1988 Bmw 325 problems

General information about Bmw-325
Overview of popular issues
Analysis of common problems
Сomplaints list
Recalls list

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.

Social links

Common 1988 Bmw 325 problems

Based on complaints from owners of the BMW 325 1988, common problems with this car include:

Driveshaft Not Balanced:
Owners have reported issues with the driveshaft not being balanced, leading to vibrations and potential drivability issues. A driveshaft that is not balanced can cause excessive vibration, noise, and even damage to other drivetrain components. It is crucial to address this problem promptly to avoid further damage to the vehicle.
Collapsed Engine and/or Transmission Mounts:
Complaints indicate problems with collapsed engine and/or transmission mounts. When these mounts fail, it can result in excessive engine movement, transmission misalignment, and increased vibration. This issue can lead to further damage if not addressed, affecting the overall performance and safety of the vehicle.
Poor Rear Subframe:
Owners have highlighted issues with the rear subframe of the BMW 325 1988. A poor rear subframe can lead to structural integrity problems, affecting the handling and stability of the vehicle. It is essential to inspect and address any issues with the rear subframe to ensure the safety and longevity of the car.
Cigarette Plug Compatibility:
Another reported problem is the cigarette plug not accepting most plugs. This issue can be inconvenient, especially for charging devices or using accessories in the car. It is essential to diagnose the cause of this problem, which could be related to the plug's design or internal components, to ensure proper functionality.

These common problems with the BMW 325 1988, as reported by owners, highlight various mechanical and electrical issues that can impact the performance, safety, and overall driving experience of the vehicle. Regular maintenance, timely repairs, and thorough inspections can help address these issues and keep the car in optimal condition.

Is the BMW 325 reliable?

One of the many reasons to buy a BMW is that it is well-built. Most rear-wheel drive BMWs have the same weight on the front and back wheels. The world knows that BMWs are reliable, and the BMW 325I is no different. This model is strong, long-lasting, and reliable because it is well-made and well-engineered.

How many miles will a BMW 325 last?

These cars easily last for 200000 to 250000 miles, if maintained properly according to company instructions. Things you should keep in mind for a long life of the car: Life of car depends mostly on how you keep it. Avoid unnecessary modifications to engine and electrical wirings.

How many miles per gallon does a 1988 BMW 325i get?

Based on data from 14 vehicles, 281 fuel-ups and 67,593 miles of driving, the 1988 BMW 325i gets a combined Avg MPG of 20.42 with a 0.36 MPG margin of error.

What engine is in a 1988 BMW 325i?

2.5 L M20 straight-6

Engines

Model	Years	Engine
325, 325e, 325es	1988	2.7 L M20B27 straight-6
325i, 325is, 325ix	1985-1993	2.5 L M20 straight-6
M3, M3 Evo 1	1986-1987	2.3 L S14 straight-4
M3 Evo 2	1988

Is the BMW 325 reliable?

How many miles will a BMW 325 last?

What engine is in a 1988 BMW 325i?

2.5 L M20 straight-6

Engines

Model	Years	Engine
325, 325e, 325es	1988	2.7 L M20B27 straight-6
325i, 325is, 325ix	1985-1993	2.5 L M20 straight-6
M3, M3 Evo 1	1986-1987	2.3 L S14 straight-4
M3 Evo 2	1988

How many miles per gallon does a 1988 BMW 325i get?

Based on data from 14 vehicles, 281 fuel-ups and 67,593 miles of driving, the 1988 BMW 325i gets a combined Avg MPG of 20.42 with a 0.36 MPG margin of error.

1988 Bmw 325 car problems categorized by type of issue

After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Bmw 325 problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:

Equipment problems
Power train problems
Visibility problems
Seat belts problems
Fuel system problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 1988 Bmw 325 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

1988 Bmw 325 complaints

The NHTSA has received 9 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1988 Bmw 325.

2000-09-11

VISIBILITY PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
VIN: WBAAA1308J8
Components: VISIBILITY
Summary: PRIOR TO RECALL 93V-015 THE VEHICLE EXPERIENCED NUMEROUS AND CONSTANT PROBLEMS AND REPAIRS REGARDING THE COOLANT SYSTEM, CONSUMER ASKING FOR REIMBURSEMENT. *YH

Add Complaint

1999-09-08

EQUIPMENT PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
Number Of Injuries: 1
Components: EQUIPMENT
Summary: WHEN CONSUMER'S HUSBAND WAS CHANGING THE LEFT FRONT TIRE, THE JACK COLLAPSED AND BROKE HIS LEFT FOREARM. PLEASE PROVIDE ANY FURTHER DETAILS. *AK

Add Complaint

1996-04-02

SEAT BELTS PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
VIN: WBAAA1309J4
Components: SEAT BELTS
Summary: WHILE DRIVING, THE DRIVER'S SIDE SEAT BELT COMES LOOSE. PLEASE DESCRIBE. *AK

Add Complaint

1996-02-26

EQUIPMENT PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 1996-02-06
Number Of Injuries: 1
Crash: 1
Components: EQUIPMENT
Summary: THE JACK CAME WITH CAR COLLAPSED ON THE PERSON WORKING ON THE CAR BREAKING HIS ARM AND DENTING THE DOOR *AK

