Used 2000 BMW 3 Series Sedan Consumer Reviews
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Too expensive to maintain after warranty
Nice sports sedan, lots of fun to drive in dry weather. Poor handling in snow, and very costly in repairs once the warranty expired. Several issues with AC unit, latest $1,200 for an evaporator. Real wheel spring broke after 60K miles. I am selling and getting a Honda.
HEADACHE!
I have had this car for about 5 years now. It stinks! Since we bought it (used) we have had so many electrical problems and there is constantly something breaking or squeaking. It is a nice looking car, but I will never purchase another BMW. It empties your wallet to fix!
- 323Ci ConvertibleMSRP: $4,999187 mi away
- 323Ci CoupeMSRP: $5,995254 mi away
- 323i SedanMSRP: $3,999617 mi away
One CoooL Bimmer
This is one very nice BMW, I have owned the car since day one! This baby has it all and has never gave one minute's problems! I have driven it from the South to the North with no problems what so ever! It is now about 6 years old and still looks and drives as good as any 06 model on the market in my eyes! The styling is super sleek and very demanding! I get glances everytime I pull up to a traffic light! This is the best BMW I have owned to date. Note: I've owned 7 NEW BMW's since 1996, By far this 2000 323i is the best!
Performance, Luxury, Well thought out
Picked up with European Delivery Program (still frustrates me everyday that American drivers do not have the competence and courtesy of the Germans on the road). As with any car, maintenance will be required. Due to volume production of the e46, parts are very reasonable and you can save $$ if you have some mechanical inclination. Everything on the car is easy to work with and finely engineered. Now with 150k miles since new, the car still feels tight and solid, even after front end collision caused by erroneous driver. Airbag deployed, very little damage. The larger Ford excursion SUV didn't fare as well. I still trust the car to protect my family--no other make will suffice for me.
Thought it was hype 'til I owned one.
Pure and simple, this car is a joy to drive day in and day out. The quality and reliability are on a much higher level from the other vehicles I have owned in the past. At 100,000 miles, everything is still tight and rattle free. I use snow tires on all four wheels during our Ohio winters and they provide excellent stability in the slick stuff. Don't drive like a maniac and consistantly get 27-31 MPG with 5 speed.
BMW's owners appreciate it.
I appreciate how BMW never lets me down. I love the 3 sieres! The handling is unbeatable. Traction control to safty........this is a superior car for the money.
Great Car-Great Car
I love the car, not happy with the 181.00 per Control Arm, the ball joint housing does not stay still moves 1/2 inch causing clunking underneath,replaced with new control arms at 53k,expensive little job.but hey its a bmw right?
Excellent!!!!!!!!!!!
Well ive only had my BMW for a few days and I love everything about it!!!!!!!!!!!!
Designed for Windy Roads
I find myself looking for an excuse to drive the car. Very smooth and responsive. I love driving out of state just to find cars to pass. I noticed a difference when I switched from 93 to 89 to save on gas; extracted better performance with the 93. I chose this car over a 02 mercedes S Class. Consumers: Buy a bra. Have extra money in your bank account (at least 25% of the price)
I love my 323i
Awesome car. I was a little aprehensive to enter into the European market but I was blown away by this car. Talk about fun to drive. She'll get up and go like nobody's buisness. She'll take a corner like she's on rails. Its truly amazing. Love it, live it.....BMW!!!!!
323i 30 months review
Definitely the best looking front end appearance of any automobile ever produced. Constantly being mistaken for a 5 series. 30+ mpg on the highway. Standard around town mileage 26mpg. I love the car, but my wife wishes for an automatic. The 5 speed is the equalizer in performance vs. the 330. Resale is unbelievable on these cars. We are now going to go with a 325 Xi, because we live in a true winter type of climate (in the winter). My wife now also gets her automatic.
BMW-Biggest Mistake on Wheels
This is the worst nightmare I have experienced with a vehicle. I have owned this vehicle for thirteen months and it has been in the shop nine times, with major mechanical problems including but not limited to, a new engine at 40000 miles and a new transmission at 60000. The only good thing I have to say about this vehicle, it is fun to drive when it will drive. Nice to look at but, Just say NO!
fabulous auto
This is my second 3-series BMW. I drive over 20K miles/year. The car has been flawless - never a problem. Great gas mileage too. I will buy another.
Don't Believe the Naysayers
I have owned 3 3-series BMWs ('95 325, '96 328 and 2000 323) in the past few years, after many years of new and used Hondas. The BMW 3 series is a great car that driving enthusiasts will appreciate, but normal drivers may not. I recently purchased a '96 328 (work car) with 123,000 miles that drives better than any Honda I ever owned. At 60,000 miles, most Honda's start to feel like it's time to trade; BMWs feel like they are reaching middle age. You really can not appreciate it unless you compare and feel the difference between a substantial car and a lightweight. I'm not a BMW fanatic, just someone who appreciates quality and a great driving experience.
