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Some used BMW models are potential money pits that are not worth the headache.

BMW is one of the biggest and most popular brands globally, and the social status bestowed on Bavarian vehicles makes them irresistible to own. Besides the rich and unique heritage behind every model, there's a fun-to-drive BMW available at every price point, expansive BMW cults and forums around the globe, and a specific internal jargon that only a handful of automakers can match.

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But for all the performance, comfort, practicality, and impressive styling, BMWs are also plagued with numerous problems as they age. Several BMW models become seriously unreliable and gain a reputation as potential money pits once they hit the used market. Sure, the models on this list look fantastic from the outside, but they age so poorly that they are best avoided.

BMW built the E46 M3 from scratch with numerous individual parts and components, ending with one of the best M cars ever built. Unfortunately, most of these models are beyond the 20-year mark, and various problems are beginning to show.

The most common and scariest is the inherent design flaw that causes subframe cracks and eventually severe chassis damage. The S54 is a ticking time bomb, plagued by varying VANOS issues, failing water pumps as early as 60,000 miles, premature rod bearing problems, glitchy SMG software, and expensive clutch replacement.

The E90 3 Series was both modern and elegant in design and solid in execution, considered one of the most reliable BMWs on the market. However, the twin-turbocharged and direct-injected N54 that replaced the N52 is one of the most problematic engines from BMW, making the 335i a model to avoid.

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The N54 engine is the antagonist in most horror stories across forums due to the extremely high cost of replacing the fault-prone High-Pressure Fuel Pump. Also worth noting are the numerous recalls made between 2006 and 2010 for issues related to PVC heaters, airbags, master cylinder leaks, front axle connections, front driveshaft bolts, engine-cooling fans, camshaft bolts, and battery cables.

The 7 Series is lauded as one of the most luxurious executive sedans in the BMW lineup. Even previous generations boast luxury, tech, and comfort that some new cars might struggle to match. Unfortunately, a used 750Li reaches into your wallet the same way it captures your heart, deep and unconditional.

Thanks to heavy depreciation that hits every luxury saloon, the 750Li is cheap to buy, but restoring it to worthy condition outside warranty might cost you more. There's a high chance that long-term costs quickly exceed the purchase price. As if that's not enough, the twin-turbo N63 V8 engine is disappointing over time due to complications with fuel injectors, timing chains, valve cover gasket, ignition coils, and spark plugs.

The E88 is well-liked for its simplicity, and the small, lightweight nature makes it a great drivers' car. Should you consider a used E88, you would be wise to steer clear of any models fitted with the N47 four-cylinder inline diesel engine.

The N47 engine family is prone to excessive timing chain premature failure, EGR sensor malfunction, power steering pump failure, and DPF malfunction in short runs. Pre-2011 E88 models have been recalled for engine stall and electrical connection failure to the main battery power cable.

The E60 generation introduced numerous electronic features, including the head-up display, Drive infotainment system, adaptive headlights, active cruise control, lane departure warning, and night vision. Although these models are popular in the tuning scene, babysitting an N54 engine beyond warranty could put a serious dent in your wallet.

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Since the N54 was BMW's first modern, mass-produced turbocharged gasoline engine, it is far from perfect and has numerous complications. The most common problems include the dreaded High-Pressure Fuel Pump failure, timing chain failure, waste-gate rattles, valve cover oil leaks, leaky fuel injectors, VANOS issues, water pump failure, carbon build-up, and charge pipe failure.

The second-generation X3 arrived amid a crowded and competitive market, but it managed to step up its appeal to consumers by doing right all wrongs with the first-generation model. Unfortunately, the N20 engine before the 2015 facelift is plagued with timing chains issues that are costly to fix beyond warranty.

Besides timing chain problems, other N20 complications involve the oil filter housing gasket, valve cover gasket, VANOS solenoids, chargepipe, vacuum lines, and coolant hoses. The F25 was also subject to complaints related to difficult steering, passenger restraint malfunction, airbag deployment issues, and braking system issues.

The X1 is undoubtedly reliable, comfortable, and practical, but most enthusiasts adore the E84 for its remarkable economy. The first-generation model has its share of disappointments, mainly due to the undesirable early iterations of the N20 engine.

The N20 had big shoes to fill after the reliable N52 and N53 engines, but the timing chain complications made it prone to complete engine failure in the worst scenario. Compound that with issues related to the valve cover, coolant hoses, vacuum lines, VANOS solenoids, and oil filter housing gasket, and the E84 X1 becomes a no-go due to below-average reliability ratings.

The E60 M5 was the first production sedan to use a naturally aspirated V10 engine, making it arguably the most exciting sedan on the market. Despite its blood-rushing performance and surprising comfort, the E60 M5 is the best car you should never own unless you plan to commit financial suicide.

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The gorgeous S85 engine is a wolf in sheep's clothing, heavily burdened by problems with rod bearings, idle actuators, throttle actuators, valve cover gasket leaks, and SMG transmission failure. The S85 is over ten years old, so any wear and tear parts are fair game for failure, resulting in even more expensive repair bills.

The mid-size X6 luxury crossover was among the first sports activity coupes, an irresistible model revered for combining SUV attributes with the stance of a performance coupe. The N54 twin-turbo may be a legendary tuning and performance engine, but the early iteration under the xDrive35i hood is a headache to live with.

Several features around the N54 offer poor reliability after 80,000 miles, and it takes deep pockets to make the engine reliable for the medium to long-term. Besides the high costs from high-pressure fuel pump failure, other frequent issues include cooling system failures, endless oil leaks, waste-gate complications, carbon build-up, and faulty VANOS solenoids.

The E70 X5 was one of the best all-rounders in its class, boasting good performance, strong engines, and excellent handling. But used xDrive50i models fitted with the N63 'hot vee' unit and currently beyond warranty are ones to avoid, especially considering BMW's class-action lawsuit over the engine.

Major flaws associated with the N63 include battery drain, excessive oil consumption, cracked spark plugs, faulty fuel injectors, faulty oxygen sensors, and timing chain stretch. Although BMW stepped in with a comprehensive Customer Care Package, extended warranties, and lawsuit settlements, there are still considerable risks involved with buying an aging xDrive50i model.

Simon Kim has always been passionate about machines since childhood, and this has grown into an obsession well into adulthood. As an avid reader and creative content writer, he finds joy and fulfillment in sharing his love for cars and bikes with other machine heads. Currently, Kim seeks to deliver exciting and informative articles on HotCars. He enjoys music and art and dabbles in active sports and virtual gaming in his spare time.