The 2013 BMW 3 Series lasts around 200,000 miles with relatively minor engine sensor and fuel pump issues. At $13,134 to $32,380, it’s a good value for shoppers looking for an entry-level German sports car.
Is the 2013 BMW 3 Series a Good Used Car?
- Overall Rating 8/10 – 2013 is a good year for the 3 Series and great reliability for a luxury car combined with the powerful engines give it a high overall rating. Owner reviews praise the performance, nice interior, and responsive steering.
- Interior, Comfort & Cargo 8/10 – There are a lot of nice materials used in the cabin including upscale leather options available, the seats are firmer than other luxury sedans, and cargo space is average for a small car.
- Reliability 7/10 – 2013 is a good year for the 3 Series with only average problems for a sporty sedan. We recommend avoiding models from 2007 which have a lot of issues, and going with one from 2008–2020, which are all good choices.
- Performance 8/10 – The standard 4-cylinder engine is weak, however, the upgraded 4-cylinder and 6-cylinder options offer great power for its size.
- Safety 8/10 – The 3 Series gets an overall score of 5-stars in government crash tests, with the lowest being 4-stars in the frontal impact test. BMW Assist is included for automatic crash notifications and stolen vehicle recovery.
- Gas Mileage 7/10 – Fuel economy is good at up to 28 MPG, which should get owners about 440 miles of range out of the 15.8 gallon gas tank. Fuel costs are $3 more than average at $206 per month.
- Value 7/10 – The 2013 3 Series is a good value for buyers looking for attainable performance and luxury, although shoppers should be prepared for the high maintenance costs.
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Do Critics Say About the BMW 3 Series?
- Consumer Reports says the 3 Series is agile and steady with good tech and earns high owner satisfaction scores.
- Edmunds gives the 3 Series a 4.1/5, praising the upscale interior, but doesn’t like the lighter steering feel than older models.
- Kelley Blue Book users rate the 3 Series 4.5/5 and enjoy the power and performance, but owners don’t like the higher ownership costs.
What Common Problems Does the 2013 BMW 3 Series Have?
The most common complaints found on the 2013 BMW 3 Series include a check engine light, fuel pump failures, and excessive brake wear. Overall, these problems are similar to other luxury cars from 2013, although we find repair costs to be more expensive due to the high cost of parts.
Check engine lights are the most widespread complaint from owners at around 80,000 miles. There are many reasons a check engine light will turn on, and the most common source is a failed mass airflow sensor. Changing out the sensor costs around $450.
Fuel pump failures are another problem reported by owners at around 95,000 miles. The fuel pump overheats and fails on some models and the only way to fix it is to replace the entire assembly. Installing a new fuel pump costs about $900, depending on local labor rates.
Excessive brake wear is also mentioned by some owners at about 20,000 miles. The pads and rotors wear out faster than on other cars and it can lead to a reduction in brake force. Changing out the pads costs around $300, and a set of rotors is another $600 if they are scored or damaged.
There are 5 recalls, and most are not as severe as other luxury cars from 2013. The most serious recall is for the brake assist pump, which can result in a loss of brake pressure and increase the risk of an accident. BMW will add a locking ring to prevent a loss of pressure. Most of the other recalls are for airbags, which are common on other cars from 2013.
How Long Will the 2013 BMW 3 Series Last?
A well-maintained 2013 BMW 3 Series lasts around 200,000 miles, which is around 100,000 miles less than the top-rated Lexus IS. Regular annual maintenance costs are higher than average for a luxury car, according to data from Repair Pal, at $736 per year.
Since most used 2013 BMW 3 Series models will have over 100,000 miles buyers should be prepared to replace items including the coolant reservoir for $400, the idler pulley costing $300, and the transmission mounts which cost $150.
It is reliable. I have too many miles on it, so it is starting to see some wear. I had to replace part in the motor recently but other than that, I cannot complain.
Yes, it is extremely reliable. We have only minor issues, nothing major. Cannot complain. As long as it is serviced on a regular basis.
I would say reliable, but again my issue is the noisy brakes. If it wasn't for that, I would rate it higher.
Yes, though I seem to have a challenge with the locks opening consistently at times. Often they will, Sometimes not.
How Is the Technology?
