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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.
BMW325iFixed PriceAir conditioning?: YesClear all

Top2009 BMW 325i E92 325i Grey Automatic Coupe

  • 162469 km
  • Coupe (2 door)
  • Auto
  • 6 cyl 2.5L

2009 BMW 325i 2.5L Auto $14995 162 469kms Full Service History Comes with a Safety Certificate and 1000km/1 month Statutory Warranty Extended Warranties up to 5 years available Finance can be arranged Buy with confidence from a licensed dealer. Call Thomas 1220 Ipswich Road Moorooka (1112)

$14,995 Excl. Gov. Charges
Moorooka, QLD

Dealer used
11 hours ago

Top2001 BMW 3 25i 5 SP AUTOMATIC STEPTRONIC 4D SEDAN

$11,900
North Richmond, NSW

26/04/2024

Top2009 BMW 3 25i

  • 162469 km
  • Coupe (2 door)
  • Auto
  • 6 cyl 2.5L

2009 BMW 325i 2.5L Auto $14995 162 469kms Full Service History Comes with a Safety Certificate and 1000km/1 month Statutory Warranty Extended Warranties up to 5 years available Finance can be arranged Buy with confidence from a licensed dealer. Call Thomas 1220 Ipswich Road Moorooka (1112)

$14,995 Excl. Gov. Charges
Moorooka, QLD

Dealer used
22 hours ago

Top2006 BMW 3 Series E90 325i Steptronic 6 Speed Sports Automatic Sedan

  • 103000 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 6 cyl 2.5L

We are a family owned Land Rover and Prestige specialist located near Brighton, Victoria We accept any trade and offer finance and warranty options *PLEASE NOTE: THE BUILD DATE MAY NOT BE ACCURATE AS VEHICLES ADVERTISED IN VICTORIA ARE SOLD BASED UPON ON THE YEAR OF COMPLIANCE - PLEASE CHECK WITH YOUR CONSULTANT TO CONFIRM BUILD DATE. VEHICLE FEATURES AND OPTIONS LISTED IN THIS ADVERTISEMENT ARE AUTOMATICALLY SUPPLIED BY REDBOOK FOR THIS MAKE/MODEL AND ARE NOT SPECIFIC TO THIS VEHICLE. PLEA

$10,750 Excl. Gov. Charges
Moorabbin, VIC

Dealer used
Yesterday

Top2006 BMW 325i E92 Black 6 Speed Auto Steptronic Coupe

  • 154778 km
  • Coupe (2 door)
  • Auto
  • 6 cyl 2.5L

** 2006 BMW 3 25i E92 2.5L MULTI POINT F/INJ 6 SPEED AUTOMATIC STEPTRONIC** Only $12,990 Or Finance From Only $65 P/w ** This Vehicle Is Absolutely Immaculate! Come Down And Test Drive Today!** Economical and Powerful 2.5L Petrol Engine With a Sporty 6 Speed Automatic STEPTRONIC Transmission This is Highly Sought After Combination** ** THIS IS A PERFECT EXAMPLE OF A VERY CLEAN AND TIDY BMW** **This car is a real head turner, don't miss out! Only travelled a low 154,000 ks!!** COMES WITH LOG

$12,990 Excl. Gov. Charges
Osborne Park, WA

Dealer used
Yesterday

Top2014 BMW 3 Series F30 MY1114 328i Sport Line Grey 8 Speed Sports Automatic Sedan

  • 132218 km
  • Other
  • Auto
  • 4

BMW 328iSport Package F30 MY14 Sedan in Dark Grey Mica M Sport package turbo 8 speed sports automatic! Comes with a 12 month extended warranty included Black dakota leather sport Interior trim. Innovations Package 328i Sport Package In excellent condition and all the right options. Up to date service history We can provide service history and clear title certificate at the time of inspection. ***Vehicle Specifications*** - Transmission - 8 Speed Sports Automatic - Drive - Rear

$21,888 Excl. Gov. Charges
Albion, QLD

Dealer used
6 hours ago

2007 BMW 3 Series 323i E90

  • 69147 km
  • Other
  • Auto

Ladies and Gentlemen, Boys and Girls, lend me your ears - or eyes, rather, as I introduce to you the embodiment of style, sophistication, and sass - the 2007 BMW 3 Series 323i E90! This isn't just a car, folks, it's a statement. A statement that says, ''Hey world, I've arrived and I've got impeccable taste!'' Now, I'm sure you've heard of black beauty, but have you ever seen a black beauty? No, not the horse. I'm talking about this stunning, sleek, and suave sedan that's got more curves than a

