1990 BMW 3 Series 318i review from Australia and New Zealand
"Don't buy one"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Noisy engine. Thought this was a lifter noise. Had them replaced at AU$450. Didn't fix problem. Still makes an annoying tap tap noise while driving. This seems to be common problem, with no effect on reliability... etc.
Rust. Don't ever buy a BMW with sunroof. After purchase, I noticed the headlining packed with rust, and the thing leaked like a bucket. I sealed up the sunroof with black silicone, doesn't leak anymore.
Clutch is due now, vibrates when warm in traffic. Selling car so won't fix.
Steering column got a stiff point after long drive. Discovered this was due to being a right hand drive places the column right next to exhaust manifold, which heats up on long trips. Sprayed continually with WD40, solved problem.
Electrics, wipers stay on in damp weather. Couldn't fix. Could be dangerous, as causes blurry windscreen.
General comments?
Reliable. Never broken down.
Handles well, very comfortable. Good power and economy for a four cylinder.
Oil gets sludgy very easily. Again, a common problem.
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Don't Know |
| Model Year | 1990 |
| First year of ownership | 2003 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2006 |
| Engine and transmission | 1.9 Manual |
| Performance marks | 6/10 |
| Reliability marks | 5/10 |
| Comfort marks | 8/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 6/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 145000 kilometres |
| Most recent distance | 193000 kilometres |
| Previous car | Toyota Landcruiser |
| Date of Entry | 18th February, 2006 |