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1992-1998 BMW 318i Reliability
Date Published: 2/20/08
Our reliability study for this generation BMW 3-Series includes details on average repair costs, manufacturer recalls, and everything you need to know to gauge the long-term reliability of this generation BMW 3-Series.
1992-1998 BMW 318i Reliability
Trouble Spots
Consumer Guide's® Auto Editors have scoured repair bulletins and questioned mechanics to search for commonly occurring problems for a particular vehicle. In some cases we also give possible manufacturer-suggested solutions. In many instances these trouble spots are Technical Service Bulletins posted by the manufacturer, however, we have our own expert looking at additional vehicle problems.
Air conditioner: Air conditioners that don't cool well enough may need to have some of the R-12 (Freon) removed if the system was overcharged. (1992-93)
Automatic transmission: The automatic transmission may suffer from delayed engagement after sitting overnight because the fluid drains out of the torque converter. (1992-95)
Climate control: Small flakes may come from the vents or a foul odor may be present when the A/C is operated. (1992-93)
Dashboard lights: The hazard flashers may begin flashing by themselves and the turn signals may flash at twice the normal speed due to condensation shorting out the circuit board. (1992-94)
Doors: If the central locking system unlocks itself after being locked or locks itself after being unlocked, the actuators could be defective or the trunk lock may need to be adjusted. (1992-93)
Rough idle: The variable valve timing system (VANOS) may jam on the 2.5-liter and 2.8-liter DOHC V6 engines causing a rough idle and check engine light. (1996-99)
Starter: The starter may fail because it keeps running after the engine starts and eventually burns out. The root cause is a sticking ignition switch. The whole lock and switch must be replaced. (1992-94)
Consumer Guide® Estimated Repair Costs
This table lists costs of likely repairs for comparison with other vehicles. The dollar amount includes the cost of the part(s) and labor (based on $50 per hour) for the typical repair without extras or add-ons. Like the pricing information, replacement costs can vary widely depending on region. Expect charges at a new-car dealership to be slightly higher.
Item Name Repair Cost
A/C Compressor $1,200
Alternator $420
Automatic Transmission or Transaxle $1,150
Brakes $260
Clutch, Pressure Plate, Bearing $570
Exhaust System $1,450
Radiator $655
Shocks and/or Struts $1,225
Timing Chain or Belt $820
NHTSA Recall History
1992: Airbag contact-ring locking tab can break without warning, eventually causing broken wiring; airbag would then not deploy in collision, and indicator would illuminate.
1992-93: Fuel hoses can harden and "set" over time, allowing seepage that could result in fire.
1992-95: Malfunction or failure of cooling system component can result in significantly increased coolant temperature and system pressure.
1992-97: Plastic bushing for cruise-control and throttle cables could break, causing throttle valve to remain partially open; car might not decelerate as expected.
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