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BMW · Sports Car · 2007–2013

BMW M3 E93

Weaknesses, engine ratings and buying advice

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

Generations

Engine Overview

The BMW M3 E93 is available with one engine variant at 420 hp.

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

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

Vehicle Weaknesses

WeaknessCost
!Roof sensors: electrical control system failure

Defective microswitches at the front roof latch send conflicting signals — the system stops as a safety measure. Common fault codes: A68E sensor windscreen frame locked, A692 Hall sensor end position.

Symptoms: Roof does not open or close, no motor sound from the roof mechanism, fault codes in the instrument cluster.
from 80,000 km
Ad BMW E93 convertible top MikroswitchBMW E93 convertible topsteuerungBMW E93 Hallsensor convertible top
 Medium
!Convertible roof hydraulic cylinders leaking

Hydraulic cylinders in the convertible roof mechanism leak. Loss of hydraulic fluid causes the roof to stop midway during opening or closing. Replacing the cylinders is labour-intensive and expensive.

Symptoms: Roof stops mid-travel, hydraulic fluid drips from the roof frame, roof opens slowly or incompletely.
from 100,000 km
Ad BMW E93 convertible top HydraulikzylinderBMW E93 Cabriolet convertible top motorBMW E93 Convertible Hydraulic
 High
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 16 weaknesses have been documented for the BMW M3 E93 (2007–2013) — 10 engine-related and 6 vehicle-related. One problem engine: S65B40 (4.0L V8). Typical issues affect Body, Gearbox, 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 E93 have? +
The BMW M3 E93 has 10 known engine weaknesses and 6 vehicle weaknesses.
What should I look for when buying a used BMW M3 E93? +
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 E93 engine is the most fun? +
The {code} ({displacement}) offers the most driving fun in the BMW M3 E93 — 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 E93 worth buying used? +
Caution is advised with the BMW M3 E93 — 1 of 1 engine variants are rated 'Stay Away!'. The engine choice is crucial.
What horsepower variants are available for the BMW M3 E93? +
The BMW M3 E93 is available with engine variants from 420 to 420 hp. Petrol: S65B40 (4.0L V8).

Last updated: February 2026 · All information without guarantee