1996 BMW 3 Series 318i SE review from UK and Ireland
"An expensive rip off"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Driver's door lock solenoid failed.
Alternator bearings failed.
Air conditioning never worked properly, despite multiple dealer attempts to fix it.
General comments?
Nice to drive for a non sporty saloon.
Interior quality a let down. Plenty of rattles & the standard seats offer poor side support.
Rip off servicing from the main dealers. For example I was told I needed new discs & pads at a service - when checked properly by an independent mechanic (ex-BMW) these were less than half worn.
Don't believe the myth about BMW's having good residual value (particularly by dealers!). I lost more money on this car over 12 months than any other car I have ever owned, despite getting a fairly good deal at the time when I bought it.
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Recommended Reviews:
  | The 316 can be thirsty due to its weight, but it's comfortable and nippy |
| Good to drive, but expensive, overrated and slow |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | No |
| First year of ownership | 1999 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2000 |
| Engine and transmission | 1.8 Manual |
| Performance marks | 6/10 |
| Reliability marks | 8/10 |
| Comfort marks | 7/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 5/10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 2/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 27000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 39000 miles |
| Previous car | Mazda MX5 |
| Date of Entry | 11th May, 2001 |