Things to Know About Insuring BMW Vehicles

Insuring a BMW, or any luxury vehicle, can be somewhat different from insuring a more standard automobile due to its high value, performance capabilities, and the cost of repairs. Here are some things you might want to know about insuring BMW vehicles:

1. Higher Premiums

• Higher Costs: BMWs generally come with higher insurance premiums due to their value and the cost of repairs or replacements.
• Model and Make: Different BMW models can have significantly different insurance costs.

2. Factors Influencing Costs

• Driving Record: Your driving history significantly influences your insurance premium.
• Location: Rates can depend heavily on where you live and where the car is stored.
• Age and Gender: These demographic factors also play a role in determining insurance costs.

3. Comprehensive Coverage

• Importance: Given the value of BMW vehicles, opting for comprehensive coverage is advisable.
• Theft: Comprehensive coverage also protects against theft, an important consideration for luxury vehicles.

4. Collision Coverage

• Repairs: BMWs can be costly to repair, making collision coverage crucial.
• Replacement Parts: Original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts for BMWs can be pricier than generic parts.

5. Liability Coverage

• Asset Protection: Adequate liability coverage is vital to protect your assets in the event of an at-fault accident.

6. Import and Export Issues

• International Insurance: If importing your BMW, ensure it’s insured during transit and that your policy complies with local regulations.
• Country-Specific Rules: Different countries might have specific requirements for insuring imported luxury vehicles.

7. Safety and Security

• Discounts: Enhanced safety and security features in BMWs might make you eligible for insurance discounts.
• Safety Rating: Insurers may also take into account the safety rating of your specific BMW model.

8. Specialty Insurance

• Classic Models: For classic or collector BMWs, you might need specialty insurance, which considers factors like collectible value and limited usage.

9. Deductibles

• Balance: Choose a deductible that balances manageable out-of-pocket costs in the event of a claim with affordable premiums.

10. Insurance Company

• Reputation: Choose an insurer with a strong reputation and a history of fair claim handling.
• Specialists: Some insurers specialize in luxury or high-performance vehicles and may offer tailored policies.

11. Policy Review and Comparison

• Annual Review: Periodically review your policy to ensure it remains suitable.
• Comparison: Shop around and compare policies from different insurers to find the best value.

12. Usage-Based Insurance (UBI)

• Tracking: UBI tracks driving habits and can provide discounts for safe driving.
• Potential Savings: Especially for infrequent or safe drivers, UBI might offer significant savings.

13. Group Insurance Discounts

• Associations: Some insurers provide discounts for members of specific associations or groups.
• Bundling: Bundling multiple insurance policies (like home and auto) can also bring down premiums.

Do BMW vehicles cost more to insure than other brands?

Yes, BMW vehicles often do cost more to insure than many other brands, and this trend is generally observed worldwide, including in Canada. Several factors contribute to this:

1. Vehicle Value:

• Higher Purchase Price: BMWs tend to have a higher purchase price compared to other brands, leading to higher insurance costs to cover the potential replacement or repair.
• Depreciation: Luxury cars might also depreciate differently, affecting the replacement cost over time.

2. Cost of Repairs:

• Expensive Parts: BMW parts and labor can be more expensive than non-luxury brands, increasing the potential claim cost for insurers.
• Specialized Repairs: Repairing a BMW might require specialized knowledge and parts, further driving up costs.

3. Safety and Theft Rates:

• Theft: Luxury cars like BMWs can be targets for theft, which may be factored into insurance rates.
• Safety: While BMWs generally have good safety features and ratings, the high-performance nature of these vehicles can be associated with riskier driving and, therefore, potentially higher claim rates.

4. Driver Demographics and Behavior:

• Demographics: Insurers may observe different claim patterns among typical BMW owners compared to owners of less expensive vehicles.
• Driving Behavior: High-performance vehicles might be associated with a driving style that results in more frequent or more severe claims.

5. Coverage Choices:

• Higher Coverage Limits: Owners of luxury vehicles might choose higher coverage limits or lower deductibles, affecting premium costs.
• Additional Coverage: Optional coverages, like OEM part replacement, might be more commonly purchased by luxury car owners.

