2009 Model Year

BMW 3 Series

NHTSA Complaints & Reliability Data

Compare
Complaints
385
Recalls
0
Crashes
15
Severe
45

Recent Complaints

Latest owner reports

Electrical System Fire
Dec 2026

The contact owns a 2009 BMW 328i. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the engine overheating warning light illuminated. The...

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Feb 2026

The security system, alarm system and key fob have all been tampered with.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Feb 2026

UNKNOWN- The wiring system/ security system is faulty and requires attention.

Air Bags
Nov 2025

Seat occupancy sensor -- seat belt is inoperable on passenger side. Seat belt stuck in passengers seat back. "Active fault for seat occupancy sensor....

Air Bags
Oct 2025

The contact owns a 2009 BMW 335I. The contact stated that the vehicle was repaired under NHTSA Campaign Number: 20V017000 (AIR BAGS); however, shortly...

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
Aug 2025

Car running lean oil leak getting hot,loss of power,jolting forward also my car has been in dealership shop for 2 years I'm being charged for service...

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS,ENGINE Fire
Mar 2025

One recall was for air bag deployed I had the light for it on but it was on when I got it the original owner said it popped on him well he was parked...

UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Mar 2025

While driving the car stalled. It happened multiple times. While driving and at a stop.

Electrical System
Jan 2025

My car lost all power as if the battery died. BMW had a recall for the positive battery cable running from the battery in the trunk to the fuse box b...

Engine
Jul 2024

BMW told me they would not be covering reimbursement for repairs/part replaced which I believe were damaged/failed directly as a result of failed PCC...

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Vehicle Safety Research Team

Automotive Data Analysts

Independent researchers analyzing NHTSA data to help consumers make informed vehicle decisions.

Data updated: March 5, 2026

Summary

The 2009 BMW 3 Series has 385 complaints and 0 recalls on record. The most commonly reported issue is Air Bags. 15 crash-related incidents have been reported.

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