Complaints over time
Complaints about the 2016 BMW M3 peaked in 2019, with 4 filed
Owner complaints about this model year, by the year they were filed with NHTSA.
Source: NHTSA ODI complaints file. The lighter column runs through October.
Model year
2016 BMW M3
Sedan, gasoline, built in Germany. Owner complaints on file from Jun 5, 2018 to Dec 19, 2019.
Recall campaigns covering this model year32,899 vehicles or units across those campaigns
Owner complaints5Below the median 2016 sedan
Severity index0.02016 sedans average 7.1
First 24 months0Complaints in its first two years
Components
60% of complaints about the 2016 BMW M3 name engine and cooling
Owner complaints by component. Hover or focus a bar for the crash, fire, injury or death count.
Source: NHTSA ODI complaints file. A complaint can name more than one component; it is counted under the first.
Recalls
3 recall campaigns cover the 2016 BMW M3
Check a specific vehicle by VIN on NHTSA's site: a campaign may cover only part of a model year's production.
| Campaign | Filed | Subject | Component | Vehicles | Remedy |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 18V-713 | Oct 11, 2018 | Connection between the driveshaft and the flange may fail resulting in a loss of propulsion | Powertrain | 2,661 | Part replacement |
| 16V-653 | Sep 9, 2016 | During servicing of the rear differential for a prior service action, the rear sub-frame bolts may have been reused instead of being replaced | Structure | 196 | Part replacement |
| 15V-782 | Nov 23, 2015 | Affected vehicles have a driveshaft with a slip-joint that may not have been filled with grease | Powertrain | 42 | Part replacement |
Source: NHTSA ODI recalls file.
Owner complaints
What owners reported about the 2016 BMW M3
The full text of every complaint filed with NHTSA about this model year, newest first. Complaints are filed by owners and are not verified by NHTSA; NHTSA removes personal details before publishing.
5 complaints on file, page 1 of 1.
- Filed Dec 19, 2019Failure Jul 27, 201920,000 milesColorado Springs, COEngine
THERE'S A KNOWN ISSUE WITH 2015+ BMW F80 M3 S55 ENGINE. THE ISSUE IS THE CRANK HUB SPINNING OUT AND DAMAGING THE CAR. IT LEAVES THE VEHICLE IN A DANGEROUS STATE WHEN DRIVING ON THE ROAD AND TO OTHERS NEAR BY. THIS ISSUE HAPPENS TO STOCK VEHICLES AND MODDED ONES. IF THE CRANK HUB SPINS WHILE THE CAR IS MOVING, IT CAN LEAVE THE CAR IN A DANGEROUS STATE WITH NO POWER. LINKS ABOUT IT: HTTPS://WWW.YOUTUBE.COM/RESULTS... SPECIFIC VIDEO THAT EXPLAINS THE CRANK HUB ISSUE WITH THIS MODEL OF A CAR: HTTPS://YOUTU.BE/SJR3ZHEGS_U?T=160 THIS ISSUE HAS PERSONALLY HAPPENED ON MY M3. I WAS COASTING DOWN A HILL TOWARDS A GREEN STOPLIGHT, AND A DRIVETRAIN MALFUNCTION ERROR POPPED UP ON MY SCREEN. I IMMEDIATELY PUSHED IN THE CLUTCH, AND WITHIN 1 SECOND MY ENGINE TURNED OFF. MY CAR WAS LEFT WITH NO POWER, THE ENGINE WOULD NOT RESTART. I GOT THE CAR HOME BY TOWING IT, THEN USING A WINCH TO GET IT IN MY GARAGE. I USED MY OBD2 READER TO READ THE DTC'S AND ALL THE CODES THAT CAME UP WERE DIRECTLY RELATED TO THE CRANK HUB SPINNING. IT WAS DANGEROUS BECAUSE I WAS APPROACHING A BUSY INTERSECTION. I HAD TO PUSH MY CAR OUT OF THE INTERSECTION. I WAS NOT INJURED, I DID NOT CRASH, AND I DID NOT LOSE CONTROL. ALTHOUGH IF I WAS GOING AT A HIGHER RATE OF SPEED, IT WOULD BE EASY TO LOSE CONTROL FROM THIS ISSUE.
