Bmw 328ic problems

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The third generation of the BMW 3 Series range of compact executive cars is designated under the model code E36, and was produced by the German automaker BMW from 1990 to 2000. The initial models were of the four-door sedan body style, followed by the coupé, convertible, wagon ("Touring"), and eventually hatchback ("Compact").

The E36 was the first 3 Series to be offered in a hatchback body style. It was also the first 3 Series to be available with a six-speed manual transmission (in the 1996 M3), a five-speed automatic transmission, and a four-cylinder diesel engine. The multi-link rear suspension was also a significant upgrade as compared to the previous generations of the 3 Series. All-wheel drive was not available for the E36, unlike the previous (E30) and successive (E46) generations.

The E36 was named in Car and Driver magazine's 10Best list for every year it was on sale.

Following the introduction of its successor, the E46 3 Series in 1998, the E36 began to be phased out and was eventually replaced in 1999.

photo of Bmw 328ic car production

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Bmw 328ic model years

bmw 328ic 2000 photo
328ic 2000
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bmw 328ic 1999 photo
328ic 1999
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bmw 328ic 1997 photo
328ic 1997
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Common Bmw 328ic problems

Based on the complaints from owners of BMW 328i cars, several common problems have been identified:

  1. Timing Chain Issues: Owners have reported problems with the timing chain skipping on the sprockets, leading to issues with the crankshafts and camshafts. This can cause the engine to stall, requiring expensive repairs and potentially resulting in engine damage.
  2. Fuel System Failure: Some drivers have experienced sudden loss of acceleration while driving, attributed to a failed fuel pump. This issue can lead to safety concerns, such as loss of power steering and brakes, posing a risk while driving.
  3. Electrical Problems: There have been complaints about electrical issues in BMW 328i cars, which can manifest in various ways, affecting the overall performance and reliability of the vehicle.
  4. Water Pump Failure: Another common problem reported is water pump failure, which can lead to overheating and potential engine damage if not addressed promptly.
  5. Starter Motor Issues: Owners have faced problems with the starter motor, impacting the car's ability to start reliably.
  6. Oil Gasket Leaks: Gasket leaks, such as the oil pan gasket and valve cover gasket, have been reported, which can result in oil leaks and potential engine damage if not fixed in a timely manner.
  7. Transfer Case Problems: For models with AWD, the transfer case has been identified as a weak point, prone to failures that can affect the drivability of the vehicle.

These common problems highlight the importance of regular maintenance and prompt attention to any issues that arise with BMW 328i cars to ensure their longevity and reliability.

Bmw 328ic

What is the common issue with 328i?

Started engine problems there are five serious problems related to the BMW 328i's engine leaking oil filter housing gasket that can cause oil loss and damage fuel pump failure that can cause loss of

Is the BMW 3 Series 328i reliable?

The BMW 328i Reliability Rating is 3.0 out of 5.0, which ranks it 19th out of 31 for luxury midsize cars. The average annual repair cost is $773 which means it has higher than average ownership costs. Repairs are more frequent for the 328i, so you may experience a few more visits to your BMW shop than normal.

What is the most common problem with the BMW 3 series?

BMW 3 Series Common Problems and Solutions

  • Excessive Car Vibrations. Problem: ...
  • Oil On Engine Block. Problem: ...
  • Tail Light Illuminated. Problem: ...
  • Bumpy Driving. Problem: ...
  • Coolant Leak. Problem: ...
  • Drop in Engine Performance. Problem: ...
  • Rear Wiper Stopped Working. Problem: ...
  • Window Stuck In Down Position. Problem:

Why is 328i so popular?

Since the 328i hit the U.S. market in 1996, it's become one of the most popular high-end sports sedan options and ubiquitous in well-heeled neighborhoods, alongside Mercedes and other luxury cars. With German engineering ensuring high-quality performance and reliability, it's no wonder it's been so popular.

Percentage distribution of complaints by Bmw 328ic years

We have researched Bmw problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Bmw 328ic cars and compiled the top 3 most problematic Bmw 328ic model years:

Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Bmw 328ic model years.

Distribution of the number of complaints by Bmw 328ic years

We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:

Bmw 328ic car problems categorized by type of issue

After analysing all complaints related to Bmw 328ic , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:

  • Structure problems
  • Power train problems
  • Suspension problems
  • Engine and engine cooling problems
  • Electrical system problems

The graph below shows statistics for all Bmw 328ic vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by 328ic model years

There were a total of 1 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.

The NHTSA has received 36 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Bmw 328ic . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Bmw 328ic vehicles.