Great Car
I have had my 2000 323iA for almost two years and the vehicle has 80k on the odometer. I drive over 100 mi round trip to work every day and average 30+ mpg on the highway during the warmer months. Overall average is 27+ mpg. I use dedicated snow tires during the winter and the car is wonderful in bad conditions. I have the required servicing performed and change the oil and filter at 8k intervals. I value this car for its driving characteristics, safety and overall appearance. Best car I have ever owned. Wife wants to drive it all the time as well. When I compare to other vehicles, I keep coming back to BMW. This is my 5th BMW over the past 20 yrs.
BOOO Motor works
I purchased my vehicle straight from the factory.The electrical and mechanical problems have been a nightmare, now my car has started to shutter and stall when taking off, still under warranty but apparently problem not covered, only 39,000 miles on it but looking to drive another car soon. No car of this calibur should have so many problems, already had the motor in sunroof, sensor, door seal, window brackets, lights, dash lights etc, etc replaced so much repaired I made a file for it. This car is not the ULTIMATE DRIVING MACHINE its a DRIVING NIGHTMARE MACHINE.
Best Car in the Desert
Great car for the everyday commute. Awesome when you get on the open road, and leaves you feeling safe and snug with the handeling abilities and numerous safety features in the city. I can't wait to purchase the next one! One note, you must keep up on the preventative maint., seems a bit costly at first, but these cars go forever.
BMW Driver
This vehicle amazes me in how well it is made. The fit and attention to detail is unmistakably obvious. Unlike ANY american car with as many miles 88K in four years there is simply no comaprison. I would rather spend 20K on a used BMW than a new american car. Forget Italian, Swedish, French even Japanese or Korean cars. Germany is were the only true automobile is engineered. P.S. I'm involved on a daily basis with automobile mfg. plants throughout the midwest and only foreign owned and operated mfg. are really concerned with making a superior product. Visteon and Delphi will be bankrupt within 20 years. The American business model is to blame.
Electrical Nightmare.....BEWARE!!!
Rear tail light burns out 3 months after purchase. Dealer took care of it with NO PAPER WORK. 8 months later, same light burns out. Service guy handed me 5 bulbs, NO PAPER WORK. I neglected to notice a few little electrical problems from a few months after purchase. After 3 years and 106,000 miles here are my electrical problems: Left rear tail light won't work, sun roof won't work all the time, headlights pulsate in intensity along with clicking sound in glove box, and this: door locks don't work all the time. I got the attention of BMW, USA and they paid HALF the cost $2,100! Why? Because I didn't document my electrical problems before my warranty expired.
most bang for your dollars
this car is built like a jewelers safe. when you drive it..you have a very safe feeling..altoughit is no rocket.. it has surprising performance from such a small displacement straight six. wind and road noise are minimal..I'm 6'1 and the car has plenty of leg room
One of the best cars ever!!
I have had this car for about four weeks; I bought used 2000 model with 57,700 mls. on it. I wanted a 540i, but, couldn't really afford one (without robbing Peter to pay Paul). Car is extremely responsive, smooth, handles superb; basically, everything I expected it to be and more. There is something to all the hype about BMWs. It has been a dream of mine since I was a teenager to own a BMW. I will definately get another one when the time comes.
My first lemon
This is my second BMW. I have also owned several new Japanese cars. This has been in the shop about eight times for major repairs. The brakes, suspension and several electrical components have been replaced numerous times. The dealer has been terrific about fixing the car - even when it went past warranty. Apparently, the problems are typical of this series. However, the time and general hassle really diminished the BMW "driving experience"and I will never buy one again (hate the new styling, anyway).
One of the Best
Bought this car with 14K miles on it and having put almost 40K miles on it 2 years, I can say this is one of the best cars I've ever owned. I love the looks, handling and comfort. It's not a rocket, but it's still quick and great for passing and navigating through freeway traffic. I'm now spoiled. Will drive this one until it's time to get another.
Fun but costly
My wife and I purchased this vehicle without knowing a lot about bmws. Several things have just somehow broken on us over the past year and for no reason at all. We have had 2 window regulators go out, 1 that needs to be replaced, and the entire "Brain" of the vehicle has malfunctioned. This is basically the computer system. No big deal, just $3k dollars. For the past 3 months it seems like it's just one thing after another. Not to mention vapor shields, a new master key ($200) and the sun roof breaking. Like the title of this review says, It is a fun car to drive, and it looks great, but have some money saved up, cause it'll cost you.
