1997 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 1997 Bmw M3 problems
The BMW M3 1997 is a highly regarded performance car, but like any vehicle, it has its share of common problems. Here are some of the most frequently reported issues based on complaints from owners:
- VANOS Unit Issues: The VANOS unit, which controls variable valve timing, is a common source of problems in the E36 M3. The seals on the VANOS piston can wear out, causing diminished low-end torque, increased fuel consumption, and reduced overall driving pleasure. Additionally, a rattling noise, often described as "marbles in a tin cup," is almost a certainty with these engines from about 1000-3000 RPM.
- Bushing and Mount Failures: The E36 M3 is notorious for several bushing and mount failures. If your car has over 80,000 miles and is still running on stock engine mounts, transmission mounts, rear trailing arm bushings, or rear shock mounts, they are likely in need of replacing. These failures can result in excess movement in the drive-line, uneven tire wear, clunking noises, and a general feeling of an unresponsive or detached rear end.
- Rust: Rust is always a concern with older cars, and the E36 M3 is no exception. Areas to check include the trunk, rear quarter panels, jacking points, rocker panels, and front swaybar mountings. Water in the passenger footwell can also indicate clogged drains, which can lead to electrical issues.
- Coolant Leaks: Coolant leaks should be a red flag. They can indicate serious issues with the cooling system, which can lead to overheating and engine damage if not addressed promptly.
- Steering Rack Leaks: Steering rack leaks are common but less serious. However, they can still affect the car's handling and should be addressed.
- Broken Rear Coil Springs: Broken rear coil springs are a common issue on the BMW E36, including the M3. They can cause the rear of the vehicle to sag, decreased handling and stability, and increased tire wear due to misalignment. Replacing the affected springs is the solution.
- Headlight Condensation: Condensation can affect the beam pattern of the headlamps on the BMW E36, which may require the headlights to be removed, cleaned, and resealed to fix the issue.
- Airbag Light: The airbag light may come on if the steering wheel has been removed. This issue can usually be resolved with diagnostics and resetting the system.
- Outer Front Ball Joints: The outer front ball joints on the BMW E36 may work loose and develop play over time, which can impact the handling and stability of the vehicle. If this issue is detected, it may be necessary to replace the entire arm to fix the problem.
- Interior Annoyances: These include the absence of a tilt steering wheel and various squeaks and rattles that can develop over time due to wear and tear.
In conclusion, while the BMW M3 1997 is a high-performance car with many positive attributes, it is not without its common problems. Potential buyers and current owners should be aware of these issues and consider regular maintenance and inspections to ensure the longevity and reliability of their vehicle.
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.
What to look out for when buying E36 M3?
What to look for;
- Engine & VANOS.
- Servicing Requirements.
- Transmission.
- Suspension & Brakes.
- Bodywork & Rust.
- Interior & Electrical Gremlins.
Are E36 m3s easy to work on?
this is such an easy car for noobs to work on that it's the first car I've really worked on too. It helps that my car was already out of warranty when I bought it, so it's not like I could have taken it to the dealer for any free repairs anyway.
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 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.
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.
What is the top speed of a 1997 BMW M3?
The top speed is electronically limited to 250 km/h (155 mph). The kerb weight is 1,570 kg (3,461 lb).
1997 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:
- Visibility problems
- Tires problems
- Air bags problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Equipment problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1997 Bmw M3 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 1997 Bmw M3
The NHTSA has received 27 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1997 Bmw M3. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 1997 Bmw M3 vehicles.