The entertainment technology is very good in the 2013 BMW 3 Series and it includes a standard 6.5-inch screen for the stereo system. Where the 3 Series is lacking is with safety technology since it only has the BMW Assist notification suite, and no advanced features.
Is the 2013 BMW 3 Series a Good Value?
Yes, the 2013 3 Series is a great value for an entry-level luxury sports car. Blue book prices range from $13,134 to $32,380, making it similar in price to the Mercedes C-Class and Infiniti G37. When new, the price range was $32,550 to $69,050. Depreciation is average for a luxury car, losing around 12% of its current value per year.
What are the Different Models of the BMW 3 Series?
There are four main models of the 3 Series offered for 2013, including the entry-level 320i, more luxurious 328i, as well as the stronger 335i and 335is models. It’s also offered with rear or all-wheel-drive.
320i is the entry-level model with:
- 17-Inch Alloy Wheels
- Leatherette Vinyl Seating
- Cruise Control
- Dual Zone Climate Control
- Bluetooth Connectivity
- 6.5-Inch iDrive Stereo System With AUX & USB
328i is a step up, adding:
- Power Driver’s Seats
- Rearview Camera
- Auto-Dimming Rearview Mirror
- Improved Suspension
335i is a higher-performance version with:
- 18-Inch Alloy Wheels
- Leather Seating
- Adaptive Xenon Headlights
- Sunroof
- LED Running Lights
335is is available as a coupe and has:
- Unique 18-Inch Alloy Wheels
- Sport Steering Wheel
- Firmer Suspension
- Sports Exhaust
What Engines Come In the BMW 3 Series?
- The base engine is a weak 2.0L 4-cylinder turbo which makes 180 horsepower and gets up to 28 MPG.
- A step up is the stronger 2.0L 4-cylinder turbo, which generates 240 horsepower and gets up to 25 MPG.
- The flagship engine is the powerful 3.0L 6-cylinder turbo making 300 horsepower while getting up to 22 MPG. Performance is great, taking 5.3 seconds to go from 0-60 MPH.
What Colors Does the BMW 3 Series Come In?
How Comfortable Is the BMW 3 Series?
The 2013 BMW 3 Series is very comfortable for a car its size, with high-quality materials used throughout the cabin. There’s seating for up to 5 people, and the seats are supportive and will hold people in place through tight turns.
Passenger room is excellent with enough legroom in the back seats of the sedan to easily fit taller adults.
How Is the Storage In the BMW 3 Series?
Cargo space is similar to other compact cars with enough room in the trunk for 3-4 suitcases in the sedan, and 2-3 in the coupe.
What Are the Differences Between Years?
The sixth generation of the BMW 3 Series was introduced in 2012, and was replaced by the seventh generation in 2019.
2011: Exterior minor restyling, new more efficient engine, and upgraded stereo system available.
2012: Fully redesigned sedan model launched, more interior room, and new engine options.
2013: Optional all-wheel-drive added, and new M Sport package.
2014: Coupe & convertible redesigned and moved to 4 Series.
2015: Bluetooth added as standard equipment across all models
2016: Minor exterior styling updates, new suspension, 335i model is now 340i.
How Does the BMW 3 Series Compare to the Competition?
The BMW 3 Series is sportier than the competition, and 2013 is a great year for the car with relatively few owner complaints compared to other luxury cars.
The BMW 5 Series is another car from BMW which costs about $1,000 more. Passenger room is better in the BMW 5 Series, but the steering is much more responsive in the BMW 3 Series. We recommend the BMW 3 Series since it’s more fun to drive, unless you need the space offered by the BMW 5 Series.
The Audi A4 is a competitor which costs about $1,000 less. Performance in the snow is better in the Audi A4 with its standard all-wheel-drive system, whereas the BMW 3 Series is quicker and more engaging to drive. We recommend the BMW 3 Series since it has an optional all-wheel-drive system available as well.
Do Owners Recommend the BMW 3 Series?
Yes. It is been very reliable for the most part. Good gas mileage and is well made. Plus, it is a good looking car so that never hurts.
Yes, it is extremely reliable. xDrive nature gives peace of mind for winter weather. The interior design is also very good, giving you a sturdy and luxury vehicle feeling.
Decent enough, I have some issues with the squeaky brakes. Compared to other high end vehicles this particular model is satisfactory.
Yes; I really enjoy owning this car. The ride is sporty yet comfortable. The interior feels high end.