2008 BMW M3
WBSWD91000PY32715
Vehicle record for the 2008 BMW M3 (VIN WBSWD91000PY32715). Gray, coupe, gasoline. Registered in Odesa. 5 NHTSA recall campaigns for this model year. Free specifications, registration region and recall data.
Full vehicle history report
What a full report checks for VIN WBSWD91000PY32715
A full report searches national title databases (NMVTIS) and licensed history providers for this VIN and shows whatever records are on file — not every vehicle has every record type. The decode, safety recalls and owner complaints above are always free.
History reports cover US-titled vehicles only. This car is registered in Ukraine, so title, salvage and odometer records from the US national title database (NMVTIS) don't apply to it. The registration record, specifications and recall data on this page are free.
At a glance
Vehicle identity & specifications
What's a 2008 BMW M3 worth?
What comparable 2008 BMW M3 vehicles are listed for — a quick gut-check before you negotiate.
Is the seller's price fair? Get this exact VIN's current market value — retail, trade-in & loan value — in the full report.
See this car's exact value →MPG & running costs
U.S. EPA fuel-economy estimates for the 2008 BMW M3.
Source: U.S. EPA / DOE fueleconomy.gov. The EPA lists 2 versions of this model year; combined is shown as a range and the other figures are averages. Actual mileage varies with trim and driving conditions.
Estimated 5-year cost to own
A rough guide to what running a 2008 BMW M3 costs over five years and 75,000 miles.
How this is estimated: fuel is the U.S. EPA annual cost at 15,000 miles a year. Depreciation compares today's typical asking price for this model year ($26,937) with the same model 5 model-years older ($9,197), from CarLogs listing data. Not included: insurance, maintenance, repairs, taxes, registration and finance costs. Treat it as a comparison guide, not a quote.
Dimensions & weight
Manufacturer-reported figures for the 2008 BMW M3 — ranges cover the 2 body / drivetrain versions on record. Source: Transport Canada vehicle specifications via NHTSA.
Investigations & service bulletins
NHTSA defect investigations 1
Desiccated Air Bag Inflator Rupture Open
From 2000 through 2017, Takata produced millions of air bag inflators using two types of phase-stabilized ammonium nitrate ("PSAN") propellant -- propellant 2004 and propellant 2004L. After prolonged exposure to high temperature cycles and humidity, inflators using propellant 2004 can degrade, causing the propellant to burn too quickly when ignited. The rapid burning can cause the inflator to rupture during deploymen…
NHTSA #EA21002 · Air Bags · opened Sep 2021An investigation means NHTSA is examining a possible defect — it is not a recall, and many close without one.
Manufacturer service bulletins 127
Technical notes the manufacturer sent to dealers about known issues and fixes. Useful to mention to a mechanic — they are not recalls and repairs may not be free. Showing the 10 most recent of 127.
The electrical system of BMW vehicles has been subject to an ongoing development process over the last few years. This has led to increased demands being placed on the battery. This document covers important information for the dealer on how to handle âÂÂdi…
Bulletin B611305 · Electrical System · Jan 2024Functional noises (squealing/honking) when braking shortly before the vehicle comes to a stop. CAUSE Material-
Bulletin B340714 · Service Brakes, Hydraulic · Oct 2023Vehicle cannot be opened or closed using comfort access, engine start is not possible, and the vehicle may not start when placing the key against the steering column.
Bulletin B662419 · Equipment · Sep 2022The footwell module (FRM) cannot be encoded after replacement.
Bulletin B610322 · Electrical System · Mar 2022Diagnosis of Compound Brake System Complaints in M Vehicles: 1. Visible cracks are caused by high thermal stresses during rapid heating and cooling of the brake discs. Braking from high speed with cold brake components (less than 212 degrees F) increases the l…
Bulletin B340414 · Service Brakes, Air, Steering · Apr 2021Discharged Battery Energy Diagnosis Must Be Performed: The electrical system of BMW vehicles has been subject to an ongoing development process over the last few years. This has led to increased demands being placed on the battery. This document covers importa…
Bulletin B611305 · Electrical System, Equipment Adaptive/mobility, Equipment · Oct 2020Power Reduction FC2A82 Intake VANOS and/or FC2 A87 Exhaust VANOS Camshaft Fault: The "Service Engine Soon" (MIL) lamp is illuminated and engine power reduction is perceived. This situation can occur after driving for some time with the engine at full operating…
Bulletin B110208 · Power Train, Electrical System · Apr 2020SERVICE ACTION: N54T ENGINE - INSPECT AND REPLACE INJECTOR(S). The piezo-type fuel injectors may cause a rough running at start-up or rough running while at idle.
