BMW Problems

Are you having problems with your BMW? Let our team of motoring experts keep you up to date with all of the latest BMW issues & faults. We have gathered all of the most frequently asked questions and problems relating to the BMW in one spot to help you decide if it's a smart buy.

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What is the difference between the BMW M3 and M4?
Answered by CarsGuide team · 20 Nov 2024

The M3 is based on the four-door three series sedan/wagon, while the M4 is based on the two-door 4 series coupe/convertible. There is a four-door M4 Grand Coupe.

BMW customers have two ways of charging their iX at home, the fastest being by installing a three-phase 22kW AC wall charger. These cost between $1500 to $3000, with additional energy costs averaging between 21-36 cents per kW, depending on your provider and which state you live in. If you’re hooked up to solar power, the additional cost can be zero. According to BMW, this method will charge the iX xDrive40 from 0-100 per cent in 8 hours and 15 minutes. The other method is a standard AC wall socket, which charges at a much slower rate of 2.3kW. BMW says this will take 39 hours for a full charge.

What engine is in the BMW M2?
Answered by CarsGuide team · 20 Nov 2024

The G87 M2 carries the same engine as the M3, M4 and X3 M, a 3.0-litre twin-turbocharged in-line straight six, which is good for 353kW/600Nm at the top end of the range.

How many seats does the BMW i8 have?
Answered by CarsGuide team · 20 Nov 2024

It has two seats.

How long does a BMW 330e PHEV's battery pack last?
Answered by David Morley · 04 Mar 2025

The 330e is a plug-in hybrid (PHEV), so it has a petrol engine and a smaller battery pack than a full EV (which runs exclusively on battery power). That means the BMW’s battery should be less expensive to replace if it ever needed to be.

At the moment, the world is waiting to find out how long EV batteries last, but it’s looking like between 10 and 20 years is going to be the magic number. A lithium-ion battery like this one will last longer if it’s never over-charged and is cycled regularly rather than left sitting for long periods.

Why is BMW XM so expensive?
Answered by CarsGuide team · 26 Nov 2024

The BMW XM is BMW's flagship SUV, and a standalone M model. It also carries a plug-in hybrid V8 powertrain.

What engine does a BMW M4 have?
Answered by CarsGuide team · 20 Nov 2024

The BMW M4 has a 3.0-litre twin-turbocharged in-line straight six, which is good for 405kW/650Nm.

When did the BMW M2 come out (release date)?
Answered by David Morley · 20 Nov 2024

The BMW M2 is a relative new release for the brand, having only been introduced to the market in 2015. The second generation arrived in 2021, while the G87 facelifted grade arrived in 2023.

15,000-plus cars recalled for fire risk
By James Cleary · 09 Oct 2025
The Federal Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communication, Sport and the Arts has issued a safety recall notice impacting 15,352 BMWs across multiple models sold new in Australia from 2016 to 2020.It confirms that in examples of the 320d, 320i, 330i, 420i, 430i, 520d, 520i, 530i, 620d, 630i, X3, X4 and Z4, “Due to a manufacturing defect, inadequate sealing of the starter motor may allow moisture to enter into the unit. If this occurs, corrosion may result in the engine not starting.”The department said, “In rare cases, it could also cause a short circuit leading to overheating of the starter motor and in the worst case, to a vehicle fire while parked or driving.“A vehicle fire could increase the risk of injury or death to vehicle occupants, other road users, bystanders and/or damage to property,” it said.Owners of affected vehicles will be contacted by BMW requesting they schedule an appointment immediately with their preferred authorised BMW dealer to replace the starter motor free of charge.Alternatively, BMW Australia can be contacted on a dedicated Recall Hotline (1800 243 675), via email (info@bmw.com.au) or through a recall-specific website (https://www.recall.bmw.com.au).
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BMW recalls almost 3000 more cars in Australia due to faulty Takata airbags, owners told to stop driving immediately
By Jack Quick · 02 Jun 2025
BMW Australia is currently recalling 2947 examples of the E9x-generation 3 Series as they are fitted with defective Takata airbags.
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Disclaimer: You acknowledge and agree that all answers are provided as a general guide only and should not be relied upon as bespoke advice. Carsguide is not liable for the accuracy of any information provided in the answers.
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