2004 BMW 3 Series Body and structure Problems
- Complaints
- 2about this part
- Share
- 3%of 77 total for the year
- Median mileage
- 40,000miles
- Trend
- Not enough dataFewer than 15 complaints, too few for a reliable trend.
NHTSA recorded 2 complaints about the body and structure of the 2004 BMW 3 Series, 3% of the 77 complaints for this model year. Where a mileage was given, the median is 40,000 miles.
Fewer than 15 complaints name this part, so treat the figures as a rough indication only.
Example complaints
Selected from NHTSA records; personal details are removed. They are consumer reports, not findings.
“Bmw e46 series cars, (1999-2006), have a weak point on the rear subframe mounting points. Over time, these points tear and cause the subframe to crack and begin to tear the body and frame of the car. My 2004 Bmw m3 is experiencing this exact problem at the moment. There is numerous class action lawsuits open on this issue as well.”
NHTSA complaint #10235801, filed 2008-07, 40,000 miles“2004 Bmw 330xi sedan (e46) rear tail light indicator light consistently comes on, even though there is no tail lamp failure. Online community forums report that this is likely due to ground wire short in the tail lamp assembly. Cost of repair at dealership estimated at $700. Currently being investigated by NHTSA as ea09-019, but I'm wary of being overcharged by dealership for what should be a recall.”
NHTSA complaint #10362173, filed 2010-10Related service bulletins
- 10030626Oct 2, 2009Bmw vehicles: doors will not unlock using the key fob or central locking button. *pe updated1/4/10. *pe updated 5/24/10.
- 10033135Oct 1, 2009Bmw vehicles: rear axle carrier (sub frame) support proposed class action settlement. Under certain circumstances, a fracture in the steel body structure could form in the area…
Body and structure: other model years
| Year | Complaints | Share of year |
|---|---|---|
| 2013 | 1 | 5% |
| 2012 | 1 | 14% |
| 2010 | 1 | 3% |
| 2009 | 1 | 2% |
| 2008 | 3 | 4% |
| 2007 | 6 | 5% |
| 2006 | 9 | 4% |
| 2005 | 1 | 4% |
| 2004 | 2 | 3% |
| 2003 | 5 | 7% |
| 2002 | 1 | 4% |
| 2001 | 2 | 6% |
| 2000 | 30 | 34% |
| 1999 | 1 | 17% |
| 1997 | 1 | 20% |
Other parts of the 2004 BMW 3 Series
42 complaintsAir bags
15 complaintsElectrical system
12 complaintsVisibility (wipers, defrost, mirrors)
5 complaintsBrakes
3 complaintsLatches, locks and linkages
3 complaintsSeats
2 complaintsTransmission and drivetrain
2 complaintsFuel system
1 complaintsSeat belts
1 complaintsSteering
1 complaintsSuspension
1 complaints
← All problems reported for the 2004 BMW 3 Series
About this data. Data from NHTSA (ODI) complaints, recalls, TSBs and investigations, updated Oct 28, 2026. Complaints are unverified consumer reports and may be duplicated or inaccurate.
To check a specific vehicle for open recalls, use its VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. Methodology