Bmw 318i problems

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The third generation of the BMW 3 Series range of compact executive cars is designated under the model code E36, and was produced by the German automaker BMW from 1990 to 2000. The initial models were of the four-door sedan body style, followed by the coupé, convertible, wagon ("Touring"), and eventually hatchback ("Compact").

The E36 was the first 3 Series to be offered in a hatchback body style. It was also the first 3 Series to be available with a six-speed manual transmission (in the 1996 M3), a five-speed automatic transmission, and a four-cylinder diesel engine. The multi-link rear suspension was also a significant upgrade as compared to the previous generations of the 3 Series. All-wheel drive was not available for the E36, unlike the previous (E30) and successive (E46) generations.

The E36 was named in Car and Driver magazine's 10Best list for every year it was on sale.

Following the introduction of its successor, the E46 3 Series in 1998, the E36 began to be phased out and was eventually replaced in 1999.

photo of Bmw 318i car production

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Bmw 318i model years

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Common Bmw 318i problems

The BMW 318i is a popular model in the 3-series lineup, but like any car, it can experience common problems and defects. This article will explore some of the most frequently reported issues with the BMW 318i, based on complaints from owners and expert analysis.

1. Engine Problems

One of the most common issues with the BMW 318i is related to its engine. The N43 engine, which is used in some 318i models, has been known to have problems with the timing chain, oil pump, and injectors. These issues can lead to significant repair bills, especially if they are not addressed promptly. For instance, timing chain issues can cause engine damage if left unattended, while oil pump problems can lead to reduced engine performance and increased fuel consumption. Injector failures are also common, and they can result in poor engine performance and decreased fuel efficiency.

2. Power Steering Hoses

Another common problem with the BMW 318i is the simultaneous failure of multiple power steering hoses. This issue can lead to a loss of power steering assist, making it difficult to steer the car. Replacing the faulty hoses can be a costly repair, and it is essential to address this issue promptly to avoid further damage to the power steering system.

3. Suspension Issues

Suspension issues are also common in the BMW 318i. The car's suspension system is critical for maintaining a comfortable ride and ensuring proper handling. However, some owners have reported problems with the suspension bushings, subframe, and struts. These issues can lead to a rough ride, poor handling, and decreased safety. Replacing worn-out suspension components can be expensive, but it is essential to ensure the car's safety and performance.

4. Cooling System Problems

The BMW 318i's cooling system is also prone to issues. Coolant leaks are common, and they can lead to engine overheating, which can cause significant damage to the engine. Radiator and cooling system leaks should be addressed promptly to avoid engine damage and ensure the car's reliability.

5. Electrical Issues

Electrical issues are also common in the BMW 318i. Failing electrical components, such as spark plugs and sensors, can lead to poor engine performance, decreased fuel efficiency, and even engine failure. Regular maintenance and inspection of the car's electrical system can help prevent these issues and ensure the car's reliability.

In conclusion, the BMW 318i is a great car for those who are looking for a reliable and stylish vehicle. However, like any other car, it can suffer from common problems and defects. The issues discussed in this article are some of the most frequently reported problems with the BMW 318i. If you own a 318i or are considering purchasing one, it is essential to be aware of these issues and address them promptly to ensure the car's reliability and performance. Regular maintenance and inspection can help prevent these issues and ensure the car's longevity.

Bmw 318i

Is the BMW 318i a reliable car?

Is the BMW 318i a good & reliable car? So long as it is serviced on time and looked after well, the BMW 318i can be a great, reliable and enjoyable mode of transport. Although it is no tar-burning supercar the 318i has been known for 30 years as a well-made, pleasant way to get around town.

Is the 318 a good car?

It really is a very good car. However, there are 3 things which are disappointing: 1) retraction of wing mirrors is not electronic 2) there are no sensors at the front even though there are at the rear. 3) there is no spare wheel at all.

Which is better 318i or 320i?

Both the 318 and the 320, whether in petrol or diesel form, are about as efficient as each other in the real world. However, the extra power of the 320i and 320d models makes lighter work of moving the mid-size saloon and estate, and we think they're the better option for more drivers.

