1993 BMW 325IS
Only 16 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 16 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict. The data below is complete but unranked.
- Complaints
- 16
- Recalls
- 3
- Investigations
- 0
- Top problem
- —
Too few to rank
Campaigns on file for 1993
None on file
Not enough data
Complaints per year
1993: 16 complaints
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 1992 | 8 |
| 1993 | 16 |
| 1994 | 10 |
| 1995 | 5 |
Known problem areas
Only 16 complaints on file for this model year — too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
Engine and engine cooling
6 of 16 total reports mention: engine and engine cooling, most commonly citing cooling system and emission control.
Show complaint excerpts
Vehicle overheated and when the consumer raised the hood to check the radiator the top flange of the composite radiator broke off under the pressure of the overheating system and sprayed the consumer with scalding coolant causing severe burn...
NHTSA ODI report, 2000-08-29
Puchased with email and verbal guarantee no problems with car. Have valid consumer complaints against same dealer with misrepresentation of veh.(S) purchased. 1: tcm light on. Veh. Will not shift. Occurred 2ND day of ownership. Dealer denies.
NHTSA ODI report, 2003-07-14
Also filed under Seat belts
Consumer went through a car wash. At the end when pressing the accelerator engine was slow and power gone, also, when starting to go through an intersection, power failed. Washed car at home same thing happened , but less.
NHTSA ODI report, 1999-05-06
Exterior lighting
5 of 16 total reports mention: exterior lighting, most commonly citing switch and tail lights.
Structure
4 of 16 total reports mention: structure, most commonly citing underbody shields and frame and members.
Seat belts
3 of 16 total reports mention: seat belts, most commonly citing rear/other and retractor.
Show complaint excerpts
The passenger side seat belt will not latch properly. The locking mechanisim is not catching so the latch fails to lock.
NHTSA ODI report, 1998-11-20
Power train
3 of 16 total reports mention: power train, most commonly citing differential unit and center support bearing.
Safety timeline
3 recalls · 0 investigations · oldest first
To check one car, enter its VIN on the NHTSA recall page. Check a VIN →
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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.
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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 325IS — pre-purchase inspection
Inspect
- Engine and engine cooling: 6 reports on file for this year.
- Exterior lighting: 5 reports on file for this year.
- Structure: 4 reports on file for this year.
Verify these recalls were completed
- Recall 96V111000 · Exterior lighting
- Recall 97V131000 · Vehicle speed control
- Recall 98V178000 · Engine and engine cooling
FAQ
- Is the 1993 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 1993 BMW 325IS?
- The most-reported component is engine and engine cooling, accounting for 38% of complaints on file.
- How many recalls does the 1993 BMW 325IS have?
- 3 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.