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 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
Only 25 complaints on file for this model year -- too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
3 of 25 total reports mention: structure.
Show complaint excerpts
WATER LEAKS INTO THE VEHICLE FROM ALL DOORS IN RAINY WEATHER CONDITIONS, CAUSE UNKNOWN. PLEASE GIVE ANY FURTHER DETAILS. *AK
NHTSA ODI report, 19980408
3 of 25 total reports mention: engine and engine cooling.
2 of 25 total reports mention: vehicle speed control.
CRASHShow complaint excerpts
1997 BMW 328I LESS THAN 80,000 MILES. DRIVING 40MPH WITH CRUISE CONTROL ON. SNOWING BUT STRAIGHT LEVEL CONCRETE ROAD. APPROACHING ASPHALT CURVE ENTERING SMALL MOUNTAIN VILLAGE, I TAPPED BRAKE TO DISENGAGE CRUISE.
NHTSA ODI report, 20081219
2 of 25 total reports mention: tires.
2 of 25 total reports mention: electrical system.
SAFETY TIMELINE
No recalls on file for this model year.
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
1997 BMW 328I — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for structure issues (3 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for engine and engine cooling issues (3 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 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 structure:body:door, accounting for 12% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 1997 BMW 328I have?
No recalls are on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-07-11 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.