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BMW, 3 Series, F30/F31/F34/F35 Common Issues

1. Oil leaks

Occurrence: 12%Cost to repair: $800

Symptoms:

Green or brown fluid under the car, engine noise, low oil pressure


2. Faulty water pumps

Occurrence: 8%Cost to repair: $1200

Symptoms:

Overheating engine, steam coming from radiator, coolant leaks


3. Transmission issues (DCT)

Occurrence: 6%Cost to repair: $1000

Symptoms:

Jerky shifting, transmission slippage, failure to engage gears


4. Rear main seal leaks

Occurrence: 5%Cost to repair: $600

Symptoms:

Oil leaks from rear of engine, oil spots on garage floor


5. Fuel pump failures

Occurrence: 4%Cost to repair: $900

Symptoms:

Car will not start, stuttering or hesitation when accelerating


6. Sway bar end link failures

Occurrence: 3%Cost to repair: $400

Symptoms:

Clunking or knocking sounds from front of car, uneven tire wear


7. Rear differential noise

Occurrence: 2%Cost to repair: $700

Symptoms:

Whining or grinding noises when turning, vibration in the back of the car


8. ABS and brake issues

Occurrence: 2%Cost to repair: $800

Symptoms:

Spongy brake pedal, ABS light on dashboard, unusual braking behavior


9. Electric Power Steering (EPS) failures

Occurrence: 1.5%Cost to repair: $900

Symptoms:

Stiff or unresponsive steering, EPS light on dashboard


10. Throttle body failures

Occurrence: 1%Cost to repair: $500

Symptoms:

Car won't accelerate properly, stuttering or hesitation when accelerating