1996 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 1996 Bmw M3 problems
The BMW E36 M3, produced in 1996, is a highly regarded vehicle among car enthusiasts. However, like any car, it has its share of common problems that owners have reported over the years. Here are some of the most frequently mentioned issues:
- Bushing and Mount Failures: The E36 M3 is notorious for bushing and mount failures, particularly in the engine mounts, transmission mounts, rear trailing arm bushings, and rear shock mounts. If your car has over 80,000 miles and is still running on stock mounts, they are likely in need of replacement. Symptoms of bad rear trailing arm bushings include uneven tire wear, clunks when going over bumps, and an unresponsive feeling when driving. A worn-out rear shock mount results in a clunking noise when driving over bumps or at high speeds, and can make the rear end of the car feel detached from the vehicle.
- Cooling System: The cooling system in the E36 M3 has been criticized for using poor quality parts. The plastic water pump impeller, specifically used in M/S50 cars, is prone to breaking. While 96+ E36s have composite impellers that don't break, bearing failure is still possible. It is recommended to change the water pump often to prevent problems. Additionally, the fan clutch can lock up, sending broken fan plastic flying and potentially damaging the hood. It is essential to check the fan clutch for smooth rotational operation during maintenance.
- Chassis Weak Points: The E36 M3 has several weak points in its chassis, including the rear shock towers and the rear trailing arm bushing pocket. The rear shock towers are mounted on thin metal with only two nuts securing them, making cracks common. Inspecting for cracks and installing reinforcement plates is recommended. The rear trailing arm bushing pocket, a metal carrier bolted to the car, is also prone to cracking and tearing. Worn bushings can exacerbate the problem, and weld-in aftermarket reinforcements are available.
- Maintenance History: As with any car, maintenance history is crucial. Regular maintenance and addressing problems immediately are vital to ensure the longevity of the E36 M3. German engineers often design cars as if they were making moon rockets, prioritizing performance over long-term durability. Parts for the E36 M3 remain expensive, and maintaining one can be costly.
In summary, the BMW E36 M3, while a beloved vehicle among enthusiasts, has several common problems that owners should be aware of. Regular maintenance, addressing issues promptly, and being vigilant about potential weak points can help ensure a pleasant ownership experience.
Is the E36 M3 a reliable car?
It's definitely a good car. It's also a reliable car, *if* maintained properly. Note that at this point (2023), the youngest E36 is 24 years old, and the vast majority of them have *not* been maintained properly. Expect to either pay up for one with up-to-date maintenance, or spend thousands to fix one up.
How many miles will a BMW M3 last?
On an average, a BMW 3 can last for 200,000 to 250,000 miles, a well-maintained BMW 3 can last for as long as 300,000 to 350,000 miles without facing any serious mechanical issues.
Why are older BMW M3 so expensive?
So, why is it that these cars have risen so much in value over recent years? The simple answer is : because they have great build quality, they're getting rarer, they look great and they're just fantastic fun to drive. They also have a huge fan-base, of both young and old.
What is the top speed of a BMW M3 1996?
The top speed is electronically limited to 250 km/h (155 mph). The kerb weight is 1,570 kg (3,461 lb).
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 E36 M3 a reliable car?
It's definitely a good car. It's also a reliable car, *if* maintained properly. Note that at this point (2023), the youngest E36 is 24 years old, and the vast majority of them have *not* been maintained properly. Expect to either pay up for one with up-to-date maintenance, or spend thousands to fix one up.
Is BMW M3 good or bad?
Highs Heroic powertrain, available with a six-speed manual transmission, a performance car that's easy to daily-drive. Lows Too many unnecessary drive modes, Competition and CS model are automatic-only. Verdict For as intensely fast as the M3 is on track, it's surprisingly livable for commuting every place else.
Why are older BMW M3 so expensive?
So, why is it that these cars have risen so much in value over recent years? The simple answer is : because they have great build quality, they're getting rarer, they look great and they're just fantastic fun to drive. They also have a huge fan-base, of both young and old.
