1999-2005 BMW 3-Series: Full Review
Updated: 11/23/08
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Learn about the year-to-year changes and reliability for the 1999-2005 BMW 3-Series and our price chart details a range of prices based on vehicle mileage and condition.
Pros
- Acceleration
- Steering/handling
- Head-protection system
- Build quality
- Exterior finish
Cons
- Cargo room (convertible)
- Rear-seat entry/exit (coupe/convertible)
- Rear-seat room (coupe/convertible)
- Ride (M3)
Vehicle Highlights
BMW redesigned its best-selling line, the near-luxury 3-Series, for 1999. In addition to gaining a new profile and plenty of new features, the 3-Series got roomier back seats. Weights and exterior dimensions went up only marginally. Four-door sedans debuted in fall 1998, in new 323i and 328i form, with two different six-cylinder engine sizes. The 323i used a 2.5-liter engine, replacing the four-cylinder 318i as BMW's entry-level sedan. The 328i retained its 2.8-liter engine. Manual shift was standard, with a five-speed automatic transmission optional. Traction control was standard, along with Cornering Brake Control, designed to stabilize the car under hard braking in turns. Front passengers got six airbags to cushion front and side impacts. Rear side-impact airbags were newly optional. So was Park Distance Control, which beeped to signal the presence of objects to the rear when backing up.
Expert Ratings Summary (view detailed report)
| Category | BMW 325i automatic Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 6 | |
| Fuel Economy | 6 | |
| Ride Quality | 7 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 7 | |
| Quietness | 7 | |
| Controls/Materials | 7 | |
| Interior Room | 6 | |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 3 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 2 | |
| Value within Class | 5 | |
| Total Score: | 56 |
Learn about the year-to-year changes of the 1999-2005 BMW 3-Series. Get full details of the styling and performance changes throughout the history of the 1999-2005 BMW 3-Series.
Year to Year Changes
2000 BMW 3-Series:
Coupes with the new design debuted in summer 1999, but restyled convertibles did not appear until the first quarter of 2000. Coupes and convertibles were a bit lower, longer and wider than 3-Series sedans, wearing different body panels. Convertibles had roll bars behind the rear seat, designed to deploy automatically if the car was about to flip over. BMW's optional five-speed automatic transmission incorporated a Steptronic manual-shift provision. Antiskid Dynamic Stability Control was standard. A sport wagon also joined the lineup during 2000, with a one-piece tailgate and separate-opening window.
2001 BMW 3-Series:
Permanent all-wheel drive became available in summer 2000, in 325xi and 330xi sedans and wagons. AWD hardware added about 200 pounds, but only 0.7 inch to the ride height. All models got revised designations. The former 323i sedan, 323Ci coupe/convertible and 323i sport wagon were now called 325i/325Ci, to signal their new 2.5-liter six-cylinder engines, which had 14 more horsepower. At the same time, 328i sedans and 328Ci coupes/convertibles became the 330 series, via a 3.0-liter six that produced 32 more horsepower than the previous 2.8-liter. All 330 models had 17-inch tires. A power top with glass back window was standard on the 330Ci convertible, optional for the 325Ci. An aluminum hardtop was available, too. After a two-year absence, the high-performance M3 coupe was revived in the new style, packing a 330-horsepower engine and suspension modifications to match. The M3 also had a six-speed manual transmission, unique front/rear spoilers, 18-inch wheels and sport front seats.
2002 BMW 3-Series:
The top-line M3 coupe and convertible got a new sequential manual transmission (SMT) for 2002. The computer-controlled 6-speed SMT didn't have a clutch pedal, shifted via steering-wheel "paddles," and could be set to shift like an automatic. Across-the-board changes included recalibrated steering, reshaped headrests, standard in-dash CD player, titanium-color interior trim, and revised automatic climate controls. Rear side airbags were now available for 2-dr as well as 4-dr models. Newly optional were high/low-beam xenon headlights. Sedans and wagons got a minor facelift, and the optional navigation system had a wider dashboard screen.