$12,990 Excl. Gov. Charges
Maddington, WA

Dealer used
2 hours ago

2014 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. •

$17,995 Excl. Gov. Charges
Minchinbury, NSW

Dealer used
4 hours ago

2015 BMW 3 Series F30 MY1114 320i M Sport Black 8 Speed Sports Automatic Sedan

  • 95961 km
  • Other
  • Auto
  • 4

Welcome to our dealership, where the perfect car is just a phone call away! At our dealership conveniently located near the CBD, we're revolutionizing the way you buy vehicles. With our focus on providing exceptional service and competitive pricing, we're dedicated to ensuring your car-buying experience is seamless and satisfying. Our call center isn't just a point of contact; it's your gateway to a vast selection of top-quality vehicles. From small vehicles to luxury SUVs and everything in

$26,898 Excl. Gov. Charges
Victoria Park, WA

Dealer used
6 hours ago

2014 BMW 3 Series F30 MY1114 328i Sport Line Grey 8 Speed Sports Automatic Sedan

  • 132218 km
  • Other
  • Auto
  • 4

BMW 328iSport Package F30 MY14 Sedan in Dark Grey Mica M Sport package turbo 8 speed sports automatic! Comes with a 12 month extended warranty included Black dakota leather sport Interior trim. Innovations Package 328i Sport Package In excellent condition and all the right options. Up to date service history We can provide service history and clear title certificate at the time of inspection. ***Vehicle Specifications*** - Transmission - 8 Speed Sports Automatic - Drive - Rear

$21,888 Excl. Gov. Charges
Albion, QLD

Dealer used
6 hours ago

2009 BMW 325i E92 325i Grey Automatic Coupe

  • 162469 km
  • Coupe (2 door)
  • Auto
  • 6 cyl 2.5L

2009 BMW 325i 2.5L Auto $14995 162 469kms Full Service History Comes with a Safety Certificate and 1000km/1 month Statutory Warranty Extended Warranties up to 5 years available Finance can be arranged Buy with confidence from a licensed dealer. Call Thomas 1220 Ipswich Road Moorooka (1112)

$14,995 Excl. Gov. Charges
Moorooka, QLD

Dealer used
11 hours ago

2013 BMW 3 Series 320i F30

  • 136662 km
  • Other
  • Auto

***finance from $89,00 per week*** -136.662 kms -AUTOMATIC - 5 SEATS - TWIN POWER TURBO -REVERSE CAMERA -SENSERS -SUNROOF -DUAL AIR CONDITIONER -CUISE CONTROL 🔧 Workshop City is now open at 56 Division Street in Welshpool and they have a special offer of a FREE SERVICE with every car purchased this month. They can help with all your maintenance and repairs. Buy a car this month to get a FREE SERVICE! ⚙️ *WE LOVE TRADE IN'S & WILL PAY TOP DOLLAR FOR YOUR CAR. * FINANCE AVAILABLE ON ALL

$18,980 Excl. Gov. Charges
Victoria Park, WA

Dealer used
14 hours ago

2014 BMW 3 Series

  • 216039 km
  • Other

This 2014 BMW Series 3 is a luxurious and spacious wagon This vehicle comes with: - 3 Years Value Warranty is available - 3 Years Roadside Assistance - PPSR / Car History Report - Road Worthy Certificate Features include: - 20" Alloy Wheels - Bluetooth - Cruise Control - Front & Rear Sensors - Heated Seats - Front/Rear - Heated Steering Wheel - Hill Descent - Independent Front/Rear Suspension - Push-Button Start - Rollover Stability - Trailer Sway - Tyre Pressure Sensors And much mo

$12,900 Excl. Gov. Charges
Granville, NSW

Dealer used
19 hours ago

2009 BMW 3 25i

  • 162469 km
  • Coupe (2 door)
  • Auto
  • 6 cyl 2.5L

2009 BMW 325i 2.5L Auto $14995 162 469kms Full Service History Comes with a Safety Certificate and 1000km/1 month Statutory Warranty Extended Warranties up to 5 years available Finance can be arranged Buy with confidence from a licensed dealer. Call Thomas 1220 Ipswich Road Moorooka (1112)

