The 2006 BMW 3-Series (E90 generation) continued BMW's legacy of producing sporty, luxurious compact cars. Available as a sedan, coupe, convertible, and wagon, the 2006 model year offered a variety of choices. Key trims included the 325i, 328i, 330i, and 335i. Pricing ranged approximately from $30,000 to $45,000 when new. Its blend of agile handling, refined interior, and strong engine performance made it a popular choice for driving enthusiasts.
The Good
The 2006 BMW 3-Series offers a compelling blend of performance and comfort. It excels in handling and provides a rewarding driving experience appealing to enthusiasts. Its sophisticated design and well-appointed interior are emotionally satisfying, while its relative fuel efficiency and solid reputation for build quality appeal to practical buyers seeking a reliable and enjoyable vehicle.
The Bad
Potential weaknesses of the 2006 BMW 3-Series include electrical issues, oil leaks (especially in the valve cover and oil filter housing), and potential problems with the cooling system. Some models experienced issues with the fuel pump and injectors. Suspension components may require replacement due to wear and tear, and the run-flat tires can be expensive to replace.
2006 BMW 3-Series: Quick Overview
Key specifications for the 2006 BMW 3-Series:
- Engine Options:
- 325i/325xi: 2.5L Inline-6 (N52)
- 330i/330xi: 3.0L Inline-6 (N52)
- 328i/328xi (later in production year as a replacement for 325 models): 3.0L Inline-6 (N51 or N52)
- 335i/335xi: 3.0L Twin-Turbo Inline-6 (N54) (introduced later)
- Horsepower:
- 325i/325xi: 215 hp
- 330i/330xi: 255 hp
- 328i/328xi: 230 hp
- 335i/335xi: 300 hp
- Fuel Economy (MPG):
- 325i/325xi: 20 city / 29 highway (approximate)
- 330i/330xi: 19 city / 28 highway (approximate)
- 328i/328xi: 18 city / 28 highway (approximate)
- 335i/335xi: 17 city / 26 highway (approximate)
- 0-60 Times:
- 325i/325xi: 7.0-7.5 seconds (approximate)
- 330i/330xi: 6.1-6.5 seconds (approximate)
- 328i/328xi: 6.3-6.7 seconds (approximate)
- 335i/335xi: 5.4-5.7 seconds (approximate)
- Towing Capacity: Not generally recommended for towing.
- Trim-Level Features:
- Base (325i/330i/328i): Standard features include automatic climate control, power windows and locks, premium audio system, alloy wheels, and leatherette upholstery.
- Xi (All-Wheel Drive): Adds all-wheel drive system.
- Sport Package: Includes sport suspension, sport seats, sport steering wheel, and unique exterior trim.
- Premium Package: Adds leather upholstery, power seats, sunroof, and auto-dimming mirrors.
- Cold Weather Package: Includes heated seats, headlight washers, and ski bag.
2006 BMW 3-Series Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2006 |
| Make | BMW |
| Model | 3-Series |
| Trim | - |
| Style | 4-Door Sedan Rear-Wheel Drive |
| Type | Sedan |
| Category | Compact Car |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | Germany |
| Manufacturing City | - |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 2.5 L 6 Cylinder |
| Engine Size | 2.5L |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 |
| Transmission | - |
| Transmission Type | - |
| Transmission Speeds | - |
| Drivetrain | Rear-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | - |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
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What Problems Does the 2006 BMW 3-Series Have?
Frequently reported problems for the 2006 BMW 3-Series include issues with the cooling system, specifically the water pump and thermostat, which can lead to overheating. Oil leaks, particularly from the valve cover gasket and oil filter housing, are also common. Electrical issues, such as problems with the power windows, door locks, and the iDrive system (if equipped), have been reported. The N54 engine (335i models) is known for potential problems with the high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) and turbocharger issues. Fuel injectors can also be problematic. Some owners have experienced issues with the automatic transmission.
Recalls for the 2006 3-Series have included issues related to the fuel pump, battery cable connection, and airbags. These recalls should be checked to ensure that any affected vehicles have received the necessary repairs.
Long-term reliability concerns center around the aging of plastic and rubber components, which can become brittle and crack over time, leading to leaks and other issues. Regular maintenance and addressing problems promptly are crucial for maintaining the reliability of a 2006 BMW 3-Series.
