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Used BMW buying guide


BMW
X3
2025 BMW X3 30 xDrive 001
BMW
X5
2025 BMW X5 xDrive40i
BMW
X1
2019 BMW X1 xDrive28i
BMW
330
2023 BMW 3-series 330i
BMW
430
2019 BMW 4-Series 430i
BMW
328
2016 BMW 3-series 328i xDrive Gran Turismo
BMW
530
2025 BMW 5-series 530i xDrive
BMW
X2
2024 BMW X2 M35i 001
BMW
228
2021 BMW 2-Series 228i xDrive Gran Coupe
BMW
320
2017 BMW 3-Series 320i
Research by lifestyle

BMW reliability rating (by RepairPal)

3
Average
RepairPal gave BMW an overall reliability rating of 3 out of 5 stars, which RepairPal describes as Average. This rating ranks BMW 31st out of 34 among all car brands. This rating is based on an average across all the vehicles RepairPal considered in its dataset.

Cost

RepairPal reports that the average total annual cost for repairs and maintenance on all BMW models is $766, compared to an average of $579 across all the models RepairPal considered in its dataset. This includes both scheduled maintenance and unscheduled repairs.

Frequency

According to RepairPal, BMW owners bring their vehicles into a repair shop for unscheduled repairs an average of 1.5 times per year, compared to an average of 1.1 times across all the models RepairPal considered in its dataset.

Severity

RepairPal reported that the probability of a repair being a severe or major issue is 17% across all BMW models, compared to an average of 13% for all the models RepairPal considered in its dataset.

BMW customer ratings

About BMW

BMW is a German car maker focused on building luxury vehicles. Whether you're shopping for a BMW convertible, coupe, sedan, or SUV, you can expect high-end touches and precision engineering. BMWs are known for being powerful, stylish, and fun to drive. More than 100 years ago, the company started manufacturing aircraft, and today, BMW boasts that it produces "the ultimate driving machine"—a sentiment many BMW owners tend to agree with. Today, BMW offers gas, electric, and hybrid vehicles. 

What CarMax customers like  

  • Ride and Handling 

  • Power 

  • Styling 

What CarMax customers don’t like  

  • Cost to Maintain 

  • Fuel Economy 

  • Technology and Entertainment 

View our BMW inventory

BMW FAQs

Many BMWs allow drivers to switch between three driving modes: Comfort, Sport, and Eco Pro. Comfort mode prioritizes smooth gear transitions and acceleration; Sport mode delivers faster acceleration and more precise handling; while Eco Pro mode prioritizes fuel economy by slowing the throttle response. 

CarMax provides a free AutoCheck Vehicle History Report to help you understand the history of your BMW. The report contains many details, including title verification, mileage, collision history, and more, to help you make the most informed decision possible. 

The BMW 2 Series, available as a coupe or sedan, is considered the entry-level BMW and is often the most affordable BMW. The entry-level BMW SUVs are typically the BMW X1 or BMW X2

The BMW 7 Series and 8 Series are the most high-end and powerful of BMW's sedans and coupes. In addition, the M5 Sedan, X5 M Competition SUV, X6 M Competition SUV, and XM SUV are considered top-of-the-line. That said, all BMWs are considered luxury vehicles, so the best BMW for you will depend on your needs. 

The best BMW year is the one that has the features you want. For example, BMW introduced the iX SUV during the 2021 model year, so if you're looking for an electric SUV, you'd want that year or newer. 

BMW X1
2017 BMW X1 xDrive28i

1. BMW X1

CarMax owner rating

Price range*
$13,599—$46,998
Estimated combined MPG
26 MPG
RepairPal reliability rating
3.5 out of 5

Pros

  • Fun to drive

  • High-tech infotainment

  • Split-folding middle seats

Cons

  • Above-average maintenance costs

  • Harsh engine stop-start system

  • Options soon add up

2018 BMW 3-Series 328d xDrive Sports Wagon

2. BMW 328

CarMax owner rating

Price range*
$13,599—$18,998
Estimated combined MPG
34 MPG
RepairPal reliability rating
3 out of 5

Pros

  • Smooth and quiet ride

  • Upscale interior

  • Diesel power

Cons

  • Limited small-item storage

  • Tight elbow and shoulder room in the back seat

  • No Android Auto™ integration

2019 BMW Z4 Roadster sDrive30i

3. BMW Z4

CarMax owner rating

Price range*
$18,998—$66,998
Estimated combined MPG
25 MPG
RepairPal reliability rating
3 out of 5

Pros

  • Two available engine options

  • Luxurious interior appointments

  • Manual transmission offered for enthusiasts

Cons

  • No AWD option

  • Some driver-assistance features are not standard

  • Limited in-cabin storage and trunk space

Compare used BMW Models

BMW 3 Series vs. 5 Series

The BMW 3 Series and 5 Series are iconic sedans that are powered by your choice of electric, hybrid, or turbocharged four- or six-cylinder engines. The 3 Series is a midsize sedan known for sharp handling and sleek exterior lines. If you need more interior space and executive-level features, the 5 Series provides a full-size driving experience with a longer wheelbase. Both models offer standard Bluetooth® capabilities and available all-wheel drive. The 3 Series is a sporty, well-built midsize that is fun to drive. The 5 Series balances performance with comfortable luxury and more rear legroom for long highway trips. Your choice will likely come down to whether you prioritize agility or spacious luxury.

