Some owners may have another story, though. They report higher than average maintenance costs, and above-average sensitivity to maintenance scheduling. Early scheduled maintenance was included, so for the first 80,000 kms or so, your possible used model was probably serviced at a dealership religiously. If you're not sure how it was maintained after this point, ask any dealership to print out the service records. All they'll need is the cars VIN number.
Common and known problems deal mainly with electrical issues. The sunroof may fail to operate in heat, and window regulators are known to fail prematurely. If the power windows on a potential used 3-Series make clicking noises when in use, it's a sign the regulators are about to kick the bucket. Intermittent problems with electrical accessories, lights or ventilation systems weren't uncommon either.
Even faulty ignition coil-packs on certain models were recalled, and a dealership can advise you if this work has been completed. Other recalls include a faulty retaining clip in the brake system which could cause brake-failure, and a bad brake-light switch. Additionally, a cooling fan motor could overload the circuitry and thus fail to operate. This, subsequently, could result in overheating or engine damage.
Pinch-sensors in some models would prevent the auto-up windows from retracting if they came in contact with an obstacle. This possibly painful problem could be especially embarrassing for owners trying to demonstrate the anti-pinch feature to friends or family.
But perhaps the most interesting recall was on 1999 models. Some came with overly sensitive side airbags which could deploy for a variety of non-crash events, like a pot-hole or nearby jackhammer.
Electrical problems can be a real pain, and they're the inconvenience of choice for the used 3-Series. If you make sure the recall work is done, you'll be on the right track.
Mechanical problem areas include crankshaft position sensors, slipping automatic transmissions, leaky manual transmission plug bolts and power-steering noise- though the two latter concerns are easily and inexpensively rectified by any dealer or competent mechanic.
When you find your match, make sure you've got a grasp on its service records and that a competent and experienced BMW mechanic gives it a going over with particular attention to the electrical systems. Check underneath for any obvious leaks or rust, and have the suspension checked over as well. If the car was abused, it could be apparent here with prematurely worn suspension parts. Be double sure that all recall work has been performed, too.
Then, if you get a green light from the mechanic, proceed. For fans of luxury and performance cars, a well-maintained 3-Series will outweigh its possible problems with a rewarding and exhilarating driving experience.
photo:BMW
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| 2003 BMW 3-Series |
Common and known problems deal mainly with electrical issues. The sunroof may fail to operate in heat, and window regulators are known to fail prematurely. If the power windows on a potential used 3-Series make clicking noises when in use, it's a sign the regulators are about to kick the bucket. Intermittent problems with electrical accessories, lights or ventilation systems weren't uncommon either.
Even faulty ignition coil-packs on certain models were recalled, and a dealership can advise you if this work has been completed. Other recalls include a faulty retaining clip in the brake system which could cause brake-failure, and a bad brake-light switch. Additionally, a cooling fan motor could overload the circuitry and thus fail to operate. This, subsequently, could result in overheating or engine damage.
Pinch-sensors in some models would prevent the auto-up windows from retracting if they came in contact with an obstacle. This possibly painful problem could be especially embarrassing for owners trying to demonstrate the anti-pinch feature to friends or family.
But perhaps the most interesting recall was on 1999 models. Some came with overly sensitive side airbags which could deploy for a variety of non-crash events, like a pot-hole or nearby jackhammer.
Electrical problems can be a real pain, and they're the inconvenience of choice for the used 3-Series. If you make sure the recall work is done, you'll be on the right track.
Mechanical problem areas include crankshaft position sensors, slipping automatic transmissions, leaky manual transmission plug bolts and power-steering noise- though the two latter concerns are easily and inexpensively rectified by any dealer or competent mechanic.
When you find your match, make sure you've got a grasp on its service records and that a competent and experienced BMW mechanic gives it a going over with particular attention to the electrical systems. Check underneath for any obvious leaks or rust, and have the suspension checked over as well. If the car was abused, it could be apparent here with prematurely worn suspension parts. Be double sure that all recall work has been performed, too.
Then, if you get a green light from the mechanic, proceed. For fans of luxury and performance cars, a well-maintained 3-Series will outweigh its possible problems with a rewarding and exhilarating driving experience.
photo:BMW
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