Latest 25 complaints

Bmw 328ic 1999
  • Date Of Incident: 2019-06-14
  • Date Complaint: 2019-06-15
  • Fire: 1
  • VIN: WBABK8337XE
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: ON JUNE 14TH, MY CAR WAS PARKED, STATIONARY, KEY POSITION OFF, UNATTENDED, INTERIOR CAUGHT FIRE AND DESTROYED THE CAR. APPEARS TO BE AN INTERIOR FIRE BELIEVED TO BE ELECTRICAL. CAR WAS FACTORY ORIGINAL. THANK GOD THE CAR WAS IN THE YARD AND NOT IN THE CARPORT OR MY HOME WOULD HAVE BEEN DESTROYED.
Bmw 328ic 1999
  • Date Of Incident: 2015-09-15
  • Date Complaint: 2015-10-01
  • VIN: WBABK8339XE
  • Components: SEATS
  • Summary: DRIVER'S SEAT BACK COLLAPSED WHILST DRIVING.
Bmw 328ic 2000
  • Date Of Incident: 2011-06-14
  • Date Complaint: 2011-06-21
  • VIN: WBABM5349YJ
  • Components: STRUCTURE
  • Summary: DRIVERSIDE REAR SUBFRAME MOUNT HAS TORN THROUGH THE REAR SUBFRAME DUE TO A BMW ENGINEERING FLAW. *TR
Bmw 328ic 2000
  • Date Of Incident: 2011-06-01
  • Date Complaint: 2011-06-04
  • VIN: WBABM5346YJ
  • Components: STRUCTURE
  • Summary: THE REAR SUBFRAME ON THE 1999-2006 :BMW 3 SERIES CARS CAN TEAR OR RIP, CAUSING THE REAR END TO FALL OUT OF THE CAR. MY 2000 328CI SHOWS EVIDENCE OF THIS FRAME CRACKING. *TR
Bmw 328ic 2000
  • Date Of Incident: 2009-01-13
  • Date Complaint: 2011-01-28
  • VIN: WBABM5345YJ
  • Components: SUSPENSION
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2000 BMW 328IC. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHEN APPLYING THE BRAKES, THE BRAKES WOULD EXHIBIT A LOUD THUMP FROM THE REAR OF THE VEHICLE FEELING SIMILAR TO BEING STRUCK FROM THE REAR. THE DEALER INSPECTED THE VEHICLE AND ADVISED THAT THE REAR BUSHINGS WERE FAILING. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THEY RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF AN UNKNOWN RECALL TWO YEARS PRIOR FOR THE PROBLEM. THE MANUFACTURER ADVISED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS NOT LISTED UNDER ANY RECALLS FOR THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 120,000 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 125,000.
Bmw 328ic 2000
  • Date Of Incident: 2010-11-23
  • Date Complaint: 2010-11-25
  • VIN: WBABM5344YJ
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: NO REVERSE.. NOVEMBER 23,2010 WHILE TRYING PARK TO MY DRIVE WAY, MIDDLE OF THE ROAD FIND OUT THAT NO REVERSE!!! AND WHILE TRYING TO AVOID GET HIT BY ANOTHER CAR, I HIT CURB END UP WITH DAMAGED SUSPENSION AND STILL NO REVERSE .. *TR
Bmw 328ic 2000
  • Date Of Incident: 2009-08-13
  • Date Complaint: 2009-09-22
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: MY 2000 BMW 328CI WILL NOT GO INTO REVERSE. I HAVE READ THAT THERE THIS IS A VERY COMMON TRANSMISSION PROBLEM WITH THE GM TRANSMISSION AND THAT GM RECALLED IT BUT BMW DID NOT. *TR
Bmw 328ic 2000
  • Date Of Incident: 2009-09-09
  • Date Complaint: 2009-09-09
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: THE CAR WAS IN PARKING LOT. I SWITCHED THE STICK INTO REVERSE POSITION AND THE CAR GOES NOWHERE. *TR
Bmw 328ic 2000
  • Date Of Incident: 2009-04-01
  • Date Complaint: 2009-04-01
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: MY 200 BMW 328CI'S TRANSMISSION FAILED WITH LESS THAN 40,000 MILES ON THE CAR. I AM THE ONLY OWNER OF THE CAR AND TOOK PERFECT CARE OF IT. IT HAS ALWAYS BEEN MAINTAINED BY AN AUTHORIZED BMW DEALERSHIP. *TR
Bmw 328ic 2000
  • Date Of Incident: 2008-01-21
  • Date Complaint: 2009-03-09
  • VIN: WBABM5344YJ
