Model guides

Which used BMW should you buy?

Start with how you live, then pick the series. For most Ohio buyers, a 2019 or newer BMW with the 2.0-liter four or the B58 3.0-liter six and xDrive is the sweet spot of reliability, running cost and winter traction. Below is every series we sell, with the generations and engines worth seeking out.

Quick picks

Match the BMW to your life

If you needLook atWhy
A family SUV that does everythingX5 xDrive40iSpace, comfort, towing and the durable B58 six
A smaller SUV that is easy to parkX3 xDrive30i or X1 xDrive28iLower running costs, plenty of room for four
Three rows of seatsX7 xDrive40iThe only three-row BMW, with real adult space
A sport sedan for commuting330i or M340iThe benchmark drive, from efficient to very fast
Quiet, long-distance comfort540i or 740iSix-cylinder smoothness and a hushed ride
Electric drivingi4 eDrive40 or iX xDrive50Up to 301 or 324 miles of EPA-rated range
Weekend funM240i, Z4 M40i, M3 or M4Rear-drive balance and big performance

Sports Activity Vehicles: X1 to X7

X1U11 2023+ · F48 2016 to 2022

The compact entry point. The current U11 has the curved display and far more rear-seat space than you would expect.

X3G01 2018 to 2024

The do-everything size. xDrive30i for value, M40i for pace. See X3s in stock.

X5G05 2019+ · F15 2014 to 2018

The midsize benchmark. Read our used X5 buyer's guide.

X6G06 2020+

The X5 with a coupe roofline. Same engines, less cargo height, more style.

X7G07 2019+

Three rows, available captain's chairs, and a big discount on a used one compared with new.

Coupes, sedans and roadsters

2 SeriesG42 coupe 2022+

The M240i xDrive packs the 382 hp six into a compact coupe. A modern classic.

3 SeriesG20 2019+ · F30 2012 to 2018

The sport sedan by which others are measured. Read our used 3 Series guide.

4 SeriesG22 coupe 2021+ · G26 Gran Coupe 2022+

The 3 Series as a coupe or a sleek five-door Gran Coupe, plus the M4.

5 SeriesG30 2017 to 2023

The executive sedan. The 540i six is the one to have.

7 SeriesG11 2016 to 2022

Flagship comfort and technology at a steep used discount. Air suspension needs checking.

Z4G29 2019+

Two-seat roadster with a power soft top. The M40i is the enthusiast pick.

Electric BMWs

The i4 is a Gran Coupe with a hatchback and up to 301 miles of EPA-rated range in eDrive40 form. The iX is a purpose-built electric SAV; the xDrive50 has up to 324 miles of rated range and 516 hp. BMW covers the high-voltage battery with its own warranty for 8 years or 100,000 miles from the original in-service date. Ohio adds a $200 annual fee for electric vehicles at registration.

Engine codes worth knowing

CodeWhat it isFound in
B46 / B482.0L turbo four, modern modular design330i, X1, X3 30i, Z4 30i
B583.0L turbo six, highly regardedM340i, M240i, X3 M40i, X5 and X7 40i, 540i, 740i, Z4 M40i
S583.0L twin-turbo M sixM3, M4, X3 M
N634.4L twin-turbo V8X5 and X7 M50i, 750i
N20 / N55Earlier 2.0L four and 3.0L sixMany 2012 to 2016 models

Used BMW questions

What is the most reliable used BMW?

Cars with the B58 3.0-liter six, such as the X5 xDrive40i, M340i and 540i, have the strongest reputation among technicians. Service history matters more than the badge, so always ask for records.

Is a high-mileage BMW a bad idea?

Not if it has been maintained. A 70,000-mile car with full records can be a better buy than a 40,000-mile car with none. Budget for wear items such as gaskets, cooling parts and tires.

Do you sell BMW Certified Pre-Owned cars?

No. Certified Pre-Owned is BMW's own program, offered only by authorized BMW dealers. We are an independent dealer: every car gets our own inspection, remaining factory warranty transfers with the car, and you can add an extended service contract.