Recalls for the 2006 3-Series have included issues related to the fuel pump, battery cable connection, and airbags. These recalls should be checked to ensure that any affected vehicles have received the necessary repairs.
Long-term reliability concerns center around the aging of plastic and rubber components, which can become brittle and crack over time, leading to leaks and other issues. Regular maintenance and addressing problems promptly are crucial for maintaining the reliability of a 2006 BMW 3-Series.
How long will the 2006 BMW 3-Series last?
A well-maintained 2006 BMW 3-Series can realistically reach 200,000 miles or more. Many owners report reaching this milestone with proper maintenance. However, long-term durability depends heavily on consistent servicing and preventative repairs. Weaknesses over time include the degradation of rubber and plastic components, leading to oil leaks, cooling system failures, and suspension issues. Electrical gremlins can also become more frequent as the car ages. Neglecting maintenance will significantly shorten the lifespan and increase the likelihood of major repairs.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 2006 BMW 3-Series came standard with features like a premium audio system (CD player, AM/FM radio), automatic climate control, and power windows and locks. Higher trims and optional packages added features like leather upholstery, power seats, a sunroof, and the iDrive infotainment system.
Driver-assistance features were limited compared to modern standards. Some models included optional parking sensors, but advanced driver-assistance systems like lane departure warning or adaptive cruise control were not available.
Safety features included anti-lock brakes (ABS), stability control (DSC), traction control, and multiple airbags (front, side, and curtain).
The NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) and IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) conducted crash tests on the 2006 BMW 3-Series. The results varied slightly depending on the body style, but generally, the 3-Series performed well in crash tests, earning good ratings for occupant protection. It's recommended to check the official NHTSA and IIHS websites for specific crash-test data for the 2006 model year and body style of interest. The presence of run-flat tires, while offering convenience in case of a flat, could compromise ride comfort compared to conventional tires.
Driver-assistance features were limited compared to modern standards. Some models included optional parking sensors, but advanced driver-assistance systems like lane departure warning or adaptive cruise control were not available.
Safety features included anti-lock brakes (ABS), stability control (DSC), traction control, and multiple airbags (front, side, and curtain).
The NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) and IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) conducted crash tests on the 2006 BMW 3-Series. The results varied slightly depending on the body style, but generally, the 3-Series performed well in crash tests, earning good ratings for occupant protection. It's recommended to check the official NHTSA and IIHS websites for specific crash-test data for the 2006 model year and body style of interest. The presence of run-flat tires, while offering convenience in case of a flat, could compromise ride comfort compared to conventional tires.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Alpine White
Black Sapphire Metallic
Titanium Silver Metallic
Space Gray Metallic
Crimson Red
Monaco Blue Metallic
Deep Green Metallic
Graphite Metallic
Mystic Blue Metallic
Arctic Metallic
Interior Colors
Terra Leather
Black Leather
Gray Leather
Beige Leather
2006 BMW 3-Series Prices and Market Value
When new, the 2006 BMW 3-Series ranged from approximately $30,000 to $45,000, depending on the trim level and options. As of today, used market prices can range from $4,000 to $12,000, depending on condition, mileage, and trim. The 3-Series has depreciated significantly. Factors affecting resale value include mileage, overall condition (mechanical and cosmetic), maintenance history, and trim level. Models with lower mileage, a clean title, and a complete service record command higher prices. The 335i models with the N54 engine may hold their value better due to their performance capabilities, but potential buyers should be aware of the engine's known issues.
2006 BMW 3-Series Cost of Ownership
Owning a 2006 BMW 3-Series can be moderately to significantly costly. Insurance premiums are typically higher than average due to the car's performance and repair costs. Fuel costs are reasonable for the inline-6 engines, but the 335i will consume more fuel. Maintenance and repairs can be expensive, especially if performed at a BMW dealership. Long-term ownership costs can add up due to the potential for age-related repairs and the need for specialized parts and service. It is not considered an economical car to own, particularly compared to non-luxury brands.
2006 BMW 3-Series Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Fuel Capacity
-
City Mileage
-
Highway Mileage
-
2006 BMW 3-Series Safety Rating
NHTSA
2006 BMW 3-Series Recalls & Defects
Suspension:front:control ARM
Recall date
2006-10-18
Recall no.