Add Complaint

1996-02-26

EQUIPMENT PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 1996-02-06
Number Of Injuries: 1
Crash: 1
Components: EQUIPMENT
Summary: THE JACK CAME WITH CAR COLLAPSED ON THE PERSON WORKING ON THE CAR BREAKING HIS ARM AND DENTING THE DOOR *AK

Add Complaint

1996-01-24

POWER TRAIN PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 1996-01-09
VIN: WBAAB9301J2
Components: POWER TRAIN
Summary: THE TRANSFER CASE ON THE VEHICLE FROZE UP AND CAUSED THE VEHICLE TO STOP ABRUPTLY WHILE DRIVING.PLEASE DESCRIBE. TT

Add Complaint

1996-01-24

POWER TRAIN PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 1996-01-09
VIN: WBAAB9301J2
Components: POWER TRAIN
Summary: THE TRANSFER CASE ON THE VEHICLE FROZE UP AND CAUSED THE VEHICLE TO STOP ABRUPTLY WHILE DRIVING.PLEASE DESCRIBE. TT

Add Complaint

1995-07-27

POWER TRAIN PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 1994-07-01
Components: POWER TRAIN
Summary: TRANSMISSION FAILURE. *AW

Add Complaint

1995-03-30

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 1989-03-30
VIN: WBAAA1302J8
Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
Summary: VEHICLE STALLS IN TRAFFIC DUE TO DEFECTIVE FUEL PUMP. TT

Add Complaint

1988 Bmw 325 recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 1988 Bmw 325.

1993-02-01

Manufacturer: BAYERISCHE MOTOREN WERKE
Components: VISIBILITY:DEFROSTER/DEFOGGER/HVAC SYSTEM:HEATER CORE
Summary: THE MALFUNCTION OR FAILURE OF A COOLANT SYSTEM COMPONENT RESULTS IN SIGNIFICANTLY INCREASED COOLANT TEMPERATURE AND A RESULTING INCREASE IN SYSTEM PRESSURE.
Consequence: VEHICLES OPERATED UNDER THIS INCREASED COOLING SYSTEMPRESSURE CONDITION CAN SUFFER DAMAGE OR FAILURE OF PARTS OF THE COOLING SYSTEMSUCH AS (1) LEAKAGE FROM A COOLANT HOSE, (2) LEAKAGE OF THE RADIATOR OREXPANSION TANK, (3) DISCONNECTION OF A HOSE FROM A PIPE OR A FITTING, AND (4)CRACKS IN THE HEATER CORE END PIECE RESULTING IN COOLANT LEAKAGE. IN SOME CASES,BOILING COOLANT CAN CONTACT THE LOWER RIGHT LEG OF THE DRIVER RESULTING INBURNS. ALSO, ESCAPING COOLANT IN THE PASSENGER COMPARTMENT CAN CAUSE VAPORFOGGING OF THE INTERIOR SURFACE OF THE WINDOWS, REDUCING DRIVER VISIBILITY.
Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSTALL A THERMOSTATIC BYPASS VALVE IN THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT TO CONTROL COOLANT TEMPERATURE IN THE HEATER CORE. ALSO, A NEW DESIGN RADIATOR CAP WILL BE INSTALLED, TO CONTROL PRESSURE AND PROVIDE GREATER COOLANT OVERFLOW IN THE EVENT OF OVERHEATING.

1988-03-15

Manufacturer: BAYERISCHE MOTOREN WERKE
Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL:CABLES
Summary: THE OIL DIPSTICK TUBE ATTACHING BRACKET MAY HAVE BEEN BENT DURING PRODUCTION OR SCHEDULED MAINTENANCE, REDUCING THE CLEARANCE BETWEEN THE DIPSTICK RING AND THE THROTTLE BELLCRANK LEVER.
Consequence: THIS REDUCED CLEARANCE MAY INHIBIT THE RETURN OF THETHROTTLE TO A FULLY CLOSED IDLE POSITION, WHEN THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL ISRELEASED.
Remedy: REQUIRES THE CUTTING OFF THE OUTBOARD END OF THE THROTTLE BELLCRANK LEVER TO PROVIDE NECESSARY CLEARANCE.

Additional sources

More sources of information about 1988 Bmw 325 problems:

Any common E30 problems?

https://www.bimmerforums.com/forum/showthread.php?493868-Any-common-E30-problems

Mar 2, 2006 ... I am about to own my first BMW ever. It's a 87 325IS with about 200k miles, 5pd. E30 is something I've always drooled on since high school. I ...

What are the common problems with the 2006 BMW 325i? - Quora

https://www.quora.com/What-are-the-common-problems-with-the-2006-BMW-325i

Feb 9, 2016 ... Belt tensioners · Unused keys loose charge and might not come back to life · Driver's door mechanism breaks disabling manual entry (there's a kit ...

Really want an E30 325i but concerned about reliability and ...

https://www.reddit.com/r/E30/comments/2y3pul/really_want_an_e30_325i_but_concerned_about/

Mar 6, 2015 ... The common problems that seem to plague E30s are leaks, electrical gremlins, and rust in the wheel wells, battery tray and the footwells among ...

E30. Reliable first car?

https://www.bimmerforums.com/forum/showthread.php?2270193-E30-Reliable-first-car

Dec 30, 2015 ... ... E30 including insurance and gas and other common problems that the E30 has. ... Ex's: 1984 325e, 1988 325IX, 1992 525I, 1995 ... Bimmerforums.com is ...