BMW 3.18i Turbo Failure at 65,000km - Is This a Chronic Issue?

Ömer · 2024-03-30T23:33:01+03:00

Last week, I brought my 2017 BMW 3.18i (65,000 km) to an authorized service center for its regular maintenance, spark plug replacement, and battery change. I chose to go with the authorized service, even though it was more expensive (₺25,000 compared to ₺8,000 elsewhere). This way, I can be confident that my device will receive the proper care it needs, and I'll have a reliable point of contact if any issues arise. All previous maintenance, including brake pads, has been carried out exclusively at authorized BMW service centers. Today, during my journey back home, my car unexpectedly showed a drivetrain error and the engine light illuminated. I promptly brought it to the authorized service center for BMW in Kocaeli. I was told that there is an issue with the wastegate valve, so the entire turbo needs to be replaced. Even with my Prime membership discount, the quoted cost is a significant ₺115,000. It's quite surprising to encounter such an issue in a car that has been well-maintained and has only driven 65,000 km, especially when it has been serviced exclusively by authorized BMW centers. I've been informed by multiple mechanics and even other authorized service centers that this seems to be a recurring problem with this particular model. Does BMW not support its product and recognize this as a recurring problem? What other reason could there be for me to be stuck with such a large bill? Considering the ongoing nature of this issue, wouldn't it be reasonable to expect some sort of discount or even full coverage for the repair? I kindly request BMW to address and resolve this issue. I have confidence in their ability to make the correct decision. If no help or resolution is provided, I will have no choice but to lodge a complaint with the Consumer Arbitration Committee.

BMW

Dear Customer, Your notification has been received and recorded, and it has been shared with the relevant departments. Our Customer Relations Advisor will get back to you as soon as possible regarding the matter. Best regards, BMW Communication Center

Ömer

There was no development today.

Ömer

Sure, here is the translated text: "I received calls from several places today, but I was always informed that an official would be contacted for the job. With the holiday approaching, I would be very happy if you could get back to me before the Borusan spare parts section moves."

Ömer

I am still waiting for a call, the holiday is approaching. I cannot use my vehicle. Even if it's a negative response, if you could get back to me, I can look for other solutions.

Ömer

I was able to reach my customer representative by repeatedly calling Öztorun Auto, but unfortunately, the headquarters couldn't provide a positive response. Apparently, I have to cover the cost myself. All BMW 1.18i, 3.18i, and 2.18i models have the same issue, but it is said to be related to the user. Due to a wrongly manufactured part, I have to bear a cost equivalent to 10% of the vehicle's value myself. Look, the source of the problem is the gasket inside the valve of the turbo manifold, which moves outside the valve over time due to heat and cold. What could I have done to make this gasket come out in a vehicle with 60,000 km? The BMW brand and its services do not stand behind their vehicles. I wish I hadn't had the maintenance done at authorized services and been ripped off at 10 times the price. If I was going to be left alone in a problem that is clearly production-related, why did I have everything done at the service, including brake pads and battery? I will seek my rights through legal means. BMW again? Never!