1999 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 1999 Bmw M3 problems
Based on complaints from owners of the 1999 BMW M3, several common problems have been identified:
- Vanos System Issues:
The Variable Valve Timing (Vanos) system in the E36 M3 can develop problems leading to decreased engine performance and increased noise. Symptoms include rough idle, poor low-end power, and a noticeable rattling noise from the engine. Repairing or replacing the Vanos unit may be necessary to restore proper engine function.
- Rear Subframe Cracks:
Rear subframe cracking is a well-known problem in the E36 M3, primarily affecting coupe and convertible models. This issue can result from aggressive driving, improper maintenance, or simply aging. Regular inspections of the rear subframe mounting points are essential to detect any cracks early and prevent costly repairs.
- Oil Leaks:
Oil leaks are common in older BMWs like the E36 M3, often originating from sources such as valve cover gaskets, oil filter housing gaskets, and oil pan gaskets. While not usually a major issue, these leaks can lead to a messy engine bay and reduced engine oil levels if left unattended. Routine inspections and maintenance can help prevent significant leaks.
- Suspension Bushing Wear:
As the E36 M3 ages, suspension bushings can deteriorate, resulting in increased body roll, vague steering, and uneven tire wear. Replacing worn bushings with upgraded polyurethane or solid metal alternatives can significantly enhance handling and driving experience.
- Electrical Gremlins:
Electrical issues are common in older BMWs, including the E36 M3. Problems may include malfunctioning window regulators, faulty electrical connectors, and issues with the instrument cluster. Diagnosing and repairing these electrical problems often require patience and a good understanding of the vehicle's electrical system.
- Rust:
Like many cars of its era, the E36 M3 is prone to rust, especially in regions with harsh winters and road salt. Common rust-prone areas include wheel arches, rear quarter panels, and the bottom of doors. Regular rust prevention measures like undercoating and rust-proofing can help prolong the life of the E36 M3.
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.
How long do M3 engines last?
the m3 should last at least 200k with the proper maintenance. i've heard of many m3 owners well into the 100k mile mark. i'm at 99k and no major probs so far.
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 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 are common problems with E46 M3?
We'll go into more detail about what to look out for when buying a used E46 M3 later on in this article, but as a starting point, here are some of the key common problems to be aware of: Rust – especially on the arches. Cracked rear subframe components. SMG auto gearbox pump and software issues.
1999 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:
- Air bags problems
- Service brakes problems
- Hydraulic problems
- Tires problems
- Steering problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1999 Bmw M3 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1999 Bmw M3 complaints
The NHTSA has received 11 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1999 Bmw M3.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-02-03
- VIN: WBSBKO33XXE
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: AIR BAG WARNING LIGHT IS ON. DIAGNOSIS: PASSENGER AIR BAG ELECTRONICS ARE FAULTY AND NEED TO BE REPLACED. COST TO REPAIR IS OVER $500 PER DEALER. BMW SHOULD HAVE A RECALL FOR THIS BUT THEY DO NOT SHOW THIS WITH MY VIN. PLEASE HELP. THANK YOU. *TR
STEERING,AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-10-24
- VIN: WBSBK9332XE
- Components: STEERING,AIR BAGS
- Summary: THE MATERIAL USED ON THE BMW STEERING WHEEL MELTS AT THE TOUCH OF SUNLIGHT- DOESN'T HAVE TO BE A HOT TEMPERATURE. THE MELTING OF THE STEERING WHEEL RESTRICTS ME FROM USING THE HORN AND COULD VERY WELL HAVE AFFECTED THE AIRBAG AND/OR DEPLOYMENT OF THE AIRBAG. ALSO, IT'S STICKY, MY FINGERPRINTS AND SLEEVE FROM MY SHIRT ARE IMPRINTED ON THE STEERING WHEEL...MY LONG HAIR HAS BEEN STUCK ON IT. I'M AFRAID TO TOUCH THE WHEEL- IT NEARLY DRIPS. WHAT IS THIS MATERIAL? WHAT'S GOING ON? NOTHING WAS PUT ON THE STEERING WHEEL TO CAUSE THIS. THIS CAR IS NOT UNDER ANY WARRANTY; HOWEVER, THIS IS A VERY, VERY DANGEROUS DEFECT THAT SHOULD NOT HAPPEN IN ANY CAR, AT ANY TIME. I DON'T KNOW WHAT MATERIAL BMW USED ON THE STEERING WHEEL, BUT I CANNOT DRIVE THE CAR UNTIL IT'S FIXED... *TR
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-03-01
- Crash: 1
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,STRUCTURE
- Summary: THE DISTANCE BETWEEN THE BRAKE PEDAL AND THE GAS PEDAL IS TOO CLOSE AND POSES A DANGER WHEN MOVING FROM THE GAS PEDAL TO THE BRAKE. YOUR FOOT CAN BECOME ENTANGLED UNDER THE BRAKE PEDAL.