Do BMW 3 Series have problems?

A problem with the crankshaft sensor of some examples built from 16 May 2018 and 7 June 2018 could lead to the engine going into an emergency reduced power mode and limit performance. A BMW dealer will be able to confirm if your 3 Series is affected by this and arrange to have the sensor replaced.

Percentage distribution of complaints by Bmw 318i years

We have researched Bmw problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Bmw 318i cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Bmw 318i model years:

Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Bmw 318i model years.

Distribution of the number of complaints by Bmw 318i years

We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:

Bmw 318i car problems categorized by type of issue

After analysing all complaints related to Bmw 318i , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:

  • Engine and engine cooling problems
  • Electrical system problems
  • Air bags problems
  • Vehicle speed control problems
  • Power train problems

The graph below shows statistics for all Bmw 318i vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by 318i model years

A total of 10 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.

Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by 318i model years

There were a total of 3 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.

Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by 318i model years

There were a total of 6 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.

The NHTSA has received 93 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Bmw 318i . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Bmw 318i vehicles.

Latest 25 complaints

Bmw 318i 1985
  • Date Of Incident: 2017-09-01
  • Date Complaint: 2017-11-08
  • VIN: WBAAC7400F0
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: 1985 BMW 318I. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO ODOMETER FRAUD. *LD UPDATED 11/8/2017*JS
Bmw 318i 1995
  • Date Of Incident: 2016-12-19
  • Date Complaint: 2016-12-19
  • VIN: 4USCC8323SL
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
  • Summary: THE GAS PEDAL IS STUCK AND CANNOT STOP AND RPM ARE RED LINING. CAR IS UNSAFE TO DRIVE. LUCKILY I WAS PULLING INTO WORK TO PARK AND THAT'S WHEN THE GAS PEDAL GOT STUCK AND THE ENGINE STARTED REVVING UP HIGH TO 500 RPM. *TR
Bmw 318i 1994
  • Date Of Incident: 2011-08-22
  • Date Complaint: 2012-12-19
  • Crash: 1
  • Components: POWER TRAIN,SERVICE BRAKES
  • Summary: MY VEHICLE WAS PARKED ON A SLIGHT HILL AND THE HAND BRAKE WAS PULLED UP TO ITS FULL CAPACITY. MY BROTHER SAT IN THE CAR AND SMOKED A CIGARETTE BEFORE GOING TO HIS APPOINTMENT. AFTER HE RETURNED FROM HIS APPOINTMENT, THE VEHICLE COULD NOT BE FOUND. AFTER LOOKING AROUND, HE REALIZED THAT THE VEHICLE HAD ROLLED DOWN THE HILL, ACROSS A BUSY TWO-WAY MAIN ROAD IN THE DOWNTOWN AREA OF THE CITY AND HIT THE WALL OF THE AT&T BUILDING. THANK GOD NO PEDESTRIAN WAS WALKING DURING THIS TIME AND NO CAR WAS PASSING BY. MY INSURANCE PAID $12,000 IN DAMAGES TO THE BUILDING OWNER AND THE DAMAGES TO THE CAR WAS MASSIVE. MY PREMIUM INCREASED DUE TO THIS INCIDENT BECAUSE AT THE TIME, BMW STATED THAT THERE WERE NO RECALLS ON THE HAND BRAKE. THE VEHICLE WAS IN TIP TOP SHAPE AND THE ONLY ISSUE I HAVE EVER HAD WITH IT WAS HAVING TO GET THE HAND BRAKE ADJUSTED PERIODICALLY BECAUSE IT KEPT SLIPPING CAUSING THE VEHICLE TO ROLL EVEN WHILE EXTENDED. *TR
