1997 BMW 318IS
Only 2 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 2 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict. The data below is complete but unranked.
- Complaints
- 2
- 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: 2 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 2 complaints on file for this model year — too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
Vehicle speed control
1 of 2 total reports mentions: vehicle speed control, most commonly citing cruise control.
Show complaint excerpts
While driving the vehicle with cruise control on consumer applied the brakes and cruise control won't release. Also, air bag light illuminated on the dash board.
NHTSA ODI report, 2004-09-02
Steering
1 of 2 total reports mentions: steering, most commonly citing tie rod assembly.
Show complaint excerpts
While driving at 45 MPH, suddenly a popping noise occurred in the front end, the steering wheel shuttered because vehicle was equipped with asc plus t (Automatic stability control plus traction) and it was trying to gain back control.
NHTSA ODI report, 2005-03-28
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 318IS — pre-purchase inspection
Inspect
- Vehicle speed control: 1 report on file for this year.
- Steering: 1 report on file for this year.
Verify these recalls were completed
- Recall 97V131000 · Vehicle speed control
FAQ
- Is the 1997 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 1997 BMW 318IS?
- The most-reported component is vehicle speed control, accounting for 50% of complaints on file.
- How many recalls does the 1997 BMW 318IS 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.