IsItAGoodCar
Reliability Guide

Common Problems with the
2012–2013 BMW 3 Series (E90/E91/E92/E93)

We've identified 2 known issues that can affect the 2012–2013 BMW 3 Series (E90/E91/E92/E93). 1 of these are serious faults that could be expensive to repair.

2
Known Issues
1
Serious
1
Moderate
0
Minor

All Known Issues

Electric Water Pump Failure

SeriousCooling System

Petrol six-cylinders use an electric water pump that can fail with little warning, pushing the car into limp mode or overheating within minutes.

Est. Repair Cost: £450–£750
Warning Signs:

Cooling fan running flat-out, Temperature warning and limp mode, Poor cabin heat before failure

What to Inspect:
  • Look for pump and thermostat invoices around 60k-90k miles
  • Scan the DME for shadow cooling faults
  • Watch coolant temperature on a longer drive if diagnostics are available
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

FRM (Footwell Module) Failure

ModerateElectrics & Electronics

Low voltage, jump starts, and age can corrupt the footwell module, leaving the car with lighting and window faults that can cause an MOT failure.

Est. Repair Cost: £250–£500
Warning Signs:

Windows or mirrors stop responding, Indicators or dipped beam stop working, Intermittent warning lights after battery issues

What to Inspect:
  • Check all exterior lights and windows before and after a restart
  • Inspect battery age and IBS history
  • Avoid cars with suspiciously recent FRM coding but unresolved voltage faults
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Buying Tips for 2012–2013 BMW 3 Series (E90/E91/E92/E93)

  • ✓Budget for suspension, brake pipe, and water-pump work on cars still wearing old run-flats or original arms
  • ✓If it is a 320d or 318d, demand chain-proof paperwork rather than trusting a quiet engine on the day
  • ✓Check every exterior light, window, and mirror because FRM and wiring faults are common on ageing cars
  • ✓E93 convertibles need a full roof cycle and a dry boot floor before you think about cosmetics or spec
2011
Check a 2012–2013 BMW 3 Series (E90/E91/E92/E93) by Registration