1996 BMW 3 Series 318tds Tourer review from UK and Ireland
"Cheap to run, but unreliable"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Windows and sunroof relay failed.
Battery.
Hydraulic tappets needed replacing.
New door seal.
Uses excess oil (1 ltr per 1000 miles).
Clutch judders.
General comments?
Reliability was very poor. As well as the above I also had to call out the AA four times in a matter of 9 months.
The car drives well and the gearbox shifts nicely, although does judder occasionly.
Performance is rather sluggish, yet with consumption of 40mpg Urban / 58mpg Motorway, you don't tend to mind.
Admittidley it was high miler, but it did have FSH, my old '84 Mercedes 230 Estate may have had the odd rust spot and only returned 22mpg Urban, but it was better in many areas, had covered 217000miles and was totally dependable.
Interior quality is disappointing with various rattles and the glove box lid doesn't seem to fit. Seat fabric seems to wear poorly although it is pale-blue. Load area is not great, my old Mercedes 230TE could carry much more bulkier items.
The Body seems well put together if not a little tinny. Paint however had a lovely deep gloss.
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| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | No |
| First year of ownership | 2001 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2002 |
| Engine and transmission | 1.7 turbo diesel Manual |
| Performance marks | 7/10 |
| Reliability marks | 5/10 |
| Comfort marks | 7/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 4/10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 7/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 98000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 112000 miles |
| Previous car | Mercedes-Benz W123 |
| Date of Entry | 13th June, 2002 |