NHTSA complaint 11290215 - Filed Dec 18, 2019Failure Jul 27, 201920,000 milesColorado Springs, COEngine
THERE'S A KNOWN ISSUE WITH 2015+ BMW F80 M3 S55 ENGINE. THE ISSUE IS THE CRANK HUB SPINNING OUT AND DAMAGING THE CAR. IT LEAVES THE VEHICLE IN A DANGEROUS STATE WHEN DRIVING ON THE ROAD AND TO OTHERS NEAR BY. THIS ISSUE HAPPENS TO STOCK VEHICLES AND MODDED ONES. IF THE CRANK HUB SPINS WHILE THE CAR IS MOVING, IT CAN LEAVE THE CAR IN A DANGEROUS STATE WITH NO POWER. LINKS ABOUT IT: HTTPS://WWW.YOUTUBE.COM/RESULTS... SPECIFIC VIDEO THAT EXPLAINS THE CRANK HUB ISSUE WITH THIS MODEL OF A CAR: HTTPS://YOUTU.BE/SJR3ZHEGS_U?T=160
NHTSA complaint 11289964 - Filed Dec 18, 2019Failure Dec 18, 201928,000 milesChandler, AZEngine
THE CRANKHUB ON THESE CARS ARE TICKING TIME BOMBS AND IS LIKELY TO FAIL JUST OUTSIDE OF WARRANTY FORCING HUGE REPAIR BILLS. IN SOME CASES, A "LUCKY" FEW JUST NEED TO BE RETIMED AND ONLY REQUIRE 18 HOURS OF LABOR. HOWEVER, OTHERS HAVE NOT BEEN SO LUCKY AND HAVE REQUIRED AN ALL-NEW ENGINE. THIS IS AN ISSUE BMW IS FULLY AWARE OF BUT HAS NOT TAKEN RESPONSBILITY FOR THEIR INSUFFICIENT ENGINEERING.
NHTSA complaint 11289880 - Filed Jul 15, 2019Failure Jul 13, 201948,234 milesDoral, FLPower train, Body, Suspension
KEEP HEARING A KNOCKING SOUND ON DRIVER SIDE WHEN GOING OVER BUMPS. FEELING VIBRATION UNDER CAR UNDER ACCELERATING AND BREAKING. CARBON FIBER ROOF LAMINATE PEELING OFF.
NHTSA complaint 11232137 - Filed Jun 5, 2018Failure Dec 8, 20163,000 milesStanton, CAUnknown or other
I'VE TAKEN MY VEHICLE IN TO THE SERVICE DEALER MULTIPLE TIMES SINCE I'VE PURCHASED THE CAR BACK IN NOV. 2016. I NOTICED A CLUNKING AND JOLTING SENSATION FROM MY REAR AXLE WHICH I KNEW WAS NOT NORMAL. THE DEALER AFTER DIAGNOSING THE ISSUE TOLD ME IT IS NORMAL AND THERE ISN'T AN ISSUE AT ALL. UPON FURTHER RESEARCH ONLINE AND PERSONAL FRUSTRATION KNOWING I'M PAYING FOR A NEW CAR WHICH DOESN'T FEEL NEW AT ALL, I FOUND THE ATTACHED RECALL NOTICE. MY CAR HAS A PRODUCTION DATE OF MAY 20, 2016 WHICH FALLS IN BETWEEN THE TIMELINE MENTIONED IN THE ATTACHED RECALL MEMO WHICH WILL REQUIRE A REPLACEMENT OF THE REAR DIFFERENTIAL. ALSO, SEARCHING ONLINE ON THE BMW M3 FORUMS, MANY OTHER OWNERS OF THIS SIMILAR VEHICLE HAVE SUCH AN ISSUE AND I AM WORRIED THIS MIGHT ALSO POSE A SAFETY THREAT TO ME. FOR THESE REASONS, I AM SUBMITTING THIS FORM HERE.
NHTSA complaint 11099977
Source: NHTSA ODI complaints file.
Investigations
NHTSA has not opened an investigation on this model year
Source: NHTSA ODI investigations file.
Service bulletins
190 manufacturer communications cover this model year
Technical service bulletins and other notices the manufacturer sent to dealers. A bulletin is not a recall; the 60 most recent are listed.
