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BMW · Sports Car · 2007–2013

BMW M3 E92

Weaknesses, engine ratings and buying advice

★★★★★
1.0 / 5.0 · Based on 1 engine variants

Generations

Engine Overview

The BMW M3 E92 is available with one engine variant at 420 hp.

4.0L V8 · Benziner· 420 PS
2007 2013
Stay Away! 10 weaknesses

The BMW 4.0L V8 (Benziner, 420 PS) has the S65B40 (4.0L V8) — rated: "Stay Away!", 10 known weaknesses.

Vehicle Weaknesses

WeaknessCost
✖DKG mechatronics oil loss and failure

The dual-clutch gearbox (DKG/DCT) is prone to oil loss through aged seals in the mechatronics unit. Oil starvation causes shift problems and complete mechatronics failure. Oil changes every 40,000–60,000 km are mandatory.

Symptoms: Jerky gear changes, clunking when downshifting gears 1–4 at low revs, gearbox drops out of D into manual.
from 80,000 km
Ad BMW M-DCT GS7D36SG MechatronikBMW DKG E92 transmission fluidBMW DCT oil filter E92
 High
!Rear differential whine

The limited-slip differential on the E92 M3 develops a characteristic whine at 30–50 km/h. An oil change with BMW SAF XJ plus booster additive can alleviate the symptoms.

Symptoms: Whining from the rear at 30–50 km/h, louder in corners, worsens over time
from 100,000 km
Ad BMW differential E92 M3SAF XJ Booster Additiv
 High
●DKG dual-clutch gearbox noises

The optional DKG on the E92 M3 develops noises when pulling away and at low speeds. Juddering during slow manoeuvres and crawling in traffic is typical.

Symptoms: Judder when pulling away, noises from the gearbox at low revs, shift kicks in town traffic
Ad DKG E92 M3Doppelclutchsgearbox BMW M3
 Medium
NHTSA Owner Complaints
Below Average
202 complaints · 2007–2013
Powertrain
73 ⚠ 1
Engine
54 ⚠ 1
Airbags
45 ⚠ 3
Electrical
27 ⚠ 2
Cruise Control
7 ⚠ 2

Top Reported Issues

⚠ Powertrain (73 complaints)
⚠ Engine (54 complaints)
⚠ Airbags (45 complaints)
Source: NHTSA (nhtsa.gov) · 2026-03

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Known Problems and Issues

A total of 21 weaknesses have been documented for the BMW M3 E92 (2007–2013) — 10 engine-related and 11 vehicle-related. One problem engine: S65B40 (4.0L V8). Typical issues affect Gearbox, Brakes, Other, Electronics.

M3 (S65B40, 2007–2013) — Stay Away!: Connecting rod bearings — clearance too tight from factory, Throttle body actuators — plastic gears break, VANOS hub covers — plastic breaks and blocks oil strainer. Power: 420 PS.

What to watch out for with the BMW M3? See the detailed listing of all engine and vehicle weaknesses in the sections above.

Frequently Asked Questions

What problems and weaknesses does the BMW M3 E92 have? +
The BMW M3 E92 has 10 known engine weaknesses and 11 vehicle weaknesses.
What should I look for when buying a used BMW M3 E92? +
faq.watch_a_avoid
Which engine is recommended? +
None of the available engines are rated 'Good Choice'. Stay away! The most fun to drive is the S65B40 (4.0L V8). Problem engine: S65B40 (4.0L V8) — stay away!
Which BMW M3 E92 engine is the most fun? +
The {code} ({displacement}) offers the most driving fun in the BMW M3 E92 — rated: "Legendary!". {description} The saloon is the understated M3 — externally a 3 Series, inside the same 8,300 rpm V8. More practical than the Coupé, same driving experience. Collectors underestimate it, drivers appreciate it.
Is the BMW M3 E92 worth buying used? +
Caution is advised with the BMW M3 E92 — 1 of 1 engine variants are rated 'Stay Away!'. The engine choice is crucial.
What horsepower variants are available for the BMW M3 E92? +
The BMW M3 E92 is available with engine variants from 420 to 420 hp. Petrol: S65B40 (4.0L V8).

Last updated: February 2026 · All information without guarantee