Electrical System Problems of BMW 3 Series

BMW 3 Series owners have reported 149 electrical system related problems since 1996. Table 1 shows the 13 most common electrical system problems. The number one most common problem is related to the vehicle's electrical system (114 problems). The second most common problem is related to the vehicle's wiring (10 problems). For details of each of the problem category, use the links in the table.


Recently reported Electrical System problems of BMW 3 Series

The Electrical System problem

Rear lights . Clip contacts melting ground wire . Purchased lights and clips 3 times and melted again. Lights inoperable after 2 weeks of life harness melted . Received multiple warnings and a ticket I now have to prove repair . Recall found for every other model except the 323i 2000 .   Read details...

The Wiring problem

I was receiving a imagine on the on board computer saying that my headlights were not working. Upon inspection inside the headlight's casing, I saw that all of the wiring's protection had completely fell off (probably due to the humid southern climate of north texas) leaving almost all of the   Read details...

The Car Will Not Start problem

Electronic steering wheel lock. This is in the steering column when it fails the car will not start. It seems to be a pretty common problem. I was hoping there was a recall for this issue, but can not find one.   Read details...

The Power Door Locks Not Working problem

Door locks failed. Can only open door with key.   Read details...

The Alternator/generator/regulator problem

When driving, the smell of burning or melting plastic is so strong, I have to roll down the windows. The smell occurs about 5 times a week and can be smelled both inside and outside the car. It occurs at various times. . . On the freeway, on surface streets, stopped at a red light etc.   Read details...




Safety Ratings of 3 Series Cars
3 Series Service Bulletins
3 Series Safety Recalls
3 Series Defect Investigations