1996 Bmw Z3 problems
The BMW Z3 is a range of two-seater sports cars which was produced from 1995 to 2002. The body styles of the range are:
- 2-door roadster (E36/7 model code)
- 2-door coupé (E36/8 model code)
The Z3 was based on the E36/5 compact platform, a shortened version of the conventional E36 platform. This smaller and cheaper platform used the rear semi-trailing arm suspension design from the older E30 3 Series. It is the first mass-produced Z Series car.
M models were introduced in 1998 in roadster and coupé body styles and were powered by the S50, S52, or S54 straight-six engine depending on country and model year. The M models came with a 5-speed manual transmission. The regular Z3s were offered with straight-sixes or four-cylinder engines.
Production ended on June 28, 2002, with the Z3 line replaced by the E85 Z4.
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Common 1996 Bmw Z3 problems
The BMW Z3, produced from 1996 to 2002, is a popular roadster known for its style and driving dynamics. However, like any car, it has its share of common problems. Here are some of the most frequently reported issues by Z3 owners:
- Oil Leaks from Lower Engine Area: Oil leaks are a common problem in BMW Z3s, particularly from the lower engine area. This issue is often caused by the valve cover gasket or the oil pan gasket, which can deteriorate over time and allow oil to escape.
- Multiple Power Steering Hoses May Simultaneously Fail: The power steering system in the BMW Z3 is prone to hose failure, with multiple hoses potentially failing simultaneously. This can lead to a loss of power steering assist and make the car difficult to maneuver, especially at low speeds.
- Check Engine Light and/or Engine Overheating: The BMW Z3 is known for its check engine light and engine overheating issues, which can be caused by a variety of problems, including faulty oxygen sensors, failing water pumps, and head gasket failure.
- Wet Seats: If your Z3's seats are wet after it rains, the roof may be leaking where it connects with the front window. This issue can be resolved by fitting a replacement seal to stop the leak.
- Rattling Seats: The plastic bush clips on the seats are known for breaking, causing the seat to rattle. This issue can be fixed by replacing the plastic bush clips.
- Exhaust Manifold Failure: If you hear a loud cracking noise coming from the top of the engine, you may have a cracked exhaust manifold. This issue is most common on the 1.9L engine and can be resolved by fitting a replacement exhaust manifold.
- Engine Misfiring: If you're experiencing problems with the engine misfiring, the valve timing may need to be modified, particularly on the 1.9L engine. This issue can be resolved by a specialist who can modify the valve timing to stop the misfiring.
- Alarm Problems: The BMW Z3 has known issues with faulty micro switches, which can cause the alarm to go off on its own accord. This issue is most commonly caused by the micro switch on the door or the bonnet and can be resolved by fitting a replacement micro switch.
In addition to these common problems, the BMW Z3 can also suffer from corrosion, particularly around the boot lock and mirror bases. Under the skin, there are potential areas for corrosion to take hold, such as the diff and rear subframe mounting points. Checking for corrosion and ensuring that the inner wings and boot floor are straight and true is essential when buying a Z3.
The engines in the BMW Z3 are generally reliable, but the four-cylinder engines are more sensible and reliable than the six-cylinder engines. The most common problem with the four-cylinder engines is generally a failing oxygen sensor, which will throw up an engine warning light or fail an MoT emissions test. The six-cylinder engines, while more powerful, require good maintenance to stay reliable.
Overall, the BMW Z3 is a charming and fun-to-drive roadster, but like any car, it has its share of common problems. Regular maintenance and inspections can help prevent many of these issues, and it's essential to be aware of the potential problems before buying a Z3.
What is the most common problem with the BMW Z3?
Common complaints about the BMW Z3 include oil leaks, faulty sound systems, and leaking power steering fluid.
What is the life expectancy of a 1996 BMW Z3?
What is Bmw Z3 lifespan? The estimated lifespan of a Bmw Z3 is 150,000mi, before reaching the life expectancy upper limit.
How long do Z3 engines last?
I've seen BMW blocks with 300k miles with factory cross hatching still visible on the cylinder walls. They're fantastic engines. If you properly maintain it, it will outlast the rest of the car.
Is it worth it to buy a Z3?
Elsewhere, the Z3 is very practical, generally reliable and the parts supply is excellent, as much of the car was shared with the contemporary 3 Series. There is no shortage of Z3s so it's a buyer's market.
What is the most common problem with the BMW Z3?
Common complaints about the BMW Z3 include oil leaks, faulty sound systems, and leaking power steering fluid.
What is the life expectancy of a 1996 BMW Z3?
What is Bmw Z3 lifespan? The estimated lifespan of a Bmw Z3 is 150,000mi, before reaching the life expectancy upper limit.
How long do Z3 engines last?
