1997 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.

Social links

Common 1997 Bmw 318i problems

Based on the complaints and issues reported by owners of the BMW 318i 1997, several common problems have been identified:

Ignition Switch Issues:
Owners have reported problems with the ignition switch, where a pin inside the switch can snap, leading to difficulties in turning the car off or on. This issue can be costly to fix, with repairs typically ranging from $600 to $700. Early signs of this problem include a loose feeling in the key and occasional difficulty in turning it.
Volume Knob Malfunction:
Another common problem is the malfunction of the volume knob on the original stereo of the BMW 318i 1997. Over time, the volume knob may stop working, affecting the ability to adjust the volume or even turn the radio off. While this issue is not as severe as others, it is still something to watch out for when purchasing the car.
Radiator Hose Fittings and Power Steering Issues:
The plastic fittings of the radiator hoses in the BMW 318i 1997 are prone to cracking due to age and constant exposure to heat. Additionally, the lower reservoir hoses of the power steering system can burst off, potentially causing damage to the power steering pump, rack, and other components. Addressing these issues promptly is crucial to prevent further damage and maintain the proper functioning of the vehicle.
Rust Problems:
Rust is a common issue in various areas of the BMW 318i 1997, including the sills, rear trailing arm mounts, front anti-roll bar mounts, and circular lifting pads underneath the vehicle. Detecting and addressing rust early is essential to prevent structural integrity issues, decreased performance, and handling problems. Regular inspections and maintenance can help prevent rust from spreading and causing more significant damage.
Brake Pipe Rusting:
The front and rear brake pipes of the BMW 318i 1997 are susceptible to rust, with the rear pipes being particularly challenging to replace due to their location. Signs of issues with the brake pipes include leaking brake fluid, decreased braking performance, and a spongy or unresponsive brake pedal. Timely inspection and replacement of rusted brake pipes are crucial to ensure the proper functioning of the brakes and overall safety of the vehicle.

Is the BMW 318i a reliable car?

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.

What engine is in a 1997 BMW 318i?

1.9 L 4-cylinder1997 BMW 318i / Engine

What is a BMW 318i worth?

Pricing guides

BMW 3 Series Model	Body Type	Price to
318i	Convertible	$7,590
318i JPS	Convertible	$11,550
318i	Coupe	$5,720
318i	Coupe	$4,070

Is e90 318i 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.

Is the 1997 BMW 318i reliable?

Very reliable. Although I have seldom had to repair this car, when I did, it was expensive if taked to a BMW dealer. I rated lower in performance since it has a 4 cylinder engine.

Is the BMW 318i a good 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 318i engine reliable?

What is the fuel consumption of BMW 318i?

With its fuel consumption rate of 5.4 liters per 100km, the BMW 318i offers an eco-friendly option without compromising on power. However, if you are seeking a more exhilarating driving experience, it is advisable to explore other models in the BMW lineup.

1997 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:

Electrical system problems
Tires problems
Engine and engine cooling problems
Visibility problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 1997 Bmw 318i vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

1997 Bmw 318i complaints

The NHTSA has received 6 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1997 Bmw 318i.

2004-09-01

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2004-08-12
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

Add Complaint

2003-08-07

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2003-07-30
Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Summary: CONSUMER CALLED COMPLAINING ABOUT HAVING PROBLEMS WITH THE IGNITION SWITCH. ALSO STATED THAT WHEN THIS HAPPENED SHE COULD NOT TURN THE VEHICLE OFF. DEALER WAS CONTACTED AND STATED THAT IS A MANUFACTURER DEFECT AND TO CALL THIS AGENCY AND REPORT IT. *PH

Add Complaint

2003-05-06

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2002-06-01
VIN: WBACC0326VE
Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Summary: BOARD LEVEL FAILURE ON AUTOMATIC TEMPERATURE CONTROL UNIT. FAILURE SO WIDESPREAD THAT NO OEM OR RENEWED PARTS DEALER HAS INVENTORY. *NLM

Add Complaint

2002-09-04

TIRES PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2002-06-14
VIN: WBABH832XVE
Components: TIRES
Summary: ORIGINAL EQUIPMENT ON A 1998, BMW, 318I WITH 30283 MILES. DRIVING 65 MPH CONSUMER HEARD NOISE COMING FROM PASSENGER'S REAR OF VEHICLE. TIRE TREAD HAD SEPARATED, CAUSING $ 4000.00 DAMAGE TO VEHICLE.*AK CONTINENTAL TOURING 205/60R15 91H CH95

Add Complaint

1999-02-01

VISIBILITY PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 1997-01-02
VIN: WBACC0329VE
Components: VISIBILITY
Summary: HEATER CORE FAILED. *YC

Add Complaint

1999-02-01

TIRES PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 1997-01-02
VIN: WBACC0329VE
Components: TIRES
Summary: POSSIBLE DESIGN OF ALL FOUR TIRES EXPERIENCED FAILURE (MICHELIN 185/65R15). *YC

Add Complaint

1997 Bmw 318i recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 1997 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 1997 Bmw 318i problems:

Looking At 1997 318i

https://www.bimmerforums.com/forum/showthread.php?691115-Looking-At-1997-318i

Feb 18, 2007 ... Common problems with the e36 include the cooling system, motor mounts, and door panels that hate life . bluestormbmw said: 02-18-2007 01:34 AM.

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 ...

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 ...