1993 Bmw 318is problems
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 1993 Bmw 318is problems
The BMW 318is 1993 is a popular car, but like any vehicle, it has its fair share of common problems. Here are some of the most frequently reported issues with this car based on complaints from owners:
- Brake Pipes: The front and rear brake pipes on the BMW E36 are prone to rust, but the rear ones are complicated to change due to their location. It is essential to regularly inspect the brake pipes for signs of rust and replace them if necessary to ensure the brakes are working correctly.
- ABS: The ABS system on the BMW E36 can develop problems, including the ABS warning light coming on. This issue can usually be resolved with diagnostics and resetting the system.
- Rear Trailing Arm Bushings: The rear trailing arm bushings on the BMW E36 can wear out, causing a knocking sound when going over bumps. Replacing the bushings can solve this problem.
- Dampers: The dampers on the BMW E36 can fail, causing a bouncy ride. Replacing the dampers can solve this problem.
- Broken Rear Coil Springs: Broken rear coil springs are a common issue on the BMW 3 Series, including the E36. While this issue can be inconvenient, the springs are relatively easy to change. Symptoms of broken rear coil springs include the rear of the vehicle sagging or appearing lower than normal, decreased handling and stability of the vehicle, and increased tire wear due to misalignment.
- Headlights: Condensation can affect the beam pattern of the headlamps on the BMW E36, which may require the headlights to be removed, cleaned, and resealed to fix the issue. Symptoms of condensation in the headlights include headlights appearing foggy or hazy and decreased visibility while driving at night.
- Airbag Light: The airbag light on the BMW E36 may come on if the steering wheel has been removed. This issue can usually be resolved with diagnostics and resetting the system.
- Outer Front Ball Joints: The outer front ball joints on the BMW E36 can wear out, causing a knocking sound when going over bumps. Replacing the ball joints can solve this problem.
- Engine Timing Chain: The timing chain system on the M42 engine can cause problems, and a loose or worn chain can result in engine damage. Regular maintenance and inspection of the timing chain can help prevent this issue.
It is essential to address these issues as soon as they are detected to ensure proper suspension performance, prevent further damage, and ensure the safety of the vehicle and its occupants. Regular inspections and proper maintenance can help prevent these problems from occurring in the first place.
Is the 318iS good?
The 318is is a really really good engine! 4 Zylinders are really good to BMW 3er Chassis, i've owned a lot E30 over here in Germany...i would go with the 318is!
What is the difference between 318iS and 318i?
The late 91 318i is always a four door while the 318is is a 2 door coupe. Generally the coupe had the sport seats, sport suspension, basket weave wheels and a rear trunk spoiler. They even came without a sunroof in some cases.
Is E36 318i reliable?
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.
How rare is E30 318iS?
Eventually, it was sold in most markets but was most popular in Italy, Spain, Portugal, UK, Ireland and North America. Even so, the 318is is a relatively rare car with 41,234 being made (out of a total of 2.2 million E30's = 1.86%). 9,442 were made in 1990, 29,171 in 1991 and 2,621 in 1992.
Is the 318iS rare?
Yes, they are quite rare, because the E30 318iS's were only offered in one year--1991.
What is the difference between 318iS and 318i?
The late 91 318i is always a four door while the 318is is a 2 door coupe. Generally the coupe had the sport seats, sport suspension, basket weave wheels and a rear trunk spoiler. They even came without a sunroof in some cases.
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 is the fuel economy of the BMW 318iS?
Would expect 12 km/l highway and 8-9 km/l in town .
