Bmw 318ia problems

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The BMW E30 is the second generation of BMW 3 Series, which was produced from 1982 to 1994 and replaced the E21 3 Series. The model range included 2-door coupe and convertible body styles, as well as being the first 3 Series to be produced in 4-door sedan and wagon/estate body styles. It was powered by four-cylinder petrol, six-cylinder petrol and six-cylinder diesel engines, the latter a first for the 3 Series. The E30 325iX model was the first BMW to have all-wheel drive.

The first BMW M3 model was built on the E30 platform and was powered by the high-revving BMW S14 four-cylinder petrol engine, which produced 175 kW (235 bhp) in its final iteration. The BMW Z1 roadster was also based on the E30 platform. Following the launch of the E36 3 Series in 1990, the E30 began to be phased out.

Development

Development of the E30 3 Series began in July 1976, with styling being developed under chief designer Claus Luthe with exterior styling led by Boyke Boyer. In 1978, the final design was approved, with design freeze (cubing process) being completed in 1979. BMW's launch film for the E30 shows the design process including Computer-aided design (CAD), crash testing and wind-tunnel testing. The car was released at the end of November 1982.

Externally, the E30's appearance is very similar to twin headlight versions of its E21 predecessor, however there are various detail changes in styling to the E30. Major differences to the E21 include the interior and a revised suspension, the latter to reduce the oversteer for which the E21 was criticised.

photo of Bmw 318ia car production

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Bmw 318ia model years

bmw 318ia 1995 photo
318ia 1995
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bmw 318ia 1994 photo
318ia 1994
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bmw 318ia 1993 photo
318ia 1993
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Common Bmw 318ia problems

The BMW 318i, particularly the E46 model, has been known for its reliable and enjoyable driving experience. It is claimed to have an average fuel consumption of 5.4 liters per 100km, making it quite efficient for a large four-door car. However, there are common problems that owners have reported.

One issue is the cooling system, which may require maintenance or replacement. This is especially important for older models, as they may have been driven without proper servicing, which can affect their long-term reliability. Additionally, it is recommended to use 98 RON fuel for optimal performance, as using 95 RON fuel may result in a decrease in performance in real-world driving.

Another problem that has been reported is hard or clunky shifting in the automatic transmission. This issue can be caused by various factors, such as worn-out or damaged transmission components, and may require professional diagnosis and repair.

When it comes to maintenance costs, BMWs may require more frequent and expensive servicing compared to Japanese rivals. This is something to consider when purchasing a used BMW, as it may affect the car's long-term reliability and overall cost of ownership.

Lastly, there have been reports of issues with the starter motor, which may cause difficulty starting the car. This issue may be caused by a blown head gasket, which can lead to hydraulic lock in a cylinder, making it difficult to start the engine. In some cases, this issue may not be immediately apparent, as it may not show up on the temperature gauge or produce visible signs of overheating. However, it may be evident with white smoke from the tailpipe when the engine is cold.

In summary, while the BMW 318i can be a reliable and enjoyable car, it is important to be aware of common problems such as cooling system issues, hard or clunky shifting in the automatic transmission, higher maintenance costs compared to Japanese rivals, and potential issues with the starter motor. Regular servicing and maintenance, as well as using the recommended fuel grade, can help ensure the car's long-term reliability and performance.

Bmw 318ia

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.

Is the E46 318i a good car?

4 days ago

The gem of this car, and the reason I put up with everything that it's chucked at me, is simply the handling and ride. This car is the single best handling vehicle I've ever driven, by a lot. It doesn't just rip around corners, it eats corners.

What is the fuel consumption of BMW 318i?

The BMW 318i currently offers fuel consumption from 5.4 to 5.5L/100km.

Percentage distribution of complaints by Bmw 318ia years

We have researched Bmw problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Bmw 318ia cars and compiled the top 3 most problematic Bmw 318ia model years:

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

Distribution of the number of complaints by Bmw 318ia years

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

Bmw 318ia car problems categorized by type of issue

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

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

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

The NHTSA has received 3 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Bmw 318ia . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Bmw 318ia vehicles.

List of Bmw 318ia complaints

Bmw 318ia 1995
  • Date Of Incident: 2017-10-24
  • Date Complaint: 2017-11-07
  • VIN: WBAEB53549C
  • Components: POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
  • Summary: WHENEVER I PRESS GAS TO ACCELERATE WHILE ON INTERSTATE THE TRANSMISSION WILL GO IN TO SOME KIND OF LOCK OUT MODE AND I HAVE TO TRY TO GET TO THE SHOULDER OF THE INTERSTATE AND TURN OFF THE CAR TO RESET THE TRANSMISSION AND ELECTRONIC WARNING SYSTEM
Bmw 318ia 1993
  • Date Of Incident: 2002-05-21
  • Date Complaint: 2002-05-28
  • VIN: WBABE6313PJ
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
  • Summary: NO SUMMARY LISTED FOR ABOVE VEHICLE. *AK
Bmw 318ia 1994
  • Date Of Incident: 2001-05-20
  • Date Complaint: 2001-06-12
  • VIN: WBACA5323RF
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
  • Summary: NO SUMMARY LISTED FOR ABOVE VEHICLE. *AK

Recalls Bmw 318ia

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 3 recalls for different components of the Bmw 318ia.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.

  • Model: Bmw 318ia 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 318ia 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 318ia 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.

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