1997 BMW 318I
Only 5 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict.
This verdict reflects complaint volume compared to this model's typical year. Recalls and safety issues below apply regardless of the verdict — always check them.
Only 5 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict. The data below is complete but unranked.
- Complaints
- 5
- Recalls
- 1
- Investigations
- 0
- Top problem
- —
Too few to rank
Campaigns on file for 1997
None on file
Not enough data
Complaints per year
1997: 5 complaints
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 1984 | 5 |
| 1985 | 7 |
| 1991 | 8 |
| 1992 | 8 |
| 1993 | 11 |
| 1994 | 14 |
| 1995 | 14 |
| 1996 | 3 |
| 1997 | 5 |
| 1998 | 8 |
| 2001 | 4 |
| 2003 | 3 |
Known problem areas
Only 5 complaints on file for this model year — too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
Tires
2 of 5 total reports mention: tires, most commonly citing tread/belt.
Show complaint excerpts
Original equipment on a 1998, BMW, 318I with 30283 miles. Driving 65 MPH consumer heard noise coming from passenger's rear of vehicle. Tire tread had separated, causing $ 4000.00 damage to vehicle.*ak continental touring 205/60R15 91H…
NHTSA ODI report, 2002-09-04
Possible design of all four tires experienced failure (Michelin 185/65R15).
NHTSA ODI report, 1999-08-30
Also filed under Visibility
Electrical system
2 of 5 total reports mention: electrical system, most commonly citing ignition.
Show complaint excerpts
Consumer called complaining about having problems with the ignition switch. Also stated that when this happened she could not turn the vehicle off. Dealer was contacted and stated that is a manufacturer defect and to call this agency and report it.
NHTSA ODI report, 2003-08-07
Board level failure on automatic temperature control unit. Failure so widespread that no OEM or renewed parts dealer has inventory.
NHTSA ODI report, 2003-05-06
Visibility
1 of 5 total reports mentions: visibility, most commonly citing heater core.
Engine and engine cooling
1 of 5 total reports mentions: engine and engine cooling, most commonly citing catalytic convertor.
Safety timeline
1 recall · 0 investigations · oldest first
To check one car, enter its VIN on the NHTSA recall page. Check a VIN →
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R
1997-10-30Vehicle speed control97V131000 The cruise control and throttle cables are attached to the same throttle valve actuating lever at the throttle housing. It is possible that the plastic bushing on either cable could break due to…
Remedy: Dealers will install a spring steel clip on the outer tube of each cable in the area of the adjusting screw and plastic bushing. The clip is designed to prevent the outer tube from dislodging from…
Buy-smart checklist
1997 BMW 318I — pre-purchase inspection
Inspect
- Tires: 2 reports on file for this year.
- Electrical system: 2 reports on file for this year.
- Visibility: 1 report on file for this year.
Verify these recalls were completed
- Recall 97V131000 · Vehicle speed control
FAQ
- Is the 1997 BMW 318I reliable?
- There isn't enough NHTSA complaint data on file yet to give this model year a verdict.
- What are the most common problems with the 1997 BMW 318I?
- The most-reported component is tires, accounting for 40% of complaints on file.
- How many recalls does the 1997 BMW 318I have?
- 1 recall on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-11-01 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.