1997 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.
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Common 1997 Bmw 318is problems
Based on the information gathered from various sources about the BMW 318is 1997, here is a list of common problems reported by owners:
- Ignition Barrel Issues:
- Symptoms: A common problem where the pin inside the ignition barrel can snap, causing the key to spin endlessly and difficulty in turning the car off.
- Solution: Early signs include a loose key and occasional spinning, which can be fixed before it becomes a more expensive repair.
- Volume Knob on Stereo:
- Symptoms: The volume knob on the original stereo may stop working, affecting the ability to adjust volume or turn the radio off.
- Solution: This issue is relatively easy to fix by replacing the stereo with a new one.
- Radiator Hoses and Coolant Reservoir:
- Symptoms: Plastic fittings of the radiator hoses can crack due to age, leading to potential leaks. The lower coolant fluid reservoir hoses are also prone to bursting.
- Solution: Regular inspection and replacement of these parts are necessary to prevent damage to the power steering components and the engine.
- Suspension Issues:
- Symptoms: Original suspension may wear out around 100k miles, affecting the handling and stability of the vehicle.
- Solution: Replacing the worn-out suspension components with new ones is essential to maintain proper handling and stability.
- Headlight Condensation:
- Symptoms: Condensation inside the headlights can affect visibility while driving at night, causing a foggy appearance and distorted beam pattern.
- Solution: Removing, cleaning, and resealing the headlights can fix this issue and ensure proper visibility.
- Airbag Light:
- Symptoms: The airbag light may illuminate if the steering wheel has been removed, indicating a potential issue with the airbag system.
- Solution: Diagnostics and resetting the system can resolve this problem, ensuring the airbags function correctly in case of a collision.
- Rust:
- Symptoms: Common rust issues in areas like sills, rear trailing arm mounts, and front anti-roll bar mounts can affect structural integrity and performance.
- Solution: Regular inspections, rust removal, and part replacement are necessary to prevent further damage and maintain the car's integrity.
- Brake Pipes:
- Symptoms: Front and rear brake pipes are prone to rust, leading to leaking brake fluid and decreased braking performance.
- Solution: Regular inspection and replacement of affected brake pipes are crucial to ensure optimal brake function and safety.
These common problems highlight the importance of regular maintenance and prompt repairs to keep the BMW 318is 1997 in good condition and ensure a reliable driving experience.
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 .
What is the top speed of the BMW 318iS?
The BMW E36 3 Series Coupe 318is top speed is 213 Km/h / 132 mph.
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 .
What engine is in the 318iS?
The E36 318iS has a 1.9 DOHC 16v 140BHP M44 engine. Don't early ones have the M42? http://www.e30zone.net/e30zonewiki/index.php/Engin... M42's (1.8) were fitted until early 1995 when the 1.9 litre M44 took over.
1997 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:
- Steering problems
- Vehicle speed control problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1997 Bmw 318is vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1997 Bmw 318is complaints
The NHTSA has received 2 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1997 Bmw 318is.
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-04-17
- Crash: 1
- VIN: WBABE7327VE
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING AT 45 MPH, SUDDENLY A POPPING NOISE OCCURRED IN THE FRONT END, THE STEERING WHEEL SHUTTERED BECAUSE VEHICLE WAS EQUIPPED WITH ASC PLUS T (AUTOMATIC STABILITY CONTROL PLUS TRACTION) AND IT WAS TRYING TO GAIN BACK CONTROL. THIS RESULTED IN THE DRIVER CRASHING INTO A TREE HEAD ON. DRIVER SIDE TIE ROD BROKE WHICH CAUSED THIS TO OCCUR. NO INJURIES WERE SUSTAINED, UPON IMPACT, AIR BAG DEPLOYED.. THE CAUSE OF THE TIE ROD BREAKING WAS STILL BE INVESTIGATED.*AK
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-09-02
- VIN: WBABH832XVE
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING THE VEHICLE WITH CRUISE CONTROL ON CONSUMER APPLIED THE BRAKES AND CRUISE CONTROL WON'T RELEASE. ALSO, AIR BAG LIGHT ILLUMINATED ON THE DASH BOARD. *AK
1997 Bmw 318is recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 1997 Bmw 318is.
- 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 318is problems:
Looking At 1997 318i
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