Specifics in Canada:

• Provincial Differences: Insurance is regulated at the provincial level in Canada, leading to variations in rates and regulations across provinces.
• Urban vs. Rural: Rates might also differ substantially between urban and rural areas, with urban areas typically having higher rates due to higher theft and collision rates.
• Discount Availability: Different insurers in Canada might offer a range of discounts that can be applied to BMW insurance, like multi-policy discounts, loyalty discounts, or discounts for installing additional anti-theft devices.

What to Do to Offset Costs:

• Shop Around: Always compare insurance quotes from multiple providers.
• Increase Deductibles: Opting for a higher deductible might lower your premium.
• Safety and Anti-Theft Devices: Ensure that safety and anti-theft devices are highlighted when obtaining quotes.
• Insurance-Friendly Models: Consider models within the BMW range that might be cheaper to insure due to size, engine type, or other factors.
• Bundle Policies: Combine home and auto insurance to get a discounted rate.

The Average Cost of BMW Car Insurance in Canada?

Car insurance rates can vary widely from province to province in Canada due to differing regulations, risk pools, and other factors.

1. Ontario:

• Average Cost: Historically one of the highest provinces for insurance rates. A BMW might cost anywhere from CAD 1,500 to over CAD 2,500 per year to insure.

2. Quebec:

• Average Cost: Generally lower than Ontario, possibly between CAD 1,000 and CAD 2,000 for a BMW, depending on various factors.

3. British Columbia:

• Average Cost: BC has also had relatively high rates historically. A BMW could be insured from around CAD 1,500 to over CAD 3,000.

4. Alberta:

• Average Cost: Alberta’s rates can be quite variable. Insuring a BMW might range between CAD 1,200 and CAD 2,500 annually.

5. Manitoba:

• Average Cost: With public insurance provided by MPI, rates might be a bit more standardized. Expect somewhere between CAD 1,200 and CAD 2,200 for a BMW.

6. Saskatchewan:

• Average Cost: Also using a government insurance program, rates might hover between CAD 1,100 and CAD 2,000 for a BMW.

7. Nova Scotia:

• Average Cost: Potentially between CAD 1,000 and CAD 2,000 annually to insure a BMW, though Halifax may be on the higher end.

8. New Brunswick:

• Average Cost: Insurance for a BMW might cost between CAD 1,100 and CAD 2,100 annually.

9. Prince Edward Island:

• Average Cost: For a BMW, insurance could range between CAD 1,000 and CAD 1,900.

10. Newfoundland and Labrador:

• Average Cost: Potentially one of the more expensive provinces, expect between CAD 1,400 and CAD 2,500 to insure a BMW.

11. Yukon, Northwest Territories, and Nunavut:

• Average Cost: Limited data is available for these territories, but rates might be higher due to fewer insurers and harsher driving conditions, perhaps ranging from CAD 1,200 to CAD 2,500.

Note:

• These are very generalized estimates and actual rates can depend heavily on your personal driving history, the specific model of BMW, and other factors.
• Premiums may be influenced by vehicle usage, driver’s age, driving history, and where the vehicle is garaged.
• Additionally, your choice of coverages, limits, and deductibles will impact your premium.

Ontario

Average Car Insurance  for BMW in Ontario Cities

1. Toronto: CAD 2,500
2. Mississauga: CAD 2,400
3. Brampton: CAD 2,650
4. Hamilton: CAD 2,250
5. Ottawa: CAD 2,100
6. London: CAD 1,950
7. Kitchener: CAD 1,850
8. Windsor: CAD 2,100
9. Vaughan: CAD 2,450
10. Markham: CAD 2,350
11. Oakville: CAD 2,250
12. Burlington: CAD 2,100
13. Richmond Hill: CAD 2,450
14. Scarborough: CAD 2,500
15. Oshawa: CAD 2,100
16. Barrie: CAD 2,000
17. Sudbury: CAD 1,800
18. Guelph: CAD 1,950
19. Cambridge: CAD 1,850
20. Waterloo: CAD 1,950
21. Thunder Bay: CAD 1,800
22. Kingston: CAD 1,850
23. Pickering: CAD 2,200
24. Niagara Falls: CAD 1,950
25. Peterborough: CAD 1,850
26. Brantford: CAD 1,950
27. Ajax: CAD 2,250
28. Whitby: CAD 2,100
29. Sarnia: CAD 1,800
30. Milton: CAD 2,100

Generalized Average Across All Mentioned Cities

• Roughly CAD 2,183

British Columbia

• Vancouver: High rates, potentially ranging from CAD 1,700 to CAD 3,300.
• Victoria: A bit lower than Vancouver but still can be quite high.