Still crazy for it after nearly 3 years
There is actually little that needs to be said. I drove every vehicle made priced between $30-$40,000 and nothing else compared. I have since not had one single problem with the car, and I do not treat it gently. When I got it, I envisioned turning it in after year 3 of my lease. Instead, I just bought out the lease and hope to be able to keep it forever.
great car
When you look at all around build quality, style, and joy in driving the 3 series is king. 15 gallons of gas got me 400 miles, not bad for a quick car!
Best car for the money
BMW 323i Sports Premium - too much power. Too easy to accelerate and pass. Please, slow down when driving this car. 31/24 MPG average for me. Kids under 6 Feet tall? - then back seat is not cramped. With 4 doors - lower insurance & easier entry than 2 door. Optional fold down seats for cargo mode. I don't ski, but bag thingy great for copper pipes & 2x4s.
Drive it
Good Car, Smooth, reliable, fun. What else is more fun to drive 4 the price? Maintain it, and drive the crap out of it and it still comes back for more....buy it, you'll like it.
maintenace
my car has had alot of problems window regulator went out conpressor went out brake problems radiator tank cracked air conditioner would cut off for a few minutes and come back on
Great drive but bad bad quality
I love driving this car and this is the second BMW that I have purchased new. The first was in the late 80s when I lived in Europe. I only kept that car for twelve months. It was an absolute mechanical nightmare. I said, I would never buy a BMW again but test driving it changed my mind within minutes, maybe before I put it in gear. They are by far the most comfortable and amazing car to drive but their reliability is just awful and they severely lack the quality and workmanship of their Japanese competitors. I now know I will never again purchase a BMW. It is definitely a younger persons car and as I dive into my middle age, I need and deserve something more reliable and less hassle.
expensive to maintain
Overall a decent car but once it's over warranty it's not worth having due to extremely high repair costs. Could use more power at times. One major complaint is the driver's seat has no support, become's very uncomfortable quickly and I only have 50000 miles on the car so the seats should have held out longer than that I would have thought. The brakes are very high maitenance and don't have a very long life. If I ever buy another BMW I would only buy or lease new.
Jules' Review
I absolutly love my BMW! I had an 89' 325i for a couple of years and it was a real treat to get a newer one. Once you drive a Beamer you never want anything else! It handles like a dream and is just a really superior car.
Solid Ride
Second owner, first BMW and like it very much thus far. 67K Mi. Sharp looking, nicely appointed interior, smooth ride and adequate power. One unexpected repair was cracking of rear coil spring, ended up having to replace both costing about $500. Also, the small radio antenna off the back antenna base broke off probably in car wash, resulting in poorer radio reception. Other than those, usual maitenance. Love it and hope that it continues to serve me well.
90,000 Mile Review
After 90,000 miles in under 3 years, I'm as satisfied with this car as I was on the first day. It had some relatively minor problems while under warranty - window motors, thermostat re- call, etc. But I can honestly say that other than the tires, I've put less than $300 into this car. That will change shortly as I'm about ready to replace the brake rotors, but really not an expensive car to drive and maintain. I have a 100 mile R/T commute, and I'm really impressed with the comfort, handling and feel. We also have a 2002 530, and I actually prefer to drvie the 3.
Good, Stressful 14 months of Ownership
Buying this car was a big step up from my 92 Honda Civic and as far as vehicular performance, I have no complaints. The fuel mileage is unparalleled for a 2.5L 6-cyl. The handling is taut, and the power is more than sufficient. There is so much fun gadgetry that you discover a new "favorite feature" every day for the first two months of ownership. When I show the car it takes an hour to cover the wonderful bits and pieces and I always forget a couple favorites. HOWEVER, I am selling it. If you're a tightwad like I am, the expensive maintenance, and more exhorbitant repairs will induce a coronary with every squeak and rattle, and in spite of it's solid feel, there are many. Too much $.
Has BMW forgot about reliability?
I bought this car thinking I wouldn't have to buy another car for years. I had nothing but problems from the day I bought this car. The car stopped running 3 times (twice on the highway). Each time I was told the problem was fixed - fuel sensor that registered 1/4 tank when empty. The list of problems is endless: faulty computer software, leaking water tank (never was fixed), faulty climate control, seat pads that were hot enough to leave burns, interior parts that came off. Sure this was all covered under the warranty, but what a hassle for a car that is not cheap. I sold the car a few weeks ago - good riddance..............
Great car but high maintenance
I do like my BMW but after 5.5 years and 70K miles the car is not what it was 3 years ago. Everything is breaking down and am having the worse time with the car. After the first 3 years its been in the shop many times to fix all kinds of stuff. I agree that its fun to drive but with all the troubles I have been having its not worth buying the car. If you have lots of money to waist then go ahead and buy the car else do not purchase this car.