- B340921 Jan 14, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
A turbine-like noise can be heard from the rear axle while deceleration during the first 300 miles of operation when braking from low speed. - B611305 Jan 11, 2024 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
The electrical system of BMW vehicles has been subject to an ongoing development process over the last few years. This has led to increased demands being placed on the battery. This document covers important information for the dealer on how to handle âdisc… - B360121 Jan 8, 2024 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
At low outside temperatures (below 40 degrees F) and slow driving speeds (i.e. when parking, maneuvering)with a large steering angle, the front end can be slightly axially misaligned. This can be felt (jerking)/ heard via an acoustic acknowledgement (clunk… - B310124 Jan 9, 2024 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
With the vehicle is on a lift and the front struts are in the extended position, there may be a cracking and orclicking type noise when turning the steering wheel left/right. See attached video V31 01 24. The sound can reoccur when the vehicle is lowered, … - B340714 Oct 13, 2023 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Functional noises (squealing/honking) when braking shortly before the vehicle comes to a stop. CAUSE Material- - B651523 May 1, 2023 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
After programming the head unit (HU-H2), activating the FSC (German word Freischaltcode) Enabling Codes repeatedly fails. - B514616 May 1, 2023 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Upon opening and closing the tailgate, a creaking/groaning sound can be heard from tailgate actuator. - B840822 Mar 1, 2023 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
The 3G network in the US has been shut down. This means that only the 4G network will be available. In the 4G network, voice calls will be transferred via the Voice over LTE (VoLTE) function. For this purpose, the SIM card must perform an IMS registration i… - B630917 Mar 1, 2023 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Exterior rear lights do not work. - B340921 Feb 1, 2023 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
A turbine-like noise can be heard from the rear axle while deceleration during the first 300 miles of operation when braking from low speed. - B662419 Sep 1, 2022 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Vehicle cannot be opened or closed using comfort access, engine start is not possible, and the vehicle may not start when placing the key against the steering column. - TEC26 Apr 1, 2016 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
TEC26 Turbo Charger Return - TEC25 Mar 21, 2016 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Tec25 Wishbone Return - TEC24 Apr 14, 2016 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Tech24 Snap-in Adapter Return - SIM110115 Mar 1, 2016 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
MINI engine oil part number transition and model year 2016 engine oils - SIM010603 Mar 1, 2016 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
MINI "Enhanced" dealer self authorized (DSA)K goodwill program - SIB651312 May 1, 2022 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
The Headunit High (HU-H), also called NBT, began replacing the Car Information Computer (CIC) on certain MY2013 vehicles with option 609 (as of 7/2012 production). This uses map North America NEXT. The Headunit High 2 (HU-H2), also called NBT-EVO, supersede… - B310318 Feb 1, 2022 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Cracking noises heard from the area of the front axle when rotating the steering while stationary or at low speed. - B58N20N55S55 Apr 1, 2022 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Component and Issue Specific Limited Emission Warranty Extension. This component-specific limited emission warranty extension applies to defects in materials or workmanship. - B661519 Mar 1, 2022 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
The steering intervention for Lane Departure Warning (LDW) is too strong (severe), which can create an uncomfortable feeling for the driver. Background: Steering intervention helps keep the vehicle in the lane if the system detects that a lane marking has… - B640613 Nov 1, 2021 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Customer may complain of reduced air flow when the air conditioning system is operated for an extended time, usually longer than 30 minutes. - B651312 Sep 1, 2021 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
The Headunit High (HU-H), also called NBT, began replacing the Car Information Computer (CIC) on certain MY2013 vehicles with option 609 (as of 7/2012 production). This uses map North America NEXT. The Headunit High 2 (HU-H2), also called NBT-EVO, supersede… - B610721 Sep 1, 2021 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Groaning, scraping, or squeaking noise coming from the steering wheel area in the interior of the vehicle,when turning the steering wheel. - B511314 Sep 1, 2021 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