06v400000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
ON Certain Vehicles, ONE OF THE Suspension Control ARM and Swivel Bearing Connection Bolts WAS NOT Tightened Correctly. THE Bolted Connection Could Loosen.
Consequence
THE Bolted Connection Could Break Which Could Impair Vehicle Handling and Control, Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy
Dealers Will Inspect THE Bolted Connection And, IF Necessary, Adjust THE Connection. IN Some Cases, IT MAY BE Necessary TO Replace THE Suspension Control ARM and THE Swivel Bearing. THE Recall Began ON November 21, 2006. Owners MAY Contact BMW AT 1-800-831-1117.
Notes
Customers MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Http://Www.safercar.gov.
AIR Bags:frontal
Recall date
2008-08-05
Recall no.
08v384000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
BMW IS Recalling 200,000 MY 2006 3 Series Sport Seat, MY 2004-2006 5 Series Standard and Sport Seat, and MY 2004-2006 X3 Passenger Vehicles. Depending ON THE Manner and Frequency OF THE Front Passenger's Entry and Exit, Small Cracks Have Developed IN THE Mat. IF This Occurs, THE Front Passenger AIR Bags, With THE Exception OF THE Head Protection System, Will BE Deactivated and THE AIR BAG Warning Lamp AS Well AS THE Passenger AIR BAG "on-off" Lamp Will BE Illuminated.
Consequence
IN This Situation THE Front Passenger AIR Bags Will NOT Deploy Even IF A Sufficiently Severe Accident Would Occur and Occupant Protection Provided BY THE System Would NOT BE Possible.
Remedy
Dealers Will Rework THE Front Passenger Seat Sensor MAT SO That External Force Application TO THE Seat Does NOT Cause A Crack TO THE Mat. THE Recall Began ON November 6, 2008. BMW Will Also Extend THE Warranty ON These Vehicles TO 10 Years From First Registration Without ANY Mileage Limit. Owners MAY Contact BMW AT 1-800-525-7417.
Notes
BMW IS Extending THE Warranty TO 10 Years From First Registration Without ANY Mileage Limit TO THE Following Vehicles:my 2006 6-Series, 3-Series (Standard Seat), MY 2004-2005 Z4, MY 2004-2006 7-series, MY 2006 X5, and MY 2004-2006 5-series (Comfort Seat).under THE Extended Warranty Program, THE Occupant Detection MAT IN A Vehicle That Experiences This Specific Issue Will BE Replaced AT NO Charge TO THE Customer.customers MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Http://Www.safercar.gov.
Engine and Engine Cooling:cooling System:fan
Recall date
2012-08-10
Recall no.
12e029000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
This Recall Involves Aftermarket Parts Sold BY Valeo. Valeo IS Recalling Certain Engine Cooling Fans, Part Numbers 696121, 696273, and 696275, Used AS Service Replacement Parts FOR Model Year 2008-2011 BMW 1-Series, 2006-2011 BMW 3-series, 2000-2009 BMW 5-series, 2004-2005 BMW 6-series, and 2006-2007 BMW 7-series Vehicles. A Metal-oxide Semiconductor MAY Overheat DUE TO Insufficient Screwing OF THE Semiconductor ON THE Aluminum Heat Sink. This Primary Failure Could Cause Adjacent Components ON THE FAN Assembly Motor Circuit Board TO Overheat and Short.
Consequence
This Condition Could Cause THE FAN Motor TO Become Inoperative, or Cause THE Motor Circuit Board IN THE Assembly TO Overheat, Potentially Leading TO A Fire IN THE Engine Compartment.
Remedy
Valeo Will Notify Owners and Replace THE Fans Free OF Charge. THE Safety Recall Began ON August 22, 2012. This Recall IS Being Conducted BY Valeo, NOT BY Bmw. FOR Further Information, Owners MAY Contact Valeo AT 1-888-718-2536.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Engine and Engine Cooling:exhaust System:emission Control:crankcase (Pcv)
Recall date
2022-03-02
Recall no.
