1995 Bmw 318ti problems

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

The BMW 3 Series Compact is a car which was produced from 1994 through 2004 by BMW. It is a 3-door hatchback version of the BMW 3 Series through two generations, for the E36 platform in 1993 and E46 platform in 2001. Unlike most hatchback competitors which were transverse engine front-wheel drive, the 3 Series Compact uses the longitudinal engine rear-wheel drive layout.

In 2004, the 3 Series Compact was replaced by the 1 Series which encompassed 3-door and 5-door hatchback, coupé and convertible body styles (the coupé and convertible models have been marketed separately as the 2 Series since 2014) as BMW's entry-level cars; a new nameplate was created since the 1 Series is smaller than the contemporary 3 Series despite sharing mechanical components. The 3 Series GT, introduced in 2013, is not a successor to the 3 Series Compact, despite also using a hatchback rear opening.

First generation (E36; 1994)

Launched in March 1994, the E36 3 Series Compact (model code E36/5), was BMW's first hatchback since the 2002 Touring model was discontinued in 1974. It reportedly cost BMW $500 million USD to develop the hatchback from the E36 platform.

From the front bumper to the A-pillar, the E36/5 is identical to the E36 saloon. From the A-pillar back, the E36/5 is unique. Although the overall length of the E36/5 is approximately 200 millimetres (7.9 in) shorter than the rest of the E36 3 Series range, the length of the wheelbase is the same. There is a unique set of doors with framed windows for the E36/5, rather than adopting those of the E36 saloon/wagon or the frameless ones of the E36 coupé.

The interior is mostly similar to the E36 saloon models, apart from the folding rear seats and dashboard which share some elements with the previous generation E30 3 Series. Some cost-cutting was employed in the E36/5 dashboard such as manual air conditioning, compared to the rest of the E36 lineup which had automatic climate control.

The E36/5 front suspension uses the E36's MacPherson strut design, while the rear suspension uses a semi-trailing arm from the previous generation E30 models instead of the Z-Axle multi-link suspension used by the rest of the E36 range. The E36/5's rear suspension arrangement - which was also used on the Z3 - was more compact and cheaper to produce. Some reviewers believed that this arrangement caused the E36/5's to be prone to oversteer.

The launch models were powered by four-cylinder petrol engines, with the range expanded over the years to include a four-cylinder compressed natural gas engine, four-cylinder diesel engines, and six-cylinder petrol engines. In North America, the sole model available was the 318ti, initially powered by a DOHC 1.8 litre, 138 hp (103 kW; 140 PS) inline-four BMW M42 engine. In 1996, in conjunction with making the car compliant with OBD-II, the M42 was replaced by the 1.9-litre M44 engine.

A large sunroof, covered by a folding canvas roof was available from mid-1995. This model was known as either the California Top Edition or the Open Air Edition.

In September 1996 (for model year 1997), the 3 Series Compact received a facelift in line with the remainder of the E36 range. Changes included revised tail-lights, grille, bumpers and mirrors.

Social links

Common 1995 Bmw 318ti problems

The BMW 318ti, produced in 1995, is known for its reliability, but like any vehicle, it can have certain issues. Here are some common problems reported by owners:

Leaking radiators: Leaking radiators are a common problem in the 318ti, particularly in early models. This can lead to overheating and potential engine damage if not addressed promptly.

Interior quality: Cars built before the facelift of September 1996 may have issues with the quality of the interior trim and fittings. Check for loose or poorly fitted parts, as well as any signs of wear or damage.

Window seals: The window seals on the 318ti can perish and leak, leading to water ingress and potential electrical issues. Check the condition of the window seals, especially if the car has been used in wet or humid conditions.

Power steering hoses: Multiple power steering hoses may fail simultaneously, leading to a loss of power steering assistance. This can be a costly repair, with replacement hoses and labor costing upwards of $1,000.

ABS control module: The ABS control module may fail, leading to issues with the braking system. Replacement of the module can be expensive, with costs ranging from $1,199 to $1,217.

Blower motor and resistor: The blower motor and resistor may fail, leading to issues with the car's heating and ventilation system. Replacement of these parts can be costly, with costs ranging from $182 to $871.

Air conditioning expansion valve: The air conditioning expansion valve may fail, leading to issues with the car's air conditioning system. Replacement of the valve can be expensive, with costs ranging from $593 to $742.

Parking brake system adjust: The parking brake system may require adjustment, particularly if the car is used frequently in hilly or mountainous areas. This is a relatively minor repair, with costs ranging from $66 to $83.

Power steering system leak inspection: If the car is experiencing issues with power steering, a leak inspection may be required. This is a relatively minor repair, with costs ranging from $55 to $69.

Oxygen sensor test: The oxygen sensors in the car's exhaust system may need to be tested and replaced if they are not functioning properly. This is a relatively minor repair, with costs ranging from $44 to $56.