The trunk lid/hatch does not open fully when unlatched with remote or hands-free operation. - B341019 Sep 1, 2021 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Inform the customer during a consultation that the M Compound (standard equipment) and M Carbon Ceramic (optional) brakes are high-performance brake systems which are designed for sporty, dynamic driving styles. As a side effect of the highest possible brak… - B340921 Sep 1, 2021 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
A turbine-like noise can be heard from the rear axle while deceleration during the first 300 miles of operationwhen braking from low speed. - B840221 May 1, 2021 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
TELEMATICS UNIT RETROFIT TO 4G CELLULAR TECHNOLOGY: The discontinuation of 3G cellular communication for Combox, TCB 3G and ATM 3G (Telematics ControlModule) can no longer be supported by the cellular network provider starting February 2022. - B840121 May 1, 2021 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
TELEMATICS UNIT DEACTIVATION DUE TO 3G CELLULAR TECHNOLOGY DISCONTINUATION: The discontinuation of 3G cellular communication for Combox, TCB 3G and ATM 3G (Telematics ControlModule) can no longer be supported by the cellular network provider starting Februa… - B840221 Jun 1, 2021 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
The discontinuation of 3G cellular communication for Combox, TCB 3G and ATM 3G (Telematics ControlModule) can no longer be supported by the cellular network provider starting February 2022. The decision to phase out 3G network technology was made at the dis… - B360121 Apr 1, 2021 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Diagnosis of Compound Brake System Complaints in M Vehicles: 1. Visible cracks are caused by high thermal stresses during rapid heating and cooling of the brake discs. Braking from high speed with cold brake components (less than 212 degrees F) increases th… - B340414 Apr 1, 2021 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Diagnosis of Compound Brake System Complaints in M Vehicles: 1. Visible cracks are caused by high thermal stresses during rapid heating and cooling of the brake discs. Braking from high speed with cold brake components (less than 212 degrees F) increases th… - B640613 Dec 1, 2020 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
?A/C COOLING INTERMITTENT REDUCTION OF AIR FLOW: Customer may complain of reduced air flow when the air conditioning system is operated for an extended time, usually longer than 30 minutes. The evaporator starts to freeze up. - B640613 Dec 1, 2020 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
?A/C COOLING INTERMITTENT REDUCTION OF AIR FLOW: Customer may complain of reduced air flow when the air conditioning system is operated for an extended time, usually longer than 30 minutes. The evaporator starts to freeze up. - B612315 Nov 1, 2020 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Low Washer Fluid Warning Light is illuminated when the Washer Fluid Tank is Full: Low Washer Fluid Warning Light is illuminated when the Washer Fluid Tank is Full.There are no faults stored in the system for the washer fluid level switch. - B340515 Nov 1, 2020 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
TICKING NOISE FROM THE FRONT AXLE WHEN CORNERING: The customer may complain of a metallic ticking noise from the front axle, when cornering, maneuvering, parking or pulling away from a parking space. - B310112 Aug 1, 2020 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
CRACKING NOISES FROM THE FRONTAXLE AREA WHILE TURNING THE WHEELS, WHEN STATION: Cracking noises are heard from the front axle area while maneuvering at low speeds (e.g., parking lot maneuvers) or when turning the steering wheel while stationary. - B650709 Jul 1, 2020 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
NAVIGATION SYSTEM - REPORTING MISSING OR INCORRECT ROADMAP DATA: Do not replace parts and do not program the vehicle. Roads can change by up to 15% every year. To ensure the best navigation experience, we do everything in our power to create the best maps. … - B840214 Apr 1, 2020 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
CONNECTEDDRIVE/BMW ASSIST SYSTEM DIAGNOSIS INFORMATION: This Service Information Bulletin (Revision 7) replaces SI B84 02 14 dated May 2019. ConnectedDrive/BMW Assist features are partially or completely inoperative. This Service Information Bulletin: Is be… - B652214 Apr 1, 2020 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
AUTOMATED ACTIVATION OF NAVIGATION SYSTEM DURING PDI/QC1: This Service Information Bulletin (Revision 2) replaces SI B65 22 14 dated October 2015. The INITIAL NAV enabling code no longer needs to be pre-ordered through the Parts department! When the vehicle… - B840416 Jan 1, 2020 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
SOS MALFUNCTION DISPLAYED This Service Information Bulletin (Revision 1) replaces SI B84 04 16 dated September 2016. One or all the following may be experienced in the vehicle: An SOS malfunction is seen in the Kombi (aka instrument cluster) When pressing t… - B011319 Jan 1, 2020 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
SIDE PANEL REAR LIGHT HOUSINGS: LTD WTY EXT TO 10 YEARS WITHOUT MILEAGE LIMIT: The rear light housing(s) can loosen/detach at the mounting tabs this can cause a clacking sound in the rear of the vehicle while driving. The plastic mounting tabs for the rear … - B341019 Dec 1, 2019 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