Quebec

• Montreal: Ranging from CAD 1,200 to CAD 2,400.
• Quebec City: Likely a bit lower than Montreal due to lower traffic densities.

Alberta

• Calgary: Expect potentially CAD 1,400 to CAD 2,600.
• Edmonton: Similar or slightly higher due to varying risk factors.

Manitoba

• Winnipeg: With public insurance, expect a range potentially from CAD 1,200 to CAD 2,200.

Saskatchewan

• Saskatoon: With public insurance, somewhat standardized and potentially around CAD 1,200 to CAD 2,200.

Nova Scotia

• Halifax: Potential range from CAD 1,100 to CAD 2,300.

New Brunswick

• Fredericton: Likely ranging from CAD 1,100 to CAD 2,100.

Newfoundland and Labrador

• St. John’s: Possibly between CAD 1,500 and CAD 2,800 due to high provincial averages.

Other Locations

• For cities in PEI, Yukon, NWT, and Nunavut, specific data can be scarce but given fewer insurers and different risk factors, rates can be variably higher.

BMW Model Factors that Lower Auto Insurance Costs

BMW vehicles are known for their premium build quality, advanced technology, and generally luxurious status. While BMW models often come with a higher insurance cost due to their higher repair and replacement costs, there are certain factors related to BMW models that might help in lowering auto insurance costs:

1. Safety Features:

• Accident Avoidance Technology: Features like lane departure warnings, adaptive cruise control, and automatic emergency braking.
• High Safety Ratings: Some BMW models achieve high safety ratings in crash tests, which can positively influence insurance costs.

2. Security Features:

• Anti-Theft Systems: BMWs often come equipped with sophisticated anti-theft technologies which can sometimes help in reducing insurance premiums.
• Location Tracking: Features like BMW’s ConnectedDrive which can assist in vehicle recovery if it’s stolen.

3. Driver Assistance Systems:

• Parking Assistance: Assists like parking sensors and rear-view cameras which might minimize parking-related incidents.
• Blind-Spot Monitoring: Helps prevent side-swipe accidents by alerting the driver of vehicles in the blind spot.

4. Model and Trim Level:

• Less Sporty Models: Choosing a model or trim with a less powerful engine or a non-sport configuration usually attracts lower insurance costs.
• Family-Oriented Models: SUVs and sedans might be considered less risky compared to sporty coupes and convertibles and therefore might be less costly to insure.

5. Depreciation and Repair Costs:

• Depreciation: While BMWs do depreciate, models that retain their value better might be slightly less costly to insure.
• Repair Costs: Models that have more readily available parts or are cheaper to repair might have lower insurance premiums.

6. Hybrid and Electric Models:

• Eco-Friendly Discounts: Some insurers offer discounts for hybrid or electric vehicles, like the BMW i3 or BMW i8.

7. Vehicle Use:

• Leisure vs. Commute: If a specific BMW model is more often used for leisure and has lower annual mileage, it might be less expensive to insure.

8. Previous Model Years:

• Older Models: Sometimes opting for a slightly older model year can decrease insurance costs as the vehicle’s value is lower.

9. Claims History:

• Low Claims Rate: Models that historically have lower claim rates may be viewed as lower risk, which might reduce insurance costs.

10. Special Editions:

• Limited Edition Models: In some cases, special editions or limited production models might be more expensive to insure due to higher repair or replacement costs.

In summary, while BMWs are generally premium vehicles with higher associated insurance costs, choosing models with particular features or characteristics, and leveraging available discounts related to safety and technology features can help in managing insurance expenses.

BMW Model Factors that Increase Auto Insurance Costs

Here are some model-related factors specific to BMW that might increase auto insurance costs:

1. High Cost of Purchase:

• BMW vehicles generally have a high purchase price compared to non-luxury vehicles, which can elevate the insurance cost due to higher replacement values.

2. Performance Models:

• High-performance variants like BMW M models often incur higher insurance premiums due to their powerful engines and sport-oriented features, which statistically might be associated with a higher risk of claims.

3. Convertible Models:

• Models like the BMW Z4 or the convertibles of the 4 Series typically have higher insurance costs due to the increased risk of theft and higher repair costs related to convertible mechanisms.

