2002 BMW 3 Series 318Ci review from UK and Ireland
"A poor car with an unjustified image"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Starter motor (under guarantee).
Rear wheel or differential bearing (~20,000 miles).
Ignition coils all changed by dealer free of charge (~30,000 miles).
Coil failure, (45,000 miles).
Interior mirror fell off windscreen, only fix is a new windscreen (60,000 miles).
Vacuum pump, resulting in no brakes (65,000 miles).
Drivers side electric window switch (70,000 miles).
Coil failure, (77,000 miles).
Coil failure, (78,000 miles).
Front suspension bushes, car failed National Car Test, (78,700 miles).
Bump stop rubbers front need to be replaced + gaiters over shock absorber rods front and rear.
Air-bag light on, seems to be a problem with the "wiring or sensor" on the passenger seat.
General comments?
Excellent handling and comfortable to drive.
Not too bad on fuel on long journeys.
Jerky and hesitant on acceleration almost all the time.
Traction control too enthusiastic, this cuts the power just when you need it, i.e. pulling away
Reliability and cost of repair very disappointing.
My previous car, a Volvo S40 turbo, was a lot quicker and gave NO trouble over 90,000 miles, other than the battery, which was replaced under guarantee.
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| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | No |
| Model Year | 2002 |
| First year of ownership | 2002 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2008 |
| Engine and transmission | 2.0 petrol Manual |
| Performance marks | 7/10 |
| Reliability marks | 3/10 |
| Comfort marks | 8/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 5/10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 9/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 0 miles |
| Most recent distance | 78000 miles |
| Previous car | Volvo S40 |
| Date of Entry | 21st July, 2008 |