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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.
BMW3Air conditioning?: YesPPSR Vehicle Report: YesClear all

Top2012 BMW 3 28i SPORT LINE 8 SP AUTOMATIC 4D SEDAN

$15,500Negotiable
Erskineville, NSW

Yesterday

Top2018 BMW 3 30i TOURING SPORT LINE 8 SP AUTOMATIC 4D WAGON

$35,000
Highfields, NSW

24 hours ago

TopBMW E30 325i Coupe

  • 198911 km
  • Sedan
  • Manual
  • 6 cyl 2.5L

This is a E30 325i with full Leather trim that is in exceptional condition, it has not had any accident damage other then a few minor dents that are to be expected on a 35 year old car. The paint as far as i know is original save for the RHF mudguard that was repainted due to fading of the original paint.The car was auto but has been converted to a manual.using all genuine factory parts. The car was in storage from 2006 to 2021 so has had all the brakes replaced along with the exhaust system &

$32,000Negotiable
Caringbah, NSW

01/05/2024

Top2017 BMW 3 18i SPORT LINE 8 SP AUTOMATIC 4D SEDAN

  • 121000 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 3 cyl 1.5L

Exceptional BMW 318i M Sports Line - Impeccably Maintained, Ready for a new home Beautiful driving experience with this stunning BMW 318i M Sports Line, a December 2016 build with a 2017 compliance plate. Meticulously cared for and predominantly garaged, this exquisite vehicle is a testament to both style and performance. Key Features: Immaculate Inside and Out: This car radiates beauty, with a meticulously maintained interior and exterior that showcase the owner's commitment to excellence.

$17,800Negotiable
Wilton, NSW

21 hours ago

Top1988 BMW E30 325i M Technic Convertible

$48,000Negotiable
Lalor, VIC

28/04/2024

Top2002 BMW 330Ci AUTOMATIC 2Door CONVERTIBLE

  • 180901 km
  • Convertible
  • Auto
  • 6 cyl 3.0L

CLOSING DOWN SALE UP TO 60% OFF THE SAME PRICE CARS ADVERTISED anywhere in Sydney. REDUCED TO HALF PRICE AND EVEN LESS. YOU WONT FIND A CHEATER PRICE THAN OURS. CHEAP, CHEAP, CHEAP: CLOSING DOWN SALE on: All prices slashed and you will save: $$Thousands of Dollars$$ Mechanically this car is very fast and powerful, it drives very smooth and excellent, body is very straight and paint still fairly good and Besides that, it is perfect and for this price you can’t go wrong. Very reliable, ready to g

$6,600
Roselands, NSW

17 hours ago

2001 BMW 325Ci m sport

  • 195 km
  • Coupe (2 door)
  • Auto
  • 6 cyl 2.5L

2001 bmw 325ci M-sport e46 black on black interior is in very well kept condition with only minor wear on the lovely leather seats, some minor roof lining sag has begun to appear although I'll tend to this issue shortly and one small piece of plastic in the centre console has faded over time and now the hazard light button has "fallen" in. a very minor issue which could be fixed easily but im not willing to potentially break it further, ill send a picture upon request. the last issue is the dri

$7,800Negotiable
Adelaide CBD, SA

19 minutes ago

2000 BMW 3 30Ci 5 SP AUTOMATIC STEPTRONIC 2D CONVERTIBLE

$13,250Negotiable
Gulfview Heights, SA

42 minutes ago

2011 BMW 3 35i M SPORT 6 SP DCT 2D COUPE

  • 135000 km
  • Coupe (2 door)
  • Manual
  • 6 cyl 3.0L

Sale due to eventual upgrade to a wagon. I've owned this future classic for 3-4 years and it has been meticulously serviced by Auto Haus North Shore with complete logbook and service records. The listed sale price is reflective of vehicle condition and features, including but not limited to the following: Factory fitted - BMW individual 'Mineralweiss' paint - Front and rear parking sensors - Textured interior trim - Power rear privacy shade - 19" M 313 alloys - Window tint Non-factory fitte