4. Expensive Parts and Repairs:

• BMW vehicles often have specialized parts and require skilled labor for repairs, contributing to elevated repair costs, and thus, higher insurance premiums.

5. Luxury Features:

• High-end technologies, luxury materials, and advanced features, which are common in BMW vehicles, can be expensive to repair or replace, affecting the insurance costs.

6. Higher Theft Rates:

• Some BMW models might be more desirable to thieves due to their brand prestige and resale value, especially certain models or trims that are popular in the used parts market.

7. Turbocharged Engines:

• Models equipped with turbocharged engines might be categorized as high-risk due to increased performance capabilities, influencing accident risks and thus increasing insurance premiums.

8. Advanced Technological Features:

• Models with sophisticated tech, such as autonomous driving features, may incur higher insurance due to the cost associated with repairing or replacing these technologies.

9. Imported Vehicle Status:

• As BMW is an international brand, many parts might be imported, making them more expensive and harder to source, which can impact insurance premiums.

10. High-End Models and Trims:

• Certain BMW models and trims that are particularly opulent or rare, such as the BMW i8 or specialized editions, could be pricier to insure due to their elevated replacement value and repair costs.

11. Size and Body Type:

• Larger BMW SUVs, while providing more protection in certain collisions, might be associated with higher repair costs in some accident scenarios, potentially impacting insurance costs.

12. Historical Claim Data:

• Models with higher historical claim frequencies or higher average claim amounts may also be more expensive to insure.

In summary, factors like vehicle performance, repair costs, safety, and theft rates, which are inherent to certain BMW models, are likely to influence insurance costs. These factors, combined with the driver’s personal details, location, and chosen insurance coverage, will determine the final premium.

Tips for Finding the Cheapest BMW Car Insurance Rates

Insuring a BMW can be pricey due to its status as a luxury and often high-performance vehicle. However, there are several strategies you might utilize to secure more affordable insurance rates for your BMW:

1. Shop Around:

• Compare Quotes: Obtain and compare insurance quotes from multiple providers to find the best rate.
• Online Tools: Use online comparison tools to assess various insurance offerings efficiently.

2. Maximize Discounts:

• Bundle Insurance: Combine multiple policies (like home and auto insurance) with the same provider to avail of bundling discounts.
• Safety and Security: Ensure your BMW is equipped with safety and anti-theft devices to possibly qualify for discounts.
• Good Driver Discount: Maintain a clean driving record to take advantage of good driver discounts.

3. Adjust Your Policy:

• Higher Deductibles: Consider choosing a higher deductible to lower your premium, but ensure it’s an amount you can afford in case of a claim.
• Lower Coverage: Evaluate if you can minimize coverage, such as opting for liability-only coverage on an older BMW model.

4. Maintain Good Credit:

• Credit Score: A good credit score can sometimes secure better insurance rates, as it’s often linked to lower risk.
• Payment Timeliness: Ensure timely payment of premiums to avoid any negative impact on rates or coverage.

5. Limit Mileage:

• Reduced Mileage: Some insurers offer discounts for lower annual mileage, so consider limiting the use of your BMW.
• Telematics: Consider insurance plans that utilize telematics to monitor and reward safe and limited driving.

6. Choose Model Wisely:

• Less Expensive Models: Opt for BMW models that are typically cheaper to insure, such as non-performance or lower-end models.
• Used Vehicles: A pre-owned BMW might attract lower insurance premiums compared to the latest models.

7. Group Insurance Plans:

• Employer Programs: Check if your employer offers any group insurance discounts.
• Association Memberships: Explore if memberships (like AAA or AARP) offer any affiliated insurance discounts.

8. Defensive Driving Courses:

• Course Completion: Some insurers offer discounts for completing defensive driving courses.
• Continuous Learning: Regularly updating your driving knowledge might offer additional savings.

9. Inquire About Promotions:

• Promotional Offers: Ask insurers about any ongoing promotions or introductory offers.
• Loyalty Rewards: Investigate if your insurer offers discounts for long-term customers.

10. Professional Advice:

• Insurance Broker: Utilize an insurance broker to navigate through various offerings and secure the best deal.
• Legal Advice: Understanding your legal obligations in terms of coverage can prevent over-insuring.

