The Good
The 2017 M3 offers blistering performance thanks to its turbocharged engine, appealing to enthusiasts. Its comfortable interior and respectable fuel economy make it practical. The iconic design provides emotional appeal. While not known for exceptional reliability, preventative maintenance can extend its lifespan. It offers good value in the performance sedan segment.
The Bad
Potential weaknesses of the 2017 M3 include potential for oil leaks, particularly around the valve cover gasket and oil pan. Some owners have reported issues with the electronics and the adaptive suspension. Check the condition of the brakes and tires, as these can be costly to replace. The S55 engine, while powerful, can be susceptible to crank hub failure if not properly maintained or driven hard regularly without proper warm-up.
2017 BMW M3: Quick Overview
- Engine Options: 3.0-liter TwinPower Turbo inline-6
- Horsepower: 425 hp (base), 444 hp (Competition Package)
- Fuel Economy:
- City: 17 mpg
- Highway: 24 mpg
- Combined: 19 mpg (estimated)
- 0-60 mph:
- Manual: 4.1 seconds (estimated)
- DCT (Dual Clutch Transmission): 3.9 seconds (estimated)
- Towing Capacity: Not applicable (not designed for towing)
- Trim-Level Features:
- Base M3:Adaptive M suspension, M sport seats, carbon fiber interior trim, navigation system, Harman Kardon sound system, rearview camera, park distance control, automatic climate control, xenon headlights.
- Competition Package: Adds 19" forged wheels, Adaptive M suspension with revised tuning, unique seatbelts, sport exhaust, increased horsepower (444 hp), and more aggressive driving modes.
- Optional Features:
- Full Merino leather upholstery
- Carbon ceramic brakes
- Apple CarPlay
- Head-up display
- Lane departure warning
- Blind spot detection
- Executive Package (adds heated steering wheel, park assistant, and more)
2017 BMW M3 Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2017 |
| Make | BMW |
| Model | M3 |
| Trim | - |
| Style | 4-Door Sedan |
| Type | Sedan |
| Category | Compact Car |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | Germany |
| Manufacturing City | REGENSBURG |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | 5 |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 425 High Power 3-L i6 |
| Engine Size | 3L |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 |
| Transmission | Automatic |
| Transmission Type | Automatic |
| Transmission Speeds | - |
| Drivetrain | Rear-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | Standard |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | $64,000 USD |
| Invoice Price | $60,020 USD |
| Delivery Charges | $995 USD |
Vehicle History Report
Specifications
History
Events
History Check
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Listings
Recalls
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Analysis
What Problems Does the 2017 BMW M3 Have?
- Oil Leaks: Valve cover gasket and oil pan leaks are relatively common as the car ages.
- Crank Hub Failure: This is a known issue with the S55 engine. The friction disc can slip, causing timing issues and potentially catastrophic engine damage. This is more prevalent in tuned or aggressively driven cars.
- Adaptive Suspension Issues: Some owners have reported failures or malfunctions with the adaptive dampers, leading to costly repairs.
- Electronics Glitches: Occasional issues with the iDrive system, sensors, and other electronic components have been reported.
- Recalls: Check the NHTSA website for any outstanding recalls related to the 2017 BMW M3. Recalls can vary and address safety-related concerns.
- Long-Term Reliability: While the engine is generally robust, proper maintenance is crucial. Regular oil changes, cooling system service, and addressing any potential issues promptly can significantly improve long-term reliability. The DCT transmission, while offering quick shifts, requires regular servicing. Early model years (2015-2016) may have had slightly more reported issues, making a thorough inspection of a 2017 model even more important.
How long will the 2017 BMW M3 last?
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
- Tech & Entertainment: iDrive infotainment system with navigation, Bluetooth connectivity, USB port, Harman Kardon sound system (standard), optional Apple CarPlay integration.
- Driver-Assistance: Rearview camera, park distance control (front and rear), automatic headlights, rain-sensing wipers.
- Safety Features: Anti-lock brakes, stability control, traction control, multiple airbags (front, side, and curtain).
- Optional Features: Head-up display, lane departure warning, blind spot detection, active driving assistant (includes lane departure warning, forward collision warning, city collision mitigation).
Crash-test ratings from IIHS and NHTSA can provide insights into the M3's safety performance. Reviewing these ratings is advisable before purchasing. The IIHS often tests vehicles for small overlap front, moderate overlap front, side impact, roof strength, and head restraints & seats. The NHTSA provides an overall safety rating, as well as ratings for frontal crash, side crash, and rollover. Remember that crash test results can change, so verify the year and specific model being reviewed.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Interior Colors
2017 BMW M3 Prices and Market Value
- Mileage
- Condition (mechanical and cosmetic)
- Maintenance history
- Options (Competition Package, carbon ceramic brakes)
- Location
- Market demand
2017 BMW M3 Cost of Ownership
2017 BMW M3 Fuel Efficiency
2017 BMW M3 Safety Rating
NHTSA
2017 BMW M3 Recalls & Defects
Structure:frame and Members
Power Train:driveline:driveshaft
2017 BMW M3 Warranty
Drivetrain
Roadside
Rust
Basic
Free Maintenance
2017 BMW M3 Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2017 BMW M3 Compare to Other Sedan?
Alternatives: The Mercedes-AMG C63 offers a more luxurious experience with a powerful V8 engine. The Cadillac ATS-V is a value-oriented choice with impressive performance. Depending on preferences, these could be considered better alternatives. The Audi S4 of the same year offered similar performance but wasn't quite on the same level as the M3, but offered potentially better reliability.