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-09-01
- VIN: WBSBG9323VE
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: DT: WHEN PULLING INTO A STOP THE WINDSHIELD WIPERS WILL SLOW DOWN IN THE SPEED THAT THEY WORK. THEY WILL SLOW DOWN TO THE DELAY, INTERMEDIATE SETTING WHEN THE VEHICLE IS STOPPED. THE PROBLEM HAS BEEN GOING ON SINCE PURCHASE OF THE VEHICLE IN AUGUST 2004. WHEN THE CONTACT CALLED THE MANUFACTURER,THEY SAID THAT IT IS THE WAY THEY ARE DESIGNED. THERE ARE OTHER YEAR, MAKE, AND MODELS THAT HAVE THE SAME ISSUE. THE CONTACT FEELS THAT IT IS A MANUFACTURER'S DESIGN FLAW. THE CONTACT STATES THAT IT IMPAIRS THE VISIBILITY OF THE DRIVER.*AK
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Crash: 1
- VIN: WBSBG9329VE
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: NO SUMMARY LISTED FOR ABOVE VEHICLE. *AK
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-10-13
- Crash: 1
- VIN: PLEASE FILL
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: VEHICLE INVOLVED IN A RIGHT FRONTAL COLLISION WITH ANOTHER VEHICLE AT APPROXIMATELY 40-45 MPH. UPON IMPACT, BOTH AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. DEALER/MANUFACTURER WERE NOTIFIED. FEEL FREE TO PROVIDE ANY FURTHER INFORMATION CONCERNING THIS MATTER. *AK
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-11-05
- VIN: WBSCD9325VE
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: REAR SHOCK MOUNT TOWER TORE FROM BODY OF CAR, BOLTS AND ALL. NO MODIFICATION DONE TO SUSPENSION, NORMAL DRIVING, NO ADVANCE NOTICE. NO TRACK DRIVING. BMW MAKES A REPLACEMENT KIT TO REMEDY THIS WEAK BODY AREA. BMW MESSAGE BOARDS HAVE MANY SIMILAR M3'S WITH THIS PROBLEM. AT HIGH SPEED WOULD PROVE FATAL.*AK
WHEELS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-07-09
- VIN: WBSCD9325VE
- Components: WHEELS
- Summary: WHILE ATTEMPTING TO MAKE A TURN TRAVELING 10MPH CONSUMERS HEARD A LOUD NOISE FROM THE REAR. UPON INSPECTION OF VEHICLE CONSUMER FOUND TIRE WAS BENT. DEALER WAS CONTACTED, AND FOUND THAT WHEEL MOUNT TORE AWAY FROM FRAME. DEALER WILL NOT REPAIR FREE OF CHARGE DUE TO THE FACT THAT WAS NOT COVERED UNDER WARRANTY. PLEASE PROVIDE FURTHER DETAILS.*AK
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: WBSCD932XVE
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: AIRBAG LIGHT ON THE DASH LIT, DEALER FOUND NO PROBLEMS AND HAD TO RESET 3 TIMES.*AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-06-13
- VIN: WBSCD0321VE
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: LATENT DEFECT IN BODY CAUSING WHEEL MOUNTS TO TEAR AWAY FROM CAR. *AK
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-08-01
- VIN: WBSCD0323VE
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: FUEL HOSE CLAMPS FITTINGS AND COMPONENTS FAILING - MANUFACTURER ISSUED A 95-97 MODEL RECALL IN JAPAN BUT NOT IN THE US. *AK
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-08-01
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: THE RIGHT REAR TIRE BLEWOUT WHILE DRIVING CAUSING THE DRIVER TO LOOSE CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE AND AND CAUSED THE VEHICLE TO SPIN AROUND 3 TIMES, THIS BLOWOUT CAUSED EXTENSIVE DAMAGE TO THE UNDER CARRIAGE AND FRONT BUMPER, THIS TIRE WAS 5 HOURS OLD, THE SECOND INCIDENT INVOLVED THE RIGHT REAR TIRE WHICH HAD A BUBBLE AND BLEWOUT WHILE TURNING A CORNER, THIS TIRE WAS 6 MONTHS OLD (BRIDGESTONE POTENZA RE730, 245/40ZR17BW). NLM
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: WBSBF0328SE
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: THE SHIFTING GEAR CRACKED. NLM
EQUIPMENT PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: WBSBF0328SE
- Components: EQUIPMENT
- Summary: THE SPEAKERS FAILED. NLM
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: WBSBF0328SE
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: THE WINDSHIELD CRACKED. NLM