$14,995 Excl. Gov. Charges
Moorooka, QLD

Dealer used
22 hours ago

2014 BMW 3 Series F30 MY1114 320i M Sport White 8 Speed Sports Automatic Sedan

  • 140000 km
  • Other
  • Auto
  • 4

** TOP OF THE RANGE 320i M-SPORT FINISHED IN POLAR WHITE ON BLACK ** FULLY OPTIONED 2.0 LITRE TURBO DO NOT COMPARE TO 316i OR 318i MODELS ** ** FULL BMW SERVICE HISTORY WITH 2 KEYS ** ** FINANCE AVAILABLE, CAR IS READY FOR IMMEDIATE DELIVERY!! ** ** MUST BE SEEN AND DRIVEN IN PERSON TO TRULY BE APPRECIATED !! DO NOT MISS OUT ON THIS STUNNING VEHICLE !! ** ** DO NOT MISS OUT !!! ** Options include: - ELECTRIC SUNROOF - FULL ELECTRIC ERGONOMIC LEATHER SPORTS BUCKET SEATS W/ MEMORY - NAV

$20,888 Excl. Gov. Charges
Williamstown North, VIC

Dealer used
Yesterday

2002 BMW 3 Series E46 MY2002 325i Steptronic Blue 5 Speed Sports Automatic Sedan

  • 239027 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 6 cyl 2.5L

2002 BMW 3 SERIES 325i 2.5L PETROL 5-SPEED AUTO This immaculate 325i is so beautiful to drive it will make your day every day. • 2.5 Litre Petrol Engine • Woodgrain Interior Trim • Safety Features Galore * Log Books & Service History * Rego * Safety Certificate * Clear PPSR Check * Comes Fully Serviced FIND US AT: 53 Grice Street Clontarf Qld -> Open 7 Days - 10am to 7pm -> After Hours By Appointment -> Call us on ******** 609 We offer video calls to show you the cars so you can kn

$5,950 Excl. Gov. Charges
Clontarf, QLD

Dealer used
Yesterday

2006 BMW 325i E92 Black 6 Speed Auto Steptronic Coupe

  • 154778 km
  • Coupe (2 door)
  • Auto
  • 6 cyl 2.5L

** 2006 BMW 3 25i E92 2.5L MULTI POINT F/INJ 6 SPEED AUTOMATIC STEPTRONIC** Only $12,990 Or Finance From Only $65 P/w ** This Vehicle Is Absolutely Immaculate! Come Down And Test Drive Today!** Economical and Powerful 2.5L Petrol Engine With a Sporty 6 Speed Automatic STEPTRONIC Transmission This is Highly Sought After Combination** ** THIS IS A PERFECT EXAMPLE OF A VERY CLEAN AND TIDY BMW** **This car is a real head turner, don't miss out! Only travelled a low 154,000 ks!!** COMES WITH LOG

$12,990 Excl. Gov. Charges
Osborne Park, WA

Dealer used
Yesterday

2006 BMW 3 Series E90 325i Steptronic 6 Speed Sports Automatic Sedan

  • 103000 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 6 cyl 2.5L

We are a family owned Land Rover and Prestige specialist located near Brighton, Victoria We accept any trade and offer finance and warranty options *PLEASE NOTE: THE BUILD DATE MAY NOT BE ACCURATE AS VEHICLES ADVERTISED IN VICTORIA ARE SOLD BASED UPON ON THE YEAR OF COMPLIANCE - PLEASE CHECK WITH YOUR CONSULTANT TO CONFIRM BUILD DATE. VEHICLE FEATURES AND OPTIONS LISTED IN THIS ADVERTISEMENT ARE AUTOMATICALLY SUPPLIED BY REDBOOK FOR THIS MAKE/MODEL AND ARE NOT SPECIFIC TO THIS VEHICLE. PLEA

$10,750 Excl. Gov. Charges
Moorabbin, VIC

Dealer used
Yesterday

2017 BMW 3 Series F30 LCI 340i M Sport Sedan 4dr Spts Auto 8sp 3.0T [Apr] Automatic Sedan

  • 21545 km
  • Other
  • Auto

Presenting this 2017 BMW 340i M Sport, finished in Black Sapphire Metallic over Black Leather Interior, this sporty sedan is the perfect fit for your next adventure. This vehicle qualifies for: - 3 or 5 year Warranty - Competitive finance and novated leasing packages - Same day finance T.A.P - Trade-Ins welcome Along with an excellent a 5-star ANCAP Safety rating to keep you and your family safe, and a powerful 240KW Turbo Inline-6 Engine, this BMW is also equipped with the following featur

