3 Series F30 2015 Facelift - differences???
Discussion
I'm looking to buy a BMW 3 series, the F30 shape that came out in 2012. I've done quite a lot of research and decided that I want a 2015/16 (not sure exactly when the change happened) facelift model primarily because the N series engines that had slackening timing chain issues were replaced with B series engines, which are, allegedly, more reliable.
However, when looking at adverts I can't really see any difference between the 2012 to 2014 versions and the post 2016 ones, which have had a facelift.
Course, I've read on Wiki about some differences but on the exterior the only change appears to be revised headlights and tail-lights with LED replacing Xenon, but they are only bulbs and your would not be able to see any difference in photos, you'd need to remove the bulbs to actually check, same for the engine, no way of knowing without phoning BMW with the reg or chassis number.
I'd like somebody to explain what I can 'look' for in photos on adverts so I know it's a facelift model as I've been through AutoTrader and looked at older models and newer ones and can't see any change at all to the Facelift post 2016 versions.
However, when looking at adverts I can't really see any difference between the 2012 to 2014 versions and the post 2016 ones, which have had a facelift.
Course, I've read on Wiki about some differences but on the exterior the only change appears to be revised headlights and tail-lights with LED replacing Xenon, but they are only bulbs and your would not be able to see any difference in photos, you'd need to remove the bulbs to actually check, same for the engine, no way of knowing without phoning BMW with the reg or chassis number.
I'd like somebody to explain what I can 'look' for in photos on adverts so I know it's a facelift model as I've been through AutoTrader and looked at older models and newer ones and can't see any change at all to the Facelift post 2016 versions.
CambsCreative said:
I'm looking to buy a BMW 3 series, the F30 shape that came out in 2012. I've done quite a lot of research and decided that I want a 2015/16 (not sure exactly when the change happened) facelift model primarily because the N series engines that had slackening timing chain issues were replaced with B series engines, which are, allegedly, more reliable.
However, when looking at adverts I can't really see any difference between the 2012 to 2014 versions and the post 2016 ones, which have had a facelift.
Course, I've read on Wiki about some differences but on the exterior the only change appears to be revised headlights and tail-lights with LED replacing Xenon, but they are only bulbs and your would not be able to see any difference in photos, you'd need to remove the bulbs to actually check, same for the engine, no way of knowing without phoning BMW with the reg or chassis number.
I'd like somebody to explain what I can 'look' for in photos on adverts so I know it's a facelift model as I've been through AutoTrader and looked at older models and newer ones and can't see any change at all to the Facelift post 2016 versions.
Very little difference TBHHowever, when looking at adverts I can't really see any difference between the 2012 to 2014 versions and the post 2016 ones, which have had a facelift.
Course, I've read on Wiki about some differences but on the exterior the only change appears to be revised headlights and tail-lights with LED replacing Xenon, but they are only bulbs and your would not be able to see any difference in photos, you'd need to remove the bulbs to actually check, same for the engine, no way of knowing without phoning BMW with the reg or chassis number.
I'd like somebody to explain what I can 'look' for in photos on adverts so I know it's a facelift model as I've been through AutoTrader and looked at older models and newer ones and can't see any change at all to the Facelift post 2016 versions.
Easiest way to tell them apart from pre LCi to LCi is that the pre LCi cup holders have a pull out cover; the LCI has a slide cover
The later LCIs had LEDs but you'll find more pre LCi
You could always get the VIN number and decode it on Mdecoder
Thanks for link, super useful. Subtle differences indeed. Only one I really notice is the little white reverse light section of the rear light housing has moved from top to bottom. Inside the cup holder has a cover and there is a slither of silver trim around the air vent in the middle, but I guess that's enough for spotting facelift models when looking at adverts for used ones.
I looked up the Mdecoder website - https://www.mdecoder.com - and it looks good. Thing is, not sure if most sellers would be up for giving me the VIN over the phone for me to check, but can always ask. I suppose if they say no the car is probably dodgy anyway.
CambsCreative said:
Course, I've read on Wiki about some differences but on the exterior the only change appears to be revised headlights and tail-lights with LED replacing Xenon, but they are only bulbs and your would not be able to see any difference in photos, you'd need to remove the bulbs to actually check
No you don't - the headlight units are visibly different and are the easiest way to tell them apart if you're looking at an M Sport car.Compare a 2012 car with Xenon lights with a 2018 car and you'll easily see the difference between the two headlight units.
CambsCreative said:
I'm looking to buy a BMW 3 series, the F30 shape that came out in 2012. I've done quite a lot of research and decided that I want a 2015/16 (not sure exactly when the change happened) facelift model primarily because the N series engines that had slackening timing chain issues were replaced with B series engines, which are, allegedly, more reliable.
However, when looking at adverts I can't really see any difference between the 2012 to 2014 versions and the post 2016 ones, which have had a facelift.
Course, I've read on Wiki about some differences but on the exterior the only change appears to be revised headlights and tail-lights with LED replacing Xenon, but they are only bulbs and your would not be able to see any difference in photos, you'd need to remove the bulbs to actually check, same for the engine, no way of knowing without phoning BMW with the reg or chassis number.
I'd like somebody to explain what I can 'look' for in photos on adverts so I know it's a facelift model as I've been through AutoTrader and looked at older models and newer ones and can't see any change at all to the Facelift post 2016 versions.
Oh would you now? You didn't do much research. Go back and research harder. All of the answers are online.However, when looking at adverts I can't really see any difference between the 2012 to 2014 versions and the post 2016 ones, which have had a facelift.
Course, I've read on Wiki about some differences but on the exterior the only change appears to be revised headlights and tail-lights with LED replacing Xenon, but they are only bulbs and your would not be able to see any difference in photos, you'd need to remove the bulbs to actually check, same for the engine, no way of knowing without phoning BMW with the reg or chassis number.
I'd like somebody to explain what I can 'look' for in photos on adverts so I know it's a facelift model as I've been through AutoTrader and looked at older models and newer ones and can't see any change at all to the Facelift post 2016 versions.
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