2002 Bmw 330ci problems

General information about Bmw-330ci
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 2002 Bmw 330ci problems

The BMW 330ci 2002 is a popular model known for its performance and luxury. However, like any vehicle, it may experience certain problems over time. Here are some common issues based on complaints from owners:

Electrical Issues: Electrical problems are also prevalent in the BMW 330ci 2002. These issues can range from non-functioning alarms to malfunctioning dashboard instruments. For instance, some owners have reported that their car's alarm goes off without any apparent reason, while others have experienced problems with their instrument clusters.

Engine Performance Issues: Engine performance issues, such as stalling or rough idling, can also occur in the BMW 330ci 2002. These problems can be caused by various factors, including faulty fuel filters, clogged fuel injectors, or issues with the engine's electronic control unit (ECU).

Suspension and Steering Issues: Suspension and steering issues are common in the BMW 330ci 2002. These problems can manifest as a loose or unstable steering feel, uneven tire wear, or a rough ride. Common causes include worn-out bushings, failed shock absorbers, or issues with the car's alignment.

Transmission Issues: Transmission issues, such as slipping or hard shifting, can also occur in the BMW 330ci 2002. These problems can be caused by various factors, including worn-out clutch plates, faulty solenoids, or issues with the transmission's hydraulic system.

To address these issues, regular maintenance and timely repairs are crucial. Owners of the BMW 330ci 2002 should consult their vehicle's owner's manual for recommended maintenance schedules and procedures. Additionally, seeking the help of experienced BMW mechanics or dealerships can ensure that any issues are properly diagnosed and addressed.

Is a 330ci a reliable car?

Great, reliable and affordable BMW to own

Go for the older 330, and we have the convertible 330ci. Reliable, high performance and wears well over time. Great cars. Would buy this over new any day.

How many miles can a 2002 BMW 330ci last?

While a BMW 3 Series can last 200,000-250,000 miles, there are many cases where 3 Series models have been driven more than 300,000 miles with no serious mechanical issues.

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.

Is a BMW E46 330i reliable?

Yes... I wouldn't say that they're a pain in the a$$. Its just that, when its time to do the maintenance on one, It'll be more expensive than your T/A. Well I'd expect that, although things are not exactly cheap on the LT1 cars.

Is a 330ci a reliable car?

Great, reliable and affordable BMW to own

Go for the older 330, and we have the convertible 330ci. Reliable, high performance and wears well over time. Great cars. Would buy this over new any day.

How long does a 2002 BMW 330ci last?

While a BMW 3 Series can last 200,000-250,000 miles, there are many cases where 3 Series models have been driven more than 300,000 miles with no serious mechanical issues.

What is the most common problem with BMW E46?

Cooling System Leaks

What is the fuel consumption of BMW 330ci 2002?

BMW 330ci 2002 Fuel consumption

BMW 330Ci Model	Body Type	Fuel Consumption
330ci	Convertible	8.7L/100km
330ci	Convertible	9.3L/100km
330ci	Coupe	8.2L/100km
330ci	Coupe	8.6L/100km

2002 Bmw 330ci complaints

The NHTSA has received 0 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2002 Bmw 330ci.

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

2002 Bmw 330ci recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 4 recalls for different components of the 2002 Bmw 330ci.

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.

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].

2007-03-29

Manufacturer: CARDONE INDUSTRIES, INC.
Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:MASTER CYLINDER
Summary: CERTAIN CARDONE MASTER CYLINDERS WITH PART NUMBERS 10-2925, 10-2987, 10-2987MZA, 10-3083, 11-3015, 11-3042, 11-3044, 11-3045, 11-3047, 11-3064, AND 11-3156, AND WITH DATE CODES LOWER THAN DCA7078 SOLD AS REPLACEMENT EQUIPMENT FOR USE ON THE VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. THE SEAL ON MASTER CYLINDER CAN FAIL AND LEAK BRAKE FLUID.
Consequence: LOSS OF BRAKE FLUID CAN RESULT IN POOR BRAKING PERFORMANCE, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
Remedy: CARDONE WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER TO REPURCHASE ANY DEFECTIVE MASTER CYLINDERS. THE RECALL BEGAN DURING APRIL 2007. OWNERS CAN CONTACT CARDONE AT 1-800-777-4780.

Additional sources

More sources of information about 2002 Bmw 330ci problems:

How good is a BMW e46 330ci ? And what are the common problems?

https://www.quora.com/How-good-is-a-BMW-e46-330ci-And-what-are-the-common-problems

Jul 19, 2020 ... It has been VERY reliable. But, and I can not emphasize this enough, it has had very regular and in depth servicing it's entire life. When a ...

2002 BMW 330i problems :( | E46 Fanatics Forum

https://www.e46fanatics.com/threads/2002-bmw-330i-problems.1093370/

Dec 17, 2015 ... With vacuum leaks the engine will run rough at idle, under partial throttle and at low rpm. If the problem is solely due to vacuum leak it ...

BMW 330Ci Problems and Complaints - 9 Issues

https://repairpal.com/problems/bmw/330ci

Top BMW 330Ci Problems · Oil Leaks From Engine Area · Coolant Loss Due to Leak from Expansion Tank · Front Control Arm Bracket Bushings May Fail · Blower Final ...

2003 E46 330ci - What are the most common problems, i seem to be ...

https://www.bimmerforums.co.uk/threads/2003-e46-330ci-what-are-the-most-common-problems-i-seem-to-be-having-all-of-them.42985/

Mar 26, 2010 ... 2003 E46 330ci - What are the most common problems, i seem to be having all of them? · 1: cam cover gasket leak · 2: power steering fluid leaking ...