Check out our list of the 10 best used luxury sedans. Or, if you’re still forming a short list of vehicles, compare the vehicles you’re considering with our car comparison tool.

BMW X3 vs. X5

Choosing between the BMW X3 and X5 will ultimately come down to your space requirements. The X3 is a versatile midsize SUV that is nimble for commuting or running errands. X3 models come equipped with hybrid engine options, either a 255-hp four-cylinder or a 393-hp inline six-cylinder. The X5 is a larger, plug-in hybrid SUV that provides about four cu-ft of cargo room for your luggage and the option of a powerful twin-turbo V8, a turbo V6, or a 483-hp hybrid V6. Both of these highly-rated SUVs feature several driver-assistance features. While the X3 is great for active lifestyles, the X5 offers more space for you and your passengers, and enhanced towing capability when properly equipped. Both provide Apple CarPlay® and Android AutoTM Bluetooth® device integration and a premium six-speaker sound system for your enjoyment.

Find your ideal match with our car comparison tool.

BMW i4 vs. 3 Series

The BMW i4 and 3 Series share a similar body silhouette, but have different powertrains. The 3 Series is equipped with an internal combustion engine (ICE) that offers a traditional BMW sports sedan feel. In contrast, the i4 is a green-conscious, all-electric sedan that delivers faster acceleration and powerful torque. Both models share a focus on luxury, featuring Apple CarPlay® and Android Autoconnectivity, Bluetooth® integration, and advanced driver-assistance features. Your choice depends on whether you want a traditional sports sedan or the futuristic, smooth ride that only an EV can provide.

Check out our list of the 10 best used electric vehicles. Or see how the used vehicles on your list stack up by using our car comparison tool.

BMW X7 vs. XM

The flagship BMW X7 and XM are referred to as sports activity vehicles, and they are built to meet very different priorities. The X7 is a full-size luxury cruiser with three rows of seats, making it a great family (or carpooling) vehicle for long trips. The BMW XM, on the other hand, is a high-performance plug-in hybrid that has plenty of power and a bold, aggressive grille. The X7 provides luxurious, spacious passenger comfort, while the XM is built for the driving experience and has a technology-forward interior. Both vehicles share the same wheelbase and are nearly the same size on the outside. They each come with a standard rearview camera and a bunch of driver-assistance features. Yet if you frequently chauffeur a large group, the X7 is superior. If you want to turn heads with a statement-making performance SUV, you can’t go wrong with the XM.

Use our car comparison tool to find the vehicle that best suits your lifestyle. Or check out our list of the best SUVs.

BMW iX vs. X5

The BMW iX and X5 are premium midsize SUVs with a range of powertrain options, including plug-in hybrid, electric, and internal combustion engines (ICE). The X5 is versatile with a spacious, luxurious cabin and a classic exterior shape. If you want the smooth, electric-drive feel, the iX is fast, comfortable, and has a sporty transmission. Both vehicles offer plenty of room for your suitcases and include standard driver-assistance features. While the X5 is a classic choice for the highway, the iX provides a futuristic design and instant electric power so you can jump in and drive. Choosing between them depends on whether you prefer the convenience of gas or the innovation of all-electric driving.

Compare the iX and X5 with our car comparison tool, and check out other highly rated SUVs.

Ready to find your used BMW?

RepairPal reliability ratings

RepairPal Reliability Ratings are based on the actual cost, frequency, and severity of unscheduled repairs and maintenance on make/model data for select 2008-2022 vehicles. The reliability of a specific vehicle may vary depending on its maintenance and driving history, model year, trim, and features. RepairPal Reliability Ratings are provided by RepairPal and CarMax is not responsible for their accuracy. These ratings are based on RepairPal Reliability data as of August 2023. Learn more about RepairPal reliability ratings

Unless otherwise noted, information related to these featured vehicles comes from third-party sources, including manufacturer information. We make every effort to provide accurate information, but please verify before purchasing. Product and company names may be trademarks or registered trademarks of third-party entities. Use of them does not imply any affiliation with or endorsement by these entities. We hope you found this information helpful. This content is intended to inform and is not meant to indicate that a particular vehicle is currently available or recommended for you. 

RepairPal Reliability Ratings are provided by RepairPal and CarMax is not responsible for their accuracy. These ratings are based on RepairPal Reliability data as of 3/18/2025. Learn more at repairpal.com/reliability. 

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Various factors may impact towing capacity, including weight of passengers, cargo, and options/accessories.

* Price excludes state and local taxes, title, registration, tags, and any optional products or services. Price assumes that final purchase will be made in the State of VA, unless vehicle is non-transferable. Vehicle subject to prior sale. Applicable transfer fees are due in advance of vehicle delivery and are separate from sales transactions. Limited warranty is 30 days. See store for details. We make every effort to provide accurate information, but please verify before purchasing.

We hope you found this information helpful. This content is intended to inform and is not meant to indicate that a particular vehicle is currently available or recommended for you.​

Statements of fuel economy or EV range are based on EPA and other third-party estimates for vehicles when new. Fuel economy and EV range will degrade with time and vary based on age, driving conditions, vehicle history, and other conditions. See fueleconomy.gov for more info.

Unless otherwise noted, information related to featured vehicles comes from third-party sources, including manufacturer information. Product and company names may be trademarks or registered trademarks of third-party entities. Use of them does not imply any affiliation with or endorsement by these entities.​ By clicking on any video links, you will be taken to a third-party site maintained by YouTube, Inc.

We make every effort to provide accurate information, but please verify before purchasing.