$49,950 Excl. Gov. Charges
Thornbury, VIC

Dealer used
Yesterday

2008 BMW 3 25i 6 SP AUTOMATIC STEPTRONIC 2D CONVERTIBLE

  • 195000 km
  • Convertible
  • Auto
  • 6 cyl 2.5L

2008 bmw 3 25i Msport e93 convertible,sort after colour combo black on red,6cylnder,has 6spd auto,paddle shift,everything works well has been serviced regularly. hands down the best convertible all round. 19inch wheels with good rubber will. comes with road worthy certificate and 6months registraition. cold air conditioning. smartphone connectivity,tints,drives well and is sound no leaks or issues. factory standard and has not been modified in any way. always bp ultimate 98 fuel nothing less. p

$11,000
Hurstville, NSW

Yesterday

2005 BMW 3 Series 320i E90

  • 134558 km
  • Other
  • Auto

***finance from $68,14 per week*** Automatic Aircon works Book history Cruise control 134558 kilometres Tyres okay Seat belts okay 3 keys 🔧 Workshop City is now open at 56 Division Street in Welshpool and they have a special offer of a FREE SERVICE with every car purchased this month. They can help with all your maintenance and repairs. Buy a car this month to get a FREE SERVICE! ⚙️ *WE LOVE TRADE IN'S & WILL PAY TOP DOLLAR FOR YOUR CAR. * FINANCE AVAILABLE ON ALL OF OUR CARS. STUDENT

$9,979.99 Excl. Gov. Charges
Victoria Park, WA

Dealer used
Yesterday

2007 BMW 3 Series E93 325i Steptronic Blue 6 Speed Sports Automatic Convertible 2.5L Turbo Petrol **

  • 125503 km
  • Convertible
  • Auto
  • 6 cyl 2.5L

2007 BMW 3 Series E93 325i Steptronic Blue 6 Speed Sports Automatic Convertible 2.5L Turbo Petrol *** Done 125503 kms PH: ********2299 M: D/L 29943 ****** A2Z CARS 218 Scarborough Beach Rd Mount Hawthorn WA 6016 ***** PLEASE CONTACT US BEFORE COMING TO LOOK AND TEST DRIVE THE CAR ***** 2 Set Keys New Service Done Full-Service History Electric Top Sport Seats Cruise Control Xenon Headlights Power front seats Power Steering Anti-lock Braking 17 Inch Alloy Wheels Traction Control Sy

$14,999 Excl. Gov. Charges
Osborne Park, WA

Dealer used
Yesterday

1992 BMW 3 Series 320i E36

  • 142300 km
  • Other
  • Auto
  • 6

*** GERMAN CLASSIC *** OLS SCHOOL *** FINANCE AVAILABLE *** ALL TRADES WELCOME Capture the spirit of driving with this vibrant 1992 BMW 3 Series 320i E36 Sedan. A true classic in the automotive world, this vehicle offers a combination of luxury, performance, and style. Painted in a striking red exterior colour, the car is in good condition with a well-maintained odometer reading of 142,300 Kms. It is powered by a robust 6-Cylinder engine, running on unleaded fuel, and paired with an autom

$9,990 Excl. Gov. Charges
Maylands, WA

Dealer used
28/04/2024

2007 BMW 325i Luxury Sports coupe SUNROOF Mags Sporty

  • 186850 km
  • Coupe (2 door)
  • Auto

2007 BMW 325i Sports Coupe ! 2.5L 6 Speed Auto Luxury Sports Coupe. LOW KMS, LOGBOOKS, SUNROOF, Click on this link below to see over 300 Cars for sale on our website. https://mrcarsydney.com.au/stock-list/ Call us to book an inspection today Mobile, O435, 781, 722, Address: No 5, 25 Edwards Road, Rouse Hill NSW 2155 Located at Mr Car Rouse Hill ** Warranty Available ** Finance Available ** Trade Ins Welcome ** ** Australia Wide Fast Delivery Available ** 24/7 Roadside Assist Avai

$11,999 Excl. Gov. Charges
Rouse Hill, NSW

Dealer used
28/04/2024

2007 BMW 3 Series E93 325i Steptronic Black 6 Speed Sports Automatic Convertible

  • 155377 km
  • Convertible
  • Auto
  • 6 cyl 2.5L

We are one of Australia's largest vehicle wholesale operations open direct to the public, so this car is priced at a fixed discounted rate to sell extremely quick. Please genuine and ready to buy inquiries only. We are located Inner West Sydney, 15 minutes from CBD, 25 minutes from Sydney Airport, 15 minutes from Parramatta. Dealer charge applies to all sales. Shop from home or in store. All cars are sold with a clear PPSR certificate and NSW roadworthy. All sorts of trade ins welcome. Easy