$23,000Negotiable
Sydney City, NSW

3 hours ago

2020 BMW 3 30i LUXURY LINE 8 SP AUTO STEPTRONIC SPRT 4D SEDAN

$52,500Negotiable
Redlynch, QLD

4 hours ago

2013 BMW 3 28i 8 SP AUTOMATIC 4D SEDAN

  • 143000 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

Hello everyone, I'm selling my bmw it's time to upgrade bigger car cuz of family I bought the car brand new since then I have driven its beautiful car all service story done with BMW Parramatta 8 months rego left service is done already, you don't have to worry for one year, I'm looking for serious buyers only as I have busy time at work I can't waste my time to show the car with stupid offers.. thank you, your most welcome to look the car.. milge is 13900 I puted 14300 reason I'm still driving

$21,500Negotiable
Bella Vista, NSW

4 hours ago

2002 BMW 3 18i 5 SP AUTOMATIC STEPTRONIC 4D SEDAN

  • 227700 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

Selling BMW 2002 318i e46 N42 Automatic Sedan.Titansilver with Black Leather Interior and Brown Off-Set Trim. 1st Engine from Previous Owner Failed At 193,955 kms and 2nd Long Motor Installed By Euro’s (Cavan) at a Cost of $2838:00 17th May, 2019. The Recorded Kms apron Installation was 119,855kms. So Technically now the Odometer is 154,00kms based on 2nd Engine Accumulation since 2019. Have Documents for Supply And Fit . This Engine is Externally Dry, Responsive and Fully Serviced. Cooling Sys

$6,300Negotiable
Noarlunga Downs, SA

12 hours ago

2009 BMW 3 20d EXECUTIVE 6 SP AUTOMATIC STEPTRONIC 4D SEDAN

  • 224143 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

Excellent Diesel BMW. very reliable and very economical-around 6l/100km around town. Selling below market price because I have a new ute and need deposit for house. (genuine sale) Major service completed including new seals. new suspension all round. leather in excellent condition. As NEW tyres (about 1000km). New taillights and headlights. RWC current. No damage No accidents nonsmoker. please text or call. thanks for looking. can be viewed at Springfield Lakes.

$6,900
Ipswich Region, QLD

17 hours ago

BMW E46 330 Ci M-Sport Individual 5 SP AUTO CONVERTIBLE

  • 155285 km
  • Convertible
  • Auto
  • 6 cyl 3.0L

I have for sale my unique 2004 BMW E46 330i M-Sport Individual paint and leather interior Very hard to describe the color , photos show the car in different light (it is registered as Green ) . This car was purchased privately from 1 owner. BMW comes with set of keys and immaculate service history What was replaced in the car in las 2 years: - R and L castor and lower arms - Rear shocks - Drive shaft coupling - Front and Rear rotors Ceramic low dust - New tyres front and back - DISA

$21,500
Jandakot, WA

17 hours ago

2002 BMW 330Ci AUTOMATIC 2Door CONVERTIBLE

  • 180901 km
  • Convertible
  • Auto
  • 6 cyl 3.0L

CLOSING DOWN SALE UP TO 60% OFF THE SAME PRICE CARS ADVERTISED anywhere in Sydney. REDUCED TO HALF PRICE AND EVEN LESS. YOU WONT FIND A CHEATER PRICE THAN OURS. CHEAP, CHEAP, CHEAP: CLOSING DOWN SALE on: All prices slashed and you will save: $$Thousands of Dollars$$ Mechanically this car is very fast and powerful, it drives very smooth and excellent, body is very straight and paint still fairly good and Besides that, it is perfect and for this price you can’t go wrong. Very reliable, ready to g