Bmw 318i 1998
  • Date Of Incident: 2012-02-28
  • Date Complaint: 2012-09-19
  • Number Of Injuries: 1
  • Crash: 1
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 BMW 318I. WHILE TRAVELING 35 MPH, THE CONTACT BECAME INVOLVED IN A CRASH WITH ANOTHER VEHICLE. AS THE CONTACT WAS CRASHING INTO THE SECOND VEHICLE, THE CONTACT APPLIED THE HORN JUST AS THE AIR BAG DEPLOYED. THE AIR BAG STRUCK THE CONTACT IN THE LEFT ARM, CAUSING HIS LEFT SHOULDER TO BECOME DISLODGED. THE VEHICLE WAS COMPLETELY DESTROYED. THE CONTACT WAS CONCERNED BECAUSE THE AIR BAG WAS LOCATED IN THE STEERING WHEEL WHERE THE HORN WAS ALSO LOCATED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGES WERE 91,000. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE.
Bmw 318i 1995
  • Date Of Incident: 2006-05-01
  • Date Complaint: 2007-05-01
  • VIN: 4USCC8329SL
  • Components: STEERING,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS
  • Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1995 BMW 318I. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE HAD THE SAME FAILURE AS NOTED IN RECALL # 98V178000 CONCERNING ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:COOLING SYSTEM. HE STATED THAT THE WATER PUMP FAILED AND WOULD COST $800.00 TO REPAIR. HOWEVER, THE REPAIR WAS PERFORMED FREE OF CHARGE BECAUSE THE VEHICLE WAS UNDER WARRANTY. HE FIRST NOTICED THE FAILURE APPROXIMATELY ONE YEAR AGO. AS A RESULT, HIS VEHICLE STALLED ON THE HIGHWAY , AND HAD TO BE TOWED TO THE DEALER. THE DEALER REPLACED THE PUMP. APPROXIMATELY A WEEK AGO THE FAILURE RECURRED ,AND WOULD COST $800.00 TO REPAIR. THE DEALER STATED THAT THEY WOULD NOT SERVICE THE RECALL, AND THAT THE VEHICLE NOT INCLUDED IN THE RECALL DUE TO THE VIN. THE CURRENT MILEAGE IS 121,471, AND FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 80,000. *AK THE CONSUMER HAS PROVIDED THE INVOICE FOR REPAIRS. THE DEALER STATES THAT THE CONSUMER NEEDS A RING REPLACED IN THE STEERING COLUMN TO REPAIR THE HORN WHICH IS INOPERABLE AND SEATBELT TENSION TO REPAIR AIRBAG LIGHT. UPDATED 05/23/07 *TR
Bmw 318i 1995
  • Date Of Incident: 2005-06-20
  • Date Complaint: 2007-03-16
  • VIN: 4USCC7321SL
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: AIR BAG LIGHT COMES ON WHEN THE CAR IS STARTED. THE CAR, HOWEVER, CAN BE DRIVEN WITHOUT AN ISSUE. THE ABS LIGHT THEN DISAPPEARS AFTER ABOUT THREE MINUTES. THE DEALER HAS TWICE TURNED-OFF THE LIGHT BY RESETTING THE VEHICLE COMPUTER. BOTH TIMES AFTER THE THE DEALER "FIXED" THE PROBLEM AND A PERSON SEATS ON THE BACK SEAT THE LIGHT WILL AUTOMATICALLY COME ON AGAIN. FOR CLARIFICATION: I JUST IMPORTED MY (U.S. SPECIFICATIONS) VEHICLE FROM GERMANY BOTH OF THESE OCCURENCES TOOK PLACE IN THE COUNTRY OF GERMANY, HOWEVER THE PREVIOUS OWNER WARNED ME ABOUT THE DEFECT WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS IN THE U.S.A. USA DEALER HAS YET TO BE CONTACTED. AT THIS POINT I AM UNSURE THAT THE AIRBAGS WILL DEPLOY IN THE CASE OF AN ACCIDENT.
Bmw 318i 1998
  • Date Of Incident: 2005-09-28
  • Date Complaint: 2005-09-29
  • VIN: WBACC0326WE
  • Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
  • Summary: CRUISE CONTROL DOES NOT DISENGAGE WHEN BRAKES ARE APPLIED AND OBVIOUSLY DOES NOT DECELERATE WHEN EXPECTED. I WOULD LIKE TO REFER TO NHTSA RECALL NO.: 97V131. *NM
Bmw 318i 1994
  • Date Of Incident: 2005-08-09
  • Date Complaint: 2005-08-12
  • VIN: WBACA6321RF