Drive axle assembly leak inspection: If the car is experiencing issues with its drivetrain, a leak inspection may be required. This is a relatively minor repair, with costs ranging from $55 to $69.

Control arm replacement: The control arms in the car's suspension system may need to be replaced if they are worn or damaged. This is a major repair, with costs ranging from $4,435 to $4,932.

Head gasket replacement: The head gasket in the car's engine may need to be replaced if it is leaking or damaged. This is a major repair, with costs ranging from $1,405 to $1,753.

It's worth noting that while these issues can be costly to repair, they are not necessarily common. Many 318ti owners report few or no major issues with their cars, particularly if they are well-maintained and serviced regularly. Parts for the 318ti are generally easy and cheap to source, and many owners find that doing basic mechanical work themselves can help keep repair costs down.

Is BMW 318ti reliable?

The 318ti is a fun, reliable, and efficient car to both own and drive. I have over 129,000 miles on my 1998 318ti that I purchased new and it's still running strong. An excellent car that I would recommend to anyone!

Is 318ti rare?

Unfortunately, Americans were characteristically preoccupied with grunge music and buying pickup trucks, and the 318ti's introduction largely fell on non-existent ears. Under 25,000 of them were produced and sold for the US, out of around 375,000 total 3 Series sold in the world market.

What does TI stand for in 318ti?

ti is touring international. s can stand for coupe. RAiMA.

What is the top speed of the 1995 BMW 318ti?

RWD. Automatic | Manual, 4 | 5-speed.
Yes.
209 km/h. 9.9 sec. 130 mph. Acceleration, 0-60 mph. 9.4 sec.

Is BMW 318ti reliable?

What is the top speed of the 1995 BMW 318ti?

RWD. Automatic | Manual, 4 | 5-speed.
Yes.
209 km/h. 9.9 sec. 130 mph. Acceleration, 0-60 mph. 9.4 sec.

Is 318ti rare?

What engine is in a BMW 318ti?

In North America, the sole model available was the 318ti, initially powered by a DOHC 1.8 litre, 138 hp (103 kW; 140 PS) inline-four BMW M42 engine. In 1996, in conjunction with making the car compliant with OBD-II, the M42 was replaced by the 1.9-litre M44 engine.

1995 Bmw 318ti car problems categorized by type of issue

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

Seat belts problems
Fuel system problems
Gasoline problems
Service brakes problems
Hydraulic problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 1995 Bmw 318ti vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

1995 Bmw 318ti complaints

The NHTSA has received 3 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1995 Bmw 318ti.

2003-01-24

SEAT BELTS PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2002-11-23
VIN: WBACG5322SA
Components: SEAT BELTS
Summary: CONSUMER STATED HAD TO HAVE BOTH FRONT SEAT BELT LATCHES REPLACED, BECAUSE OF LOOSENESS. WHEN EVALUATED AIR BAG WARNING LIGHTS CAME ON CONSUMER WAS TOLD THAT SEAT BELT LATCHES NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. *TS

Add Complaint

2001-03-01

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 1998-10-10
VIN: NOT AVAILAB
Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
Summary: CONSUMER PURCHASED A CERTIFIED PREOWNED CAR. CONSUMER CANNOT DRIVE VEHICLE BECAUSE GAS FUMES LEAK OUT; BUT, ARE SO STRONG ON INSIDE THAT IYT MAKES PASSENGERS SICK. DEALER SAID NOTHING WAS WRONG, IT WAS SUPPOSE TO DO THAT. THEY KEPT VEHICLE 5DAYS & FOUND NOTHING. A MECHANIC SAID THE MEMBRANE IS DEFECTIVE, AND WON'T WORK ON IT BECAUSE IT WAS STILL UNDER WARRANTY. *AK

Add Complaint

2001-01-26

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2001-01-23
VIN: WBACG5324SA
Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
Summary: DEALERSHIP IS UNWILLING TO PAY FOR OTHER PARTS RUINED BY BROKEN CALIPER. PROBLEMS STARTED BACK IN LATE AUG./SEPT., BUT THEY WOULD NOT LISTEN TO ME THAT THERE WAS SOMETHING WRONG WITH MY BRAKES AND WERE UNWILLING TO INVESTIGATE. *AK

Add Complaint

1995 Bmw 318ti recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 1995 Bmw 318ti.

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 1995 Bmw 318ti problems:

just bought a 1995 318Ti, Problems to look out for? - 318ti.org forum

http://www.318ti.org/forum/showthread.php?t=36417

Jun 10, 2012 ... Overheating due to failed cooling system components is the number one killer of these engines. While you're replacing the cooling system, you ...

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 ... i say buy it...you'll love it! 1995 318ti Active what a nice e36. i've never seen compact which would be so angry.

common problems - 318ti.org forum

http://www.318ti.org/forum/showthread.php?t=18971

Oct 26, 2007 ... '95 BMW 318ti. iTrader: (2). Photo Gallery. Default common problems. im looking at a 1998 318ti and it has 167,000 miles on it i have a few ...

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 ...