1996 BMW 328I
This year had at least 30% fewer complaints than this model's typical year.
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.
COMPLAINTS PER YEAR
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 1996 | 31 |
| 1997 | 25 |
| 1998 | 26 |
| 1999 | 98 |
| 2000 | 112 |
| 2001 | 4 |
| 2002 | 0 |
| 2003 | 0 |
| 2004 | 0 |
| 2005 | 0 |
| 2006 | 0 |
| 2007 | 395 |
| 2008 | 239 |
| 2009 | 193 |
| 2010 | 153 |
| 2011 | 572 |
| 2012 | 130 |
| 2013 | 255 |
| 2014 | 150 |
| 2015 | 121 |
| 2016 | 55 |
KNOWN PROBLEM AREAS
10% of complaints: engine and engine cooling — 3 distinct reports on file.
6% of complaints: visibility — 2 distinct reports on file.
6% of complaints: vehicle speed control — 2 distinct reports on file.
INJURY6% of complaints: structure — 2 distinct reports on file.
6% of complaints: power train — 2 distinct reports on file.
SAFETY TIMELINE
No recalls on file for this model year.
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
1996 BMW 328I — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for engine and engine cooling issues (3 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for visibility issues (2 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for vehicle speed control issues (2 reports on file for this year).
OTHER YEARS OF THIS MODEL
BEST YEARS
WORST YEARS
FAQ
Is the 1996 BMW 328I reliable?
Based on NHTSA complaint volume compared to this model's typical year, the 1996 BMW 328I is rated "better than typical".
What are the most common problems with the 1996 BMW 328I?
The most-reported component is engine and engine cooling:engine, accounting for 10% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 1996 BMW 328I have?
No recalls are on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-07-11 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.