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
  • Summary: DT: THE CONTACT STATED VEHICLE OVERHEATED RANDOMLY. THE ENGINE HEAD WAS REPLACED TWICE AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED AGAIN. THE REPAIRS WERE COSTLY. HOWEVER, THE DEALERSHIP REIMBURSED THE CONSUMER FOR ONE REPAIR, BUT WILL NOT DO IT AGAIN. CONSUMER STATE WHILE DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY VEHICLE OVERHEATED. THE ENTIRE HEAD OF THE ENGINE HAD TO BE REPLACED. THE SERVICE DEALER DID NOT STATE THE REASON FOR THE VEHICLE OVERHEATING. *AK
Bmw 318i 1995
  • Date Of Incident: 2005-02-01
  • Date Complaint: 2005-02-01
  • Components: VISIBILITY
  • Summary: I HEARD NOISES COMING FROM AND GRINDING ASSOCIATED WITH THE ROLLING DOWN OF FRONT DRIVER'S SIDE WINDOW ON MY 1995 BMW 318I. IT FINALLY FAILED TO PROPERLY UP AND I HAD TO TAKE IT TO THE DEALERSHIP. THE DEALER TOLD ME IT WAS THE WINDOW REGULATOR AND REPLACED IT AT A COST OF $500. AFTER CHECKING MESSAGE BOARDS ON-LINE I DISCOVERED THAT THIS IS A VERY COMMON PROBLEM. MANY PEOPLE STATED THAT THE REGULATORS HAD GONE OUT ON ALL OF THE WINDOWS ON VARIOUS BMW MODELS. *AK
Bmw 318i 1997
  • Date Of Incident: 2004-08-12
  • Date Complaint: 2004-09-01
  • VIN: WBACC0323VE
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
  • Summary: WHILE DRIVING 65 MPH ENGINE CHECK LIGHT REMAINED ON, AND EXHAUST FUMES WERE COMING INTO THE VEHICLE WHILE THE WINDOWS WERE CLOSED. CONSUMER STATED THERE WAS A RECALL ON WEBSITE CONCERNING THE CATALYTIC CONVERTER OXYGEN SENSOR . NOT ABLE TO LOCATE THAT INFORMATION IN OUR DATA BASE. *AK
Bmw 318i 1985
  • Date Of Incident: 2004-07-28
  • Date Complaint: 2004-08-21
  • Number Of Injuries: 1
  • Fire: 1
  • VIN: WBAAC8408F0
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
  • Summary: 1/12/04 BRAKE REPLACEMENT. 3/16/04 -ENGINE SMOKING. 3/17/04 RADIATOR HOSE,CLAMPS ANTIFREEZE,NEW RADIATOR $368.17 - 7/28/04 VEHICLE CAUGHT ON FIRE AND EXPLODED. MY DAUGHTER WAS SECONDS FROM BEING BURNED ALIVE. *JB
Bmw 318i 1992
  • Date Of Incident: 2004-04-15
  • Date Complaint: 2004-07-10
  • VIN: WBABA7315NE
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
  • Summary: FAULTY PROFILE GASKET ON 1992 BMW 318I ENGINE. *AK
Bmw 318i 1991
  • Date Of Incident: 2004-04-26
  • Date Complaint: 2004-04-26
  • VIN: WBAAJ9312ME
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
  • Summary: ENGINE PROFILE GASKET FOR M42 ENGINE 4CYL, 16 VALVE HAS FAILED ALLOWING ALL COOLANT FLUID TO LEAK FROM ENGINE.*AK
Bmw 318i 1995
  • Date Of Incident: 2004-04-03
  • Date Complaint: 2004-04-15
  • Number Of Injuries: 1
  • Crash: 1
  • VIN: 4USCC8328SL
  • Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
  • Summary: WHILE PULLING UP TO THE CURB TO LET A PASSENGER OUT DRIVER'S FRONT FLOOR MAT PUSHED UP AGAINST THE GAS PEDAL AND CAUSED CAR TO ACCELERATE. THE DRIVER STEPPED ON THE BRAKE TO STOP THE CAR, BUT WITH THE FLOOR MAT PRESSED AGAINST THE GAS PEDAL, THE CAR CONTINUED TO ACCELERATE, HITTING THE VEHICLE PARKED IN FRONT OF IT. THE GAS PEDAL EXTENDS DOWN AND ATTACHED TO THE FLOOR SO THAT THE FLOOR MAT HAD NO PLACE TO GO, BUT AGAINST THE GAS PEDAL, IF IT GETS PUSHED FORWARD INADVERTANTLY AS IT DID IN THIS CASE. *AK
Bmw 318i 1995
  • Date Of Incident: 2004-03-04
  • Date Complaint: 2004-03-17
  • VIN: WBACA5329SF
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,AIR BAGS
  • Summary: ELECTRICAL COMPONENTS FOR ABS AND AIRBAGS FAILED AT 124,000 MILES. *LA *JB