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2000 BMW 328IC. WHEN AN OCCUPANT IS SEATED IN THE PASSENGER SEAT, THE AIR BAG INDICATOR ILLUMINATES EVEN IF THE PERSON IS PROPERLY POSITIONED. THE CONTACT IS EXPERIENCING THE SAME SYMPTOMS AS STATED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER 08V384000 FOR THE 2004-2006 BMW VEHICLES (AIR BAGS:FRONTAL). THE DEALER COULD NOT ASSIST BECAUSE THERE WERE NO RECALLS FOR THIS VEHICLE. THE CONTACT BELIEVES THAT THIS IS A HUGE SAFETY HAZARD AND IS CONCERNED THAT THE AIR BAGS WILL NOT DEPLOY IN THE EVENT OF A CRASH. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A PRIVATE MECHANIC AND A SYSTEM IN THE VEHICLE WAS RESET, BUT THIS DID NOT CORRECT THE ISSUE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 144,000 AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 150,000.
Bmw 328ic 2000
  • Date Of Incident: 2009-01-01
  • Date Complaint: 2009-02-11
  • VIN: WBABM534XYJ
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
  • Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2000 BMW 3 SERIES. THE CONTACT STATED THAT HER VEHICLE HAS BEEN IN THE SHOP FOR SIX WEEKS DUE TO A CRACK IN THE OIL WATER SEPARATOR. THE PART HAS NOT BEEN AVAILABLE IN ORDER TO MAKE THE REPAIR. THERE ARE A COUPLE OF VEHICLES IN THE SHOP WITH THE SAME ISSUE. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGES WERE 120,000. UPDATED 3/19/09 *CN ENGINE WAS LEAKING EXCESSIVE AMOUNTS OF OIL. UPDATED 03/25/09.*JB
Bmw 328ic 2000
  • Date Of Incident: 2000-12-30
  • Date Complaint: 2008-12-30
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: REVERSE REFUSES TO WORK. NO WARNING, DROVE 2 HOURS, PULLED INTO DRIVE WAY AND COULDN'T GET OUT. *TR
Bmw 328ic 2000
  • Date Of Incident: 2008-12-01
  • Date Complaint: 2008-12-03
  • VIN: WBABM5348YJ
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: FIRST THERE WAS A PROBLEM WITH THE SHIFTER. CAR WOULDN'T START IN PARK. I HAD THAT FIXED. THEN I NOTICED WHEN I PUT IT IN REVERSE, IT DIDN'T FEEL RIGHT. THEN OUT OF THE BLUE, ONLY SEVERAL DAYS OUT OF THE SHOP, THE CAR WOULDN'T MOVE IN ANY GEAR. I HAD TO HAVE IT TOWED AND I WAS TOLD THE TRANSMISSION HAS TO BE REPLACED. THE CAR ONLY HAS 21,500 MILES OR SO. I WILL ASK MECHANIC TO KEEP OLD PART. I CALLED VOB OF ROCKVILLE, MD. THEY WERE THEIR USUAL DISGUSTING SELVES. THIS IS GOING TO COST ME OVER 6000 DOLLARS THAT I DON'T HAVE. THE CAR IS A 200 328CI PURCHASED NEW. *TR
Bmw 328ic 2000
  • Date Of Incident: 2007-10-31
  • Date Complaint: 2007-10-31
  • VIN: WBABM5342YJ
  • Components: STRUCTURE
  • Summary: REAR SUBFRAME (LEFT REAR MOUNT) IS COMPLETELY TORN OUT OF THE FLOOR. CURRENTLY CAUSES A JOLTING ACTION IN NORMAL DRIVING CONDITIONS AND A CREAKING NOISE IN LOW SPEED DRIVING. IF LEFT UNATTENDED, COULD CAUSE MISALIGNMENT, POOR PERFORMANCE, AND THE REAR AXLE TO DROP FROM THE BODY. THIS IS NOT ONLY BAD BUT ALSO A MAJOR SAFETY ISSUE. *TR
Bmw 328ic 2000
  • Date Of Incident: 2007-07-17
  • Date Complaint: 2007-07-20
  • VIN: WBABM5345YJ
  • Components: STRUCTURE
  • Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2000 BMW 328IC. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE REAR DIFFERENTIAL DETACHED FROM THE VEHICLE AND CAUSED THE SUB-FRAME TO CRACK WHERE THE TWO PARTS WERE ATTACHED. BMW STATED THAT THEY ARE CURRENTLY INVESTIGATING THE FAILURE. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGES WERE 90,000.

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