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: WBSBF0328SE
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: THE FLOOR PANEL CRACKED. NLM
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: WBSBF0328SE
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: THE VEHICLE WAS OUT OF ALIGNMENT. NLM
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-02-21
- VIN: WBSBF0328SE
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: THE BRAKE FLUID WAS DIRTY. NLM
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-02-21
- VIN: WBSBF0328SE
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: THE POWER STEERING HOSES TO THE PUMP AND RACK FAILED. NLM
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-02-21
- VIN: WBSBF0328SE
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: THE SERPENTINE BELTS ARE CRACKED. NLM
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-02-01
- VIN: WBSBF0328SE
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: THE BRAKES GRIND AND SQUEAL WHEN THE CONSUMER IS ATTEMPTING TO BRING THE VEHICLE TO A COMPLETE STOP, THE VEHICLE DOES NOT STOP IMMEDIATELY INSTEAD IT SLIDES A FEW FEET BEFORE COMING TO A FULL STOP, THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER, THE DEALER STATED THAT THE COMPLAINT WAS RESOLVED AND THAT THERE WERE NO OTHER PROBLEMS BUT THE PROBLEM REOCCURS. NLM
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-08-03
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: CONSUMERS PURCHASED A NEW SET OF BRIDGESTONE POTENZA TIRES (25540R17, DOT EJ0XJEA030), SEVERAL HOURS LATER ONE OF THE NEW TIRES EXPERIENCED A BLOWOUT DUE TO A TORN BEAD WHICH CAUSED THE THE CAR TO LOOSE CONTROL, SPIN THREE TIMES AND SLIDE OFF INTO THE MEDIAN, NONE OF THE OCCUPANTS WERE INJURED, DEALER REFUSED CONSUMERS REQUEST FOR COMPENSATION (ATTORNEY FOR CLIENT). NLM
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-11-18
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING IN DOWNTOWN TRAFFIC WENT AROUND VEHICLE, AND AT THAT POINT THE THROTTLE WAS STUCK WIDE OPEN . VEHICLE LUNCHED OUT OF CONTROL. PUT IT INTO PARK, SHUT THE ENGINE OFF, RESTARTED AND STILL THE THROTTLE WAS STUCK WIDE OPEN. CONTACTED THE DEALER, FOUND THE PROBLEM AND REPLACED THE PART. *AK
EQUIPMENT PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-06-03
- VIN: WBSCD0322VE
- Components: EQUIPMENT
- Summary: WHILE DRIVIN AIR CONDITIONING SYSTEM MALFUCTIONED, CAUSING A LOUD NOISE AND GRAY SMOKE TO ENTER INTO VEHICLE THROUGH THE VENTS FOGGING UP THE WINDOWS WHICH MAY AFFECT VISIBILITY, AND COULD RESULT IN A CRASH. HAPPENED 6 TIMES. DEALER CANNOT DETERMINE THE PROBLEM. DEALER REPLACED HOSES/SEALS AND ETC. PLEASE PROVIDE FURTHER INFORMATION. *AK
EQUIPMENT PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-06-03
- VIN: WBSCD0322VE
- Components: EQUIPMENT
- Summary: AIR CONDITIONING SYSTEM HAS FAILED SEVERAL TIMES RESULTING IN A BURNING SMELL, A MIST COMING FROM THE A/C VENTS AND A LOUD NOISE. NLM
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: WBSBG932XVE
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: CRANKCASE REVOLUTION SENSOR FAILED. MJS
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-07-12
- VIN: WBSCDO320VE
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: TIRE BLEWOUT PREMATURELY. (DOTF38AA17117, MANUFACTURER- MICHELIN, TIRE NAME- MXX3, TIRE SIZE- 225/45ZR17)
STEERING,TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-01-01
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: WBSBG932XVE
- Components: STEERING,TIRES
- Summary: TIRES FAILED TWICE. IN BOTH CASES THE TIRES WERE WORN THROUGH TO THE METAL BEFORE STOPPING. ANOTHER CASE LED TO AN ACCIDENT. IN ADDITION, FELT SOFTNESS IN STEERING AND VEHICLE BEGAN TO SLOW DOWN. WITHIN 5 SECONDS, THE VEHICLE WENT OUT OF CONTROL AND CRASHED.