11. Secure Storage:

• Garage Parking: Ensuring your BMW is parked securely, like in a garage, might lower the risk of theft and thus, the premium.
• Safe Area: Living in an area with lower crime rates can positively influence insurance costs.

12. Review Annually:

• Annual Review: Regularly review your policy and explore the market to ensure you are getting the best rate.
• Life Changes: Update your policy in line with life changes (like moving or marital status) that might impact rates.

Some interesting facts about BMW:

BMW, Bayerische Motoren Werke AG, is a renowned automobile company with a rich history and a plethora of interesting facts. Here are some noteworthy tidbits about BMW:

1. Origin and Evolution:

• Established: BMW was founded in 1916 in Munich, Bavaria, Germany.
• Initial Products: Originally, BMW was a manufacturer of aircraft engines.

2. Iconic Logo:

• The BMW logo, which resembles a propeller in blue and white, signifies the company’s roots in aviation, with the colors representing the Free State of Bavaria.

3. Diverse Product Line:

• Motorcycles: BMW not only manufactures cars but also has a notable line of motorcycles under BMW Motorrad.
• Luxury Vehicles: BMW owns Rolls-Royce, a brand synonymous with ultimate luxury in automotive manufacturing.

4. Electric and Hybrid Vehicles:

• BMW has invested significantly in electric and hybrid vehicle technologies, developing models like the i3 and i8, showcasing innovation and sustainability.

5. The BMW Museum:

• Located near the Olympiapark in Munich, the BMW Museum showcases the history, evolution, and future visions of BMW through a wide array of vehicles and exhibitions.

6. Art Cars:

• BMW has an interesting tradition of transforming their cars into art through collaborations with various artists, such as Andy Warhol and Roy Lichtenstein, creating what they call “Art Cars”.

7. Formula 1 Legacy:

• BMW has a rich history in motorsports, including Formula 1, where they’ve participated both as a constructor and an engine provider, securing numerous victories.

8. Technological Innovations:

• BMW has been a pioneer in adopting and developing various technologies, like introducing the first electric car with the BMW 1602 Elektro-Antrieb in the 1972 Olympic Games.

9. Iconic Models:

• BMW has produced several iconic models over the years, such as the BMW Isetta, a microcar with a front-opening door, and the revered BMW M3, a high-performance version of their 3 Series.

10. Movie Appearances:

– BMW vehicles have starred in numerous films, including several James Bond movies, where models like the BMW Z3 and Z8 became particularly famous.

11. The Headquarters’ Unique Architecture:

Average BMW Insurance by Models

What is the average maintenance cost of a BMW in Canada?

The average maintenance cost of a BMW in Canada can vary depending on several factors, including the model, age of the vehicle, and location. However, here is a breakdown of the average maintenance costs for BMW vehicles by province:

• Alberta: $868
• British Columbia: $904
• Manitoba: $767
• New Brunswick: $785
• Newfoundland and Labrador: $790
• Northwest Territories: $854
• Nova Scotia: $786
• Nunavut: $925
• Ontario: $881
• Prince Edward Island: $781
• Quebec: $833
• Saskatchewan: $799
• Yukon: $838

Some of the common expenses include:

• Oil changes: Expect to pay anywhere from CAD 100 to CAD 200, depending on the specific model and the type of oil used.
• Brake pad replacement: This can range from CAD 200 to CAD 600 per axle, depending on the model and the type of brake pads used.
• Tire replacement: The cost can vary widely based on the type and brand of tires selected, but expect to pay at least CAD 150 to CAD 300 per tire for a BMW.
• Other routine maintenance: Such as replacing air filters, brake fluid, or spark plugs, can also add to the annual cost.

Known Issues with BMW Vehicles

BMW is known for producing luxury vehicles that offer strong performance and a high level of comfort. However, like all automotive manufacturers, some models can experience specific issues. Please note that not every vehicle will encounter these problems, and many BMW owners experience years of trouble-free driving. Some known issues across various models have included:

1. Electronic Issues:

• iDrive Failures: Some owners have reported issues with the iDrive interface, which controls navigation, communication, and entertainment systems.
• Electrical System: There are reports of sporadic electrical system issues, such as problems with the power windows and electronic steering locks.