I've seen BMW blocks with 300k miles with factory cross hatching still visible on the cylinder walls. They're fantastic engines. If you properly maintain it, it will outlast the rest of the car.
Is a 1996 BMW Z3 a classic car?
It's a collector-level time capsule that also now qualifies for true classic benefits. This car debuted in a big way for the 1996 model year.
1996 Bmw Z3 car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Bmw Z3 problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Air bags problems
- Seats problems
- Seat belts problems
- Power train problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1996 Bmw Z3 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 1996 Bmw Z3
The NHTSA has received 30 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1996 Bmw Z3. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 1996 Bmw Z3 vehicles.
SEATS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-05-05
- VIN: 4USCH7329TL
- Components: SEATS
- Summary: DRIVER SEAT SLIDING BACK AND FORTH WHILE DRIVING IN MOTION
SEATS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-04-25
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 4USCH7322TL
- Components: SEATS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1996 BMW Z3. WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS STATIONARY, THE DRIVER'S SEAT HEATER MALFUNCTIONED. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE SEAT HEATER BURNED A HOLE IN THE LEATHER SEAT AND ALSO BURNED A HOLE IN HER JEANS. THE CONTACT WAS NOT INJURED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 100,000.
AIR BAGS,SEATS,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-04-05
- Components: AIR BAGS,SEATS,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: DRIVER AND PASSENGER SEATS MOVE FORWARD/BACKWARDS DURING ACCELERATION AND BREAKING AT ANY SPEED, GAS GAUGE READS EMPTY ON FULL TANK OR FLUXES ON DASH AND AIR BAG LIGHT STAYS ON FOR 3-5 MIN. AT A TIME WHEN STARTING UP IGNITION. *TR
AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-05-23
- VIN: 4UFCH7327TL
- Components: AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1996 BMW Z3. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE AIR BAG WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE CONTACT ALSO STATED THAT THE SEAT BELT COULD NOT BE UNLATCHED WHEN THE DRIVER WOULD DEPRESS OR ADD ANY PRESSURE TO THE BRAKE PEDAL. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER FOR INSPECTION AND THEY STATED THAT THE AIR BAG SENSOR AND THE SEAT BELT ASSEMBLY NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 75,000.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-01-01
- VIN: 4USCH7323TL
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1996 BMW Z3. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THERE WAS AN INCREASE IN EXHAUST FUMES AND A RATTLING NOISE WAS COMING FROM THE CATALIC CONVERTER. THE CONTACT ALSO STATED THAT EROSION IN THE MONOLITH BECAME LOOSE IN THE HOUSING. THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT WOULD ALSO ILLUMINATE ON THE INSTRUMENT PANEL AT ANY TIME. THE DEALER AND MANUFACTURER DENIED ANY ASSISTANCE WITH REPAIRS OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 94,000 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 97,000. UPDATED 09/21/11 *BF UPDATED 10/07/11
SEATS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-09-23
- VIN: 4USCH732XTL
- Components: SEATS
- Summary: THE DRIVER SEAT MOVES FORWARD WHEN THE BRAKES ARE APPLIED HARD. MY MECHANIC SAYS THAT THIS IS A COMMON PROBLEM WITH THE Z3'S. *TR
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-05-23
- VIN: 4USCH7324TL
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: DT: 1996 BMW Z3. THE CONSUMER STATES THE VEHICLE HAS AN INCORRECTLY MACHINED GUIDE SLEEVE IN THE MANUAL TRANSMISSION. THIS CAUSES THE TRANSMISSION TO JUMP OUT OF GEAR WITHOUT ANY WARNING. THE VEHICLE HAS NOT BEEN TAKEN TO THE DEALERSHIP, BUT HE HAS CONTACTED THE MANUFACTURER ABOUT THE PROBLEM. THE MANUFACTURER STATES THERE IS NO RECALL. THE PROBLEM STARTED ON MAY 23, 2001. THERE HAS BEEN NOTHING DONE TO CORRECT THE PROBLEM. THE PROBLEM IS INTERMITTENT, AND OCCURS ONLY IN FIRST GEAR. *AK
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-02-22
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: SRS LIGHT CAME ON AFTER ADJUSTING THE SEAT. BMW HAS ISSUED SEVERAL SERVICE BULLETINS RE SRS PROBLEMS, SO CLEARLY THEY ARE AWARE OF THE PROBLEM. YET BMW REFUSES TO ISSUE A RECALL TO PROPERLY RETROFIT THE WIRING HARNESS.*AK
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-02-22
- VIN: 4USCH7325TL
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: SRS LIGHT CAME ON AFTER ADJUSTING THE SEAT. ACCORDING TO REPORTS FROM NUMEROUS Z3 OWNERS, THIS A COMMON PROBLEM. BMW HAS ISSUED SEVERAL SERVICE BULLETINS REGARDING THIS PROBLEM. AS SRS FAILURE COULD RESULT IN SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH, BMW SHOULD CORRECT THE PROBLEM BY PROPERLY REDESIGNING THE DEFECTIVE PART(S). *JB
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-10-01
