1994 BMW 318IS
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
- 2
- Investigations
- 0
- Top problem
- —
Too few to rank
Campaigns on file for 1994
None on file
Not enough data
Complaints per year
1994: 5 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 5 complaints on file for this model year — too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
Engine and engine cooling
2 of 5 total reports mention: engine and engine cooling, most commonly citing belts and associated pulleys and engine.
Show complaint excerpts
Consumer noticed antifreeze on the ground in the garage, took vehicle to the dealer, and it was determined timing case profile gasket was defective.*ak...this gasket has caused problem until it was replaced in middle of 1994.
NHTSA ODI report, 2005-01-04
The profile gasket failure is apparently a common problem on this model engine...and while BMW acknowledges it is because of ba materials used for this gasket, no recall nor offer to repair free of charge has apparently been made.
NHTSA ODI report, 1999-01-01
Also filed under Fuel system, gasoline
Electrical system
2 of 5 total reports mention: electrical system, most commonly citing module and ignition.
Power train
1 of 5 total reports mentions: power train, most commonly citing differential unit.
Show complaint excerpts
I purchased the car in nov. 1994 from gearhart BMW in denville, New Jersey. Four months after the purchased date, I discovered a noise that was coming from behind me while I was driving approximately 50 MPH.
NHTSA ODI report, 1999-04-28
Fuel system, gasoline
1 of 5 total reports mentions: fuel system, gasoline, most commonly citing fuel injection system.
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
1994 BMW 318IS — pre-purchase inspection
Inspect
- Engine and engine cooling: 2 reports on file for this year.
- Electrical system: 2 reports on file for this year.
- Power train: 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 1994 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 1994 BMW 318IS?
- The most-reported component is engine and engine cooling, accounting for 40% of complaints on file.
- How many recalls does the 1994 BMW 318IS have?
- 2 recalls on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-11-01 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.