BMW 3 Series2021

Known issues

• Battery capacity loss of 10–15% over 5–8 years, reducing electric range and increasing reliance on petrol engine
• High-voltage charging system faults and AC charger failures requiring dealer intervention and specialist diagnostics
• Timing chain rattle on cold start (B48 petrol engine), typically appearing around 40,000–80,000 miles
• Sticky/sluggish throttle response and drivetrain lag during transition between electric and petrol drive modes
• Water ingress and corrosion in high-voltage battery pack connectors, especially in damp Irish climate
• ZF 8-speed automatic gearbox shudder during low-speed acceleration and occasional hesitation on gear changes

Good for

• Low company-car tax owing to sub-50g CO2/km emissions rating
• Smooth, quiet electric-only driving for short urban commutes (25–35-mile real-world EV range)
• Comfortable, well-appointed interior and excellent build quality typical of mid-cycle 3 Series refresh
• Reasonable acceleration and performance blend when petrol and electric motors work together