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-01-26
- VIN: WSBVG9333XE
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: TL * - THE CONTACT OWNS A 1999 BMW M3. THE VEHICLE WAS PURCHASED ON JANUARY 21, 2007, WITH 2 BALD REAR TIRES. THE DEALER HAS NOT AGREED TO REPLACE THE TIRES. BRIDGESTONE, POTENZA , DOT # EMH8CKA. THE CONTACT THOUGHT THE SIZE WAS 18. THE CONTACT HAS NOT EXPERIENCED ANY FAILURES AT THIS TIME. HOWEVER, HE RECEIVED A CITATION FOR HAVING BALD TIRES, AND WAS TOLD IT WAS AGAINST THE LAW TO SELL A VEHICLE WITH BALD TIRES FOR SAFETY REASONS. *AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-01-23
- VIN: WBSBG9337XE
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: DT*: THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING, THE OIL LIGHT CAME ON AND THE ENGINE MADE A GRINDING NOISE. THE CONTACT PULLED OVER AND CHECKED THE OIL. THE OIL WAS FULL. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALERSHIP WHO DETERMINED AN OIL PAN NUT FELL OFF INTO THE OIL PAN CAUSING AN OIL PUMP FAILURE WHICH BURN THE ENGINE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALERSHIP THREE DAYS PRIOR TO THIS INCIDENT FOR REGULAR MAINTENANCE, INCLUDING AN OIL CHANGE. UPDATED 02/21/06. *JB
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-04-11
- VIN: WBSBK0330XE
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: 1999 BMW M3 CONVERTIBLE. AIRBAG LIGHT COME UP WITH NO REASON; POTENTIALLY, AIRBIG WON'T DEPLOY IF ANY ACCIDENT HAPPEN. VIN [XXX]. UPDATED 07/30/2012 *JS INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-01-14
- VIN: WBSBG9331XE
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: THE MANUAL TRANSMISSION ON MY BMW M3 HAS A DEFECT. IT INVOLVES THE TRANSMISSION STICKING IN 5TH GEAR, ESPECIALLY WHEN THE WEATHER IS COLD. THIS IS A DANGEROUS SITUATION, BECAUSE IT COMPROMISES CONTROL OF THE CAR WHEN SHIFTING, LEAVING THE OPERATOR WTIHOUT FULL CONTROL OF THE CAR. THIS IS A VERY COMMON DEFECT IN 1999 M3S AND MANY CUSTOMERS ARE EXPERIENCING A PROBLEM WITH THIS. BMWS FIX IS TO REPLACE THE TRANSMISSION, WHICH IS VERY EXPENSIVE. *AK
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-02-13
- VIN: WBSBG9330XE
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING 70MPH THE VEHICLE'S LEFT REAR TIRE STARTED TO DEFLATE DUE TO A PUNCTURE AND THE TREAD SEPARATED FROM THE SIDEWALL. NLM. ON A SEPARATE OCCASION, THE RIGHT REAR TIRE FAILED DUE TO THE TREAD SEPARATION FROM THE SIDE WALL. TIRE SIZE 245/40ZR17, CONSUMER STATED WHEN THE TIRE WAS REMOVED THERE WAS NO EVIDENCE OF A PUNCTURE. *YH
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-05-17
- Crash: 1
- VIN: WBSBK0334XE
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: SEPT 00 ABS DASH LIGHT ON, TOOK TO DEALER FOR REPAIR, PARTS ORDERED, CONTINUED TO DRIVE WITH LIGHT ON, REPAIRED OCT 00, ABS DASH LIGHT AGAIN ON, TOOK TO DEALER, TOLD THE ABS WAS REPAIRED-ABS LIGHT ON DUE TO GAS CAP, MAY 2001 CAR OUT OF CONTROL AS IF WHEELS LOCKED, NARROWLY MISSED GOING IN CANAL AND HITTING ONCOMING VEHICLES, SERVICE SHOP DIAGNOSED ABS FAILURE
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-07-27
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: WBSBG9339XE
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: IMPACT WAS ON THE FRONT DRIVERSIDE TIRE. THE TIRE SUFFERED MINOR DAMAGE AND NO OTHER DAMAGE TO BODY
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-07-27
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- VIN: WBSBG9339XE
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: WAS TRAVELING ABOUT 40MPH WHEN I HIT A POTHOLE AND THE SIDE AIR BAG WENT OFF AND I ALMOST LOST CONTROLL OF THE VEHICLE
1999 Bmw M3 recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 1999 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.
