1988 Bmw 325i problems
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 1988 Bmw 325i problems
Based on the complaints from owners of the BMW 325i 1988, several common problems have been identified:
- Head Gasket Failure: Owners have reported head gasket failures in the BMW 325i, resulting in significant oil leaks at the center of the engine block. This issue can be costly to repair and should be monitored closely to prevent further damage.
- Steering Rack Failure: A common problem in the BMW 325i is steering rack failure, which can lead to massive leaks. This issue affects the handling and safety of the vehicle and should be addressed promptly by a qualified mechanic.
- Rust Issues: Rust can develop in various areas of the BMW 325i, particularly at the forward mounting points for the rear subframe, in the valance surrounding the exhaust pipes, and at the body's fenders and rocker panels. Regular inspections and rust prevention measures are essential to maintain the car's structural integrity.
- Power Convertible Top Problems: Owners have reported expensive repairs associated with power convertible tops in the BMW 325i. Issues with the convertible mechanism can be complex and costly to fix, requiring specialized attention from experienced technicians.
- Driveline Vibration in 325iX Models: The all-wheel-drive models of the BMW 325i, known as 325iX, are susceptible to driveline vibration issues. This problem can affect the vehicle's performance and drivability, necessitating professional diagnosis and repair.
These common problems highlight the importance of regular maintenance, timely repairs, and thorough inspections to ensure the BMW 325i 1988 remains in optimal condition. Owners should address these issues promptly to prevent further damage and maintain the vehicle's performance and longevity.
Is the BMW 325i 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 long do 325i engines last?
200000 to 250000 miles
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.
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.
Is the BMW 325i 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.
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.
Are BMW E30 reliable?
The E30 is an unusually stout car with few weaknesses, at least by 1980s German-car standards. The engines can last nearly forever but require valve adjustments every 15,000 miles and, to be safe, a new timing belt at four-year or 45,000-mile intervals.
1988 Bmw 325i car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Bmw 325i problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Service brakes problems
- Hydraulic problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Visibility problems
- Seats problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1988 Bmw 325i vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1988 Bmw 325i complaints
The NHTSA has received 5 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1988 Bmw 325i.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-01-21
- VIN: WBABB2303J8
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,VISIBILITY
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1988 BMW 325I. THE CONTACT STATED THAT A GASKET FAILED IN THE VEHICLE. THE HEATER WAS ACTIVATED AND CAUSED THE SYSTEM PRESSURE TO INCREASE, WHICH CAUSED THE GASKET TO BURST. THE VEHICLE WAS INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER 93V015000 (VISIBILITY:DEFROSTER/DEFOGGER SYSTEM:WINDSHIELD:HEATER CORE), BUT THE DEALER STATED THAT THEY WOULD NOT REPAIR THE GASKET. INSTEAD, THEY WILL INSTALL A REVISE RADIATOR CAP AND A BYPASS VALVE AT THE COST OF $1,000-$1,500. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THIS WILL NOT CORRECT THE FAILURE WITH HIS VEHICLE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 135,000. UPDATED 02-23-09 *BF UPDATED 02/29/09. *JB
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,SEATS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-02-01
- VIN: WBAAB5403J8
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,SEATS
- Summary: MY ANTI-LOCK BRAKE LIGHT JUST CAME ON ONE DAY, THEN I STARTED FEELING AND HEARING LIKE A THUMP OR BOUNCE IN THE RIGHT PASSENGER TIRE/WHEEL. HAD TIRE CHECKED NOTHING WRONG , NO PROBLEM WITH BRAKES ? *JB
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-10-19
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- Fire: 1
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: MY WIFE WAS DRIVING HER 1988 BMW 325IS IN THE RAIN, AND LOST CONTROL. SHE WAS HIT IN A SIDE IMPACT BY A LATE MODEL CHEVROLET CAMARO TRAVELING AT APPROXIMATELY 40 MPH. THE HIT WAS ON THE PASSENGER SIDE AND MY WIFE'S PASSENGER WERE SEVERELY INJURED. I BELIEVE THAT THE BMW'S DOOR DESIGN IS DEFECTIVE, AS THE PASSENGER SIDE WAS ALMOST COMPLETELY OBLITERATED. THE DOOR DID NOT CRUMPLE, BUT INSTEAD FOLDED INWARD AND UPWARD, FILLING UP THE ENTIRE PASSENGER COMPARTMENT. PLEASE SEE PICTURES AT: HTTP://WWW.SNOWRABBIT.ORG/325IS_ACCIDENT. *AK
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: WBABB2306J8
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: I HAVE TRIED TO SETTLE WITH THE DEALER, BUT HE HAS REFUSED. I HAVE PROOF OF THE ODOMETER FRAUD AND SINCE THE PURCHASE OF THE CAR, I HAVE SPENT $1300 IN REPAIRS PLUS $1700 IN ATTORNEY'S FEES. I'M AT A LOSS AS TO HOW TO FURTHER PROCEED.*AK
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-07-30
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: NO SUMARY LISTED FOR ABOV EVEHICLE. *AK
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1988 Bmw 325i problems:
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 ...
Really want an E30 325i but concerned about reliability and ...
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 ...
What are the common problems with the 2006 BMW 325i? - Quora
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 the known problems in '89 325i convertible? | BimmerFest ...
Nov 9, 2009 ... sorry, i didn't have time to search forum (i'm at work) I'm trying to hook-up my younger brother with a decent bmw. (will be 3rd in family)
E30 buyers guide
Sep 9, 2007 ... If they are you are generally SOL, My old 325i and my m3 both have this problem, I just expect locks on e30s not to work. Easy work around is ...
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