
Liverpool, NSW

Dealer used
3 hours ago

2011 BMW 3 Series E90 MY11 320i Steptronic Lifestyle White 6 Speed Sports Automatic Sedan

  • 112840 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

Unleash your inner driver with this sleek and sophisticated 2011 BMW 3 Series E90 320i Lifestyle Sedan. With its white exterior and luxurious leather interior, this sedan is sure to turn heads wherever you go. Equipped with a range of features such as 17" alloy wheels, climate control air conditioning, and Bluetooth system, this BMW offers both style and functionality. The adjustable steering column, cruise control, and power windows make every drive a comfortable and enjoyable experience. Sa

$10,999 Excl. Gov. Charges
Elderslie, NSW

Dealer used
4 hours ago

2012 BMW 3 Series F30 328i Blue 8 Speed Sports Automatic Sedan

  • 147711 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

Make an appointment to inspect a Vehicle 16 Queen Street, Campbelltown, NSW, 2560 Open Daily 9:00am - 6:00pm Book in for a Test Drive today Check out our range www.xtremecarsales.com.au With a great range of Warranty and Insurance Products Available we’ve got your back! WE BUY WE SELL WE TRADE Need to sell your car? We can assist with a Fast Hassle-Free Sale! A Range of Finance Packages available for Australia Residents and Citizens! Full time, Part-time, Casual, Pension and Self Employe

$14,950 Excl. Gov. Charges
Campbelltown, NSW

Dealer used
4 hours ago

2009 BMW 3 Series E90 MY09 320i Steptronic Executive Bronze 6 Speed Sports Automatic Sedan

  • 124829 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

Experience the thrill of driving in this 2009 BMW 3 Series E90 320i Executive Sedan. This sleek bronze beauty is not just about style, it's about substance too, with a robust 2.0i 4-cylinder engine under the hood and a sporty 6-speed Steptronic transmission that offers a dynamic driving experience. With 124,829 Kms on the odometer, this sedan is in good condition and ready to hit the road. The 3 Series offers more than just a smooth ride; it's about complete comfort and convenience. The Execu

$11,999 Excl. Gov. Charges
Fyshwick, ACT

Dealer used
4 hours ago

2009 BMW 3 Series E93 MY10 320d Steptronic Blue 6 Speed Sports Automatic Convertible

  • 112528 km
  • Convertible
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

The BMW 320d gives you the best of both worlds. With a hard convertible top to shield you from the elements. Easily converted into a drop top for those warm days to let your hair out. Features Include: Brake By Wire, Brake Emergency Display - Hazard/Stoplights, CD Player, Central Locking - Remote/Keyless, , Disc Brakes Front Ventilated, Disc Brakes Rear Ventilated, Door Pockets - 1st row (Front), EBD (Electronic Brake Force Distribution) and Low KM's!! All vehicles come with min 12 Months War

$16,990 Drive Away^
Aspley, QLD

Dealer used
4 hours ago

2012 BMW 3 20i M-Sport

  • 197000 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

Attention all driving enthusiasts and luxury car lovers! Get ready to turn heads and drive with unparalleled style in the 2012 BMW 320i M-Sport, now available at Carz HQ. With a significant 197,000 km experience on the road, this vehicle combines the heritage of BMW's engineering excellence with the sporty flair of the M-Sport package, ensuring a drive that is both exhilarating and smooth. Here's what you can expect from this ultimate driving machine: **Performance and Handling:** - Enjoy the

$13,999 Excl. Gov. Charges
Cannington, WA

Dealer used
5 hours ago

Overview of the BMW 3

Overview of the BMW 3

The 3 Series is German car maker BMW's signature model - a compact luxury passenger car that has existed in multiple generations since its 1975 debut.

Since 2014, the 3 Series name has applied to sedan and wagon body styles only, with coupe and convertible models adopting the 4 Series nomenclature.

The 3 Series has long been considered one of the most entertaining cars to drive in its class, and the flagship M3 performance variant is especially famous.

BMW 3 SERIES GENERATIONS (SINCE 1998)

1998-2006

2007-2012

2012-present

RUNNING COSTS

Fuel Consumption

2.0-litre 4-cylinder turbo petrol: 5.4-6.7 litres per 100km

2.0L 4-cylinder turbo diesel: 4.4-5.3 litres per 100km

3.0-litre 6-cylinder turbo petrol: 6.8-7.2 litres per 100km

3.0-litre 6-cylinder turbo diesel: 6.2-6.4 litres per 100km

Hybrid 2.1 litres per 100km

= Highly economical.

= Good economy.

= Average fuel use.

= Heavy consumption.

Servicing

SIMILAR MODELS TO BMW 3 SERIES

WHAT TO LOOK OUT FOR: BMW 3 SERIES

As with any high-end European car, don't go near a 3-Series that doesn't have a fully stamped service history.

Biggest potential grief comes from variable valve-timing system (VANOS, in BMW-speak) which can fail due to internal leaks within the hydraulic circuitry. Some six-cylinder 3-Series were even recalled to fix this.

Beyond a leak, VANOS can fail through a lack of oil changes as dirt and grit blocks the tiny oilways that operate the system. If it fails, it can cost thousands to fix and the car won't be right without it.

Any 3-Series showing a 'check-engine' light on the dash is cause for concern.

Some early cars from this series had a brake booster that could fail, leaving the car with brakes but no assistance, requiring the driver to press harder on the brake pedal.

Again, this was the subject of a recall, so check that it's been done on affected cars.