2003 BMW 3-Series:
A new 330i sedan Performance Package option included a 10 hp increase, 6-speed manual, 18-inch wheels, exclusive trim, and sport suspension and exhaust tuning. Other model-year '03 additions included a standard sunroof for 325i wagons and an optional tire-pressure monitor for 330s.
2004 BMW 3-Series:
A new sequential manual transmission is available on all 3-series models except the 330Ci for '04. Also new for '04 are standard rain-sensing windshield wipers and optional BMW assist emergency service.
2005 BMW 3-Series:
The coupe, convertible, and wagon continue with the current design, while sedans get a makeover for 2006. In 2005, coupes (except M3) get a standard sunroof, and coupes and convertibles join the M3 in getting a standard tire-pressure monitor.
Our road test for the 1999-2005 BMW 3-Series includes a full evaluation from the inside out. We've evaluated every aspect of the 1999-2005 BMW 3-Series and highlighted the vehicle's performance with pros and cons. Use our comprehensive road test ratings to decide if this generation 1999-2005 BMW 3-Series is right for you.
Consumer Guide® Road-Test Evaluation
Spirited performance, great handling, high refinement, and terrific workmanship mark BMW's compact models, which mimic the feel of the German automaker's larger 5-Series cars. All versions shine for silky engines; solid on-road feel; modest noise levels; and athletic, class-leading rear-drive handling. The 2.5-liter six is a model of smoothness and performs nearly as swiftly as the 328i--which is among the segment's best-accelerating cars. A 328i accelerated to 60 mph in 7.5 seconds, and BMW claimed that the later 330i could do it in 6.4 seconds with manual shift, or 7.0 with automatic. All engines demand premium fuel, but economy is laudable. A 328i averaged 23.5 mpg. Automatic transmissions provide quick, velvety gear changes in normal mode. The sequential manual transmission that became available on M3 models in 2002 offers lightning-quick shifts, but isn't as smooth as traditional automatic or manual transmissions. BMW's forte is ride control and comfort, along with handling balance. Sport suspensions (standard on coupes) and bigger tires produce noticeably sharper grip and steering response, but don't absorb bumps as well as the base tire/suspension setups. They also yield some jiggle on rough pavement and lack grip in snow--despite traction control and antiskid systems. Interiors are cozy, with a rather narrow cabin feel. Head room is plentiful in front and adequate in back. Rear knee and foot room are tight with front seats moved fully aft. Coupe front seats automatically slide forward to ease entry to the rear, but it's still tricky. Large climate and audio panels are easy to use. Visibility is good, except in top-up convertibles--which are impressively solid, but suffer mild body shake on rough, broken pavement. Trunk volume is unexceptional, but space is usable and the opening is large.
Value for the Money
Unchallenged in sporting character, these are the true "driver's cars" of the near-luxury class. Some rivals offer more interior room, but none are more refined or as sporty. Price is the main drawback, because resale values are strong.
Unchallenged in sporting character, these are the true "driver's cars" of the near-luxury class. Some rivals offer more interior room, but none are more refined or as sporty. Price is the main drawback, because resale values are strong.
Expert Ratings Summary
| Category | BMW 325i automatic Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 6 | |
| Fuel Economy | 6 | |
| Ride Quality | 7 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 7 | |
| Quietness | 7 | |
| Controls/Materials | 7 | |
| Interior Room | 6 | |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 3 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 2 | |
| Value within Class | 5 | |
| Total Score: | 56 |
Each vehicle report contains one rating chart for representative model. Consumer
Guide® rates in ten key areas: Performance, Fuel Economy, Ride Comfort, Steering
and Handling, Interior Noise, Controls and Materials, Driver Room, Passenger Room,
Cargo Capacity, and Insurance Costs. These ratings compare the particular vehicle
rated to ALL other vehicles, not a vehicle's standing in a particular class. In the
ratings table, "1" is the lowest rating and "10" is the highest rating.
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 .
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.