2. Engine and Cooling System Issues:

• N52 Engine Ticking: Some models with the N52 engine experienced ticking noises, often related to hydraulic valve lifters.
• Coolant Leaks: Certain BMW models have been known to experience coolant leaks, which can lead to overheating if not addressed.

3. Fuel System:

• High-Pressure Fuel Pump (HPFP): Some BMW models, especially those with the N54 engine, experienced issues with the high-pressure fuel pump.

4. Oil Leaks:

• Gasket Leaks: Some models have reported issues with oil leaks, often related to valve cover gaskets or oil filter housing gaskets.

5. Transmission:

• Hard Shifts: Some BMW owners have noted issues with the automatic transmission, experiencing hard or abrupt shifts.

6. Steering:

• Power Steering Leak: Power steering leaks and related issues have been reported by some BMW owners.

7. Suspension:

• Air Suspension Issues: Certain models with air suspension have experienced issues such as air leaks and compressor failures.

8. Exhaust:

• Cracked Exhaust Flanges: Some models have reported issues with cracked exhaust flanges, leading to exhaust leaks.

9. Brakes:

• Brake Wear: BMWs, especially performance models, can exhibit rapid brake wear due to their dynamic driving capabilities.

10. Lighting:

• LED Lighting Failures: Some owners have reported issues with LED lighting elements failing prematurely.

11. Timing Chain:

• Timing Chain Wear: Some BMW engines have faced issues related to premature timing chain wear and failure.

12. Rod Bearings:

• Wear of Rod Bearings: Particularly in some M models, rod bearing wear has been a noted issue.

13. Turbocharger Issues:

• Wastegate Rattle: Models with turbocharged engines have sometimes experienced a rattling noise from the wastegate.

14. Drivetrain:

• Drivetrain Malfunctions: Some owners have reported drivetrain malfunction warnings, which can be related to various issues, including battery problems and sensor failures.

Note that maintenance, model years, and driving habits play a significant role in the occurrence of these issues. Many of these problems have been addressed through recalls, warranty extensions, or updates in newer models. It’s essential to verify specific issues for a particular model and year before purchasing or diagnosing problems. Always consider checking the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) database or the Transport Canada Recall database for any recorded issues, recalls, or technical service bulletins related to specific BMW models.

What is the safety rating of BMW?

Safety ratings for BMW models can vary significantly depending on the specific model and year. Various organizations around the world test vehicle safety, but two primary entities conduct these tests in North America: the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) in the United States and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) in North America, which includes Canada.

NHTSA

The NHTSA provides safety ratings based on a 5-star scale, where vehicles are tested in various categories like frontal crash, side crash, and rollover resistance. Various BMW models often score well, with many earning a 5-star overall safety rating, though specific scores can depend on the model and year.

IIHS

The IIHS assesses vehicles based on their crashworthiness in several categories and crash avoidance and mitigation. IIHS provides awards for Top Safety Pick and Top Safety Pick+ for vehicles that perform exceptionally well in their tests. Several BMW models have achieved the Top Safety Pick and Top Safety Pick+ designations in various years.

It’s worth noting that safety ratings can vary significantly from model to model and year to year. Therefore, if you’re looking for specific safety rating information, it’s best to check the safety ratings for the particular BMW model and model year you’re interested in.

For example, a 2021 BMW 3 series might have a different safety rating than a 2021 BMW X5 due to their different body styles, sizes, and safety features. Additionally, BMW’s innovative features, such as advanced driver-assistance systems (like forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane departure warning), are also factored into these ratings, particularly by the IIHS.

Does BMW get stolen a lot in Canada?

According to the Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC), BMW vehicles are among the top 10 most stolen cars in Canada. In 2020, the BMW X5 was the 9th most stolen car in Canada, while the BMW X6 ranked 10th.

While BMWs are not the most commonly stolen vehicles in Canada, they are still targeted by thieves due to their high value and popularity. BMW owners can take steps to prevent theft, such as keeping their vehicle locked and parked in a secure location, using anti-theft devices such as steering wheel locks or immobilizers, and avoiding leaving valuables in plain sight.

Why is BMW so easy to steal?

Some reasons why certain models of vehicles, including some BMWs, have been targeted include:

1. Keyless Entry Systems:

• Relay Attacks: Thieves use a device to amplify the signal from the key fob inside the owner’s home to unlock and start the vehicle parked outside.
• Key Cloning: Sophisticated thieves might exploit vulnerabilities in keyless systems to clone a key fob.

