2012 Bmw 320i problems

General information about Bmw-320i
Overview of popular issues
Analysis of common problems
Сomplaints list
Recalls list

The BMW 3 Series is a line of compact executive cars manufactured by the German automaker BMW since May 1975. It is the successor to the 02 Series and has been produced in seven generations.

The first generation of the 3 Series was only available as a 2-door saloon; the model range expanded to include a 4-door saloon, 2-door convertible, 2-door coupé, 5-door estate, 5-door liftback ("Gran Turismo") and 3-door hatchback body styles. Since 2013, the coupé and convertible models have been marketed as the 4 Series, styles no longer included in the 3 Series.

The 3 Series is BMW's best-selling model, accounting for around 30% of the BMW brand's annual total car sales, and has won numerous awards throughout its history.

The M version of the 3 series, M3, debuted with the E30 M3 in 1986.

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Common 2012 Bmw 320i problems

The BMW 320i 2012 is a popular vehicle known for its luxury, good build quality, and technology. However, like any other car, it has its share of common problems that affect its reliability and overall performance. Here are some of the most frequently reported issues with the BMW 320i 2012:

Electrical failures: Electrical system problems are also common in the 2012 BMW 3 Series. Some owners report that the vehicle stalls while driving, which is usually caused by computer issues. Repairing the problem can cost around $650.

Seat problems: Seat issues are another complaint from owners of the 2012 BMW 3 Series. Some owners report problems with the restraint system, which was addressed in a recall and is repaired for free. However, other seat problems, such as issues with the seatbelt mechanism, can still occur.

Engine variable valve timing (VANOS) system: The engine's VANOS system is a common problem area in the 2012 BMW 3 Series. Any 'Engine Malfunction' message or 'Check Engine' light in the dashboard could be caused by a fault in this system. The VANOS arrangement was also the first system to show the effects of poor servicing, so make sure it checks out before purchasing the car.

Plastic fittings and radiator tanks: Older BMWs, including the 2012 BMW 3 Series, are known to have problems with the plastic fittings on the engine and the plastic radiator tanks. These parts can add up to a sizeable sum of money when they need to be replaced.

Power steering problems: Some owners of the 2012 BMW 3 Series report problems with the power steering. In some cases, the problem can be difficult to diagnose and can cost more than $2000 to fix, using second-hand parts.

Suspension concerns: Suspension issues are also common in the 2012 BMW 3 Series. The dealer can check the strut or a bush in the suspension if there is a fault. If that doesn't produce a resolution, then approaching BMW directly may be necessary.

In summary, the BMW 320i 2012 is a reliable car, but it has its share of common problems. These issues include cooling system failures, electrical failures, seat problems, engine VANOS system problems, plastic fittings and radiator tanks, power steering problems, and suspension concerns. It is essential to be aware of these issues and budget for the necessary ongoing servicing and repairs.

Is the 2012 320i reliable?

The 2012 3 Series can last over 200,000 miles even with some cooling and electrical issues. At $12,729 – 20,472, it's an excellent entry-level German luxury sports car. Performance is outstanding, cabin materials are high quality and the steering response is very tight.

How long does a BMW 320i engine last?

200,000 to 250,000 miles

You can expect your 3 Series to last anywhere from 200,000 to 250,000 miles when properly maintained. Is the BMW 3 Series reliable? Due to its meticulous craftsmanship and precision engineering, the 3 Series is a durable, long-lasting, and dependable car.

How reliable is a BMW 320i?

Reliability Survey, the BMW 3 Series ranked 18th out of 24 cars in our most reliable executive car class with a score of 87.5%. This was above the Alfa Romeo Giulia and the Skoda Superb, but below the Audi A4, the Jaguar XE and the Mercedes C-Class.

What is the most common problem with BMW 3 Series?

BMW 3 Series Common Problems and Solutions

Excessive Car Vibrations. Problem: ...
Oil On Engine Block. Problem: ...
Tail Light Illuminated. Problem: ...
Bumpy Driving. Problem: ...
Coolant Leak. Problem: ...
Drop in Engine Performance. Problem: ...
Rear Wiper Stopped Working. Problem: ...
Window Stuck In Down Position. Problem:

Is the 2012 320i reliable?

What are the disadvantages of the BMW 320i?

Most BMW 320i owners interviewed by The Standard said the vehicle's downside was “too much sensitivity”. “It has a lot of sensors, and when one fails, it could grind the car to a halt,” said Oduor.

How long does a BMW 320i engine last?

200,000 to 250,000 miles

How reliable is a BMW 320i?

2012 Bmw 320i car problems categorized by type of issue

After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Bmw 320i problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:

Air bags problems
Electrical system problems
Exterior lighting problems
Electronic stability control (esc) problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 2012 Bmw 320i vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

2012 Bmw 320i complaints

The NHTSA has received 3 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2012 Bmw 320i.

2017-02-27

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2017-02-21
VIN: WBAPK5C54AA
Components: AIR BAGS
Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2010 BMW 320I N/A. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT 40 MPH, THE AIR BAG WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED AND WOULD REMAIN ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 130,000.