Engine knock:
The 3.2-L (S54) engine reportedly suffers connecting-rod-bearing failures at a higher than normal rate, perhaps because some car owners are not using the required 10W-60 synthetic oil which is not readily available in the aftermarket. BMW is extending the warranty to 6 years/100,000 miles, (2001-03)
Exhaust system:
BMW issued a voluntary emissions recall to replace faulty crankshaft position sensors. (1999)
Steering noise:
Steering wheel buzzes or vibrates due to poor isolation of the power steering pump. (1999)
Transmission leak:
Manual transmissions' drain plugs may leak. BMW also suggests replacing the fill plug. (1999)
Transmission slippage:
Transmission may slip and/or check-engine light may glow due to torque converter clutch (TCC) slipping and/or TCC solenoid failure. (1999)
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 | $770 |
| Alternator | $640 |
| Automatic Transmission or Transaxle | $810 |
| Brakes | $445 |
| Clutch, Pressure Plate, Bearing | $725 |
| Constant Velocity Joints | $1,235 |
| Exhaust System | $895 |
| Radiator | $650 |
| Shocks and/or Struts | $1,320 |
| Timing Chain or Belt | $415 |
Our price chart for this generation BMW 3-Series details a range of prices in
year-by-year listings based on vehicle mileage and condition.
| Prices | Good | Average | Poor |
|
|
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| 2005 | |||
| 325Ci convertible | $23,000-25,000 | $21,200-23,000 | $15,000-16,300 |
| 325i cpe/sdn/wgn | $16,500-18,500 | $15,000-16,800 | $10,600-11,800 |
| 330Ci convertible | $25,500-27,500 | $23,700-25,600 | $16,800-18,200 |
| 330i coupe/sedan | $20,000-22,000 | $18,400-20,200 | $13,000-14,300 |
| M3 convertible | $33,500-35,500 | $31,200-33,000 | $23,800-25,200 |
| M3 coupe | $31,500-33,500 | $29,300-31,200 | $22,100-23,500 |
| 2004 | |||
| 325Ci convertible | $18,500-20,000 | $17,000-18,400 | $11,800-12,800 |
| 325i cpe/sdn/wgn | $14,300-16,300 | $13,000-14,800 | $8,900-10,100 |
| 330Ci convertible | $21,000-22,800 | $19,300-21,000 | $13,700-14,800 |
| 330i coupe/sedan | $17,000-18,500 | $15,600-17,000 | $10,900-11,800 |
| M3 convertible | $28,500-30,500 | $26,500-28,400 | $19,400-20,700 |
| M3 coupe | $27,000-29,000 | $25,100-27,000 | $18,100-19,400 |
| 2003 | |||
| 325Ci convertible | $17,000-18,500 | $15,600-17,000 | $10,900-11,800 |
| 325i cpe/sdn/wgn | $12,500-14,500 | $11,300-13,100 | $7,100-8,300 |
| 330Ci convertible | $19,000-20,500 | $17,500-18,900 | $12,400-13,300 |
| 330i coupe/sedan | $15,000-16,500 | $13,700-15,000 | $9,500-10,400 |
| M3 convertible | $25,000-27,000 | $23,300-25,100 | $16,500-17,800 |
| M3 coupe | $23,500-25,000 | $21,600-23,000 | $15,300-16,300 |
| 2002 | |||
| 325Ci convertible | $14,500-16,000 | $13,300-14,700 | $9,000-9,900 |
| 325i cpe/sdn/wgn | $11,000-12,500 | $9,900-11,300 | $5,900-6,800 |
| 330Ci convertible | $16,800-18,300 | $15,500-16,800 | $10,800-11,700 |
| 330i coupe/sedan | $13,500-14,800 | $12,300-13,500 | $8,000-8,700 |
| M3 convertible | $22,000-24,000 | $20,200-22,100 | $14,300-15,600 |
| M3 coupe | $20,500-22,000 | $18,900-20,200 | $13,300-14,300 |
| 2001 | |||
| 325Ci convertible | $13,500-14,800 | $12,300-13,500 | $8,000-8,700 |
| 325i cpe/sdn/wgn | $9,500-10,700 | $8,600-9,600 | $4,900-5,600 |
| 330Ci convertible | $15,000-16,200 | $13,700-14,700 | $9,500-10,200 |
| 330i coupe/sedan | $11,200-12,500 | $10,100-11,300 | $6,000-6,800 |
| M3 convertible | $19,200-20,700 | $17,700-19,000 | $12,500-13,500 |
