1997 BMW 3 Series 328i review from UK and Ireland
"Expensive to run with many faults"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Rear screen needed replacing due to leak.
Rear door central locking motor failed.
Climate control broke due to a temperate sensor in the dashboard.
Gearbox and clutch needed replacing due to rattle.
Paint on bonnet peeling away.
Both rear shock absorber replaced.
New discs and pads required all round.
Bottom ball joint worn.
One rear fog lamp doesn't work (not a bulb problem).
A noise comes from the radio cassette when playing tapes.
General comments?
I like the car due to the performance and quiet and comfortable ride.
I have been disappointed by the high running costs.
The car as needed a visit to the dealer quite often.
It has needed servicing (based on the service indicator) every 7000 miles which is nearly twice a year for me.
Including the visits to the dealer for gearbox and clutch problems, this is quite a lot for such a reliable car!
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| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Don't Know |
| First year of ownership | 1999 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2002 |
| Engine and transmission | 2.8 Manual |
| Performance marks | 8/10 |
| Reliability marks | 6/10 |
| Comfort marks | 7/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 4/10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 3/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 15000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 46000 miles |
| Previous car | Vauxhall Astra |
| Date of Entry | 11th January, 2002 |