Latest 5 recalls Bmw 318i

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 12 recalls for different components of the Bmw 318i.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.

  • Model: Bmw 318i 1992
  • Report Received Date: 1998-08-04
  • Manufacturer: BAYERISCHE MOTOREN WERKE
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:COOLING SYSTEM
  • Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. A MALFUNCTION OR FAILURE OF A COOLANT SYSTEM COMPONENT, SUCH AS A THERMOSTAT, WATER PUMP, OR FAN BELT, CAN RESULT IN SIGNIFICANTLY INCREASED COOLANT TEMPERATURE AND SYSTEM PRESSURE. IF THE INDICATIONS OF A CRITICAL OVERHEATING CONDITION IS NOT NOTICED BY THE DRIVER, IT IS POSSIBLE THAT DAMAGE TO, OR FAILURE OF, A COOLANT SYSTEM COMPONENT COULD OCCUR.
  • Consequence: IF A CRACK WERE TO FORM OR A SEAM WERE TO SEPARATE IN THE HEATER CORE END PIECE, HOT COOLANT COULD SUDDENLY BE EXPELLED, INCREASING THE RISK OF PERSONAL INJURY TO A VEHICLE OCCUPANT.
  • Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSTALL A NEW DESIGN RADIATOR CAP TO CONTROL PRESSURE AND PROVIDE GREATER COOLANT OVERFLOW IN THE EVENT OF OVERHEATING.
  • Model: Bmw 318i 1995
  • Report Received Date: 1998-08-04
  • Manufacturer: BAYERISCHE MOTOREN WERKE
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:COOLING SYSTEM
  • Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. A MALFUNCTION OR FAILURE OF A COOLANT SYSTEM COMPONENT, SUCH AS A THERMOSTAT, WATER PUMP, OR FAN BELT, CAN RESULT IN SIGNIFICANTLY INCREASED COOLANT TEMPERATURE AND SYSTEM PRESSURE. IF THE INDICATIONS OF A CRITICAL OVERHEATING CONDITION IS NOT NOTICED BY THE DRIVER, IT IS POSSIBLE THAT DAMAGE TO, OR FAILURE OF, A COOLANT SYSTEM COMPONENT COULD OCCUR.
  • Consequence: IF A CRACK WERE TO FORM OR A SEAM WERE TO SEPARATE IN THE HEATER CORE END PIECE, HOT COOLANT COULD SUDDENLY BE EXPELLED, INCREASING THE RISK OF PERSONAL INJURY TO A VEHICLE OCCUPANT.
  • Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSTALL A NEW DESIGN RADIATOR CAP TO CONTROL PRESSURE AND PROVIDE GREATER COOLANT OVERFLOW IN THE EVENT OF OVERHEATING.
  • Model: Bmw 318i 1993
  • Report Received Date: 1998-08-04
  • Manufacturer: BAYERISCHE MOTOREN WERKE
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:COOLING SYSTEM
  • Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. A MALFUNCTION OR FAILURE OF A COOLANT SYSTEM COMPONENT, SUCH AS A THERMOSTAT, WATER PUMP, OR FAN BELT, CAN RESULT IN SIGNIFICANTLY INCREASED COOLANT TEMPERATURE AND SYSTEM PRESSURE. IF THE INDICATIONS OF A CRITICAL OVERHEATING CONDITION IS NOT NOTICED BY THE DRIVER, IT IS POSSIBLE THAT DAMAGE TO, OR FAILURE OF, A COOLANT SYSTEM COMPONENT COULD OCCUR.