| M3 coupe | $18,000-19,500 | $16,600-17,900 | $11,500-12,500 |
| 2000 | |||
| 323i convertible | $11,700-12,800 | $10,500-11,500 | $6,400-7,000 |
| 323i cpe/sdn/wgn | $8,200-9,100 | $7,400-8,200 | $4,200-4,600 |
| 328i coupe/sedan | $10,000-11,000 | $9,000-9,900 | $5,200-5,700 |
| 1999 | |||
| 323i convertible | $9,000-10,000 | $8,100-9,000 | $4,700-5,200 |
| 323i coupe/sedan | $7,300-8,200 | $6,600-7,400 | $3,600-4,000 |
| 328i convertible | $10,500-11,500 | $9,500-10,400 | $5,600-6,100 |
| 328i coupe/sedan | $8,500-9,400 | $7,700-8,500 | $4,400-4,900 |
| M3 convertible | $13,500-15,000 | $12,300-13,700 | $8,000-8,900 |
| M3 coupe | $12,000-13,000 | $10,800-11,700 | $6,700-7,300 |
|
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This chart details a range of prices in year-by-year listings for vehicles in three condition levels:
Good: a clean low-mileage, solid-running vehicle that needs little or no repair.
Average: a car with normal miles on the odometer, perhaps a few scrapes or dings;
engine might need a minor repair or two, but runs acceptably well.
Poor: might have potentially dangerous problems with the engine and/or body, or
abnormally high mileage; definitely in need of mechanical attention. Valuations
reflect wholesale prices paid by dealers at auction, and retail prices on used-car
lots. Each range covers all trim levels and engine types for a vehicle with a typical
amount of equipment--usually an automatic transmission, air conditioning, stereo,
etc. Fully loaded vehicles may cost more. Average mileage is 12,000 miles per year. Keep
in mind that these are guidelines only. Actual selling prices vary- especially from
region to region.
Specs for this generation BMW 3-Series include everything from fuel mileage to seating capacity to options availability.
Vehicle Dimensions
| Specification | 2-door convertible | 2-door coupe | 4-door sedan | 4-door wagon |
| Wheelbase, in. | 107.3 | 107.3 | 107.3 | 107.3 |
| Overall Length, in. | 176.7 | 176.7 | 176.0 | 176.3 |
| Overall Width, in. | 69.2 | 69.2 | 68.5 | 68.5 |
| Overall Height, in. | 54.0 | 53.5 | 55.7 | 55.5 |
| Curb Weight, lbs. | 3560 | 3020 | 3153 | 3351 |
| Cargo Volume, cu. ft. | 7.7 | 9.5 | 10.7 | 25.7-48 |
| Standard Payload, lbs. | -- | -- | -- | -- |
| Fuel Capacity, gals. | 16.6 | 16.6 | 16.6 | 16.6 |
| Seating Capacity | 4 | 4 | 5 | 5 |
| Front Head Room, in. | 38.3 | 37.5 | 38.4 | 38.4 |
| Max. Front Leg Room, in. | 41.7 | 41.7 | 41.4 | 41.4 |
| Rear Head Room, in. | 36.9 | 36.5 | 37.5 | 37.7 |
| Max. Rear Leg Room, in. | 32.0 | 33.2 | 34.6 | 34.0 |
|
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist. |
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Powertrain Options and Availability
Two distinct inline six-cylinder engines were used in regular 3-Series models: a 170-horsepower 2.5-liter in the 323i, and a 2.8-liter that made 193 horsepower in the 328i. A five-speed manual transmission was standard, with five-speed automatic optional. For 2001, engines in the upper series grew to 3.0-liter displacement, and the new 2.5-liter six gained 14 horsepower (but lost a bit of torque output). A 3.2-liter six-cylinder engine, rated at 330 horsepower, drove a six-speed manual gearbox in the high-performance M3 coupe. For 2002, the M3 got an available 6-speed sequential manual transmission (SMT). In '03 330i sedans with the Performance Package got a 10 horsepower boost and a 6-speed manual transmission. Offered on all models except the 330i in '04 was the SMT.
