1988 Bmw M3 problems
The BMW M3 is a high-performance version of the BMW 3 Series, developed by BMW's in-house motorsport division, BMW M GmbH. M3 models have been produced for every generation of 3 Series since the E30 M3 was introduced in 1986.
The initial model was available in a coupé body style, with a convertible body style made available soon after. M3 saloons were offered initially during the E36 (1994–1999) and E90 (2008–2012) generations. Since 2014, the coupé and convertible models have been rebranded as the 4 Series range, making the high-performance variant the M4. Variants of the 3 Series since then have seen the M3 produced as a saloon, until 2020, when the M3 was produced as an estate (Touring) for the first time, alongside the saloon variant.
E30 generation (1986–1991)
The first BMW M3 was based on the E30 3 Series and was intended to be a homologation special to satisfy the Deutsche Tourenwagen Meisterschaft and Group A Touring rules, which required a total of 5,000 cars to be built. It was presented to the public at the 1985 Frankfurt Motor Show, and began production from March 1986 to June 1991. The E30 M3 was mainly produced in the coupé body style, but limited volumes of convertibles were also produced.
The front splitter, the rear apron, sill panels, as well as changes to the body in the area of the rear window (C-pillar) and the bootlid improved the aerodynamics. For aerodynamic reasons, the rear window was flattened and the tailgate was made of light, glass-reinforced plastic raised by approximately 40 mm for better air flow. The changes over the rear of the car resulted in lower lift forces and better straight-line stability. In addition, the windscreen was glued in – not, as with the other E30 models, framed with a window rubber and piping. As a result, the M3 achieved a relatively low drag coefficient of Cd=0.33 instead of Cd=0.38 as in the standard 3 Series. The only exterior body panels the regular 3 Series and the M3 shared were the bonnet, roof panel, and sunroof.
The brake calipers, discs and master cylinder were unique to the M3 model.
The transmission was a Getrag 265 5-speed manual. European models were outfitted with a dogleg version with close ratios and a 1:1 ratio for fifth gear. North American models used a traditional shift pattern and had wider gear spacing with an overdriven fifth gear. A clutch-type limited-slip differential was standard equipment.
In 2004, Sports Car International named the E30 M3 number six on the list of Top Sports Cars of the 1980s. In 2007, Automobile Magazine included the E30 M3 in their "5 greatest drivers cars of all time" under their 25 Greatest Cars of All Time.
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Common 1988 Bmw M3 problems
The BMW M3, produced since the mid-1980s, is known for its performance and power, but it has also been associated with certain problems. This article will focus on the 1988 BMW M3 (E30) and its common issues, as reported by owners.
- Transmission Going into Neutral: This problem has been reported in a specific 2005 BMW M3, where the transmission gear indicator went into neutral, immobilizing and disabling the car's ability to start up. As of the time of writing, there are no available documents about recalls or TSBs specifically addressing this issue.
- Soft Bottom-End Bearings: In some E46 models, there were issues with soft bottom-end bearings, although most have likely been replaced with a harder material by now.
- Complex Systems and Expensive Parts: E90 M3 cars have proven robust, but the V-8 is unique, and many of the systems are complex. Parts for these vehicles can be expensive, so regular preventative maintenance is crucial.
- Rustproofing: The E30 M3 benefited from updates to the entire E30 lineup in 1987, including improved rustproofing. However, rust can still be an issue in these older vehicles, so it is essential to inspect them thoroughly for any signs of corrosion.
- Control-Arm Bushings, Window Regulators, and Rear Shock Mounts: While not specific to the M3, these are common issues found in many generations of the 3-series. It is essential to be aware of these potential problems when considering the purchase of a used BMW M3.
When buying a used BMW M3, it is crucial to be aware of these common issues and consider them in your decision-making process. Regular maintenance, inspections, and using authorized dealers or mechanics with expertise in BMW vehicles can help mitigate these problems and ensure a more enjoyable ownership experience.
Are BMW M3 reliable?
The BMW M3 Reliability Rating is 2.0 out of 5.0, which ranks it 29th out of 31 for luxury midsize cars. The average annual repair cost is $1,161 which means it has poor ownership costs. Repairs are more frequent and more lkely to be severe than the average car, which means you can expect more major repairs for the M3.
What to look for when buying E30 M3?
It's become less and less common to see cars in this end of the spectrum. But that doesn't mean that they weren't dragged up into the middle.
Why is the BMW E30 M3 so special?
Performance: The E30 M3 was designed with motorsport in mind, featuring a high-revving 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine that produced impressive power for its time. Its handling and agility were also exceptional, thanks to its balanced chassis and precise steering.
How much horsepower does a 1988 BMW M3 have?
In full race trim, the 1988 M3's 2.3 L (140 cu in) naturally aspirated engine was rated at approximately 221 kW (300 PS; 296 hp).
Are old BMW M3 reliable?
As with any vehicle, the BMW M3 can last up to 200,000 miles or more with proper care and maintenance. While it has a reliability rating of just 2.0 out of 5.0, the BMW M3 does have a lot of power and excellent handling.
Is the E30 M3 reliable?
