2003 Bmw 325xi problems

General information about Bmw-325xi
Overview of popular issues
Recalls list

The fourth generation of the BMW 3 Series range of compact executive cars is designated under the model code E46, which was produced by the German automaker BMW from 1997 to 2006, and was the successor to the E36 3 Series which ceased production in 2000. First introduced in November 1997, the E46 was available in sedan, coupé, convertible, station wagon and hatchback body styles. The latter has been marketed as the 3 Series Compact.

The M3 performance model was introduced in June 2000 with a 2-door coupé body style, followed by the convertible counterpart in April 2001. The M3 is powered by the BMW S54 straight-six engine with either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed SMG-II automated manual transmission.

The E46 line-up was phased out starting from late 2004, following the introduction of the E90 3 Series sedans. However, the E46 coupé and convertible body styles remained in production until August 2006.

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Common 2003 Bmw 325xi problems

Common Problems with the BMW 325xi 2003

Car cranking and cutting off: Another common problem reported by BMW 325xi 2003 owners is that the car cranks and then cuts off. This issue can be frustrating, especially when heading to a specific destination. The cause of this problem is not explicitly stated, but it is a common issue with this car model.

Engine mounts and axles: BMW 325xi 2003 owners have reported that the engine mounts and axles are worn out. The rubber on the engine mounts is cracked and dried up, while the axles in the front are always breaking due to the turning radius. These issues can cause the car to sling grease everywhere, leading to further damage if not addressed promptly .
Oil leaks: BMW 325xi 2003 owners have reported oil leaks from the under tray, oil pan, and valve cover gasket. These leaks can cause the car to leak oil from the bottom to the top and can be a significant safety hazard if not addressed promptly. The oil leaks can also cause damage to other parts of the car, leading to more expensive repairs in the future .
Engine problems: The BMW 325xi 2003 has been involved in a class-action lawsuit due to engine problems. The NHTSA has reported several engine problems, including coolant expansion tank failures, radiator end tank failures, and water pump impeller or bearing failures. These issues can lead to engine failure, which can be a significant safety hazard and can cause expensive repairs.

In conclusion, the BMW 325xi 2003 is a sophisticated piece of engineering, but it has several common problems that owners should be aware of. These problems can range from minor inconveniences, such as vibrations during long drives, to significant safety hazards, such as engine failure. If you are considering purchasing a BMW 325xi 2003, it is essential to be aware of these common problems and to budget for potential repairs.

How many miles does a 2003 BMW 325i last?

You can expect your 3 Series to last anywhere from 200,000 to 250,000 miles when properly maintained. Is the BMW 3 Series reliable? Due to its meticulous craftsmanship and precision engineering, the 3 Series is a durable, long-lasting, and dependable car.

What problems does a 2003 BMW 316i have?

Common Problems with the BMW 316i

Like any other used or new car, it can develop certain issues or defects that can affect its performance. Some of the most common problems with the BMW 316i include oil leaks, coolant leaks, engine overheating, suspension issues, and failing electrical components.

What is the difference between a BMW 325i and a 325xi?

The BMW 325xi is very similar to the hugely popular 325i. The difference is that the BMW 325xi has all-wheel drive which make it an exceptional performer in slippery conditions, on bad road surfaces and in off road conditions.

What problems does a BMW 325i have?

What problems does a 2003 BMW 316i have?

Common Problems with the BMW 316i

How many miles does a 2003 BMW 325i last?

What is the most common problem with BMW E46?

Cooling System Leaks

The plastic components in the cooling system on E46 BMWs are prone to becoming brittle and cracking, allowing coolant to make its way out of the cooling system. The resulting loss of coolant can lead to the engine overheating, which can cause catastrophic engine failure.

What problems does a BMW 325i have?

2003 Bmw 325xi complaints

The NHTSA has received 0 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2003 Bmw 325xi.

You can leave your car complaint via the special form below.

2003 Bmw 325xi recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 5 recalls for different components of the 2003 Bmw 325xi.

2020-01-15

Manufacturer: BMW of North America, LLC
Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
Summary: BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2000-2005 323iT, 325iT, 325xiT, 320i, 323i, 325i, 325xi, 328i, 330i and 330xi and 2000-2006 323Ci, 325Ci, 328Ci, 330Ci, M3 Coupe, 323Cic, 325Cic, 330Cic, and M3 Convertible vehicles equipped with non-desiccated frontal Takata PSAN inflators and PSPI passenger frontal air bag inflators containing phase stabilized ammonium nitrate (PSAN) propellant that were used as interim remedy parts for previous Takata recalls. These inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, high temperatures, and high temperature cycling.
Consequence: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Remedy: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the passenger's front air bag, free of charge. The recall began February 13, 2020. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.