$6,600
Roselands, NSW

17 hours ago

2006 BMW 3 20i 6 SP AUTOMATIC STEPTRONIC 4D SEDAN

  • 187050 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

2006 BMW 320i MSPORT -Only 187050 km -Mechanical Very good -Full Service History -Comes With RWC -Tinted windows -Mint condition -Welcome to test drive…

$7,999
Braeside, VIC

21 hours ago

2017 BMW 3 18i SPORT LINE 8 SP AUTOMATIC 4D SEDAN

  • 121000 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 3 cyl 1.5L

Exceptional BMW 318i M Sports Line - Impeccably Maintained, Ready for a new home Beautiful driving experience with this stunning BMW 318i M Sports Line, a December 2016 build with a 2017 compliance plate. Meticulously cared for and predominantly garaged, this exquisite vehicle is a testament to both style and performance. Key Features: Immaculate Inside and Out: This car radiates beauty, with a meticulously maintained interior and exterior that showcase the owner's commitment to excellence.

$17,800Negotiable
Wilton, NSW

21 hours ago

2010 BMW 3 Series 323i E92 6 SP AUTOMATIC 2D COUPE

  • 241000 km
  • Coupe (2 door)
  • Auto
  • 6 cyl 2.5L

This BMW 323i has been regularly professionally serviced, all of which is reflected in the log book. It was most recently serviced within the last six months at which time the transmission was flushed. The front brake pads are near new. This car is in very good condition, runs well and is a joy to drive.

$9,700Negotiable
Cottesloe, WA

22 hours ago

2010 BMW 3 20i LIFESTYLE 6 SP AUTOMATIC STEPTRONIC 4D SEDAN

  • 179000 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

Mechanically Sound in fair condition for age. last 2 photo's show defects. New Coil Packs. New Tyres. Drives well.

$9,000Negotiable
Beaconsfield, WA

23 hours ago

2018 BMW 3 30i TOURING SPORT LINE 8 SP AUTOMATIC 4D WAGON

$35,000
Highfields, NSW

24 hours ago

2012 BMW 3 28i SPORT LINE 8 SP AUTOMATIC 4D SEDAN

$15,500Negotiable
Erskineville, NSW

Yesterday

2000 BMW 3 30Ci 5 SP AUTOMATIC STEPTRONIC 2D CONVERTIBLE

  • 215000 km
  • Convertible
  • Auto
  • 6 cyl 3.0L

The next Owner will not be disappointed and their is much left in the tank of this beautiful car. I am the third Owner with the first being a BMW Consultant for a short time. For the first 13 years I owned the car with my business it was meticulously detailed every week until a change of employment. The upkeep has been ongoing and records are available. I am "downsizing" with my next retirement car and will be sorry to part with a rare gem. FEATURES YOU WOULD LOVE IN YOUR IDEAL CAR: Rear par

$16,000
Claremont, WA

Yesterday

2005 BMW 3.0L 330i 4 DOOR AUTO $6499 Call O43387I I I6

  • 230000 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 6 cyl 3.0L

READ THE ADD PLEASE NOT NEGOTIABLE BEFORD INSPECTION. SAVE YOUR TIME AND CALL ONLY DO NOT MESSAGE ME PLEASE. THANKS Located in Lidcombe No Swaps , Cash only 2005 BMW 330i 4 DOOR AUTO $6499 This is a in good condition it was driven by a old gentleman.The paint is in good condition considering it’s a 19 years old car. The interior of the car is good condition. It’s in Pristine condition. Mechanically is a very sound. It will come with 4 months registration. It was such a nice car to drive and abs

$6,499
Lidcombe, NSW

Yesterday

2011 BMW 3 35i M SPORT 7 SP AUTOMATIC 2D COUPE

  • 143455 km
  • Coupe (2 door)
  • Manual
  • 6 cyl 3.0L

Rare colour combination - Sapphire black paint with Dakota leather interior. Vehicle includes transferable extended warranty until Sep 2026 through the Presidian Group. Clear PPSR Comes with X 2 keys Service history Darkest legal window tints Immaculate condition inside and out, will not disappoint

