1990 BMW 3 Series is review from North America
"A good 'ole Bimmer that still turns heads"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Clutch release bearing was totally worn - replaced, and threw in a new clutch too.
Replaced all 4 shocks/struts.
Installed "Powerstroke" cross-drilled front rotors. Padgid pads.
Replaced the water pump and timing belt - watch for a loose timing belt tightener!! A loose tightener results in poor timing, fuel economy, overall performance, and oil consumption!
Cleaned the intake manifold and fuel injectors. Recommend blowing Penzoil FI cleaner through the injectors with a bicycle hand pump, while applying 12V DC to the injector. Runs like new!
General comments?
Solid, solid car! I love it because I can work on it myself. Even if you have to pay someone to fix it for you, it's still a great car for the money. Rear wheel drive, in-line six, 175HP... you can't get that in a new car for less than $40,000. But you can get a nice used 325 for under $10,000 and put a lotta love into it... (and it will be returned).
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| First year of ownership | 1999 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2001 |
| Engine and transmission | 2.5 Manual |
| Performance marks | 8/10 |
| Reliability marks | 8/10 |
| Comfort marks | 7/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 6/10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 6/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 140000 kilometres |
| Most recent distance | 217000 kilometres |
| Previous car | Honda Accord |
| Date of Entry | 21st August, 2001 |