Compare BMW 3 Series diesel engine fault quotes from specialist garages

Looming hundreds of feet up in Munich's skyline is BMW's headquarters, a vast and impressive building designed to look like four engine cylinders - the configuration that drove much of the brand's early success.

BMW has come a long way since 1927, when it produced its first car, the Dixi, shortly to be renamed the BMW 3/15. In 2022, it was awarded 'Best Manufacturer' at the AutoCar Britain's Best Car Awards, and the same year, it triumphed at the WhatCar? Awards, winning more accolades than any other brand. The M5 special edition, celebrating 20 years of BMW motorsport, is one of the rarest M automobiles in the world.

See how BMW's maintenance prices compare to Audi and Mercedes in this guide.

Diesel engine repair jobs are often more expensive than petrol, although diesel cars are more reliable and economical over long distances. The main difference between petrol and diesel engines is that the air is compressed before the fuel is injected in diesels, while in petrols, air and fuel are mixed first, then compressed and ignited.

The most common problems experienced by diesel engines include a clogged diesel particulate filter, stuck EGR valve, turbo failure, worn glow plugs, faulty injectors and low compression. Due to the chemicals and processes involved, some jobs, such as DPF cleaning, may require a diesel engine specialist service.

Many of the above faults have similar symptoms, so the best way to find the specific problem with your vehicle is to use diesel engine diagnostics. If you're experiencing issues with your car, we recommend finding a diesel specialist who can give you expert advice.