2004 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 2004 Bmw 325xi problems

The BMW 325xi 2004 is known for several common problems that have been reported by its owners. One of the most significant issues is related to the engine, which is the worst problem category for the 325 series according to CarComplaints.com.

The engine problems include issues with the water pump, thermostat, expansion tank, and plastic tubes, which are common parts that need to be replaced in the cooling system. These problems are particularly prevalent in the 318i model, which has been reported to have cooling system issues even after 380,000 miles.

The cooling system problems can be costly, with some owners reporting that they have spent up to $2000 on repairs and replacement parts.

In addition to engine problems, the BMW 325xi 2004 is also known for vibration issues that occur during long drives. This problem is often caused by a sticking brake caliper that does not release immediately, particularly if the car has been driven for a long distance. This issue can be challenging to diagnose and repair, as it may not occur during shorter trips.

Another common problem with the BMW 325xi 2004 is related to the steering system. Some owners have reported that their cars pull to one side or track straight, which can be caused by issues with the ball joints, pivots, bushings, or steering dampener.

Despite these common problems, many owners of the BMW 325xi 2004 report that the car is reliable and a joy to drive. One owner reported that they have driven their car for over 145,000 miles without any problems, while another reported that they have had to replace several parts of the cooling system but have not had any other issues.

To avoid these common problems, it's essential to take good care of the BMW 325xi 2004 and perform regular maintenance. This includes replacing the timing belt, brakes, and other parts as needed, as well as changing the cabin filter for a new car smell.

In summary, the BMW 325xi 2004 is known for several common problems, including engine and cooling system issues, vibration problems, and steering system issues. However, with regular maintenance and care, many owners report that the car is reliable and a pleasure to drive.

How many miles will a 2004 BMW 325xi 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.

Is a 2004 BMW 325i a good car?

The BMW 2004 325i sedan can be a good buy, but it totally depends on a few key things. First off, it's a classic BMW from the E46 generation, known for its stellar balance of performance and luxury. People love it for its smooth ride, precision handling, and that sweet inline-six engine.

What is the gas mileage on a 2004 BMW 325xi?

Based on data from 24 vehicles, 1,595 fuel-ups and 471,852 miles of driving, the 2004 BMW 325xi gets a combined Avg MPG of 21.88 with a 0.30 MPG margin of error.

Is a 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 many miles will a 2004 BMW 325xi last?

Is a 2004 BMW 325i a good car?

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 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.

2004 Bmw 325xi complaints

The NHTSA has received 0 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2004 Bmw 325xi.

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

2004 Bmw 325xi recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 4 recalls for different components of the 2004 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].

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 2004 Bmw 325xi problems:

comman problems with 325xi? | E46 Fanatics Forum

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

Feb 2, 2009 ... What are the common problems with 325XI? Is ... Joined 2004. Add to quote · Only show this user ... A forum community dedicated to BMW E46, E90, and ...

What are the most common problems for a 2004 bmw 325ci and ...

https://www.reddit.com/r/e46/comments/tlq7oy/what_are_the_most_common_problems_for_a_2004_bmw/

Mar 24, 2022 ... I'd say the most important things are coolant system and your engine seals. Radiator hoses and the expansion tank are #1 priority. Second to ...

2004 325xi problems | BimmerFest BMW Forum

https://www.bimmerfest.com/threads/2004-325xi-problems.274821/

Apr 2, 2008 ... 2004 325xi problems ... All the issues I mentioned seemed to be common on this forum with others though. ... 2004 bmw 325xi 100% problem i have had ...