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2016-09-09

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2016-09-09
VIN: WBADW3C55BE
Components: AIR BAGS
Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 (NA) BMW 320I. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 16V346000 (AIR BAGS); HOWEVER, THE PART TO DO THE REPAIR WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE.

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2014-01-26

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC) PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2011-12-01
Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
Summary: HEAD LIGHTS FOR NEWER CARS ARE TOO BRIGHT AND BLIND DRIVERS APPROACHING FROM THE OPPOSITE DIRECTION. *TR

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2012 Bmw 320i recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 3 recalls for different components of the 2012 Bmw 320i.

2015-08-17

Manufacturer: BMW of North America, LLC
Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
Summary: BMW North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain model year 2012-2015 320i, 320xi, 328i, 328xi, 335i, 335xi, and ActiveHybrid3 vehicles manufactured October 20, 2011, to June 22, 2015, 2014-2015 328xi Sports Wagon vehicles manufactured March 21, 2013, to March 17, 2015, 2014-2015 328d, 328xd vehicles manufactured June 28, 2013, to April 21, 2015, and 2014-2015 328xd Sports Wagon vehicles manufactured July 5, 2013, to April 21, 2015. The affected vehicles may have been programmed with new software that inadvertently makes the front side marker lights inoperative in conjunction with the parking lights or the headlights. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
Consequence: If the side marker lights do not illuminate, the vehicle may be less visible at night, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will upload revised software to correct the issue, free of charge. The recall began on October 7, 2015. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417 or by email at [email protected].

2014-10-07

Manufacturer: BMW of North America, LLC
Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:POWER ASSIST:VACUUM:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
Summary: BMW of North America LLC (BMW) is recalling certain model year 2014 BMW 328i xDrive Sports Wagon, 2012-2014 BMW 320i Sedan, 328i Sedan, 320i xDrive Sedan, 328i xDrive Sedan, 2012-2013 BMW 528i Sedan, 528i xDrive Sedan, 2013-2014 BMW X1 sDrive28i, X1 xDrive28i Sports Activity Vehicle, 2013-2014 BMW X3 xDrive28i Sports Activity Vehicle, 2012-2014 BMW Z4 sDrive28i Roadster, and 2014 BMW 428i Coupe, and 428i xDrive Coupe. Due to insufficient lubrication, the vacuum pump that supplies brake power assistance may fail. Note: This recall is an expansion of recall 13V-454.
Consequence: A failure of the brake vacuum pump results in a reduction in braking power that could increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will install a locking ring in the camshaft to retain the camshaft seal disk in the proper location, free of charge. The recall began on December 2, 2014. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.

2013-09-26

Manufacturer: BMW of North America, LLC
Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:POWER ASSIST:VACUUM
Summary: BMW of North America LLC (BMW) is recalling certain model year 2012-2014 320i, 328i, 320i xDrive, and 328i xDrive sedans; model year 2014 328i xDrive Sports Wagons; model year 2012-2013 528i and 528i xDrive sedans, model year 2013-2014 X1 sDrive28i and X1 xDrive28i vehicles and model year 2012-2014 Z4 sDrive28i roadsters. Due to insufficient lubrication, the vacuum pump that supplies brake power assistance may fail.
Consequence: A failure of the brake vacuum pump results in a reduction in braking power that could increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will modify the vehicles to prevent insufficient vacuum pump lubrication, free of charge. The safety recall began on January 31, 2014. Owners may contact BMW customer relations at 1-800-525-7417 or email BMW at [email protected].

Additional sources

More sources of information about 2012 Bmw 320i problems:

F30 320i Engine Problems? - BMW 3-Series and 4-Series Forum ...

https://f30.bimmerpost.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1307052

Sep 21, 2016 ... Pump gasket leaks everything ran well. Last few years the shaft sensor and VVT motor went, expensive parts but diy'd it so learnt a lot! Now got ...

2012 BMW 3 Series Review, Problems, Reliability, Value, Life ...

https://www.vehiclehistory.com/report/bmw/3-series/2012

Mar 29, 2022 ... The 2012 3 Series can last over 200,000 miles even with some cooling and electrical issues. At $12,729 – 20,472, it's an excellent entry-level ...

How reliable is a 2012 BMW 328i? (x-post from /r/BMW) : r/cars

https://www.reddit.com/r/cars/comments/6xru00/how_reliable_is_a_2012_bmw_328i_xpost_from_rbmw/

Sep 3, 2017 ... How reliable is a 2012 BMW 328i? ... I have a friend with a 2013 328i and it's pretty reliable engine and drivetrain wise. ... common problem) and ...

* Calling All Members With Problems With The 320i * - Page 45 ...

https://www.e90post.com/forums/showthread.php?t=136258&page=45

[F30] 2012 + · [E90] 2006 - 2011 · 4-Series; 5-Series ... I got my 08 E90 320i back in July, second hand from a non-BMW dealer. ... faulty part as it is a known ...