2016 Bmw M3 Safety Report

The 2016 BMW M3 has a relatively low number of NHTSA complaints, with only 5 total, and no reported crashes, fires, injuries, or deaths. This suggests a generally robust safety record in terms of incident reporting. However, the vehicle lacks specific NHTSA crash test ratings (Overall, Frontal, Side, Rollover are all N/A), which means its performance in standardized crash scenarios is not publicly available from this source. Despite the low complaint volume, a significant pattern emerges in the 'ENGINE' category, accounting for 3 of the 5 complaints, primarily related to a 'crank hub spinning out' issue, which can lead to engine damage or failure and a loss of propulsion. The recall history for the 2016 BMW M3 is notable, with 3 recalls issued. Two of these recalls, 'POWER TRAIN:DRIVELINE:DRIVESHAFT', address issues where the connection between the driveshaft and the flange, or a slip-joint failure, could lead to a loss of vehicle propulsion, increasing the risk of a crash. The third recall, 'STRUCTURE:FRAME AND MEMBERS', concerns loose rear sub-frame bolts that could adversely affect vehicle handling and control, also increasing crash risk. These recalls highlight potential critical safety defects that BMW has identified and addressed. Overall, while the 2016 BMW M3 has a low number of direct consumer complaints to NHTSA, the nature of the complaints (engine issues) and the recalls (driveshaft and sub-frame bolts) point to serious potential mechanical failures that could impact safety. The lack of NHTSA crash test ratings means consumers cannot rely on this data source for an assessment of its crashworthiness. Buyers should be aware of the specific recall repairs and the reported engine crank hub issue.

Our recommendation: Given the critical engine and driveline recalls, and the reported crank hub issue, ensure all recall repairs have been completed and consider a pre-purchase inspection by a BMW specialist to assess the engine's condition.