- VIN: 4USCH7323TL
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: THE AIRBAG WARNING LIGHT HAS COME ON, BEEN REPAIRED BY THE MANUFACTURER, AND HAS COME ON AGAIN. MANUFACTURER STATES THAT AIRBAGS WILL NOT OPERATE PROPERLY WITHOUT REPAIR. *LA
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-06-17
- VIN: 4USCH7329TL
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: PASSENGER SEAT BELT LOCKS UP WHILE CAR IS IN MOTION AND WILL NOT RELEASE. *AK
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-03-01
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: THE SHIFTER POPPED OUT OF FIRST GEAR AND DROPPED INTO NEUTRAL, AND THE ENGINE LOST POWER. *JB
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Crash: 1
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: WHILE IN 1ST GEAR AND MERGING INTO TRAFFIC VEHICLE MADE A LOUD NOISE AND POPPED OUT OF GEAR CAUSING THE VEHICLE TO LOSE ACCELERATION CAUSING A REAR END COLLISION. PLEASE PROVIDE ANY ADDITIONAL INFORMATION. TS
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-11-01
- VIN: 4USCH7320TL
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: MANUAL TRANSMISSION...VIOLENTLY POPS OUT OF FIRST GEAR TO NEUTRAL POSITION UPON ACCELERATING FROM STOP..DANGEROUS, AS CAR BEHIND EXPECTS CONTINUED FORWARD MOTION, BUT MUST INSTEAD, AWAIT ANOTHER SHIFT INTO FIRST AND POSSIBLE REPEAT OF POPPING OUT OF GEAR. HAPPENS OFTEN. SIGNIFICANT EXPENSE TO REPAIR. SHOULD DEALER PAY FOR ALL?
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-04-02
- VIN: 4USCH7327TL
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: CONSUMER STATES THAT THE AIR BAG SENOR LIGHT COMES ON AND STAY, WHICH MAY RESULT IN PERMATURE AIR BAG DEPLOYMENT,OR NONE DEPLOYMENT OF AIR BAG IN AN ACCIDENT. CONTACTED DEALER,THEY STATED THAT THE SEAT BELT WAS THE CAUSE. HAD IT REPLACE, PROBLEM STILL OCCURS. NLM
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-07-27
- VIN: 4USCH7323TL
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: FIRESTONE TIRE FIREHAWKSZ50 AT 72182 MILES SHOWED TREAD SEPARATION FORM THE SIDE THE SAME AS FIREHAWK TIRES GTA-02. NO ACCIDENT OR INCISENT OCCURED DURING TREAD SEPARATION.*AK
FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-04-01
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER
- Summary: FUEL GAUGE WILL NOT GIVE THE CORRECT LEVEL OF FUEL. CONTACTED DEALER. *AK
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: FILL IN PLE
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: WHILE TRAVELING APPROXIMATELY 40 MPH REAR DIFFERENTIAL UNIT LOCKED UP, CAUSING RIGHT/ REAR TIRE TO STOP SPINNING. DEALERSHIP IS EXAMINING VEHICLE AND MAKING ALL NECESSARY REPAIRS. PLEASE PROVIDE ANY ADDITIONAL INFORMATION / DOCUMENTATION. *AK
SEATS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 4USCH732XTL
- Components: SEATS
- Summary: DEALER REPRESENTATIVE SAID THIS A COMMON PROBLEM & REQUIRES REPLACEMENT. WHEN BRAKING, THE SEAT SLIDES FORWARD ON THE RAILS 1 TO 2 INCHES. I AM CONCERNED THAT IN A SERIOUS FRONT END COLLISION THE SEAT MAY PROPEL THE DRIVER AND/OR PASSENGER FORWARD AND WITH A LOCKED BELT CAUSE PERSONAL INJURIES TO THE OCCUPANTS. DEALER WAS NOT WILLING TO REPLACE THIS DEFECTIVE PART AT THEIR EXPENSE.*AK
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-07-01
- VIN: 4USCH7321TL
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: THIS IS A WELL KNOWN PROBLEM THAT IS HAPPENING FREQUENTLY TO NUMEROUS BMW OWNERS AND THEY KNOW THE PROBLEM EXISTS IN THE SEATBELT TENSIONERS. *AK
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 4USCH7320TL
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: FRONT PASSENGER SEATBELT LOCKS- SOMETIMES UNUSABLE -RATCHETT ASSEMBLY- DEALER REPLACED 3 X - STILL NOT WORKING -DEALER &BMW MANUF CLAIM NOTHING THEY CAN DO ABOUT IT????? OTHER OWNERS HAVE SAME COMPLAINT. *AK
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-11-08
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: THE BMW Z3 HIT ANOTHER CAR DIRECTLY IN THE SIDE ; THIS WAS A FRONTAL COLLISION BY THE BMW. THE DRIVER WAS WEARING HER SAFETY BELT, BUT HE AIRBAG DID NOT DEPLOY
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-12-29
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: HAD A HEAD-ON COLLISION AND AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. DRIVER SUSTAINED SOME INJURIES. *AK
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 4UFCH7326TL
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: ELECTRICAL TYPE SMOKE IS SEEN UNDERNEATH STEERING COLUMN. DEALER NOTED PROBLEM WAS A FUSE. PROBLEM HAS NOT STOPPED. DEALER THEN NOTED A FAULTY INSTRUMENT PANEL. PROBLEM REMAINS. *AK
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-06-11
- VIN: 4USCH732XTL
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: VEHICLE IN MOTION, PASSENGER 'S SEAT BELT WOULD LOCK UP. WOULD RETRACT, BUT NOT RELEASE. WORKED ON IT FOR 5-10 MINUTES BEFORE MOVING. TOOK TO DEALER & INFORMED MECHANISM NEEDED REPLACING. SEAT BELT RELEASING OR RETRACTING STILL EXISTS. *AK
