1991 Bmw 325i problems

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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.

1991 Bmw 325i

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Common 1991 Bmw 325i problems

Based on complaints from owners of the BMW 325i 1991, several common problems have been reported:

  • Head Gasket Failure: Owners have reported head gasket failures in the BMW 325i 1991, resulting in significant oil leaks at the center of the engine block. This issue can lead to engine overheating, loss of coolant, and potential engine damage if not addressed promptly.
  • Steering Rack Failure: Steering rack failure in the BMW 325i can result in a massive leak, affecting the car's steering responsiveness and safety. This problem requires immediate attention to prevent accidents and ensure proper steering functionality.
  • Rust Issues: Rust can develop at the forward mounting points for the rear subframe and in the valance surrounding the exhaust pipes of the BMW 325i 1991. Rust can compromise the structural integrity of the vehicle, leading to safety concerns and potential costly repairs if left unattended.
  • Power Convertible Top Problems: Owners have reported expensive repairs associated with the power convertible tops of the BMW 325i 1991. Issues with the convertible top mechanism can lead to malfunctions, water leaks, and difficulties in operating the convertible feature of the vehicle.
  • Driveline Vibration in 325iX Models: The all-wheel-drive models of the BMW 325i, specifically the 325iX, are susceptible to driveline vibration issues. This problem can affect the drivability and comfort of the vehicle, requiring inspection and potential repairs to address the vibration concerns.

These common problems reported by owners of the BMW 325i 1991 highlight the importance of regular maintenance, prompt attention to issues, and thorough inspections to ensure the longevity and performance of this classic vehicle.

1991 Bmw 325i engine

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 1991 BMW 325i?

2.5 L M20 straight-6

Engines

ModelYearsEngine
325i, 325is, 325ix1985-19932.5 L M20 straight-6
M3, M3 Evo 11986-19872.3 L S14 straight-4
M3 Evo 21988
M3 Sport Evo1989-19902.5 L S14 straight-4

Is a BMW 325i fast?

141 is a nice top speed for a stock 325. All of us North American Owners can't see north of 128 MPH without modifying the electronics. My non-vanos 92 felt better up top than my 95 vanos did.

Is BMW 325I engine reliable?

If you take care of your 325I, it should last anywhere from 200,000 to 250,000 miles. But many have driven more than 300,000 miles without major technical problems.

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 1991 BMW 325I?

2.5 L M20 straight-6

Engines

ModelYearsEngine
325i, 325is, 325ix1985-19932.5 L M20 straight-6
M3, M3 Evo 11986-19872.3 L S14 straight-4
M3 Evo 21988
M3 Sport Evo1989-19902.5 L S14 straight-4

What engine is in a 325I?

Petrol

ModelYearsEngine
325i (US)2001–20062.5 L M54B25 inline-6
328i1998–20002.8 L M52TÜB28 inline-6
330i (EU)2000–20063.0 L M54B30 inline-6
330i (US)

1991 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:

  • Air bags problems
  • Service brakes problems
  • Hydraulic problems
  • Engine and engine cooling problems
  • Tires problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 1991 Bmw 325i vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

1991 Bmw 325i complaints

The NHTSA has received 11 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1991 Bmw 325i.

2015-05-23

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2014-07-10
  • VIN: WBABB2310ME
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: WHILE SITTING AT A TRAFFIC LIGHT THE AIR BAG EXPLODED. LOUD EXPLOSION AND A PUFF OF WHITE SMOKY POWDER FILLED THE CAR CABIN. IF I WERE DRIVING, THERE WOULD HAVE BEEN AN ACCIDENT AS MY VISIBILITY WAS ZERO. WITHOUT INSPECTING, A BMW SERVICE REP SAID A SENSOR HAD TO HAVE SET THE BAG OFF. NEW AIR BAG WOULD COST $990 + THE SENSOR REPLACEMENT COST.
2005-06-27

TIRES PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2005-06-15
  • VIN: WBABB2315ME
  • Components: TIRES
  • Summary: DT: THE TIRES ONLY HAVE 50 TO 60 MILES ON THEM, TWO BLOW OUTS. THE MANUFACTURER/DEALER SAID THIS WAS CAUSED BY ROAD HAZARD. WHILE DRIVING ON THE FREEWAY AT SPEEDS OF 60 MPH THE RIGHT REAR TIRE AND THE DRIVERS SIDE FRONT TIRE BLEW. OUT. THE MANUFACTURER SAID THEY WOULD NOT REPLACE THEM. THEY HAVE NOT CONTACTED CONSUMER AGAIN. *AK
2000-01-03