$23,990Negotiable
Balga, WA

03/05/2024

2000 BMW 3 25i 5 SP MANUAL 4D SEDAN

  • 131100 km
  • Sedan
  • Manual
  • 6 cyl 2.5L

Urgent Sale! Clean and neat blue 2000 model BMW 35I up for sale. beige leather interior. Origonal Manual transmission converted to automatic transmission. reg expiry******2024 No scratches or markings. Sunroof Smooth drive. Only done 131000! Can supply a Road Worthy Certoficate. Reason for selling - moving interstate Any questions feel free to msg/ call me on Kind regards, Matthew

$9,500Negotiable
Mill Park, VIC

03/05/2024

2010 BMW 3 23i 6 SP AUTOMATIC STEPTRONIC 4D SEDAN

  • 172000 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 6 cyl 2.5L

6 Speed Sequential Auto Transmission Electric Sunroof Front and Rear Parking Sensors Electric Seats Leather Interior Headlight Washers Full Service Record Always garaged All service books and keys Have owned vehicle for 9 years For further information please phone Graeme on )

$9,000
Devonport, TAS

03/05/2024

2009 BMW 3 20i EXECUTIVE 6 SP AUTOMATIC STEPTRONIC 4D SEDAN

  • 125000 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

Great tidy car ,fully serviced with log books x2 keys. 3 months rego, run flat tyres x2 new .Just been serviced. Comes with rwc No time wasters

$9,750Negotiable
Banks, ACT

03/05/2024

2011 BMW 3 20d TOURING LIFESTYLE 6 SP AUTOMATIC STEPTRONIC 4D WAGON

  • 179943 km
  • Wagon
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

Absolutely stunning car, a real beauty to drive, very smooth, no mechanical defects whatsoever. In great condition inside and out. Beautiful upholstery on the inside, was garaged most of last year, comes with full service history. Enjoy the extra large sunroof on a beautiful sunny day, Bluetooth connection for your iPhone for music and calls. Black rims make it a head turner, a very enjoyable car to own. Some small scuffs on front left rim. Relatively low kms for a diesel engine. Still has many

$13,999Negotiable
Bondi Beach, NSW

03/05/2024

BMW 325i 2008 6 SP AUTOMATIC STEPTRONIC 2D CONVERTIBLE

  • 163680 km
  • Convertible
  • Auto
  • 6 cyl 2.5L

BMW 325I 2008 CONVERTIBLE AUTOMATIC MECHANICALLY AND COSMETICALLY EXCELLENT. NEW ENGINE VALVE COVER & GASKETS FITTED. COMES WITH LOG BOOKS & OWNERS MANUAL. Features include: - Driver airbag - Side airbags - Brake assist - Front and rear parking sensors - Passenger airbag - Power steering - Rain sensor wipers - Cruise control - An inbuilt bluetooth phone system - LED tail lamps - GPS navigation system - Climate control air conditioning - Power foldaway hardtop - 19" alloy wheels - Data dots - R

$13,500
Mount Lewis, NSW

02/05/2024

2007 BMW 3 35i 6 SP AUTOMATIC STEPTRONIC 2D COUPE

  • 188500 km
  • Coupe (2 door)
  • Auto
  • 6 cyl 3.0L

REASON for SELLING. DECEASED ESTATE. Our deceased son purchased this car in August 2022 for $24,300, with 144,202 kms on the speedo & it was his pride & JOY until, due to depression, cirrhosis of the liver & gout meant that he couldn't drive it anymore & his illness progressed until his death in November 2023. Makes a perfect first car! Engineered with a 3.0 litre engine and 225.0kW of power!. Reaches 0-100 km/h in 5.7 seconds!. PRICE IS NEGOTIABLE Service log books from previous owner are ava

$14,600Negotiable
Valley View, SA

02/05/2024

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.