Positive 1999 Bmw M3 car reviews
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1999 Bmw M3 problems:
Common Issues with E36 M3
Mar 20, 2012 ... I've been scavenging these forums trying to figure out many of the most common problems for the 1995-1999 E36 M3's (mainly Either the '95 Or '99) ...
Known issues with 2000-06 BMW M3... - The 19th Hole - GolfWRX
Oct 18, 2011 ... ... M3. 1999 was the last year of the E36 I believe, and the 2001 started the E46 which ran until 2006. I have owned both. The E46 is what I ...
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 ' ...
E36 M3 Common Maintenance Issues (Reference) | BimmerFest ...
Jun 3, 2003 ... Brecht seems to go the extra mile - they called BMW's helpline, found out about it, and had it faxed to them. Click to expand... My transmission ...
Older M3 Convertible Issues and Problems - BMW E46 M3
Rear subframe was an issue with coupes; window regulators are weak in all E46s; wouldn't buy a high mile SMG car; check the Ti shadow trim on the interior for ...
Other years of Bmw M3
Are you having problems with your 1999 Bmw M3?
Urban Crona 2024-11-21
I've owned my M3 for almost 2 years and I'm really going to miss it, but I'm not sure a car seat would work too well in this car. The car has amazing handling - I was told a while ago that the best way to find your car's slipping point is to go to a wide-open parking lot after a rain and try to spin it out. It took going 45 and JERKING the wheel to do it! The M3 has sneaky speed, like a slingshot. Once you get the RPM's up to around 4500, hold on. The Japanese vehicles may get you off the line, but they're dust in the 1/4! Overall, it's a really fun car that I'll badly miss. By the way, this is also a much more practical car than it gets credit for. So, why not take the jump to M3?
Merle Feil 2024-11-13
Hi there! I just wanted to share my experience with my '99 M3 coupe that I bought used with 22k miles in 2004. I must say, it has been an incredibly reliable car and I have had so much fun driving it! It's perfect for long trips too, as it is super comfortable. With proper snow tires, it even handles well in the winter (with ASC of course). The braking is just awesome and perfectly matched to a car that can travel so fast and easily. Every time I drive it, it brings a huge smile to my face! The cockpit is definitely the best I've ever experienced. I must admit, it can be a bit expensive to maintain and parts can be costly, but finding a good BMW mechanic and avoiding dealerships can help with that. I really hope to keep this car for many years to come, especially since it now has 43k miles two years later!
Garret Howell 2024-09-29
This car is a gem! It handles really well at high speeds and has a lot of power for its size. I love the colour of this car - it's Titanium Silver with a dove grey interior, the best colour combo ever. I added 19x8.5 wheels with really low profile tyres, which took some comfort away, but it's worth it. This is the most fun car to drive and it's extremely reliable. It has a more elegant design than its younger brother, the e46 m3.
Mitchel Harvey 2024-09-14
This car has amazing performance and styling. However, the interior craftsmanship could use some improvement. The steering wheel and dashboard tend to vibrate and make noises, which can be frustrating considering the price of the vehicle. Additionally, the high performance tires may not be suitable for snowy conditions. Lastly, the trunk-mounted CD changer may skip on less than perfect surfaces. Despite these issues, the car's performance is sure to leave you grinning after every drive.
Flavio Bernhard 2024-08-25
I fulfilled my dream of owning this car with 46,000 miles on it, which appeared to be in great condition. After adding coilovers and driving it for 5k miles, the handling became absolutely amazing. Although I have been diligent with maintenance, the engine is currently giving me some trouble with an annoying whine at 2900 rpm. Despite some minor electrical issues, I am confident in my ability to fix any problems that may arise in the future. I look forward to owning my next dream car with the same level of enthusiasm and expertise.