BMW M3 Reliability Rating Breakdown. The BMW M3 Reliability Rating is 2.0 out of 5.0, which ranks it 29th out of 31 for luxury midsize cars. The average annual repair cost is $1,161 which means it has poor ownership costs.
How many 1988 BMW M3 were made?
1988 — BMW produced only 786 M3 convertibles in the E30 generation. None were exported to the United States by BMW. However, they are now among the most valued M3s. 1990 – The "Sport Evolution II" model was produced featuring thinner window glass, adjustable spoilers, bigger wheels and tires, and lightweight body work.
How much horsepower does a 1988 BMW M3 have?
In full race trim, the 1988 M3's 2.3 L (140 cu in) naturally aspirated engine was rated at approximately 221 kW (300 PS; 296 hp).
1988 Bmw M3 car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Bmw M3 problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Engine and engine cooling problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1988 Bmw M3 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1988 Bmw M3 complaints
The NHTSA has received 2 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1988 Bmw M3.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-01-01
- VIN: WBSAK0300J2
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID #93V015000 INDICATES THIS VEHICLE IS PART OF A RECALL, YET WHEN I CALLED THE BMWNA SERVICE REP. (800-525-7417) THEY SAID MY VEHICLE ISN'T PART OF THE RECALL. MY CAR EXHIBITS ALL THE SIGNS DESCRIBED IN THE RECALL NOTICE. IT HAS WHITE COOLANT RESIDUE AROUND ALL THE COOLANT HOSES AND THE RADIATOR SEAMS. I FEAR THAT THERE MAY BE A LEAK AT ANY TIME. THIS HAS EXISTED FOR SOMETIME BUT UNTIL I READ THE RECALL NOTICE I DIDN'T DO ANYTHING. THE RADIATOR WAS REPLACED IN 1991 FOR LEAKAGE. BUT THE WHITE RESIDUE REAPPEARED AGAIN SHORTLY AFTER.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-11-01
- VIN: WBSAK0304J2
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: WARNING LIGHT CAME ON, ENGINE OVERHEATED DUE TO FAILURE OF COOLANT SYSTEM COMPONENT. *DSH
1988 Bmw M3 recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 1988 Bmw M3.
- Manufacturer: BAYERISCHE MOTOREN WERKE
- Components: VISIBILITY:DEFROSTER/DEFOGGER/HVAC SYSTEM:HEATER CORE
- Summary: THE MALFUNCTION OR FAILURE OF A COOLANT SYSTEM COMPONENT RESULTS IN SIGNIFICANTLY INCREASED COOLANT TEMPERATURE AND A RESULTING INCREASE IN SYSTEM PRESSURE.
- Consequence: VEHICLES OPERATED UNDER THIS INCREASED COOLING SYSTEMPRESSURE CONDITION CAN SUFFER DAMAGE OR FAILURE OF PARTS OF THE COOLING SYSTEMSUCH AS (1) LEAKAGE FROM A COOLANT HOSE, (2) LEAKAGE OF THE RADIATOR OREXPANSION TANK, (3) DISCONNECTION OF A HOSE FROM A PIPE OR A FITTING, AND (4)CRACKS IN THE HEATER CORE END PIECE RESULTING IN COOLANT LEAKAGE. IN SOME CASES,BOILING COOLANT CAN CONTACT THE LOWER RIGHT LEG OF THE DRIVER RESULTING INBURNS. ALSO, ESCAPING COOLANT IN THE PASSENGER COMPARTMENT CAN CAUSE VAPORFOGGING OF THE INTERIOR SURFACE OF THE WINDOWS, REDUCING DRIVER VISIBILITY.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSTALL A THERMOSTATIC BYPASS VALVE IN THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT TO CONTROL COOLANT TEMPERATURE IN THE HEATER CORE. ALSO, A NEW DESIGN RADIATOR CAP WILL BE INSTALLED, TO CONTROL PRESSURE AND PROVIDE GREATER COOLANT OVERFLOW IN THE EVENT OF OVERHEATING.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1988 Bmw M3 problems:
E30 M3 Wat to look for when Buying One
Nov 17, 2002 ... Bryan K. 1988 ///M3 1997 E36 ///M3 Project ... There were more 1988 model year E30 M3s than any other year, so that's why they're the most common.
Timm's BMW E31 8-Series Common Problems
... engine. These days it is better know as a fly-by-wire control system - and it was extremely reliable in 1988 when first introduced on the BMW E32 750i - and ...
Engine issues - does the E30 M3 have any?
Jul 12, 2001 ... I'm curious if the E30 M3 has any engine issues ... BMW CCA) where a guy threw a E36 M3 Engine into an E30. ... 1988 ///M3 1997 E36 ///M3 Project
Why is the BMW M3 a bad purchase? - Quora
Dec 20, 2018 ... ... concerns about their reliability over the years. ... BMW driver since 1988 ... Based on available data, the 2009 BMW M3 has shown some common issues ...
Tips for Buying an E36 M3
Jan 24, 2005 ... What are common problems, what are the good ... 1988 M3 alpine white 1988 325ix red 1995 M3 ... E36 M3 S50B32 daily - E36 M3 S54 trackcar. They ...
Other years of Bmw M3
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