Bulletin B130619 · Engine · Dec 2019Service Action: CIC - Install Navigation Road Map Database 2013. Before delivering affected vehicles to the customer, the Car Information Computer (CIC) road map database 2013 must be installed onto the CIC internal Hard Disc Drive (HDD).
Bulletin 651512 · Equipment · Jul 2019Trunk Lid Intermittently Does Not Open or Latch. Intermittently the trunk lid does not pop open when using the remote, or latch when closing. If the vehicle is driven and the trunk is not closed fully, a Check Control message will be displayed in the instrumen…
Bulletin 513911 · Structure, Latches/locks/linkages · Jul 2019Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation, listed for the M3. Model-year data, not specific to one car.
About the BMW M3
The BMW M3 is a high-performance version of the BMW 3 Series, developed by BMW's in-house motorsport division, BMW M GmbH. M3 models have been produced for every generation of 3 Series since the E30 M3 was introduced in 1986.
From Wikipedia, licensed CC BY-SA 4.0. Describes the model line in general, not this model year specifically.
Safety recall campaigns 5
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2008-2013 128i and 135i Convertibles, 128i, 135i, and M Coupes, 2007-2010 X3 30si and X3 xDrive30i, 2013-2015 X1 sDrive28i, X1 xDrive28i and X1 xDrive35i, 2007-2013 328i, 328i xDrive, 335i, 335is, 335i xDrive and M3 Coupes, 2006-2011 328i, 328xi, 328i xDrive, 325i, 325xi, 330i, 330xi, 335i, 335xi, 335i xDrive and M3, 2009-2011 335D, 2006-2012 32…
Remedy: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the driver air bag. On X5 and X6 vehicles, only the inflator will be replaced. All repairs will be performed free of charge. The recall began March 11, 2020. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
NHTSA Campaign #20V017000 · 15/01/2020ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING:FUSES AND CIRCUIT BREAKERS
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2009 328i and 328xi, 2009-2011 335d, 2008-2012 M3 Coupe and M3 Convertible, and 2008-2011 M3 Sedan vehicles. The connection of the positive battery cable at the fuse box terminal may degrade, resulting in an intermittent loss of electrical power.
Remedy: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace and secure the positive battery cable connector, free of charge. The recall began August 14, 2019. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417. Note: This recall is an expansion of a previous recall, number 18V-314.
NHTSA Campaign #19V472000 · 19/06/2019ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2006-2011 323i, 325i, 325xi, 328i, 328xi, 330i, 330xi, 335i, 335xi and M3, 2007-2011 328i xDrive, 335i xDrive and 335is and 2009-2011 335d vehicles. The wiring and electrical connectors for the system that controls air flow for the heating and air conditioning system may overheat.
Remedy: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the wiring and electrical connectors, free of charge. Interim letters were mailed on November 27, 2017. Owners will receive a second notice when the remedy becomes available. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
NHTSA Campaign #17V676000 · 25/10/2017AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain model year 2008-2013 128i and 135i coupes and convertibles and 1 Series M coupes, 2006-2011 325i, 325xi, 328i, 328xi, 328i xDrive, 330i, 330xi, 335i, 335xi, 335i xDrive Sedans, 2009-2011 335d sedans, 2006-2012 325xiT, 328i and 328xi sports wagons, 2007-2013 328i, 328xi, 328i xDrive, 335i, 335xi, 335i xDrive, 335is and M3 Coupes and Convertibles,…
Remedy: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the driver's frontal air bag module or inflator depending on the vehicle model, free of charge. The recall began March 9, 2018. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
NHTSA Campaign #16V071000 · 05/02/2016POWER TRAIN:CLUTCH ASSEMBLY
BMW IS RECALLING 2,500 MY 2008-2009 M3 PASSENGER VEHICLES WITH AN OPTIONAL DOUBLE CLUTCH TRANSMISSION. THE PROBLEM INVOLVES THE DOUBLE CLUTCH GEARBOX. IN A SITUATION OF RAPID VEHICLE DECELERATION, THE TRANSMISSION SOFTWARE MAY PERFORM A MULTISTAGE DOWNSHIFT.
Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPROGRAM THE ENGINE AND TRANSMISSION ELECTRONIC CONTROL UNIT WITH UPDATED SOFTWARE FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON DECEMBER 3, 2008. OWNERS MAY CONTACT BMW AT 1-800-831-1117.
NHTSA Campaign #08V595000 · 14/11/2008Note: recall data comes from the U.S. NHTSA and covers the US-market version of this model. A car registered in Ukraine may have different campaigns — check with the manufacturer's local importer.
These are NHTSA recall campaigns for this model year, last checked 7 Oct 2026. They don't show whether this particular car has had the repair done — check this VIN on NHTSA.gov or ask a franchised dealer. Recall repairs are free.
We'll email you the moment a new safety recall is issued — no spam, unsubscribe any time.