Whether these alternatives are "better" depends on individual priorities. For pure driving enjoyment, the M3 holds its own. For luxury and a V8 soundtrack, the C63 is compelling. For value, the ATS-V is a strong contender.
Ranks #566 Sedan
| 1 | 2023 Toyota Camry | (5.0★) |
| 2 | 2023 Honda Accord | (0.0★) |
| 3 | 2023 Lexus ES | (0.0★) |
| 4 | 2024 Subaru Legacy | (5.0★) |
| 5 | 2022 Mazda MX-30 | (5.0★) |
| 6 | 2024 BMW M3 | (0.0★) |
| 7 | 2023 Ford Mustang | (5.0★) |
| 8 | 2023 Mercedes-Benz AMG GT | (0.0★) |
| 9 | 2023 Audi A3 | (0.0★) |
| 10 | 2023 Chevrolet Camaro | (5.0★) |
| 11 | 2023 Hyundai Elantra Hybrid | (0.0★) |
| 12 | 2023 Nissan Altima | (4.0★) |
| 566 | 2017 BMW M3 | (5.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2017 BMW M3 a Good Sedan?
VeeralS05 on May 17, 2021
Most reliable M car I’ve ownedLoved this car while I owned it. I’ve had a couple BMWs and this was by far the most reliable and fun vehicle thus far.
ScottinNorthTX on November 9, 2020
Driver Enthusiast's dream vehicle!Fantastic does everything car -- kids to school, been camping with it, cross-country drives, autocross / track racing, etc. Amazing sport exhaust sound and multiple personalities -- purring kitten in comfort mode or roaring tiger in Sport Plus!
George on July 29, 2020
Leased the car for 3 years and then purchased it.It could'nt fit our needs better! Perfect both summer and winter. Easy to drive, great sightlines. We use it for day trips and all around commuting.
MichaDCbike on July 31, 2019
Love my CarI really enjoy this car, its perfect for me and all my needs. I will definitely buy another BMW when this one meets its time.
SWAFLY on April 29, 2019
High performance German carVery performance-focused machine. Not looking forward to replacing expensive tires regularly. Not a terribly fuel efficient vehicle. It’s quite the joy to drive, however. Happy overall.
Stas on December 13, 2018
The best car that I ever hadPerfect sport car, can go anywhere from Race Track to Grocery store, best daily car for the money, didn’t have any issue or problems for 36.000 miles
jdubs on December 24, 2017
BEST Daily Sports Car Out ThereJust like the title says, best daily sports car out there. Has more than enough power for getting around town and maintaining decent gas mileage, 4 doors means you get to bring your friends with you! DCT is a little clunky in stop and go traffic until you learn how to drive it. On the backroads you see why so many people like/want this car! Comp pack keeps everything planted and always get thumbs up for looks/color and exhaust noise, especially the burbles!
RHC2 on November 1, 2017
Most Fun I Ever Had in 3 SeriesThe ride hard, the car is fast what more can I say. I have owned driven A M3 E90 and there no replacement for displacement. The competition package on the new F80 platform finally puts the M3 back on top for prefromance. While maybe lacking in interior quality with hard plastics it makes up in power, torque more specifically. The 400 lb-ft can really make you re think what you are for lunch. The comp package which gives you the GTS wheels are stunning along with the upgraded full titanium race exhaust will make anyone turn there head. Unfortunately I would not reccomend this car as a new car purschase. Stickers for $77,000 which is wayyyyyyyyyyyy to much for twin turbo in line 6 which can also be found in 335i/340i. With a simple tune you can get the same power for a fraction of the cost. If you have to the best preformance car in the segment then this is your car. Honestly I don?t get out of that car remembering that is was anything special.
Cschristian78 on August 17, 2017
More Speed than the road will allow!Car was fun, fast and family friendly. Great sound, stable ride that you have to hang on to or risk getting left behind with no one driving!
FastFreddy on June 24, 2017
Best car I've ownedThis is the best car I have ever owned. I owned a BMW/335i but nothing compared to this/M3-competition package. This is fast, agile, responsive, beautiful combination color, DCT transmission, headsup display, nice wheels, superior braking ability, lots of carbon fiber. And this list goes on. I'm impressed!!!!
Eugene S
Eugene is an automotive enthusiast with over 15 years of experience in the used car market. As a writer at VINCheck.info, he brings deep industry insight and a passion for cars, helping readers make smart, informed decisions. Eugene has written hundreds of used car reviews and is known for breaking down complex automotive topics into clear, actionable advice. Over the years, he has driven and worked on a wide range of vehicles—starting with tuning street cars in his early days and eventually focusing on performance upgrades and reliability improvements. Today, he specializes in evaluating used vehicles through the lens of real-world ownership and enthusiast needs. A longtime fan of Porsche, Eugene especially appreciates vehicles that blend durability with driving enjoyment.