| Engines | cu. in |
Horse- power | Torque | Transmission: |
Consumer Guide Observed |
| dohc I6 | 2.5 / 152 | 170 | 181 | 5-speed manual: 20/29 5-speed automatic: 19/28 |
5-speed manual: -- 5-speed automatic: -- |
| dohc I6 | 2.8 / 170 | 193 | 206 | 5-speed manual: 20/29 5-speed automatic: 19/27 |
5-speed manual: -- 5-speed automatic: -- |
| dohc I6 | 3.0 / 182 | 225-235 | 211-222 | 5-speed manual: 21/30 6-speed manual: 20/30 5-speed automatic: 19/27 |
5-speed manual: 25.4 6-speed manual: -- 5-speed automatic: -- |
| dohc I6 | 3.2 / 192 | 330 | 225 | 6-speed manual: 16/24 SMT manual: -- |
6-speed manual: 18.7 SMT manual: -- |
| dohc I6 | 2.5 / 152 | 184 | 175 | 5-speed manual: 20/29 5-speed automatic: 19/27 |
5-speed manual: 23.5 5-speed automatic: 19.7 |
|
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist. |
|||||
Built In: Germany
Drive Wheels: longitudinal front-engine/rear- or all-wheel drive
Detailed safety information for this generation BMW 3-Series include detailed crash test scores from the NHTSA.
NHTSA Crash-Test Results
Vehicle crash test information not available at this time.The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests a vehicle's worthiness in front- and side-impact collisions and rates its resistance to rollovers. Front-impact crash-test numbers indicate the chance of serious injury: 5 = 10% or less; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-35%; 2 = 35-45%; 1 = More than 45%. Sideimpact crash-test numbers indicate: 5 = 5% or less; 4 = 6-10%; 3 = 11-20%; 2 = 21-25%; 1 = More than 26%. Rollover resistance numbers indicate the chance for rollover when the vehicle leaves the roadway: 5 = Less than 10%; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-30%; 2 = 30-40%; 1 = More than 40%.
Learn about official auto recalls, reliability issues, and vehicle problems for the 1999-2005 BMW 3-Series directly from the NHTSA and manufacturers.
NHTSA Recall History
1999 323i/328i:
Retaining clip that secures brake-booster pushrod to brake-pedal arm could detach from pin, allowing pushrod to disconnect, causing brake failure.
1999:
Side airbag system is unduly sensitive to certain noncrash impacts, such as contacting large potholes or curbs at substantial speed; could deploy without an actual side crash. Battery Safety Terminal could also activate, disconnecting starter cable from battery, so engine could not be restarted after being shut off.
2000 323i/328i:
Brake-lamp switch could fail internally, remaining either in "off" or "on" position; brake lamps would then either not operate or be continuously illuminated.
2001 315i/335i:
On some vehicles, tires could lose air suddenly, affecting vehicle control.
2001 M3:
Screws could fall into the parking-brake drum, reducing effectiveness or making screeching noises.
2001:
Failure of engine-fan motor can cause electrical circuitry to overload and fail, causing fan to stop operating, with consequent engine overheating and possible engine damage.
2002 325Xi:
There may be a crack in the rear brake rotor(s) that could expand due to braking torque, separating the brake drum from the disc.
2002 325i, 330i:
The front strut could separate from the upper mount due to an improperly installed thrust bearing.
2003 325Ci/330i:
Antiwindow pinching devices are not functioning properly on some vehicles. Dealer will inspect and replace all affected parts.
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