Buyer's checklist: E90, E92, E93 BMW M3 (2008–2013)

This checklist comes from a draft dossier that has not been approved yet, so read it with care.

What to look for on this generation, worst first. Tick each line as you check it.

Free while the site is being tested. Every line comes from the dossier and keeps its source, and the dossier itself stays free.

Look for 7

Known problems, and how to check for each.

Rod bearing wearAll yearsAsk for proof the rod bearings were replaced. Listen for knocking from the bottom of the engine, and ask for an oil analysis.^1,2,3
Throttle actuatorsAll yearsAsk for a scan for fault codes on the throttle bodies, and watch for a check engine light or limp mode.^1,2
VANOS solenoidsAll yearsListen for a rough idle and feel for lost power, and ask for a fault code scan.¹
Cooling system partsAll yearsAsk when the water pump, thermostat and expansion tank were replaced.^1,2
Worn bushings and subframe mountsAll yearsFeel for vague steering and clunks, check the rear trailing arms for play, and look at the rear subframe mounts for reinforcement plates or repairs, above all on a tracked car.¹
DCT control unitAll yearsTry every gear and launch control, and ask for a scan for clutch or gear selection faults.¹
Instrument and stability control faultsAll yearsLook for dead pixels in the instrument cluster, and ask for a full scan for steering angle sensor and stability control faults.¹

Recalls filed for these model years. Not every car is covered; check the vehicle identification number with NHTSA.

Recall 08V5950002008Under hard braking the gearbox software can shift down several gears at once, which at low speed can stall the engine. Dealers update the software. Ask for proof the recall work was done.⁴
Recall 16V0710002008–2013The driver's airbag inflator can build too much pressure and burst when it goes off, throwing metal fragments. Ask for proof the recall work was done.^4,5,6
Recall 17V6760002008–2011Wiring and connectors for the heating and air conditioning blower can overheat and melt, with a risk of fire. Ask for proof the recall work was done.^4,5
Recall 19V4720002008–2011The positive battery cable's connection at the fuse box can wear, cutting power now and then and possibly stalling the engine. Ask for proof the recall work was done.^4,5
Recall 20V0170002008–2013The driver's airbag inflator, made without a drying agent, can explode after years of heat and humidity, throwing metal fragments. Ask for proof the recall work was done.^4,5,6

What owners and the press say to steer clear of.

A high-mileage car with no rod bearing recordsAll yearsEuro Premium Parts advises caution with any car over 80,000 miles that cannot show the rod bearings were replaced. In two owner forum threads on the bearings, four owners report replacing theirs, one after a pre-purchase check found metal in the oil filter, and no owner posting reports a bearing failure of their own.^1,2,3