2000 BMW 3 Series 318i SE review from UK and Ireland
"Warning: All potential BMW owners read this. It could save you a lot of money and frustration"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Engine seized after just 3,000 miles. Gearbox gave up after 10,000 miles.
Bits of trim fall off every time I go down a moderately rough road.
Warning lights flash randomly.
Dealer hasn't wanted to know about my problems, they are a major BMW group in the country and their behavior is a disgrace. Fortunately the car is under warranty otherwise I would be seriously out of pocket.
General comments?
I bought a BMW believing I was buying a well engineered car. But the reality is that their reputation is pumped up out of all proportion. Everybody believes that BMW build some of the finest handling cars in the world but they don't - they wallow through the corners and don't even have a cosseting ride to make up for it. This is the last time I get sucked in by the hype surrounding BMW - mines going as soon as I can afford to replace it with another Volvo, because although they don't have the 'right-on' image they are by far superior in comfort, build quality, performance, and dealer service.
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![]() ![]() | An experience I would not want to repeat |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | No |
| First year of ownership | 2000 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2000 |
| Engine and transmission | 1.8 petrol Manual |
| Performance marks | 1/10 |
| Reliability marks | 0/10 |
| Comfort marks | 3/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 0/10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 3/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 0 miles |
| Most recent distance | 15000 miles |
| Previous car | Volvo S40 1.8 |
| Date of Entry | 29th June, 2000 |




