BMW F30 3-Series Buyers’ Guide (2022) – Bimmers.com

While it definitely doesn’t feel like it, the F30 has been around for over a decade now. The sixth generation of the 3-Series brought some notable updates over its predecessor, the E90, and understandably so, considering the 3-Series was (and still is) one of BMW’s highest selling models. It was longer, wider, and thus, more spacious than the car it was replacing. In most cases, it was also quicker, weighed less, and handled better while being more fuel-efficient. 

The F30 is arguably all the car you’ll ever need. With the current G20 3-Series gaining popularity over the last couple of years, prices for a used F30 are quite reasonable. Now’s as good a time as any to get your hands on one. We’ve put together a comprehensive guide to help you pick the right F30 — which engine and transmission option you should opt for, as well as common problems you should be wary of.

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BMW F30 3-Series — Significance

The 3-Series holds a significant place in BMW’s history. Over seven generations, from the E21 to the present-day G20, it’s cemented itself as the most recognizable product the manufacturer has to offer. 

The sixth-generation, the F30, in particular, holds its own chapter in the history books for multiple reasons. The F30 was the first 3-Series range to consist entirely of turbocharged engines; it debuted BMW’s first three-cylinder engine on a 3-Series; and it brought in electrification for the first time, with the ActiveHybrid3 derivative.

This was also the first generation of the 3-Series for which the coupe (F32) and convertible (F33) versions received their own model designation — the 4 Series. 

Body Styles

The F30 sedan was joined by the BMW F31 (wagon, or what BMW calls the ‘Touring’) and the BMW F34 (Gran Turismo). BMW often uses the same model name across different body styles, so it can be a little confusing at times. This is because the cars are predominantly differentiated by just their body styles — the engine, transmission, and much of the chassis is shared.

BMW F30 (Sedan)

The F30 was introduced at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show and was the first of this generation of the 3-Series to go on sale. This iteration of the car was also the first to make its way to the U.S. market. Initially, two models were offered — the base 328i and the premium 335i. 

The former was introduced with a brand-new engine at its heart — the BMW N20 engine. This 2.0L inline-four cylinder unit was the German giant’s first four-pot petrol in the U.S. in over two decades. 

Shortly after, the 320i, 318d, 316d, 316i, and the 320i EfficientDynamics Edition joined the lineup. However, not all of these cars were launched in the U.S. market, and we’ll list the ones that did further below.

In 2015, the F30 underwent an LCI (Life Cycle Impulse), or simply put, a midlife update (we’ll talk about the changes this brought further below in more detail). The post-LCI F30 sedans included the 330i and the 340i. 

Touring (F31)

BMW’s ‘Touring’ models are of the estate body style, and in the case of the sixth-gen 3-Series, it was given the F31 model name. It was first showcased at the Leipzig Auto Show in 2012 and comprised multiple models, including the 316d, 318d, 320d, 320i, 328i, and 330d. 

Gran Turismo (F34)

The GT iteration of the sixth-generation 3-Series was referred to as the F34 and was styled much like the 5 Series Gran Turismo. The F34 was around 200 mm longer than its corresponding F30 or F31 counterpart, primarily thanks to a longer wheelbase. It was also taller than its sedan and touring siblings. With its larger proportions, the F34 had more room to offer its passengers, especially at the rear. 

Unfortunately, the Gran Turismo body style was not as popular as BMW would have liked for it to be. As a result, the G20 3-Series that followed does not offer a GT model. 

LWB sedan (F35)

The Long-Wheelbase (LWB) F35 was produced solely for the Chinese market, and it’s unlikely you’ll ever find one on North American soil. We’re only mentioning it in this guide, so you know it exists. The F35’s proportions were similar to that of the F34; however, it took its styling cues from the F30 sedan. 

Trim Levels

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As with all BMWs, the F30 came with several options you could equip the car with. At its launch, three trim levels were offered — Modern, Sport, and Luxury. They all shared common base features like automatic headlights and wipers, adjustable front seats, dual-zone climate control, and a premium infotainment system. 

Modern Line

The Modern Line featured a satin aluminum finished kidney grille, leather seats, and multiple options for interior trim color. It also came with 18-inch light-alloy wheels. 

Sport Line

On the other hand, the Sport Line came with a gloss black grille and chrome exhaust tips. It featured double-spoke 18-inch wheels and included other blacked-out bits, like the side mirrors, B-pillar, and window trim.

Luxury Line 

The Luxury Line included many chrome elements to its exterior, including the kidney grille, exhaust tips, and window trim. It also came with a premium-looking multi-spoke 18-inch alloy wheel design. 

Apart from the options above, owners could also equip their cars with keyless entry and ignition, parking assistance, a head-up display, and an upgraded audio system. 

Available Powertrain Options

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Internationally, the F30 3-Series was powered by multiple engines over its time. However, BMW did not sell a select few in our market. Some examples that never saw the light of day in America include the inline-three 318i, the 316i, and the long-wheelbase models. None of the diesel models, barring the 328d, were sold here either.