1996 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:
- Fuel system problems
- Gasoline problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1996 Bmw M3 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1996 Bmw M3 complaints
The NHTSA has received 1 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1996 Bmw M3.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-06-16
- VIN: WBSBG9328TE
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: I OWN A 1996 BMW M3. FOUR TIMES SINCE IT WAS NEW THE FUEL GAUGE HAS FAILED, AND EACH TIME FUEL SENDERS WERE REPLACED TO GET IT WORKING AGAIN. AS YOU'LL SEE, THE PROBLEM IS WIDESPREAD AMONG BMWS, BUT ONLY IN CALIFORNIA, AND BMW CAN'T OR WON'T SOLVE THE PROBLEM. MY DEALERSHIP'S SERVICE MANAGER (LARRY GORDON) TOLD ME THAT THE PROBLEM IS WELL KNOWN TO BMW DEALERSHIP SERVICE MANAGERS, BECAUSE THEY HAVE COMPLAINED TO BMW ABOUT IT REPEATEDLY, BUT THAT BMW WILL NOT ADDRESS THE PROBLEM. HE SAID THERE IS AGREEMENT THAT THE PROBLEM ONLY AFFECTS CARS IN CALIFORNIA, AND THAT IT IS CAUSED BY SOMETHING IN CALIFORNIA'S FUEL THAT CAUSES THE REPLACED PARTS TO FAIL VERY PREMATURELY. HE SAID BMW WILL NOT SOLVE THE PROBLEM BECAUSE IT ONLY AFFECTS CARS IN CALIFORNIA, AND THAT HE SUSPECTS THAT OTHER COMPONENTS COULD ALSO BE ADVERSELY AFFECTED BY OUR FUEL. LAST WEEK MATT SILVERSTEIN (BMW CUSTOMER SERVICE, 1-800-831-1117, EXT. 35421) TOLD ME, AFTER CHECKING HIS COMPUTER, THAT MY COMPLAINT WAS FULLY RESOLVED BY MY DEALER -- BMW OF SAN DIEGO. WHEN I SAID THAT WAS NOT TRUE -- THAT I WAS DEFINITELY NOT SATISFIED, HE TOLD ME THAT CUSTOMERS MAY ONLY GET COMPLAINTS RESOLVED THROUGH THEIR DEALER, WHO IN TURN COULD CONTACT THEIR ZONE REP. I TOLD HIM THAT MY DEALER HAD GOTTEN NOWHERE WITH BMW IN RESOLVING THIS -- THAT AS FAR AS HE AND OTHER SERVICE MANAGERS KNEW, IT WAS DUE TO AN INCOMPATIBILITY WITH CERTAIN BMW PARTS AND CALIFORNIA'S FUEL. HE REFUSED TO HELP ME. I THEN CONTACTED THE CLARK HOWARD CONSUMER WEBSITE BY E-MAIL. SOMEONE RESPONDED WITH THIS MESSAGE: "SENDING UNIT (AN ELECTROMECHANICAL DEVICE LOCATED INSIDE THE FUEL TANK) IS A POTENTIAL SAFETY DEFECT. REPORT THEM TO THE NHTSA." CAN YOU HELP ME? *AK
1996 Bmw M3 recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 1996 Bmw M3.
- Manufacturer: BAYERISCHE MOTOREN WERKE
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: THE CRUISE CONTROL AND THROTTLE CABLES ARE ATTACHED TO THE SAME THROTTLE VALVE ACTUATING LEVER AT THE THROTTLE HOUSING. IT IS POSSIBLE THAT THE PLASTIC BUSHING ON EITHER CABLE COULD BREAK DUE TO ENVIRONMENTAL INFLUENCES COUPLED WITH VIBRATION. IF THE BUSHING BREAKS, THE OUTER CABLE HOUSING CAN SEPARATE FROM THE BUSHING. IN THIS CASE, DURING APPLICATION OF THE THROTTLE PEDAL WITHOUT CRUISE CONTROL BEING ENGAGED, THE OUTER TUBE COULD CATCH ON THE EDGE OF THE BROKEN BUSHING.