1996 Bmw Z3 recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 1996 Bmw Z3.
- Manufacturer: PRO-A MOTORS, INC.
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: CERTAIN PRO-A MOTORS CORNER LAMPS, TURN SIGNALS, AND HEADLIGHTS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS THAT ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.
- Consequence: WITHOUT THE AMBER REFLECTORS, THE VEHICLE WILL BE POORLY ILLUMINATED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.
- Remedy: PRO-A MOTORS WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER TO REPURCHASE THE LAMPS. THE RECALL BEGAN ON APRIL 3, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT PRO-A MOTORS AT 323-838-2988.
- 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.
Negative 1996 Bmw Z3 car reviews
Positive 1996 Bmw Z3 car reviews
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I've been enjoying my Z for a month now and it has been nothing but pure joy. The styling is amazing, so sleek and smooth. It has aged perfectly and will continue to age much better than the Z4. When people ask me what year it is, I tell them to guess and their average guess is 2002, which is quite amusing. Some people complain about the performance, but luckily mine came with a supercharger made specifically for the 96' Z3, boosting the power to 225hp, which is more than the 6 cylinder. The handling is perfect, you can easily and comfortably go around a curve at 50 miles an hour when it suggests 35. All in all, it's a great car that will age perfectly and last forever.
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The car is excellent for getting noticed and for its looks. However, when things mechanically go wrong, it seems like anything less than $500 isn't in the question. Additionally, the trunk leaks, the engine rattles like no other, and the ride isn't very smooth at all for being a BMW. Trust me when I say you feel every bump or rock in the road. Despite these issues, it's still a very fun car and great to be noticed in!
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Hey there! Just wanted to let you know that the phrase 'It is Not British' might not be the most appropriate choice. Perhaps you could consider rephrasing it to something like 'This doesn't seem very British' or 'This might not align with British culture'. Let me know if you need any further assistance!
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I really enjoyed reading the review that listed a few problems with this car and still gave it four stars. To truly appreciate it, you have to own one yourself. I personally find my car to be like one of my grown kids - I love them dearly, but they always seem to need money. When I brought my
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The z3 is an absolute blast to drive on the winding mountain roads of western North Carolina. This sports car hugs the road like a suction cup, providing sheer control without any sway or bounce. However, it may not be as enjoyable on expressways with 18 wheelers towering above the little car. Overall, it's a very enjoyable car to drive.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1996 Bmw Z3 problems:
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Other years of Bmw Z3
Are you having problems with your 1996 Bmw Z3?
Stan Mueller 2024-11-24
This was my dream car - or so I thought. Although the styling is beautiful, I have had some issues with the car's longevity. Unfortunately, the car has been falling apart since it was about a year old. I have experienced some issues such as roof leaks, pieces falling off the dash, the door handles pulling out of the door, seat belt locking, and the airbag light staying on for the first 5 minutes after starting the car. Once the warranty was up, the cost of fixing these issues became quite expensive.
Ludwig Fisher 2024-05-10
I have owned my Z3 for 2 years now, having bought it used. Unfortunately, I have experienced a few issues such as the door handle pulling off, which seems to be a common defect. Additionally, the location of the window controls in the center console has resulted in some shorts due to its proximity to the shifter and its tendency to get dirty. I have also had some trouble with the windows rolling up and down. The catalytic converter is bad and rattles quite loudly, and the top also rattles. Despite these issues, I still enjoy my car. It is worth noting that this was a factory approved used car, and I have spoken to others who have had similar experiences. It is possible that these issues have been resolved in newer models, but it is also possible that they persist.