The F30 made its American debut with the base 328i and the top-of-the-line 335i. While a potent turbocharged 3.0L straight-six powered the latter, the former came with a 2.0L inline-four. Some enthusiasts were initially disappointed by BMW’s decision to downsize the engine on the 3-Series (in comparison to the BMW E90 that this car succeeded), but it soon came to be known that the N20 that powered the 328i made significantly more power and torque. 

The other engines that powered the F30 cars were exceptional as well, and each had more to offer than every corresponding model from the previous generation. Here is the list of all the BMW F30 engines that were sold in North America:

Petrol

• 2012–2015 2.0L inline-four N20B20 in 328i, producing 241 hp at 5,000–6,500 rpm and 260 lb-ft of torque at 1,250–4,800 rpm

• 2012–2015 3.0L inline-six N55B30M0 in 335i, producing 302 hp at 5,800–6,400 rpm and 300 lb-ft of torque at 1,200–5,000 rpm

• 2012–2015 2.0L inline-four N20B20 in 320i, producing 181 hp at 5,000 rpm and 200 lb-ft of torque at 1,250–4,500 rpm

• 2015–2019 2.0L inline-four B48B20 in 320i, producing 181 hp at 5,000–6,500 rpm and 200 lb-ft of torque at 1,350–4,600 rpm

• 2015–2019 2.0L inline-four B48B20 in 330i, producing 248 hp at 5,200–6,500 rpm and 260 lb-ft of torque at 1,450–4,800 rpm

• 2015–2019 3.0L inline-six B58B30M0 in 340i, producing 322 hp at 5,500–6,500 rpm and 330 lb-ft of torque at 1,380–5,000 rpm

Note: The U.S. market mostly received the B46 in place of the B48. They’re essentially the same engines and produce similar peak output figures. The former is simply a Super-Ultra Low Emission Vehicle (SULEV) iteration of the B48.

Diesel

• 2014–2019 2.0L inline-four N47D20 in 328d, producing 181 hp at 4,000 rpm and 280 lb-ft of torque at 1,750–2,750 rpm

Hybrid

• 2012–2015 3.0L inline-six N55B30HP + electric motor in ActiveHybrid 3, producing 335 hp at 5,800–6,000 rpm and 330 lb-ft of torque at 1,000–5,000 rpm

• 2015–2018 2.0L inline-four B48B20 + electric motor in 330e iPerformance, producing 248 hp at 5,000–6,500 rpm and 310 lb-ft of torque at 1,450–3,700 rpm

Transmission Options

Broadly speaking, the F30 was available with two gearbox options — a Getrag 6-speed manual or a ZF 8-speed automatic. Both of these options were quite reliable. Choosing between them comes down to personal preference. Keep in mind that the F30 was the last of the 3-Series to offer a manual gearbox — the current G20 has only an automatic option. 

BMW F30 Through the Years  

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During its six-year production run, the F30 underwent multiple changes, some of which were quite substantial. The engine options above might be a little much to take in at first glance, but this section will give you a clear picture of what’s out there:

2013

In 2013, the 328i — which was the entry into the F30 range in our market — gave way to the 320i. It featured a detuned iteration of the straight-four N20 engine and made notably less power and torque. It also lacked several features. However, this resulted in a price tag that wasn’t as heavy as the one that the 328i wore.

This year also saw the introduction of the ActiveHybrid3. This was the first model in the 3-Series to bring some form of electrification. The ActiveHybrid3 was based on the range-topping 335i, powered by a 3.0L straight-six. 

Thanks to a small electric motor, power and torque figures increased by 33hp and 30lb-ft of torque, respectively. However, it was also heavier, and the introduction of a hybrid system meant it cost notably more. This wasn’t a very popular model even back in the day, as the minor increase in efficiency came at a rather significant hike. 

This year also saw the introduction of the M Sport package. This included sportier suspension, wider wheels and tires, an M Sport steering wheel, and changes to the interior. 

2014

In 2014, BMW brought the diesel-engined 328d to the US market. Internationally, this car wore the 320d badging. The 328d was only available with the automatic gearbox option. The 328d was also available as an F31, making it BMW’s first 3-Series Touring diesel model in the U.S.

2016 LCI

For the 2016 model year, the F30 generation underwent its midlife update. It received styling changes to the exterior in the form of an updated grille, headlight, tail light, and bumper, along with new color schemes. Changes under the skin were more notable; BMW improved the suspension with new front struts, rear dampers and updated the electric power steering. 

Multiple models in the lineup were rebadged as well. The 335i became the 340i, and the 330e iPerformance replaced the ActiveHybrid3. This was accompanied by new engines. The N20 gave way to the B48 (B46 in the U.S.), while the B58 replaced the N55. 

Lastly, BMW also revised the electronic stability control on the cars and introduced rev-matching tech for the manual gearbox.

Which Version to Get? 

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Before answering this question, we have to emphasize that most BMW F30 engines are reliable and won’t cause significant problems. The only exception is the N20 engine which powers the pre-LCI 320i and 328i. 