Common problems & what to inspect
Based on all 82 owner complaints filed with NHTSA for the 2008 BMW M3, here are the most-reported problem areas — and what to check before you buy.
💥 4 involved a crash 🔥 2 involved a fire 🚑 3 reported injuries
🔍 Drive through every gear: watch for slipping, hard or delayed shifts, and shudder. Check for transmission/driveline leaks and noises.
🔍 Listen for knocks or ticking, check for leaks and blue/white exhaust smoke, and make sure it doesn't overheat. No check-engine light should be on.
🔍 Test every electrical feature: windows, locks, infotainment, charging and all lights. Watch for flickering, dead accessories or warning lights.
🔍 Confirm the airbag light turns on then off at startup — if it stays lit there's a fault (costly, and a safety risk). Check for signs of prior deployment.
🔍 Have a trusted mechanic inspect this system as part of a pre-purchase inspection.
🔍 Sniff for fuel odor, check for leaks, hard starts or stalling, and confirm the fuel gauge reads correctly.
Pre-purchase checklist
- Match the VIN on the dash, door jamb and title — they must be identical.
- Cold-start the engine; listen for knocks and check for blue or white exhaust smoke.
- Test-drive through all gears at low and highway speed — no slipping, shudder or pulling.
- Confirm every warning light clears at startup (none should stay on).
- Check fluids — oil, coolant, transmission — for level, color and leaks.
- Look underneath for rust, fresh undercoating or signs of collision repair.
- Always get an independent pre-purchase inspection from a trusted mechanic.
Owner complaints 82
Complaints filed with NHTSA by owners of the 2008 BMW M3.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,STRUCTURE
During a regular fuel stop at a gas station, I noticed the central lock button nor the physical door hinge fail to operate to open the door for me to exit. The fuse for the central power door lock/unlock button blew out, completely disabling the interior door hinge mechanism. I got trapped inside but thankfully the power was still on and the rear doors rem…
NHTSA ODI #11596458AIR BAGS,SEATS
Passenger Seat Occupancy Sensor error displayed in vehicle information center. Warning restraint/Air Bag not functioning properly. This was taken to the BMW dealership for diagnosis, and it was determined the Passenger Occupancy Sensor has failed and needs to be replaced. There was no recall listed for this issue. I found there was a Service Information Bul…
NHTSA ODI #11542687FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
VISIBLE GASOLINE LEAK FROM THE CHASSIS UNDER THE DRIVER SIDE REAR PASSENGER AREA. STATIONARY INSIDE GARAGE.
NHTSA ODI #11350380ENGINE
WHILE DRIVING AT APPROXIMATELY 70MPH ON THE HIGHWAY, CEL CAME ON, CAR WENT INTO LIMP MODE, BEFORE LOSING POWER ALTOGETHER WHILE DRIVING. VEHICLE WOULD NOT TURN BACK ON. REPORT OF ENGINE DAMAGE REQUIRING AN ENTIRE REPLACEMENT.
NHTSA ODI #11265977ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 BMW M3. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED IN REVERSE ON A HILL. THE EMERGENCY BRAKE WAS NOT APPLIED PROPERLY AND THE VEHICLE ROLLED DOWN THE HILL AND CRASHED INTO ANOTHER VEHICLE. THERE WERE NO INJURIES. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. THE CONTACT'S VEHICLE SUSTAINED DAMAGES TO THE HOOD, BUMPER…
Crash · NHTSA ODI #11253458ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
NHTSA RECALL NUMBER: 17V676 THIS RECALL WAS ISSUED OVER A YEAR AGO AND STILL HAVE YET TO BE CONTACTED BY BMW TO RESOLVE THE RECALL OR PROVIDE ANY RECOURSE. WHAT IS THE TYPICAL RESPONSE TIME?
NHTSA ODI #11144882ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 BMW M3. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 17V676000 (ELECTRICAL SYSTEM); HOWEVER, THE PARTS TO DO THE REPAIR WERE UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE DEALER (BASNEY BMW MAZDA, 52203 IN-933, SOUTH BEND, IN 46637, (574) 272-85…
NHTSA ODI #11098485AIR BAGS
TAKATA RECALL. DESPITE MY HAVING RECEIVED 2 RECALL NOTICES REGARDING MY AIRBAG, AND MY CAR'S VIN BEING LISTED ON NHTSA.DOT.GOV AS BEING SUBJECT TO AN AIRBAG RECALL, THE BMW DEALER LISTED ON MY RECALL NOTICE, BMW OF MOUNTAIN VIEW, IN MOUNTAIN VIEW, CALIFORNIA, REFUSED TO DO THE RECALL REPAIR ON 5/16/2018 ON THE BASIS THAT THEIR COMPUTER SYSTEM SAID THERE WER…
NHTSA ODI #11096423+ 74 more complaints on record.
