1997 BMW 328I
Only 25 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 25 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict. The data below is complete but unranked.
- Complaints
- 25
- Recalls
- 0
- Investigations
- 0
- Top problem
- —
Too few to rank
None on file
None on file
Not enough data
Complaints per year
1997: 25 complaints
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 | 399 |
| 2008 | 239 |
| 2009 | 193 |
| 2010 | 155 |
| 2011 | 577 |
| 2012 | 130 |
| 2013 | 257 |
| 2014 | 151 |
| 2015 | 125 |
| 2016 | 57 |
Known problem areas
Only 25 complaints on file for this model year — too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
Electrical system
7 of 25 total reports mention: electrical system, most commonly citing 12v/24v/48v battery and module.
Show complaint excerpts
After seeing yet another rear end collision, I would like to make a suggestion I have had in mind for a long time.
NHTSA ODI report, 2017-04-26
The locking device on a 1997 BMW 328I intermittently makes it impossible for occupants to exit the vehicle if it is locked while occupied.
NHTSA ODI report, 2014-03-04
Structure
4 of 25 total reports mention: structure, most commonly citing door and frame and members.
Show complaint excerpts
Water leaks into the vehicle from all doors in rainy weather conditions, cause unknown. Please give any further details.
NHTSA ODI report, 1998-04-08
Engine and engine cooling
3 of 25 total reports mention: engine and engine cooling, most commonly citing radiator assembly.
Tires
3 of 25 total reports mention: tires, most commonly citing sidewall.
Air bags
3 of 25 total reports mention: air bags, most commonly citing frontal.
Show complaint excerpts
While traveling on the highway and without prior warning another vehicle hit on the right side, and driver's side air bag didn't deploy.
NHTSA ODI report, 2003-07-22
Turned engine off, and went into store, and heard an explosion. Consumer stated driver's side airbag deployed for no reason. *ak the dealer said that the wiring harness melted and caused a short circuit in turn deploying the air bag.
NHTSA ODI report, 2002-09-18
Safety timeline
No recalls on file for this model year.
0 recalls · 0 investigations · oldest first
To check one car, enter its VIN on the NHTSA recall page. Check a VIN →
Buy-smart checklist
1997 BMW 328I — pre-purchase inspection
Inspect
- Electrical system: 7 reports on file for this year.
- Structure: 4 reports on file for this year.
- Engine and engine cooling: 3 reports on file for this year.
Other years of this model
See all years ranked →FAQ
- Is the 1997 BMW 328I 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 328I?
- The most-reported component is electrical system, accounting for 28% of complaints on file.
- How many recalls does the 1997 BMW 328I have?
- No recalls are on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-11-01 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.