The N20 suffered from a timing chain problem that was quite serious and could result in catastrophic engine failure. It stemmed from a substandard manufacturing material and even ended in a class-action lawsuit against BMW North America. However, this engine was replaced by the B46, which was far more reliable. 

If you’re on a tighter budget, we’d recommend looking at the 328i — just make sure that the timing chain issue has been rectified. A 320i will very likely cost you less, but we feel the drop in performance is too large to ignore. For a little more money, you can get your hands on the 335i or a post-LCI 330i.

In our opinion, the older 335i is the sweet spot for the F30. It won’t cost you as much as the newer 340i, but it comes with an awe-inspiring inline-six engine. If that’s overkill for you, the 330i is our recommendation. The B46 is an impressive engine with plenty of room to grow with minor performance updates if you ever find yourself yearning for more.

And, if money isn’t an object, there’s the 340i — the most capable iteration of the F30.`

Is the BMW F30 Reliable? 

At the end of the day, this is the most crucial aspect to consider when buying a used car (or a new one, for that matter). Thankfully, the F30 is a largely reliable model, barring the N20-powered cars. That said, even these examples have likely had their issues rectified, considering that they’ve been around for a while now. 

The most expensive part of any car is the engine, and you can prevent, or delay, intensive problems through regular maintenance. That said, like all things mechanical, they are bound to falter eventually. We’ve put together some of the most common issues with the F30, so you can go into buying a used one knowing what to be wary of.

BMW F30 Common Problems

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Every car develops a few known issues as it’s being put to use. The same goes for the F30 3-series. These cars were surprisingly solid for the most part, however, owners have reported the following issues. 

BMW N20 Timing Chain Issue

This was an issue that affected the 320i and the 328i. BMW manufactured the timing chain guides on these engines with a defective polycarbonate composition. This caused them to break quite prematurely and, if not addressed immediately, resulted in complete engine failure.

The German manufacturer quickly realized what was wrong and redesigned the part in newer batches of the car. It also extended a 7-year/70,000-mile warranty on cars produced before 2015. So, if you’re in the market for an N20-powered car that was manufactured after, this is not a matter of concern. If you are, you should ask the previous owner if he’s faced any related issues and if he’s gotten the part replaced. 

Ending with a car that hasn’t been a part of the callback resulted from the class action lawsuit can end up costing you a lot of money. These timing chain guides are an expensive part by itself, and replacing them can cost you as much as a couple of thousand dollars. It will set you back significantly more if they already caused further damage to the engine. 

The easiest way to spot a faulty timing chain is to check for a whining noise. You can also inspect the timing chain itself for excess slack or scratching. If you can get the car to a BMW service center and have a technician look at it, the diagnostic software should also mention that the crankshaft angle is not aligned with the angle of the camshaft. 

N55 VANOS Solenoid Failure

The N44 straight-six is an outstanding engine. The only major flaw in an otherwise perfect piece of engineering is to do with the VANOS, or BMW’s variable valve timing tech. The VANOS relies on solenoids to work — it’s the part that alters intake valve timing by rotating the camshaft sprocket assembly. 

These solenoids are at work every time the engine is running. Understandably, they will wear out in time. That said, If you don’t take proper care of your engine, it can cause trouble prematurely. A solenoid failure will result in a significant drop in performance and will mostly send your Bimmer into limp mode.

Transmission

While not a common issue, older BMWs sometimes have noisy rear differentials. In most cases, this is because the diffuser fluid hasn’t been changed recently. On the other hand, if you hear unpleasant noises when shifting gears, it could mean that the clutch and dual-mass flywheel are starting to wear out. 

More often than not, a not-so-smooth gearbox can be rectified with a fluid flush and top-up. Either way, you should get them checked every 30,000 miles.

Exterior

Many owners have reported that the paint job on the F30 cars was substandard in some cases. It tends to chip away and picks up scratches quite quickly. 

Concerning the exterior of the car, also check for a leaky sunroof. People tend to underestimate how expensive a faulty sunroof can be to replace and how cumbersome it is to live with one. 

Interior 

The front seat frame on the F30 cars was notorious for rusting. An older example will likely show some signs of corrosion — and that’s okay. However, if it’s widespread, it may have to be replaced, and that’s time and money you should be looking to avoid spending. Also, check for cracked buttons on the center console. This was, unfortunately, something a lot of owners dealt with. That said, a new set of controls is relatively inexpensive, and this isn’t necessarily a deal-breaker. 

Is the BMW F30 Worth Buying In 2022?

The short answer is simply yes. The F30 is as close to a newer 3-Series as you can get without actually buying one straight from a dealership. A lot of purists might not find it as exhilarating or engaging as previous generations, but if we’re being honest, there’s very little to find fault with. 

They’re a significant step-up in terms of performance, comfort, and luxury from the E90 while also more efficient. With the G20’s relatively recent arrival, the number of used F30s on the market is bound to go up; and there hasn’t been a better time to get your hands on one than now.