22v119000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
BMW OF North America, LLC (Bmw) IS Recalling Certain 2008-2013 1 Series Coupe (128i); 2007-2013 3 Series Coupe (328i, 328xi, 328i Xdrive); 2007-2010 X3 SAV (X3 3.0si, X3 Xdrive30i); 2008-2013 1 Series Convertible (128i); 2006-2011 3 Series Sedan (325i, 325xi, 328i, 328xi, 328i Xdrive, 330i, 330xi); 2006-2012 3 Series Wagon (328i, 328i Xdrive); 2007-2013 3 Series Convertible (328i); 2006-2010 5 Series Sedan (525i, 525xi, 528i, 528xi, 530i, 530xi); 2006-2007 5 Series Wagon (530xi); 2007-2010 X5 SAV (X5 3.0si, X5 Xdrive30i); 2006-2008 Z4 Coupe (Z4 3.0si); and 2006-2011 Z4 Roadster (Z4 3.0i, Z4 3.0si, Z4 Sdrive30i) Vehicles. THE Heater FOR THE Positive Crankcase Ventilation (pcv) Valve MAY Short Circuit.
Consequence
AN Electrical Short CAN Cause THE PCV Valve Heater TO Overheat, Increasing THE Risk OF A Fire While Driving OR, Soon After Driving When Parked.
Remedy
This Recall Supersedes and Expands Previous Nhtsa Recalls 17v-683 and 19v-273. Dealers Will Install AN Electrical Wiring Harness With Fuse Protection FOR THE PCV Valve Heater IN Potentially Affected Vehicles, Free OF Charge. This Recall Supersedes and Expands Previous Nhtsa Recalls 17v-683 and 19v-273. Vehicles Previously Repaired Under THE Prior Recalls Will Need TO Come Back FOR THE NEW Recall Remedy. THE Remedy IS Currently Being Developed. Interim Owner Notification Letters Informing Owners OF THE Safety Risk Were Mailed ON April 1, 2022. Owner Notification Letters Were Mailed ON July 22, 2022. Owners MAY Contact BMW Customer Service AT 1-800-525-7417.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.nhtsa.gov.
2006 BMW 3-Series Insurance
Insurance for a 2006 BMW 3-Series is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Sedan with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2006 BMW 3-Series Compare to Other Sedan?
The 2006 BMW 3-Series competed with rivals like the Audi A4, Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Infiniti G35, and Lexus IS. In terms of performance, the 3-Series was generally considered to have the most engaging driving experience, especially compared to the Lexus IS. The Infiniti G35 offered similar performance but with a less refined interior. The Audi A4 provided a balance of performance and luxury, while the Mercedes-Benz C-Class emphasized comfort.
In terms of features, the 3-Series was competitive, but some rivals offered more standard equipment for the price. Reliability was a mixed bag, with the 3-Series having some known issues, while the Lexus IS was generally considered more reliable. The A4 and C-Class also had their own reliability concerns.
For those prioritizing reliability and lower long-term costs, the Lexus IS might be a better alternative. If comfort is a top priority, the Mercedes-Benz C-Class could be a better choice. The Audi A4 offers a similar level of refinement and performance. The Infiniti G35 could be considered a similar performance option at a lower price point, but the interior and overall refinement were not as high as the BMW.
In terms of features, the 3-Series was competitive, but some rivals offered more standard equipment for the price. Reliability was a mixed bag, with the 3-Series having some known issues, while the Lexus IS was generally considered more reliable. The A4 and C-Class also had their own reliability concerns.
For those prioritizing reliability and lower long-term costs, the Lexus IS might be a better alternative. If comfort is a top priority, the Mercedes-Benz C-Class could be a better choice. The Audi A4 offers a similar level of refinement and performance. The Infiniti G35 could be considered a similar performance option at a lower price point, but the interior and overall refinement were not as high as the BMW.
Ranks #718 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★) |
| 718 | 2006 BMW 3-Series | (0.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2006 BMW 3-Series a Good Sedan?
The 2006 BMW 3-Series is ideal for driving enthusiasts who appreciate a sporty and engaging driving experience. It's worth buying if you're willing to invest in regular maintenance and potential repairs. A used 2006 3-Series can be a good value, but a thorough inspection by a qualified mechanic is essential before purchase. Lower-mileage examples with complete service records are preferable. The 328i is often considered a sweet spot, offering a good balance of performance and reliability compared to the 335i with its more complex engine. Be prepared for potentially higher running costs compared to non-luxury brands. If you prioritize trouble-free ownership, other alternatives might be a better choice.
Simon A
Simon is a contributor to VinCheck, where he provides articles and reviews on various automotive topics. His work focuses on delivering accurate and up-to-date information about used cars, helping readers make informed decisions.