2012 BMW M3 - Electric Vehicle Guide

The 2012 BMW M3 belongs to a BMW M3 lineup that Know Your Ride tracks across 20 model years, from 1988 to 2026. It is an all-electric vehicle, so it skips the oil changes, spark plugs and exhaust-system service of a combustion M3 entirely. It is configured as rear-wheel drive with a manual 6-spd. The 2012 sits mid-run, with both earlier (1988) and later (2026) M3 model years also documented.

The high-voltage battery is covered for 8 years or 100,000 miles, separate from the bumper-to-bumper warranty. Routine upkeep centers on tire rotation, DOT 4 brake fluid, G13/G12++ battery/cabin coolant, cabin air filters and brake service rather than engine oil. Know Your Ride lists 14 scheduled maintenance items for this vehicle, the earliest interval falling at 5,000 miles. Documented torque values include lug nut 88 ft-lb.

There are 3 safety recalls on record; one covers: 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.... Its overall reliability signal is rated "Excellent" based on aggregated complaint and crash data.

Estimated annual charging cost runs near $3,600.

Quick Specs

Common Trouble Codes

• P0300 - Random/Multiple Cylinder Misfire Detected
• P0420 - Catalyst System Efficiency Below Threshold (Bank 1)
• P0171 - System too Lean (Bank 1)
• P0128 - Insufficient Coolant Temperature for Stable Operation
• P0442 - Evaporative Emission Control System Leak Detected (small leak)
• P0455 - Evaporative Emission Control System Leak Detected (gross leak)
• P0700 - Transmission Control System Malfunction
• P0301 - Cylinder 1 Misfire Detected
• U0100 - Lost Communication With ECM/PCM A

Related Vehicles

Part of the free Know Your Ride vehicle maintenance reference. Figures are sourced from EPA, NHTSA and manufacturer data and are for general reference - always confirm with your owner's manual.