Is the 1992 BMW 325IS 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 1992 BMW 325IS?

The most-reported component is structure, accounting for 63% of complaints on file.

How many recalls does the 1992 BMW 325IS have?

4 recalls on file for this model year.

1992 BMW 325IS

○ Not enough data

1992 BMW 325IS
RENDERED 2026-11-01T12:49:45.103Z

Only 8 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 8 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict. The data below is complete but unranked.

How is this computed?

Complaints: 8
Recalls: 4
Investigations: 0
Top problem: —

Complaints per year

1992: 8 complaints

View as data table

Year	Complaints
1992	8
1993	16
1994	10
1995	5

Known problem areas

Only 8 complaints on file for this model year — too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.

Structure

5 of 8 total reports mention: structure, most commonly citing frame and members and door.

Show complaint excerpts

1992 BMW 325IS. Rear subframe mount failure. Loose rear end. Clunking noises. Torn under belly where rear subframe bolts to unibody of car.

NHTSA ODI report, 2006-05-21

I recently had the rear end of my car detached itself from the supreme while driving down the road. I have brought the car to several mechanic and have had every individual mechanic say he has seen it happened to my same exact car.

NHTSA ODI report, 2003-10-23

Rear cross member frame broke off from the mounting of the vehcile, causing a clocking sound, and it felt like the rear end was giving way. Dealer has not been contacted.

NHTSA ODI report, 1999-11-29

Fuel system, gasoline

2 of 8 total reports mention: fuel system, gasoline, most commonly citing tank assembly.

Show complaint excerpts

Gas fumes filled passenger compartment.

NHTSA ODI report, 2000-02-29

Suspension

1 of 8 total reports mentions: suspension, most commonly citing shock absorber.

Safety timeline

4 recalls · 0 investigations · oldest first

To check one car, enter its VIN on the NHTSA recall page. Check a VIN →

R

1996-09-30Air bags96V110000 The air bag contact ring locking tab located in the steering wheel assembly can break without warning.

Remedy: Dealers will replace the locking tab with one of a different design.

Check if this car was fixed →
R

1996-09-30Exterior lighting96V111000 The brake light switch can fail allowing the switch to remain in the "Brake lights off" Position or in the "Brake lights on" Position.

Remedy: Dealers will replace the existing brake light switch with a newly designed switch.

Check if this car was fixed →
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…

Check if this car was fixed →
R

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.

Check if this car was fixed →

Buy-smart checklist

1992 BMW 325IS — pre-purchase inspection

Inspect

Structure: 5 reports on file for this year.
Fuel system, gasoline: 2 reports on file for this year.
Suspension: 1 report on file for this year.

Verify these recalls were completed

Recall 96V110000 · Air bags
Recall 96V111000 · Exterior lighting
Recall 97V131000 · Vehicle speed control
Recall 98V178000 · Engine and engine cooling

FAQ

Is the 1992 BMW 325IS 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 1992 BMW 325IS?: The most-reported component is structure, accounting for 63% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 1992 BMW 325IS have?: 4 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.