1993 Bmw 318is car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Bmw 318is problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Electrical system problems
- Vehicle speed control problems
- Suspension problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1993 Bmw 318is vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1993 Bmw 318is complaints
The NHTSA has received 13 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1993 Bmw 318is.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-01-15
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING CAR ACCELERATES BY ITSELF. MADE SURE CARPET WASN'T ON PEDAL. HAPPENED FEW TIMES DURING WINTER. RPM'S GOING VERY HIGH. VERY HARD TO STOP THE CAR. VERY UNSAFE. BMW TOLD ME THERE IS RECALL BUT MY CAR WAS NOT AFFECTED. DIDN'T EVEN LOOK AT CAR. TOLD ME TO CALL BACK WHEN IT HAPPENS AGAIN*AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-07-23
- VIN: PLEASE PROV
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING AT ANY SPEED AND NO WARNING COOLING SYSTEM CRACKED, CAUSING FLUID TO LEAK OUT. DEALER NOTIFIED.*AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-09-17
- VIN: WBABE6311PJ
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: THERE IS A COOLANT LEAK IN ENGINE BECAUSE AN INFERIOR FORM OF RUBBER SEALANT IS USED ON ENGINE. COOLANT GOES BACK INTO ENGINE. CONTACTED DEALER, AND DEALER STATED THEY KNEW ABOUT LEAK AND ITS A FREQUENT PROBLEM, BUT NOT UNDER WARRANTY.*AK THE HEAD HAD TO BE REPLACED DUE TO THIS PROBLEM, THE PROBLEM IS A RUBBERIZED GASKET, KNOWN AS THE TIMING CASE PROFILE GASKET. *JB
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-03-01
- Crash: 1
- VIN: WBABE5313PJ
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: BOTH FRONT BALL JOINTS WERE REPLACED. EHICLE ALSO SLIDES AND FISHTAILS ON OTHER THAN DRY ROAD. CONSUMER HAS HAD 3 ACCIDENTS. *AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-10-17
- VIN: WBABE5319PJ
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: ENGINE GASKET FAILED. BMW DENIES DEFECT.*AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-09-16
- VIN: JC13169
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING CAR OVERHEATED. HAD VEHICLE TOWED TO THE DEALER, AND WAS TOLD THAT THERE WAS AN ENGINE HEAD GASKET FAILURE. *AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: PROFILE GASKET MATERIAL WEAK CAUSING IT TO LEAK ANTIFREEZE RESULTING IN SMOKE COMING FROM THE CAR.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-10-07
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: THE VEHICLE'S ELECTRONIC COMMAND CONTROL BOX WAS FLOODED DUE TO WATER ENTERING THE BOX. DEALER CONTACTED AND AWARE OF THE PROBLEM. CONSUMER HAD REPAIR WORK DONE AT OWNER'S EXSPENSE. TSB 410393 (3914). *AK
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: WHEN DRIVING THE VEHICLE THROUGH A CARWASH THE COMPUTER FOR THE VEHICLE SHORT CIRCUITED AND SHUT COMPLETELY DOWN. DEALER HAS TO REPLACE TOTAL COMPUTER. *AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-09-29
- VIN: WBABE5314PJ
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: TIMING CASE PROFILE GASKET FAILED CAUSING LOSS OF COOLANT ON THE ROADWAY AND VEHICLE OVERHEATING.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-03-06
- VIN: WBABE5315PJ
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: ENGINE GASKET FAILED CAUSING COOLANT TO LEAK OUT ANDTHE ENGINE TO OVERHEAT.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-06-10
- VIN: WBABE531XPJ
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: WHEN THE GASKET GOES ALL OF THE COOLANT IN THE RADIATOR LEAKS OUT OF THE CAR, CAUSING THE ENGINE TO OVERHEAT. BECAUSE WATER IN THE COOLANT IS OUT OF THE CAR, IT IS NOTHING THAT THE CONSUMER CAN DO. THE DEALER CANNOT DUPLICATE THE PROBLEM. *AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-08-18
- VIN: WBABE5311PJ
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: ENGINE TIMING CASE PROFILE GASKET FAILS AND CAUSES COMPLETE LOSS OF ENGINE COOLANT.
1993 Bmw 318is recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 1993 Bmw 318is.
- 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.
- 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 1993 Bmw 318is problems:
E36 Common Problems - BMW 3 Series Forum - Bimmer Owners Club
Sep 22, 2011 ... Problems include, but not limited to, oil level/pressure warning lamps, camshaft sensor, coolant level/temp sensors, incorrect fuel gauge & ...
Would you consider the E36 3 Series "Reliable"?
Oct 27, 2009 ... I've had my '96 318is for 50k miles now (it's at 150k now.) ... The car has lots of common problems, luckily ... It failed at 90k miles -- I should ...
BMW E36 318i: Troubleshooting Common Problems & Engine Rev ...
Apr 9, 2018 ... I have a E36 318i and it won't rev past 3000rpm. It's a 94. No I just got the car yesterday and I haven't have it check.
list of all common E36 problems
Aug 20, 2007 ... 1. rad plastic reservoir cracked. 2. oil filter housing gasket leak. 3. alternator & idler pulleys sounds like marbles rolling around in the can ...
Is a BMW 318i E36 a good first car? : r/BMWE36
Nov 15, 2021 ... I already know how to properly drive without trashing the car so that won't be a problem, my main concern is about the reliability, I've ...
Leave your review of 1993 Bmw 318is