Most common 2011 BMW 3 Series problems
Share of the 1 complaints; one complaint can involve more than one system. "~" is the median mileage when the problem started.
BMW 3 Series complaints by model year
Best 3 Series years: 2011, 1999, 2001. Years to avoid: 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2000. Compare all years →
2011 BMW 3 Series recalls (2)
Engine and engine cooling › Engine
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2010-2012 1 Series Coupe, 1 Series Convertible, 3 Series Sedan, 3 Series Convertible, 2010-2011 3 Series Sportswagon, 3 Series Coupe, 5 Series Sedan, X3 xDrive 28i, X3 xDrive 30i, X5 xDrive30i, and Z4 sDrive30i vehicles.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the four VANOS bolts, free of charge. Interim letters notifying owners of the safety risk are expected to be mailed December 18, 2023. Owner notification letters were mailed June 19, 2024.
Engine and engine cooling › Exhaust system › Emission control › Crankcase (pcv)
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2008-2013 1 Series Coupe (128i); 2007-2013 3 Series Coupe (328i, 328xi, 328i xDrive); 2007-2010 X3 SAV (X3 3.0si, X3 xDrive30i); 2008-2013 1 Series Convertible (128i); 2006-2011 3 Series Sedan (325i, 325xi, 328i, 328xi, 328i xDrive, 330i, 330xi); 2006-2012 3 Series Wagon…
Remedy: This recall supersedes and expands previous NHTSA recalls 17V-683 and 19V-273. Dealers will install an electrical wiring harness with fuse protection for the PCV Valve heater in potentially affected vehicles, free of…
2011 BMW 3 Series engines & fuel economy
| Engine | Transmission | Drive | MPG city / hwy / combined |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3.0L 6-cyl turbo diesel | 6-speed automatic | RWD | 23 / 35 / 27 |
| 3.0L 6-cyl | 6-speed manual | RWD | 19 / 28 / 22 |
| 3.0L 6-cyl | 6-speed automatic | RWD | 18 / 28 / 22 |
| 3.0L 6-cyl turbo | 6-speed manual | RWD | 19 / 28 / 22 |
| 3.0L 6-cyl turbo | 6-speed automatic | RWD | 19 / 28 / 22 |
| 3.0L 6-cyl turbo | 6-speed manual | AWD | 19 / 26 / 21 |
| 3.0L 6-cyl turbo | 6-speed automatic | AWD | 18 / 26 / 21 |
| 3.0L 6-cyl | 6-speed manual | AWD | 17 / 25 / 20 |
| 3.0L 6-cyl | 6-speed automatic | AWD | 18 / 25 / 20 |
| 3.0L 6-cyl turbo | 7-speed automatic | RWD | 17 / 23 / 19 |
EPA ratings. Class: Compact car.
Frequently asked questions
Is the 2011 BMW 3 Series a good car?
Based on 1 owner complaint filed with NHTSA, the 2011 3 Series rates better than average: 94% fewer complaints than a typical year of the 3 Series at the same age. It is one of the best 3 Series years by this measure. Complaint counts don't account for sales volume or individual maintenance, so have any used car inspected before buying.
What is the most common problem with the 2011 BMW 3 Series?
The engine & cooling — 1 complaint, 100% of all complaints for this model year.
How many recalls does the 2011 BMW 3 Series have?
There are 2 recalls for the 2011 BMW 3 Series, the most recent from October 20, 2023 (engine). Recall repairs are free at any authorized dealer — check whether yours has been done with the VIN recall check.
What are the best and worst years of the BMW 3 Series?
The best years by complaints, compared at the same age, are 2011, 1999 and 2001. Years to avoid or approach with caution: 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009 and 2000. See the full BMW 3 Series years comparison.
Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) — owner complaints through October 20, 2026, recalls and defect investigations; fuel economy from the EPA. Complaints are unverified reports and are not proof of a defect. How we rate model years.