1996 Bmw 325 problems

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

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Common 1996 Bmw 325 problems

The BMW 325, produced in 1996, is known for several common problems that have been reported by its owners. These issues can affect the car's performance, safety, and overall lifespan. Here are some of the most frequently reported problems and their details:

Rear Coil Springs: Broken rear coil springs are a common issue in the BMW 3 Series, including the 1996 325 model. This problem can lead to a sagging or lower-than-normal appearance in the rear of the vehicle, decreased handling and stability, and increased tire wear due to misalignment. Replacing the affected springs is the recommended solution to address this issue.

Headlight Condensation: Condensation in the headlights can affect the beam pattern, leading to reduced visibility while driving at night. This issue may require the headlights to be removed, cleaned, and resealed to fix the problem.

Airbag Light: The airbag light on the 1996 BMW 325 may come on if the steering wheel has been removed, indicating a problem with the airbag system. This issue can usually be resolved with diagnostics and resetting the system, or by repairing or replacing components of the airbag system.

Rear Trailing Arm Bushings: Worn or delaminated rear trailing arm bushings can cause clonking or knocking sounds in the BMW 325. Addressing this issue as soon as possible is essential to ensure proper suspension performance and prevent further damage.

Brake Pipes: The front and rear brake pipes on the BMW 325 are prone to rust, which can lead to leaking brake fluid, decreased braking performance, and a spongy or unresponsive brake pedal. Regular inspections and timely replacement of affected brake pipes are crucial to maintain the car's braking system.

Engine Problems: Some owners have reported issues with the engine, such as the engine ticking or the radio display dimming. These problems may require repairing or replacing specific engine components.

Interior and Exterior Components: Over time, the black leather interior may become severely dried out due to sun exposure, and the driver electronic seat backrest tilt may stop functioning. These issues may require replacing specific parts or applying leather treatment products.

Rust: The BMW 325 is known to have rust issues in some regions of the vehicle, including the sills, rear trailing arm mounts, front anti-roll bar mounts, and circular lifting pads underneath. Regular inspections and proper maintenance can help prevent rust from forming or spreading.

Steering Wheel Removal: Removing the steering wheel can cause the airbag light to come on, indicating a problem with the airbag system. Diagnostics and resetting the system, or repairing or replacing components of the airbag system, can resolve this issue.

Suspension Components: Suspension components, such as outer front ball joints, can wear out and require replacement. Regular inspections and timely replacement of affected parts can help maintain the car's handling and stability.

In conclusion, the BMW 325, like any other vehicle, can experience common problems that may affect its performance, safety, and lifespan. Regular inspections, timely maintenance, and addressing issues as soon as they are detected can help ensure the car's longevity and optimal performance.

Is the BMW E36 325i reliable?

It's definitely a good car. It's also a reliable car, *if* maintained properly. Note that at this point (2023), the youngest E36 is 24 years old, and the vast majority of them have *not* been maintained properly. Expect to either pay up for one with up-to-date maintenance, or spend thousands to fix one up.

Is a BMW 325i a good first car?

Bottom line. Depending on what you want, a 325i could be a good first car, and it's one of the least expensive BMWs money can buy. It is costly compared to cheaper (and usually more reliable) Japanese and Korean cars like the Honda Civic or Kia Soul.

What does 325 mean on BMW?

A while ago, the first number was the series and the second two numbers were the engine size (times 10). So, a BMW 325i was a 3 series with a 2.5l motor.

Is the 2006 BMW 325i reliable?

The 325i is a pretty reliable German car. You should be good to about ~80K miles before you start having to replace bigger items. The core of the car (engine, drivetrain) will be solid for a long time.

Are 1996 BMW reliable?

Most reliable bmw

If you are a mechanically inclined person, thr design of this car is very easy to repair compared to other cars. When everything is in working order, it is a very reliable vehicle and when taken care of, the solid motor, trans and differently will last you a long time.

Is the BMW E36 325i reliable?

What problems does a BMW 325i have?

What is a common problem in BMW?

Common Problems with BMW Cars: Cooling System Failures: BMWs are notorious for cooling system issues, including water pump failure, leaking coolant hoses, and radiator problems. The cooling system is crucial for maintaining the engine's temperature, preventing overheating and significant engine damage. Oil Leaks: Hig.

1996 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:

Structure problems
Equipment problems
Seat belts problems
Fuel system problems
Gasoline problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 1996 Bmw 325 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

1996 Bmw 325 complaints

The NHTSA has received 5 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1996 Bmw 325.

1997-10-01

STRUCTURE PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
VIN: WBABK8323TE
Components: STRUCTURE
Summary: CONVERTIBLE TOP FAILED.

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1997-10-01

EQUIPMENT PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
VIN: WBABK8323TE
Components: EQUIPMENT
Summary: SPEAKER FAILED.

Add Complaint

1997-07-16

SEAT BELTS PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 1997-02-01
VIN: WBABB2306J8
Components: SEAT BELTS
Summary: CONSUMER SAYS WHEN DRIVING VEHICLE THE SEAT BELT UNLATCHES, SOMETIMES IF HE TAPS ON MACHANISM IT WOULD RELEASE THE RESTRAINT BELTS. *AK

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1997-01-28

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 1996-12-04
VIN: WBABG2328TE
Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
Summary: FUEL RAIL FAILED, CAUSING FUEL LEAK IN THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT.

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1996-11-05

LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 1996-09-27
VIN: WBACD3322TA
Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
Summary: HOOD LATCH ASSEMBLY FAILED WHILE DRIVING, HOOD FLEW UP BREAKING THE WINDSHEILD. *AK

Add Complaint

Additional sources

More sources of information about 1996 Bmw 325 problems:

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 ...

what are some common problems with a 325is

https://www.bimmerforums.com/forum/showthread.php?115121-what-are-some-common-problems-with-a-325is

Jul 18, 2003 ... I am going to purchase a 95 bmw 325is and wanted to know some common problems with the engine etc.. ... 1996 1.9L z3 *updates*. Cruzmisl's Avatar.

Planning to purchase a 1996 BMW 318i, common issues? : r/BMW

https://www.reddit.com/r/BMW/comments/23m4tz/planning_to_purchase_a_1996_bmw_318i_common_issues/

Apr 21, 2014 ... If all goes wrong and I start hating the engine, my friend has an engine from his e46 325i that he would help me swap (if so wanted). Upvote

list of all common E36 problems

https://www.bimmerforums.com/forum/showthread.php?813462-list-of-all-common-E36-problems

Aug 20, 2007 ... 1. Models w/ 80A alternator are too weak to keep many aftermarker electrical additions going. · 2. Bad puller fan design, had to switch to ...