HELPFUL INFORMATION FOR CUSTOMER DISCUSSIONS REGARDING MOTORSPORT VEHICLE BRAKES: Note for customer deleted: If the noise does not disappear despite the attempts to regenerate the brake a repair is required. - B652617 Nov 1, 2019 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
NBT EVO CHANGES BETWEEN SELECTIONS BY ITSELF WITHOUT DRIVER INPUT- GHOST BEHAVIOR: The Central Information Display (CID) changes between selections ("ghost behavior") and sounds an audio tone without the CID Screen being touched. The audio tone is the same … - B612315 Nov 1, 2019 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Low Washer Fluid Warning Light is illuminated when the Washer Fluid Tank is Full : The low washer fluid warning is illuminated even though the washer fluid reservoir is full. There are no faults stored in the system for the washer fluid level switch. A non-… - B341019 Nov 1, 2019 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
HELPFUL INFORMATION FOR CUSTOMER DISCUSSIONS REGARDING MOTORSPORT VEHICLE BRAKES: INFORMATION Inform the customer during a consultation that the M Compound (standard equipment) and M Carbon Ceramic (optional) brakes are high-performance brake systems which … - B310514 Sep 1, 2019 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Front Suspension Ride Height Has Dropped: The front suspension ride height has dropped on one or both sides due to overload. This is caused by driving over obstacles (e.g. potholes) or an impact severe enough for the front spring strut damper to slip throug… - B512519 Aug 1, 2019 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
GROANING NOISE WHEN OPENING/CLOSING FRONT WINDOWS. A groaning noise can be heard from the front door(s) when opening or closing the power windows. - B651519 Aug 1, 2019 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
SECURITY IMPROVEMENTS FOR CONNECTEDDRIVE. Security patches for non-safety critical vulnerabilities in BMW head units Entry Nav Entry Media NBT and NBT EVO. - B640613 Aug 1, 2019 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
A/C COOLING: INTERMITTENT REDUCTION OF AIR FLOW This Service Information Bulletin (Revision 9) supersedes SI B64 06 13 dated June 2017. Customer may complain of reduced air flow when the air conditioning system is operated for an extended time usually longe… - B122319 Jul 1, 2019 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
DIAGNOSTIC HINT: CATALYTIC CONVERTER INSPECTION AFTER LOSS OF CRANKSHAFT SIGNAL. In certain situations when the crankshaft position signal is lost while driving the malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) and an engine malfunction check control message (CCM #29) m… - B610819 Jun 1, 2019 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Service Information June 2019 General Electrical Systems B61 08 19 Technical Service WINDSHIELD WIPERS SWITCH ON BY THEMSELVES. The windshield wipers switch on by themselves and can no longer be switched off despite activation of the switch. An internal sof… - B840719 May 1, 2019 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
BLUETOOTH CONNECTION IS LOST DURING A PHONE CALL. During an active call the call audio autonomously switches from the vehicle hands-free system to the phone. - B840311 May 1, 2019 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
TELEMATICS CONTROL UNIT ACTIVATION VIA DCSNET FOR BMW ASSIST. - B840214 May 1, 2019 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
INFORMATION New information provided by this revision is preceded by this symbol. This Service Information bulletin replaces SI B84 02 14 dated September 2018. - B630119 May 1, 2019 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
The tail light mounting brackets may be cracked or broken. During assembly oil may have contaminated the plastic housing of the rear tail lamps causing damage to the mounting points of the tail light assembly. - B612315 Apr 1, 2019 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
The Low Washer Fluid Warning Light is illuminated when the Washer Fluid Tank is Full This Service Information bulletin supersedes SI B61 23 15 dated April 2016. - B630119 Apr 1, 2019 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
DELIVERY STOP: REWORK TAIL LIGHTS. The tail light mounting brackets may be cracked or broken. During assembly oil may have contaminated the plastic housing of the rear tail lamps causing damage to the mounting points of the tail light assembly. - B612315 Apr 1, 2019 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
The Low Washer Fluid Warning Light is illuminated when the Washer Fluid Tank is Full This Service Information bulletin supersedes SI B61 23 15 dated April 2016. - B630119 Apr 1, 2019 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
DELIVERY STOP: REWORK TAIL LIGHTS. The tail light mounting brackets may be cracked or broken. During assembly oil may have contaminated the plastic housing of the rear tail lamps causing damage to the mounting points of the tail light assembly. - B840219 Mar 1, 2019 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
PHONE CALL AUDIO AUTONOMOUSLY SWITCH FROM VEHICLE TO PHONE. During an active phone call the call audio autonomously switches from the vehicle hands-free system to the phone.
Source: NHTSA manufacturer communications files.