  • Consequence: IF A CRACK WERE TO FORM OR A SEAM WERE TO SEPARATE IN THE HEATER CORE END PIECE, HOT COOLANT COULD SUDDENLY BE EXPELLED, INCREASING THE RISK OF PERSONAL INJURY TO A VEHICLE OCCUPANT.
  • Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSTALL A NEW DESIGN RADIATOR CAP TO CONTROL PRESSURE AND PROVIDE GREATER COOLANT OVERFLOW IN THE EVENT OF OVERHEATING.
  • Model: Bmw 318i 1994
  • Report Received Date: 1998-08-04
  • Manufacturer: BAYERISCHE MOTOREN WERKE
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:COOLING SYSTEM
  • Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. A MALFUNCTION OR FAILURE OF A COOLANT SYSTEM COMPONENT, SUCH AS A THERMOSTAT, WATER PUMP, OR FAN BELT, CAN RESULT IN SIGNIFICANTLY INCREASED COOLANT TEMPERATURE AND SYSTEM PRESSURE. IF THE INDICATIONS OF A CRITICAL OVERHEATING CONDITION IS NOT NOTICED BY THE DRIVER, IT IS POSSIBLE THAT DAMAGE TO, OR FAILURE OF, A COOLANT SYSTEM COMPONENT COULD OCCUR.
  • Consequence: IF A CRACK WERE TO FORM OR A SEAM WERE TO SEPARATE IN THE HEATER CORE END PIECE, HOT COOLANT COULD SUDDENLY BE EXPELLED, INCREASING THE RISK OF PERSONAL INJURY TO A VEHICLE OCCUPANT.
  • Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSTALL A NEW DESIGN RADIATOR CAP TO CONTROL PRESSURE AND PROVIDE GREATER COOLANT OVERFLOW IN THE EVENT OF OVERHEATING.
  • Model: Bmw 318i 1997
  • Report Received Date: 1997-08-19
  • Manufacturer: BAYERISCHE MOTOREN WERKE
  • Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
  • Summary: THE CRUISE CONTROL AND THROTTLE CABLES ARE ATTACHED TO THE SAME THROTTLE VALVE ACTUATING LEVER AT THE THROTTLE HOUSING. IT IS POSSIBLE THAT THE PLASTIC BUSHING ON EITHER CABLE COULD BREAK DUE TO ENVIRONMENTAL INFLUENCES COUPLED WITH VIBRATION. IF THE BUSHING BREAKS, THE OUTER CABLE HOUSING CAN SEPARATE FROM THE BUSHING. IN THIS CASE, DURING APPLICATION OF THE THROTTLE PEDAL WITHOUT CRUISE CONTROL BEING ENGAGED, THE OUTER TUBE COULD CATCH ON THE EDGE OF THE BROKEN BUSHING.
  • Consequence: THIS COULD CAUSE THE THROTTLE VALVE TO REMAIN PARTIALLY OPEN. IT HIS WERE TO OCCUR, THE CAR MIGHT NOT DECELERATE AS EXPECTED INCREASING THE RISK OF A VEHICLE CRASH.
  • Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSTALL A SPRING STEEL CLIP ON THE OUTER TUBE OF EACH CABLE IN THE AREA OF THE ADJUSTING SCREW AND PLASTIC BUSHING. THE CLIP IS DESIGNED TO PREVENT THE OUTER TUBE FROM DISLODGING FROM THE BUSHING.

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