BMW Long-Term Quality

What is the long-term quality of BMWs these days? I’ll start with some background of my current experience, and the car I drive. I drive a 2003 Honda S2000. The car has been wonderful and very enjoyable over the years. It is my everyday car. I just passed 270k miles, so I’ve been averaging 20k miles per year. It has been a very reliable car. I can say that because I’ve never been stranded. It has always started and run every time I turn the ignition. It still has the original clutch, brakes typically last 100k (I replace both pads and discs at 100k), the engine still sounds and runs smoothly, and I’ve never had any fluid leaks. Items that stopped working or developed problems include, power door locks @200k miles (replaced myself for $100), interior dashboard switch bulbs (replaced myself), airbag control module @250k miles (dealer replaced for $400), serpentine belt idler pulley @150k miles (dealer replaced $200). Other than those items all other maintenance costs were routine wear/tear which includes oil, brakes, coolant, AC refrigerant, valve adjustment, tires, serpentine belt, battery, brake fluid, and manual transmission fluid.

Reaching 100k miles without a fault which disables the vehicle or results in damage, is no longer a benchmark for quality/reliability. In my opinion that was the 80’s, and maybe the 70’s. I would say today’s benchmark is 300k to 400k because quality and materials have improved. We drive more today as well, so cars have to be able to run reliably over longer periods of time and distance.

I keep cars for a long time and do my best to make them run reliably. The cost of maintaining a car when it is normal wear and tear is understandable and predictable. Throwing money at problems due to poor design is frustrating and a waste of money.

One day I will be stranded by my car. As it continues to age something will break and the car won’t start, or operation will result in damage.
I have to start looking for a new car and I’m curious about BMWs. I am cautious however because I’m not sure the experience I’ve had over the years will be as good. Thoughts and experiences are appreciated.

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BMW Long-Term Quality