$12,999 Excl. Gov. Charges
Five Dock, NSW

Dealer used
28/04/2024

2011 BMW 3 Series E90 MY1011 320d Steptronic Lifestyle Silver 6 Speed Sports Automatic Sedan

  • 154330 km
  • Other
  • Auto
  • 4

2012 BMW 320D...SUNROOF, LEATHER, NAV, SENSOR, FOGLIGHT, CD PLAYER, AND LOGBOOKS. Family owned business operating and servicing NSW for over 30 years. Elderslie NSW Yard - Centrally located 50 minutes from Sydney for all your used car needs. Servicing Bickley Vale, Bringelly, Camden, Camden South, Catherine Field, Cawdor, Cobbitty, Currans Hill, Elderslie, Ellis Lane, Gledswood Hills, Grasmere, Gregory Hills, Harrington Park, Kirkham, Leppington, Mount Annan, Narellan, Narellan Vale, Oran Par

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

Dealer used
28/04/2024

2007 BMW 325i E92 Grey 6 Speed Auto Steptronic Coupe

  • 182430 km
  • Coupe (2 door)
  • Auto
  • 6 cyl 2.5L

MAY SALE ON NOW ??? FREE 1 YEAR WARRANTY !!! 2007 BMW 325I COUPE AUTOMATIC LOW KMS DRIVES GREAT , LEATHER INTERIOR , SUNROOF , 19 INCH ALLOYS AS NEW 255/30/19 AND 225/35/19 PIRELLI TYRES , TV , SAT NAV , BOOKS , TINTS , MAY REGO, AWESOME VALUE !! MERRYLANDS AUTOS QUALITY CARS FOR OVER 25 YEARS. --RING (02*97*600*700) --53 WOODVILLE ROAD GRANVILLE NSW --OPEN 6 DAYS FROM 9.00AM TO 4.00PM (CLOSED SUNDAY.) --FINANCE AVAILABLE. --1,3,5 YEARS WARRANTY AVAILABLE. --DELIVERY AUST. WIDE AVAILABLE.

$6,999 Excl. Gov. Charges
Granville, NSW

Dealer used
28/04/2024

2009 BMW 3 Series E92 MY09 325i Steptronic Bronze 6 Speed Sports Automatic Coupe

  • 115549 km
  • Coupe (2 door)
  • Auto
  • 6 cyl 2.5L

Stunning Coupe here with a super low 115000kms, AUTO, quality 2.5 Ltr motor and features such as... - Air conditioning - Sunroof - Leather seating - GPS - Reverse sensors - 19" Alloy wheels - Multiple airbag safety - WINDOW TINT already added and more. Vehicle has been workshop inspected, drives great and priced to sell fast. Finance and a range of extended warranties are available and trade-ins are welcome so BE VERY VERY QUICK FOR THIS ONE!!! TO REGISTER YOUR FINANC

$14,800 Excl. Gov. Charges
Wangara, WA

Dealer used
28/04/2024

2013 BMW 3 Series F31 328i M Sport Blue 8 Speed Sports Automatic Wagon

  • 102986 km
  • Wagon
  • Auto

Dive into the epitome of luxury and performance with our meticulously maintained 2013 BMW 3 Series. This automatic gem showcases the perfect blend of elegance and power that BMW is renowned for, making it an ideal choice for both enthusiasts and discerning drivers alike. Its sleek exterior is matched by an interior that promises comfort and style, ensuring every journey is as enjoyable as the destination. With a robust service history and a commitment to excellence, this BMW 3 Series stands rea

$23,900 Excl. Gov. Charges
Burswood, WA

Dealer used
28/04/2024

2007 BMW 325i E93 MY08 325i Silver 6 Speed Manual Convertible

  • 86233 km
  • Convertible
  • Manual
  • 6 cyl 2.5L

** Since 1994 our Family run business has been specialising in prestige European car sales from our indoor warehouse in Sydney ** ** WINNER of the 2020 Local Business awards for Outstanding Automotive Services** - BMW 325i Convertible Manual 2.5i - 6 speed manual - Only 86,000klms since new - Unmarked alloy wheels - Parking sensors - Leather interior - Dual zone aircon - we are extremely thorough about the sort of cars we buy and go over them with a fine- tooth comb. - this car will be me

$17,950 Excl. Gov. Charges
Rydalmere, NSW

Dealer used
28/04/2024

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.