Reliability AnalysisBased on known issue patterns, repair cost data, and ownership trends · How we score

2013 BMW M3 Reliability ReportB- grade · moderate risk · system-by-system breakdown

78/ 100

KeepScore

MODERATE RISK

Grade: B-

An exhilarating, high-performance machine that demands significant financial foresight and diligent care to own responsibly.

Full system breakdown + what I would do

Quick Facts · 2013 BMW M3

  • The system most likely to surface first: engine internal components (critical severity).
  • Has 2 NHTSA recalls on record — the most notable involves the air bags:frontal:driver side:inflator module.
  • Scores 4 points below the strongest nearby year — the 2014 BMW M3 earns a 82.

Is the 2013 BMW M3 Worth Buying?

The 2013 BMW M3 (E9x generation) delivers an intoxicating blend of high-revving V8 performance and sublime chassis dynamics, making it a compelling driver's car. However, its stellar performance comes with a significant financial commitment due to several well-documented, potentially catastrophic engine issues and generally high running costs. This is a car to be enjoyed, but only with a substantial reserve for its demanding maintenance and the possibility of major repairs.

Biggest Strengths

  • Naturally aspirated S65 V8 engine character and sound
  • Exceptional chassis balance and handling dynamics
  • Robust build quality and premium interior materials

What Tends to Fail First on the 2013 BMW M3

The systems that break first on the 2013 BMW M3. Mileage windows, repair costs, and fix-before-you-buy notes are in the full report.

1
Engine Internal Componentscritical
2
Engine Ancillaries (Throttle Actuators)moderate
3
DCT Transmission (Mechatronics/Clutch Pack)major
Typical mileage, cost ranges, and the exact what-to-check list are in the full report.

2013 BMW M3 Recall History

2 recalls on record from NHTSA. Check your VIN atnhtsa.gov to see if the repair was performed.

AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE

BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2008-2013 128i and 135i Convertibles, 128i, 135i, and M Coupes, 2007-2010 X3 30si and X3 xDrive30i, 2013-2015 X1 sDrive28i, X1 xDrive28i and X1 xDrive35i, 2007-2013 328i, 328i xDrive, 335i, 335is, 335i xDrive and M3 Coupes, 2006-2011 328i, 328xi, 328i xDrive, 325i, 325xi, 330i, 330xi, 335i, 335xi, 335i xDrive and M3, 2009-2011 335D, 2006-2012 325xi, 328i, 328xi and 328i xDrive, 2010-2011 X6 ActiveHybrid, 2007-2013 328i, 335i, 335is, M3 Coupes, X5 30si, X5 xDrive30i, X5 xDrive35i, X5 48i, X5 xDrive48i, X5 xDrive50i and X5 M, 2009-2013 X5 xDrive35d and 2008-2014 X6 xDrive35i, X6 xDrive50i and X6M vehicles equipped with non-desiccated driver frontal air bag inflators containing phase stabilized ammonium nitrate (PSAN) that were used as interim remedy parts for previous Takata recalls. These inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, high temperatures, and high temperature cycling.

AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE

BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain model year 2008-2013 128i and 135i coupes and convertibles and 1 Series M coupes, 2006-2011 325i, 325xi, 328i, 328xi, 328i xDrive, 330i, 330xi, 335i, 335xi, 335i xDrive Sedans, 2009-2011 335d sedans, 2006-2012 325xiT, 328i and 328xi sports wagons, 2007-2013 328i, 328xi, 328i xDrive, 335i, 335xi, 335i xDrive, 335is and M3 Coupes and Convertibles, 2013-2015 X1 sDrive28i, X1 xDrive28i and X1 xDrive35i SAVs, 2007-2010 X3 xDrive30i SAVs, 2007-2013 X5 xDrive30i, X5 xDrive35i, X5 xDrive48i, X5 xDrive50i and X5 M SAVs, 2009-2013 BMW X5 xDrive35d SAVs, 2008-2014 X6 xDrive35i, X6 xDrive50i, and X6 M SACs, 2010-2011 BMW X6 xDrive50i SACs and 2008-2011 M3 Sedan vehicles. Upon deployment of the driver's frontal air bag, excessive internal pressure may cause the inflator to rupture.

What breaks on the 2013 BMW M3?

Full reliability breakdown — engine, transmission, rust, electrical. With repair costs and mileage danger zones.

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Other BMW M3 Years to Consider

Compare KeepScores across nearby years of the BMW M3. Click any year for its full report.

2013 BMW M3 Alternatives

Similar class, similar year range — ranked by KeepScore.

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Frequently Asked Questions

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2013 BMW M3

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