1991 BMW 318IS
Only 6 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 6 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict. The data below is complete but unranked.
COMPLAINTS PER YEAR
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 1991 | 6 |
| 1992 | 3 |
| 1993 | 13 |
| 1994 | 5 |
| 1995 | 3 |
| 1996 | 0 |
| 1997 | 2 |
KNOWN PROBLEM AREAS
Only 6 complaints on file for this model year -- too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
5 of 6 total reports mention: engine and engine cooling.
Show complaint excerpts
THE HEAD GASKET WAS REPLACED TWICE. *JB
NHTSA ODI report, 20030319
WHILE DRIVING AT HIGH SPEED, 65MPH, THE PROFILE GASKET IN MY ENGINE FAILED. LARGE AMOUNTS OF STEAM CAME OUT OF THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT AND RESULTED IN A CONDITION OF ALMOST ZERO VISIBILITY.
NHTSA ODI report, 20000228
ENGINE GASKET FAILURE, CAUSING A SUDDEN LOSS OF COOLANT ON THE ROADWAY UNDER THE DRIVING WHEELS.
NHTSA ODI report, 19990325
1 of 6 total reports mentions: visibility.
1 of 6 total reports mentions: engine and engine cooling.
SAFETY TIMELINE
DURING TESTING, INCORRECTLY INSTALLED DRIVER-SIDE KNEE BOLSTER PREVENTED STEERING COLUMN FROM MOVING FORWARD AS DESIGNED TO ABSORB IMPACT ENERGY FROM DRIVER DUMMY.
Remedy: REPAIR THE KNEE BOLSTER TO ALLOW CLEARANCE AND AVOID IMPEDANCE OF STEERING COLUMN MOVEMENT DURING FRONTAL IMPACT.
Campaign 91V054000 — check if this car was fixed
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
1991 BMW 318IS — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for engine and engine cooling issues (5 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for visibility issues (1 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for engine and engine cooling issues (1 reports on file for this year).
- Verify recall 91V054000 (air bags) has been completed.
FAQ
Is the 1991 BMW 318IS 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 1991 BMW 318IS?
The most-reported component is engine and engine cooling:engine, accounting for 83% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 1991 BMW 318IS have?
1 recall on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-07-11 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.