1997 Bmw M3 recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 1997 Bmw M3.
- Manufacturer: BAYERISCHE MOTOREN WERKE
- Components: AIR BAGS:SIDE/WINDOW
- Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE VEHICLES ARE BUILT WITH A SIDE AIR BAG SYSTEM CONSISTING OF DOOR-MOUNTED THORAX AIR BAGS (REAR DOOR AIR BAGS ARE OPTIONAL), A CENTRAL ELECTRONIC SENSOR AND DIAGNOSTIC SYSTEM, LEFT AND RIGHT SATELLITE IMPACT SENSORS, AND ASSOCIATED WIRING. THIS SYSTEM IS UNDULY SENSITIVE TO CERTAIN NON-CRASH IMPACTS, SUCH AS CONTACTING LARGE POTHOLES OR CURBS AT SUBSTANTIAL SPEED.
- Consequence: THIS COULD CAUSE THE SIDE AIR BAG TO DEPLOY WITHOUT AN ACTUAL SIDE CRASH. IN ADDITION, THE BATTERY SAFETY TERMINAL (BST) COULD ALSO ACTIVATE, DISCONNECTING THE STARTER CABLE FROM THE BATTERY. IN THIS CASE, THE VEHICLE'S ELECTRICAL SYSTEM COULD CONTINUE TO OPERATE AND THE ENGINE WOULD CONTINUE TO RUN, BUT AFTER STOPPING, COULD NOT BE RESTARTED.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPROGRAM THE CENTRAL COMPUTER CONTROL MODULE THAT REGULATES THE PERFORMANCE OF ALL OF THE VEHICLE'S OCCUPANT PROTECTION SYSTEMS.
- 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 1997 Bmw M3 car reviews
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1997 Bmw M3 problems:
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Rod Kshlerin 2025-01-04
This car is definitely a blast to drive with its great handling and powerful engine. However, I have had some reliability issues with it. It has left me stranded on the side of the road three times, which has been a bit of a hassle. Currently, it is in the garage getting worked on again. Despite these issues, I still enjoy driving it. Although, I must admit, I trust my old 1989 Ford pickup more.
Markus Johns 2024-10-08
I bought my Estoril Blue M3 over one year ago, and I haven't regretted it since. The performance, including acceleration, braking, and handling, is exceptional. It strikes the perfect balance between weight, luxury, power, and suspension, resulting in an incredibly enjoyable driving experience. For any enthusiast, an E36 M3 is a car that belongs in your garage.
Sammy Kuhn 2024-09-19
If you're looking for the best 4-door sports car on the planet and have the budget, look no further than the BMW M3. Their motto, 'The Ultimate Driving Machine', is no exaggeration. It's simply the best. Period.
Corbin Boyer 2024-07-09
Your 4 dr E36 M3 sounds amazing! With the luxury package, leather and wood trim, it must be a total stealth bomber on the road. The power, handling, and braking are impressive, and the fit, finish, and craftsmanship are first rate. It's great to hear that even after 10 years, your M still feels like a new car. At $15,000, it's a steal! Just make sure to have a good repair shop as relying on the dealer can be suspect. Taking care of an older Bimmer can be a challenge, but it's definitely worth it. This car is truly one of a kind - even brand new sports sedans cannot compare to it. In 1997, it came with huge tires, 17
Jacinto Renner 2024-05-19
This car overall has one of the best looks I have ever seen or owned. The car is a blast to drive, but it has too many problems to deal with. It has a radiator problem that all e36s have, which can be quite costly to maintain. Despite this, I still love my car!