- Consequence: THIS COULD CAUSE THE THROTTLE VALVE TO REMAIN PARTIALLY OPEN. IT HIS WERE TO OCCUR, THE CAR MIGHT NOT DECELERATE AS EXPECTED INCREASING THE RISK OF A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSTALL A SPRING STEEL CLIP ON THE OUTER TUBE OF EACH CABLE IN THE AREA OF THE ADJUSTING SCREW AND PLASTIC BUSHING. THE CLIP IS DESIGNED TO PREVENT THE OUTER TUBE FROM DISLODGING FROM THE BUSHING.
Positive 1996 Bmw M3 car reviews
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1996 Bmw M3 problems:
Common Issues with E36 M3
Mar 20, 2012 ... Control Arms and bushings, flex disk, shifter rebuild @ ~100k miles. Valve cover gasket whenever it starts leaking, belts and tensioners @ 60- ...
Opinions and reliability of the E36 M3's? : r/cars
Mar 5, 2017 ... I owned a 1996 m3 for about 6 years, from about 90k till 150k. I never had any major problems with it but there are a few well know problems ...
E36 M3 engine problems
Mar 15, 2005 ... Does anyone know of any major problems with the 1996-1999 M3's? Thanks ahead of time for the help! 2009 BMW E90 M3 DCT 2007 Jeep Wrangler ...
BMW E36 M3 Common Issues & Repairs | FCP Euro
Aug 19, 2014 ... BMW E36 M3 Common Issues & Repairs · 1) There is no tilt on the steering wheel. BMW stopped putting tilt steering wheels in the E36 cars around ' ...
Planning to purchase a 1996 BMW 318i, common issues? : r/BMW
Apr 21, 2014 ... They even hold up behind M3 engines. BMW 4 cylinder and small 6 bolt patterns are identical. In fact, I have a 318i (e30 though) with an M50 ...
Other years of Bmw M3
Are you having problems with your 1996 Bmw M3?
Vaughn Kunze 2024-11-24
This car is so much fun to drive! And the best part is that if you keep it in good condition, you won't even be able to tell how old it is. Plus, it's incredibly reliable.
Mario Larson 2024-11-03
If you're a home mechanic or an enthusiast, maintaining this car on your own is a breeze. However, it's worth noting that dealer maintenance can be quite expensive. The 1995 model is highly recommended (if you can find one with low mileage) because it's OBD I. After 1995, the car switched to OBD II, which makes it harder to retrieve fault codes and more expensive to modify for power. Some common issues to look out for include a poor water pump (aftermarket options are better), worn RTABs, rear shocks, and RSMs after only 50k miles if the previous owner drove the car hard, a thermostat that may stick open, and a radiator neck. The M3 is more solidly built than the regular 3 series, but if you come across an M3 in
Godfrey Rutherford 2024-10-07
Not only is this car still fast in today's high horsepower world, it handles like nothing else, stops on a dime, and has given me 50,000 miles of trouble-free service while getting in the mid-twenties for fuel economy. What more could you ask for in a car? No matter how hard I drive it, including occasional track events, it refuses to give me any real trouble, even at 165,000 miles on the odometer! I would recommend this car to anyone in a heartbeat.
Kamron Jenkins 2024-08-29
I recently purchased this car with 110k miles and have been driving it quite hard for another 8k miles without any issues. Despite being 14 years old, it handles like a brand new car and has no rattles or major mechanical problems. Although there were a few minor issues, I expected to spend more money on repairs, but it has been much less, even after an accident. I pushed the car to its limit and ran it off the road, but all it had was a bent control arm, which shows how solid these cars are! This is my first M3 and fourth BMW, and I couldn't be happier. The only concern I have is getting tickets. :)
Adolf Muller 2024-08-26
Hey there! I think this is a great car, but it's important to be careful when buying it. Make sure you know the seller and that they have taken good care of the car and have records of repairs. It's not a car to take chances on unless you have a good budget. It's not the fastest car out there, but it's still pretty quick. It handles like a dream, especially with the manual transmission. Just keep in mind that this car doesn't have traction control, so it might not be the best choice for a teenage driver. Overall, I think it's a great car, and if you have the budget, you might want to consider the E46 M3.