Certified PreOwned Means Nothing
Bought it two years ago Certified Pre-Owned from a dealership in NY. They did 0 work to the vehicle to Certify it, except charge roughly $1000 for the warranty which covers jack squat. I have replaced window regulators, ball joints ($2000), Brakes and Rotors, Tires and a long list of other items. This car rides great but is completely unreliable. My radio and On Board Computer are currently malfunctioning but i've lost patience to go fix it. Go buy a Consumer reports magazine ....then go buy a Lexus. My Tacoma TRD has roughly the same mileage and 0 problems.
The Best Sedan
Go Drive one. This car blows away any sedan you have been in. The Audi's are no comparison, the 5-series are for old folks.
Phantom Electrical Problem
This car has been fine, but many things were fixed under warranty. I would have hated to pay for that and I was not happy with service at BMW (not the dealer at which I purchased my car), but that's another rating. Right now, there is a phantom electrical problem that causes the windshield wipers sometimes to stop working. I also noticed the door locks malfunctioned a couple of times. I have a good mechanic (ex-BMW tech from the dealer) but he said he can't locate the problem unless it stops working long enough for him to put it on the computer. So far, by the time we get there, it's started working again.
'00 323 Sedan
Fun to drive, fun to drive, fun to drive. After adding on 18" M3 style rims with Michelin Pilot Sports, it became even more fun to drive. Since I purchased it CPO, everything is covered until 100K miles which should be fine based on my driving.
bmw 4 life !!!
we have owned this 3series since 2000. it has been a great car. the ride is comfortable and the cabin noise is very minimal. we have researched and test driven all the other entry luxury cars (lexus is300, mercedes c-class, and others) and decided on the 3series. and if we had to do it all over again, we would still make the same choice.
Bets car I ever owned
I bought this vehicle three months ago. Initially I was little hesitating to go for a used car (its a 2000) model.But I know now that my choice was the best. Awesome handling, Good gas mileage (around 29mpg). This car has Manual Transmission with sport package and I love the way it performs.
Automatic Windows are Poor
Drive train wise the car is fantastic. Plenty of get up and go with the slighest touch of the gas peddle. Aesthetically it is still the most attractive on the road. Still get looks for a nearly 7 year old car. In winter I use 4 snows and have no problems even got home in an ice storm. I have a standard shift and its so fun to drive on the curves in the Adirondacks.
323I SPORT
I BOUGHT THIS CAR USED AND I HAVE HAD NO PROBLEM, I'VE ALWAYS OWEN LEXUS GS400'S AND THIS MY 1ST BMW/THE BMW MIGHT NOT BE AS POWERFUL BUT THIS IT THE BEST PERFORMANCE CAR AND AS GREAT HANDLEING, I WORK AT A PORSCHE DEALER AND I WILL ALWAY BUY BMW'S NOW.
It's NEW to me
Just got my used 323i last week, I have driven American,and one japanese car. So this is quite an experience for me. Car drives great and get's good gas milage. This car was clean and nice inside and out. Black with Tan leather, KH sound,winter, and power etc. I love the pick- up ,smooth ride and I quess the" Bimmer mystic" it's a bit soon so I won't rave too much, but,I love it and I don't miss my 2000 SUV.
The Germans build a better car.
I had always owned American cars --- never again. The Germans build a better car. No more front wheel drive for me. The performance and handling of a manual gearbox front rear wheel drive car is a wonderful thing.
wow!
I have never been so happy with a car as I am with my BMW. I graduated from medschool last year and I thought what the heck I will treat myself to a nice car. I eventually picked a 528i 2000 blue to purchase for around $34,000. When we went to cough up the money the dealership had rolled in this beautiful 323i in the rarest color... Fire red. I NEVER imagined myself driving a red car but this car was the most beautiful car in red I had ever seen. took it for a test drive and realized it was so much easier to drive than the 528i. Must more responsive. It drives perfectly, the features are so accommodating to the driver with the prem pckg.
mostly satisfied
Impressed with handling and upper speeds, but it is a little sluggish on take off, even with manual. Irritated at stalling problem (some sensor) and power windows, but all fixed under warranty. In fact, at 30K, dealer even replaced both control arms. Grateful for free service even at 30K.
A lifesaver!!
I loved my 2000 323i until my husband put it into a tree just off the interstate going approx. 80 mph. The car was totalled but he came out with just a mild concussion and few abrasions from the glass. Thank you BMW for saving his life with such a well built car! We will be in soon to order our 2004 3 series very soon!