1993 BMW 318IS
Only 13 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 13 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict. The data below is complete but unranked.
- Complaints
- 13
- Recalls
- 2
- Investigations
- 0
- Top problem
- —
Too few to rank
Campaigns on file for 1993
None on file
Not enough data
Complaints per year
1993: 13 complaints
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 1991 | 6 |
| 1992 | 3 |
| 1993 | 13 |
| 1994 | 5 |
| 1995 | 3 |
| 1996 | 0 |
| 1997 | 2 |
Known problem areas
Only 13 complaints on file for this model year — too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
Engine and engine cooling
9 of 13 total reports mention: engine and engine cooling, most commonly citing engine and cooling system.
Show complaint excerpts
When the gasket goes all of the coolant in the radiator leaks out of the car, causing the engine to overheat. Because water in the coolant is out of the car, it is nothing that the consumer can do. The dealer cannot duplicate the problem.
NHTSA ODI report, 1998-06-12
Engine timing case profile gasket fails and causes complete loss of engine coolant.
NHTSA ODI report, 1997-08-19
Electrical system
2 of 13 total reports mention: electrical system, most commonly citing interior/under dash and module.
Vehicle speed control
1 of 13 total reports mentions: vehicle speed control.
Show complaint excerpts
While driving car accelerates by itself. Made sure carpet wasn't on pedal. Happened few times during winter. RPM's going very high. Very hard to stop the car. Very unsafe. BMW told me there is recall but my car was not affected.
NHTSA ODI report, 2003-11-19
Suspension
1 of 13 total reports mentions: suspension, most commonly citing control arm.
Show complaint excerpts
Both front ball joints were replaced. Ehicle also slides and fishtails on other than dry road. Consumer has had 3 accidents.
NHTSA ODI report, 2001-03-12
Safety timeline
2 recalls · 0 investigations · oldest first
To check one car, enter its VIN on the NHTSA recall page. Check a VIN →
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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…
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1999-03-31Engine and engine cooling98V178000 Vehicle description: passenger vehicles. A malfunction or failure of a coolant system component, such as a thermostat, water pump, or fan belt, can result in significantly increased coolant…
Remedy: Dealers will install a new design radiator cap to control pressure and provide greater coolant overflow in the event of overheating.
Buy-smart checklist
1993 BMW 318IS — pre-purchase inspection
Inspect
- Engine and engine cooling: 9 reports on file for this year.
- Electrical system: 2 reports on file for this year.
- Vehicle speed control: 1 report on file for this year.
Verify these recalls were completed
- Recall 97V131000 · Vehicle speed control
- Recall 98V178000 · Engine and engine cooling
FAQ
- Is the 1993 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 1993 BMW 318IS?
- The most-reported component is engine and engine cooling, accounting for 69% of complaints on file.
- How many recalls does the 1993 BMW 318IS have?
- 2 recalls on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-10-31 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.