1999 Bmw 318ti problems

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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.

1999 Bmw 318ti

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Common 1999 Bmw 318ti problems

Based on the search results, there are several common problems reported by owners of the BMW 318ti 1999.

  • Key Ignition Problems: This issue can prevent the car from starting or cause intermittent starting problems. It can be caused by a faulty ignition switch or a problem with the car's electrical system .
  • Fuel Filter, Water Pump, Clutch, and Mounts: These are common problems that can occur in cars with high mileage. The fuel filter should be replaced around 90,000 miles, while the water pump and clutch may need to be replaced due to wear and tear. Mounts, such as engine and transmission mounts, can become worn out and need to be replaced to prevent vibrations and noise.
  • Timing Belts: The timing belts should be replaced around 90,000 miles to prevent engine damage. Failure to replace the timing belts can lead to expensive engine repairs or even engine replacement.
  • Oxygen Sensor Failure: This issue can cause the check engine light to come on and can affect the car's fuel efficiency and performance. The estimated cost for replacing the oxygen sensor is between $44 and $56.
  • Grill and Boot Lid Fitment: This issue can affect the car's appearance and may require replacement or adjustment to fix. The estimated cost for replacing the grill and boot lid can vary depending on the parts used and the labor costs .
  • Rocker Cover Gasket Leak: This issue can cause oil leaks and can lead to engine damage if not addressed promptly. The estimated cost for replacing the rocker cover gasket can vary depending on the parts used and the labor costs .

It is important to note that the cost of repairs and maintenance for the BMW 318ti 1999 can vary depending on the age, mileage, location, and shop. The annual maintenance cost of a BMW 318ti is $692 on average, and the average annual repair cost for a BMW is $968. Therefore, it is recommended to take the car to a certified BMW tech for regular maintenance and repairs to ensure its longevity and reliability.

1999 Bmw 318ti engine

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 BMW 318ti?

130 mph

Models

NameYearsTop speed
318ti1994–1995209 km/h (130 mph)
1995–1998209 km/h (130 mph)
323ti1997–2001230 km/h (143 mph)
318tds (diesel)1995–2001175 km/h (109 mph)

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!

How rare is a BMW 318ti?

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. On paper, the 318ti represented the best value per dollar that BMW has ever offered.

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.

What is the top speed of the BMW 318ti?

BMW claims 209 km/h (130 mph) for a 5-speed 318ti.

1999 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:

  • Unknown or other problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 1999 Bmw 318ti vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

1999 Bmw 318ti complaints

The NHTSA has received 1 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1999 Bmw 318ti.

2008-05-05

UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2008-05-01
  • VIN: WBACG8339XK
  • Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: CONSUMER REIMBURSEMENT FOR A 1999 BMW 318TI. CONSUMER IS REQUESTING REIMBURSEMENT FOR THE DAMAGES DONE TO HER VEHICLE AFTER IT WAS REPOSSESSED. *KB THE CONSUMER STATED THE BANK PERFORMED ILLEGAL ACTS TO GAIN POSSESSION OF THE VEHICLE.*JB
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Additional sources

More sources of information about 1999 Bmw 318ti problems:

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

Oct 26, 2007 ... common problems I'm thinking about buying a ti ... '98 BMW 318ti Base. iTrader: (0). Photo ... Copyright ©1999 - 2024, 318ti.org.

318 common problems to look out for.
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.

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

How reliable is a 1996 BMW 318ti? What are some common ...
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 ...

BMW 318ti : r/BMWE36
BMW 318ti : r/BMWE36
https://www.reddit.com/r/BMWE36/comments/12kq2n5/bmw_318ti/

Apr 13, 2023 ... Extremely reliable, just make sure it's been maintained (because they're 24-32 years old).

Other years of Bmw 318ti

bmw 318ti 1995 photo
318ti 1995
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318ti 1996
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318ti 1997
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318ti 1998
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bmw 318ti 1999 photo
318ti 1999
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1999 Bmw 318ti photo