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1999-06-25
  • VIN: WBAAE931XME
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
  • Summary: OUR PROBLEM APPEARS TO BE SIMILIAR TO ODI NOS. 402200 AND 404275. WE BOUGHT THE CAR USED (PRIVATE SALE). THE ABS WAS NOT WORKING DUE TO BEING IN AN ACCIDENT. THE DEALER HAS REPLACED THE HYDRAULIC PUMP (WHICH WAS NOT WORKING), THE CONTROL MODULE (WHICH WAS WORKING), GONE OVER ALL THE WIRING IN DETAIL (WITH SCOPE). THE PROBLEM IS THAT THE ABS PUMP IS NOW ACTIVATING ALL THE TIME, EVEN WHEN THE CAR IS PARKED. DO YOU HAVE ANY SUGGESTIONS?*AK
1999-09-05

POWER TRAIN PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1999-08-27
  • Number Of Injuries: 1
  • Crash: 1
  • VIN: WBAAA2310ME
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: VEHICLE SURGED FORWARD IMMEDIALTELY UPON ENGAGEMENT INTO FORWARD GEAR AND COULD NOT BE STOPPED BEFORE HITTING CONCRETE PLATFORM.
1999-09-02

SEAT BELTS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • VIN: 2WBAAE0318M
  • Components: SEAT BELTS
  • Summary: VEHICLE WAS IN USE WHEN DRIVER'S SIDE SEAT BELT POPPED OUT OF BUCKLE AND WOULD NOT GO BACK IN, CAUSING LOSS OF PROTECTION. *AK
1999-04-12

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • Fire: 1
  • VIN: WB2AA2314ME
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
  • Summary: POSSIBLE ENGINE FAILURE RESULTED IN VEHICLE FIRE.
1999-03-18

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1995-06-01
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
  • Summary: WHEN APPLYING BRAKES, STEERING WHEEL SHAKES VIGOROUSLY WHICH MAY CAUSE A LOSS OF STEERING CONTROL AND RESULT IN AN ACCIDENT. PLEASE PROVIDE FURTHER INFORMATION AND VIN#. *AK
1998-07-02

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1998-06-30
  • VIN: WBAAD2316ME
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
  • Summary: CONSUMER WAS DRIVING ON THE STREET AT 25 MPH UNDER NORMAL ROAD CONDITIONS WHEN SUDDENLY HEARD A LOUD CRACKING SOUND AND ENGINE STOPPED RUNNING. DEALER WAS NOT NOTIFIED. *AK
1996-04-04

STRUCTURE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1994-11-14
  • Number Of Injuries: 1
  • Crash: 1
  • VIN: WBAAD1315ME
  • Components: STRUCTURE
  • Summary: FRONT WHEEL BROKE THROUGH THE FLOOR BOARD. CRUISE CONTROL WOULD NOT DISENGAGE. *AK
1996-01-02

VISIBILITY PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1996-01-01
  • VIN: WBAAD2313ME
  • Components: VISIBILITY
  • Summary: BACK WINDOW LOOKS LIKE IT IS COMPLETELY SHATTERED. PLEASE DESCRIBE DETAILS. TT
1995-11-28

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1995-11-03
  • Number Of Injuries: 1
  • Crash: 1
  • VIN: WBABB2319ME
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: DRIVER'S SIDE AIR BAG DID NOT DEPLOY AT 50 MPH WHEN REAR ENDED. PLEASE DESCRIBE. TT
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Additional sources

More sources of information about 1991 Bmw 325i problems:

Any common E30 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 ...

BMW 325i Problems and Complaints - 11 Issues
BMW 325i Problems and Complaints - 11 Issues
https://repairpal.com/problems/bmw/325i

Top BMW 325i Problems · Oil Leaks From Lower Engine Area · Blower Final Stage Fan Resistor May Fail · Rear Window Regulator · Coolant Loss Due to Leak from ...

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

Dec 30, 2015 ... 1983 - 1991 (E30) ... E30 including insurance and gas and other common problems that the E30 has. ... Are you talking about the e30 325i or e46 325i ...

325i COMMON PROBLEMS | BimmerFest BMW Forum
325i COMMON PROBLEMS | BimmerFest BMW Forum
https://www.bimmerfest.com/threads/325i-common-problems.467387/

Jul 7, 2010 ... Common problems with the car include the coolant reservoir, the window regulators, suspension bushings, the steering coupler, and a variety of ...

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

Other years of Bmw 325i

bmw 325i 1992 photo
325i 1992
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86

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bmw 325i 1993 photo
325i 1993
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55

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bmw 325i 1994 photo
325i 1994
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17

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bmw 325i 1995 photo
325i 1995
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bmw 325i 2000 photo
325i 2000
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bmw 325i 2001 photo
325i 2001
Bmw

154

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1991 Bmw 325i photo