2015-05-28

Manufacturer: BMW of North America, LLC
Park It: 1
Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
Summary: BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain model year 2002-2005 325i, 325xi, 330i, and 330xi Sedans, and 325xi and 325i Sportswagons, 2002-2006 330Ci, 325Ci, and M3 Convertibles and 325i, 330i, and M3 Coupes, 2002-2003 M5, 540i, 525i Sedan, and 530i Sedans, and 540i and 525i Sportswagons, and 2003 X5 3.0i and 4.4i Sports Activity Vehicles. Please note that the 5-series and X5 vehicles are only included if they are equipped with the optional sports steering wheel. The affected vehicles are equipped with a dual-stage driver frontal air bag that may be susceptible to moisture intrusion which, over time, could cause the inflator to rupture.
Consequence: In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the driver's frontal air bag, the inflator could rupture with metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Remedy: Owners are advised not to drive their vehicles until the vehicle has been remedied. BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the front driver air bag module, free of charge. The recall began Aug 2016. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417. Note: This recall supersedes recall 14V-348 in its entirety. Additionally, vehicles that have had their driver side frontal air bag replaced previously as part of a recall remedy need to have their air bag replaced under this recall as well. Note: On December 17, 2015 BMW removed the model year 2004 X5 3.0i and 4.4i Sports Activity vehicle from this recall. Those vehicles were mistakenly identified as including the air bags that are subject to this recall.

2014-07-16

Manufacturer: BMW of North America, LLC
Components: AIR BAGS
Summary: BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain model year 2000 323i sedans, coupes, convertibles, and Sports Wagons; 2000 328i sedans and coupes; 2001-2005 325i sedans, coupes, convertibles, and Sport Wagons; 2001-2005 325xi sedans and Sports Wagons; 2006 325i coupes and convertibles; 2001-2006 330i sedans, coupes, and convertibles; 2001-2005 330xi sedans; and 2001-2006 M3 coupes and convertibles to address a safety defect in the passenger side frontal air bag which may produce excessive internal pressure that could cause the air bag inflator to rupture upon deployment of the air bag.
Consequence: In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passenger's frontal air bag, excessive internal pressure could cause rupturing of the inflator resulting in metal fragments striking and potentially seriously injuring the passenger seat occupant or other occupants.
Remedy: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the passenger side frontal air bag, free of charge. An interim notice was mailed to owners in September 2014. A second notice was mailed when an adequate supply of parts became available, on December 1, 2014. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417 or email BMW at [email protected].

2013-05-03

Manufacturer: BMW of North America, LLC
Components: AIR BAGS
Summary: BMW is recalling certain model year 2002-2003 325i, 325xi, 330i, 330xi sedans; 325Ci and 330Ci coupes and convertibles; 325iT and 325xiT Sports Wagons; and M3 coupes and convertibles to address a safety defect in the passenger side frontal air bag which may produce excessive internal pressure causing the inflator to rupture upon deployment of the air bag.
Consequence: In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passenger's frontal air bag, the inflator could rupture with metal fragments striking and potentially seriously injuring the passenger seat occupant or other occupants.
Remedy: BMW intends to issue initial notifications to owners informing them of the safety defect in June 2013. Once replacement parts are available, estimated for July, BMW will notify owners again to contact their dealers and schedule a replacement of the passenger air bag, free of charge. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417 or email BMW at [email protected].

2011-08-26

Manufacturer: BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, LLC
Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING:TAIL LIGHTS
Summary: BMW IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2002-2005 325I, 325XI, 330I, AND 330XI VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM SEPTEMBER 1, 2001, THROUGH MARCH 1, 2005. OVER TIME, RESISTANCE IN THE ELECTRICAL CONTACTS MAY CAUSE ONE OR MORE REAR LAMP FUNCTIONS (TAIL LIGHT, BRAKE LIGHT, AND/OR TURN-SIGNAL), WITHIN THE VEHICLE'S BODY PANEL, TO STOP WORKING.
Consequence: INTERMITTENT LIGHT OPERATION REDUCES THE ABILITY TO WARN OTHER MOTORISTS OF THE DRIVER'S INTENTIONS. THIS COULD CAUSE A VEHICLE CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.
Remedy: BMW WILL NOTIFY OWNERS, AND DEALERS WILL REPAIR THE VEHICLES FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON FEBRUARY 15, 2012. OWNERS MAY CONTACT BMW CUSTOMER RELATIONS AND SERVICES AT 1-800-525-7417.

Additional sources

More sources of information about 2003 Bmw 325xi problems:

comman problems with 325xi? | E46 Fanatics Forum

https://www.e46fanatics.com/threads/comman-problems-with-325xi.645304/

Feb 2, 2009 ... The BMW AWD does bring some added complexity to the car versus the 2wd but in my opinion no more than any other AWD vehicle. Just some of the ...

2003 BMW 325xi Problems and Complaints - 10 Issues

https://repairpal.com/2003-bmw-325xi/problems

Problem with your 2003 BMW 325xi? Our list of 10 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 2003 BMW 325xi.

Should we buy a 325xi problem issues?

https://www.bimmerforums.com/forum/showthread.php?964065-Should-we-buy-a-325xi-problem-issues

Mar 21, 2008 ... I'd stay away from the automatic transmission for sure; I work next to a BMW indy mechanic and he replaces dead E46 automatic transmissions all ...

2003 BMW 325xi : r/cars

https://www.reddit.com/r/cars/comments/29dbd5/2003_bmw_325xi/

Jun 29, 2014 ... Basically E46s are known for two "major" problems - the cooling system failing and the risk of the subframe forming tears/cracks (a huge problem ...