1996 Bmw 318i problems

General information about Bmw-318i
Overview of popular issues
Analysis of common problems
Сomplaints list
Recalls list

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.

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Common 1996 Bmw 318i problems

Based on the information gathered from various sources regarding the 1996 BMW 318i, here are the common problems reported by owners:

Valve Cover Gasket Leaks:
- Another common issue is leaks in the valve cover gasket. This component tends to leak oil, which can result in a noticeable smell. While it may not lead to significant oil loss, addressing this issue is important to prevent further complications.

Suspension Wear:
- With age, the original suspension of the 1996 BMW 318i may wear out, affecting the handling and ride quality of the vehicle. While it may still function adequately for daily commuting, worn suspension components can impact the car's performance. Replacement kits are available to restore the suspension system to its optimal condition.

Transmission Concerns:
- The manual transmission in the 1996 BMW 318i is generally durable, but with high mileage, synchros may show signs of wear. Fresh transmission fluid can help maintain transmission performance. On the other hand, automatic transmissions in BMWs are known to have a lifespan of around 100,000 miles, after which issues may arise. Regular maintenance and fluid changes are essential for transmission longevity.

Electrical Gremlins:
- Electrical problems are common in the E36 series, including the 1996 BMW 318i. Issues with door cards, headliners, airbag lights, and ABS lights have been reported. These electrical glitches can be frustrating but are manageable with DIY fixes or professional assistance. Regular checks and maintenance can help prevent electrical issues from escalating.

Rust Concerns:
- While the 1996 BMW 318i is generally resistant to rust, it's advisable to inspect common rust-prone areas such as rear wheel arches and the subframes where they join the unibody. Any signs of damage or fatigue in these areas should be addressed promptly to prevent structural issues. Thorough inspection during purchase and regular maintenance can help preserve the car's integrity.

By addressing these common problems proactively through regular maintenance and timely repairs, owners of the 1996 BMW 318i can ensure the longevity and reliability of their vehicle.

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.

Are 1996 BMW reliable?

Most reliable bmw

If you are a mechanically inclined person, thr design of this car is very easy to repair compared to other cars. When everything is in working order, it is a very reliable vehicle and when taken care of, the solid motor, trans and differently will last you a long time.

What is the mpg on a 1996 318i?

Based on data from 12 vehicles, 183 fuel-ups and 60,195 miles of driving, the 1996 BMW 318i gets a combined Avg MPG of 22.51 with a 0.95 MPG margin of error. Below you can see a distribution of the fuel-ups with 4 outliers (2.14%) removed.

Is BMW 318i underpowered?

It's underpowered. No two ways about it. You cannot drive it and not wish for a more power and it only gets 30mpg.

Is the BMW 318i a good car?

Are 1996 BMW reliable?

Most reliable bmw

Is 318i engine reliable?

Key Takeaways. The BMW E46 3 Series, particularly the 318i, was a reliable and affordable choice with good fuel efficiency and maintenance costs. The E46 was a significant improvement in comfort compared to its predecessor, the E36, offering better suspension, increased comfort, and a better balance.

Is BMW 318i underpowered?

It's underpowered. No two ways about it. You cannot drive it and not wish for a more power and it only gets 30mpg.

1996 Bmw 318i car problems categorized by type of issue

After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Bmw 318i problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:

Air bags problems
Power train problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 1996 Bmw 318i vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

1996 Bmw 318i complaints

The NHTSA has received 3 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1996 Bmw 318i.

2003-06-09

POWER TRAIN PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2003-05-08
VIN: WBABH732XTE
Components: POWER TRAIN
Summary: WHEN THE CONSUMER SHIFTED GEARS, THE GEAR WENT INTO NEUTRAL. *JB REPLACED MANUAL TRANSMISSION AND THROW-OUT BEARING DUE TO EXCESSIVE WEAR . *TT

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2002-05-30

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2002-05-01
Number Of Injuries: 1
Crash: 1
VIN: WBABH8324TE
Components: AIR BAGS
Summary: CONSUMER STATES WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 40MPH, SHE HIT A CEMENT WALL AND THE AIRBAGS DID NOT DEPLOY.*JB VEHICLE TOTALLED AND CONSUMER WAS INJURED.. *TT

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1999-09-03

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 1999-08-17
Crash: 1
VIN: 4USCD8321TL
Components: AIR BAGS
Summary: WHILE DRIVING 70 MPH, THE VEHICLE PULLED TO THE LEFT AND LOST CONTROL. HIT AN EMBANKMENT. UPON IMPACT, DRIVER'S AND PASSENGER'S AIRBAGS DID NOT DEPLOY, WHICH DID NOT PROTECT THE OCCUPANT IN THIS CRASH. PLEASE PROVIDE FURTHER INFORMATION. *AK

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1996 Bmw 318i recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 1996 Bmw 318i.

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.

Additional sources

More sources of information about 1996 Bmw 318i problems:

Planning to purchase a 1996 BMW 318i, common issues? : r/BMW

https://www.reddit.com/r/BMW/comments/23m4tz/planning_to_purchase_a_1996_bmw_318i_common_issues/

Apr 21, 2014 ... Planning to purchase a 1996 BMW 318i, common issues? · Window Regulators - expect these to fail at some point. · Oil Pan - this thing is soft.

E36 318is problem areas?| Grassroots Motorsports forum |

https://grassrootsmotorsports.com/forum/grm/e36-318is-problem-areas/37766/page1/

E36 318is problem areas? · 1) Cooling system: if it's got 100k on it, the water pump, radiator, and expansion tank should have been replaced ...

How reliable is a 1996 BMW 318ti? What are some common ...

https://www.quora.com/How-reliable-is-a-1996-BMW-318ti-What-are-some-common-problems-with-the-car

Sep 4, 2015 ... Cooling System Failures: BMWs are notorious for cooling system issues, including water pump failure, leaking coolant hoses, and radiator ...

318 common problems to look out for.

https://www.bimmerforums.com/forum/showthread.php?1765736-318-common-problems-to-look-out-for

Dec 31, 2011 ... Bimmerforums - The Ultimate BMW Forum - Powered by vBulletin. The Facebook Platform. 318 common problems to look out for. Thread: 318 common ...