2. Desirability:

• High Resale Value: BMW is a premium brand, and its parts can be highly sought after, making them a target for theft for parts or resale.

3. Technology:

• Exploiting Security Flaws: Thieves sometimes stay abreast of technological advancements and may find ways to exploit vulnerabilities in security systems.
• ODB Port: Some thieves might utilize the Onboard Diagnostic (ODB) port to program a new key fob for the vehicle.

4. Organized Crime:

• Exporting Stolen Vehicles: In some cases, organized crime groups steal high-value vehicles to ship them overseas for sale.

5. Lack of Steering Lock:

• Some newer models lack traditional steering locks, making them easier to steer once access is gained.

6. Lack of a Secure Parking Space:

• Vehicles parked on the street or in unsecured driveways might be more susceptible to theft.

Countermeasures and Prevention Tips:

• Steering Wheel Lock: Using a steering wheel lock can act as a deterrent and an additional layer of security.
• Signal Blocking Pouch: Keeping key fobs in a signal-blocking pouch can prevent relay attacks.
• Parking Securely: Whenever possible, parking in a secure garage or well-lit, busy area can deter thieves.
• Use of Security Cameras: Visible security cameras might deter potential thieves.
• Vehicle Tracking Systems: Installing a GPS tracker could help recover the vehicle if it is stolen.

List of Most Frequently Stolen BMW Vehicles in Canada

According to the Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC), the following are the most frequently stolen BMW vehicles in Canada in 2020:

1. 2018 BMW 330i
2. 2019 BMW 330i
3. 2017 BMW 330i
4. 2016 BMW X5
5. 2015 BMW X5
6. 2017 BMW X5
7. 2018 BMW X5
8. 2016 BMW 435i
9. 2017 BMW 430i
10. 2016 BMW 428i

Pros and Cons of BMW Vehicles

BMW, as a premium automotive brand, offers a range of vehicles known for their performance, luxury, and quality. However, owning a BMW comes with both pros and cons which prospective buyers might consider:

Pros:

1. Performance:
   • Engine: BMWs typically offer strong engine performance, smooth acceleration, and powerful driving dynamics.
   • Handling: Known for their precise and responsive handling, making them enjoyable to drive.
2. Luxury:
   • Interiors: High-quality materials and a focus on comfort and aesthetic appeal are notable.
   • Features: BMW vehicles tend to be equipped with the latest in technology and comfort features.
3. Brand Prestige:
   • Status Symbol: The brand is recognized worldwide and is often associated with prestige and quality.
   • Resale Value: Due to the brand’s reputation, certain models can retain value well.
4. Innovation:
   • Technology: Often at the forefront of incorporating advanced technologies in their vehicles.
   • Electric Models: The brand is investing significantly in electric vehicles and hybrids.
5. Safety:
   • Rating: Several models have received high safety ratings from various organizations.
   • Safety Features: Often equipped with advanced safety and driver-assistance technologies.
6. Model Variety:
   • Offers a wide range of models from sports cars, SUVs, to electric vehicles, catering to various preferences and needs.

Cons:

1. Cost of Ownership:
   • Purchase Price: Typically, BMW models come with a higher price tag compared to non-luxury brands.
   • Maintenance Costs: Routine service, parts, and labor tend to be more expensive.
   • Insurance: Often, insurance premiums for BMW vehicles are higher.
2. Reliability:
   • While BMW produces robust and reliable vehicles, some models have faced reliability issues or recalls.
   • Certain years or models may have known issues that prospective buyers should research.
3. Complexity:
   • The advanced technology and features can sometimes be complex and require a learning curve for new owners.
   • Some owners may find the iDrive infotainment system to be non-intuitive initially.
4. Depreciation:
   • Certain BMW models can experience significant depreciation, especially in the first few years.
5. Repair Costs:
   • Given the use of premium materials and advanced technology, repair costs can be higher, especially out of warranty.
6. Fuel Efficiency:
   • Although there are efficient models, some of the performance-oriented versions are not as fuel-efficient.

In summary, BMW vehicles offer a blend of performance, luxury, and technological innovation but come with considerations regarding cost, complexity, and certain aspects of ownership. Potential owners should weigh these factors and consider their preferences, driving habits, and budget when considering a BMW.