Used 2000 BMW 3 Series Sedan Consumer Reviews
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Be smart, avoid the dealer.
I've had this car for 5 years and if I can have things my way, I'll never buy anything BUT a BMW. It's a joy to drive, styling is sporty without being gaudy, and after a car wash, I could swear I was looking at a brand new Beemer. Maintenance costs are high after the warranty has run out. Be smart, and DON'T go to the dealer to fix every little thing. I recently had my brakes repaired (new rotors, pads and sensors) for $700, the dealer wanted $1900. Do yourself a favor and hunt around your city to find a reliable BMW certified mechanic. If you do this, long maintenance will be much more managable.
I have 240,000 miles.
Check the rear subframe. Have a mechanic check it. I had some cracks and had to get a plate welded in for reinforcement kit. At the same time I added a 3.46 open differential out of an automatic 323i. I have a 5 speed 328i. I can now pull on s2000's and it's not annoying on the highway. This car still gets looks with some decent rims (Rial Salerno concave rim). Other than doing some basic repairs like an alternator and cooling system this car is amazing. Never left me stranded but one time.. the accessory belt broke but that was around 190k and my fault for not replacing it. Buy this car. Love this car. Update:car was parked and rear ended by a drunk and was totalled. I’d still recommend this car
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
- 323Ci ConvertibleMSRP: $9,875218 mi away
- 323Ci CoupeMSRP: $5,995445 mi away
- 323Ci ConvertibleMSRP: $5,999484 mi away
7 years and counting
I purchased this car on the basis of promised road-handling and prior experience with an earlier BMW. Some minor issues which should not have occurred (malfunctioning sun roof, malfunctioning ignition switch) have been the only problems. The car handles delightfully, has a shorter turning radius than any four-door car I have encountered, looks good inside and out. This is not an economy car, and may be overrated by some enthusiasts, but it is still a safe and enjoyable means of transportation. I could, and do, recommend it to any potential purchaser.
Two Years Into Ownership...
I purchased my 2000 BMW 328i 4DR almost two years ago. I paid too much for the car, paying $5,500 and not noticing the plethora of problems it had. Immediately I needed front brake pads, rotors and sensors, oil filter housing, valve cover gasket, and oil pan gasket just to stop the oil leaks. Put on a new cabin air filter because there was not one on it already somehow. Replaced a $200 battery and had to get the wiring in my tail lights redone which was over $500 at Reliable BMW, the wires had frayed and severed from the socket. Coolant expansion tank sensor went out, so I replaced the coolant reservoir for about $60, and had to replace a return air hose and intake sensor boot for $100. Now, it needs tie rods and rear brakes, and both front window motors(neither of them roll up after being rolled down), and a lot of attention to the interior. I have owned two of these cars (both E46) and the headliners in both were atrocious. That being said, I do love this car. It's quick and powerful, comfortable and spacious as long as you're not six feet tall like my friends. It IS a reliable car if it is well taken care of, just do not be tricked by someone offering you $3,000 trade-in-value for your less than okay Camry... I have always been a BMW enthusiast and love driving the ultimate driving machine. That said, it is a 16 year old vehicle with lots of miles, but I do recommend it to people wanting to experience German ingenuity.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
5 month review
Time for the 5 month review. Highly recommend buying the service manual and an error-code reader ($250 total for both). My car had little things, such as bulbs, sensors, filters degrade and required replacing. These cars are CAKE to work on so long as you have the service manual. Most repairs require very basic tools and a couple hours of patience. My first winter encountered no driving problems, even on snow-covered roads. The DSC kicks in as needed to keep the vehicle from slipping, even with all- season tires. I still can't get enough of this auto...
Stay away from this model year
First, I will say that this car is one that is fun to drive. And I have not driven a car that performs better (steering, engine performance). People have written about the high cost of fixing all of the little things that DO go wrong with this car. However, once the car has been returned to me I fall in love with the car again and again. My major problem with the car is that this car has serious reliability problems. I have experienced two problems that show up many times with other drivers of same vehicle. One problem is that this car has a weak subframe that has a tendency to CRACK (BMW fixed for free - see class action lawsuit). Also, see issues with transmission.
Can't go wrong with a BMW
This is my third BMW and my favorite yet, before this car I had a 1999 M3 coupe. I was a little worried about losing power but the 2.8 makes plenty of power and really gets up and scoots. The handling of this car feels just as good as my M3, the ride is firm but comfortable, and the manual trans shifts smooth and precise.
Excellent Car
Over 140,000 and still drives great! I have been diligent about maintenance and have spent around 1000/yr after warranty expired. Biggest disappointment: Replaced transmission at 120,000 miles.($4500). The handling is excellent. A car wash makes it look new. Purchased a 2006 convertible and I prefer to drive the 2000 Beemer. The car has not left me stranded. It has had minor repairs every year. I expect to drive it another 100,000.
Impressed
This fun little gas sipper has changed my mind about BMW. I always thought of them as an overpriced equivalent to Volkswagen. First, The power to weight ratio is great. Secondly, the ride and handling is sporty enough to zip around country roads in but not so stiff you can't enjoy a long haul on the interstates. Lastly, the fuel economy is astounding. I get 33-35 MPG highway and an overall average of 25.7. I don't baby it or drive it like it's stolen, I just drive it the way one should. Maintenance has not been horrible. A new set of tires (touring 4 season) $600 with line up, window regulators $200 each installed, oil changes are $80 for BMW filter and full synthetic oil (15,000 mi).
Respect your Bimmer
I bought my 2000 328i just over a year ago and it is my 3rd BMW. I am not a wealthy man, and I wouldn't spend over $13,000 on a used car that I didn't believe in. This sexy car demands love, respect and maintenance. Have it checked out before you buy it. Do regular oil changes and have it inspected on time and you will be fine. Do yourself a favor and learn to work on this car yourself.
Nice car but too many minor problems
Nice car to drive and have fun with but it has had too many minor problems with electrical system.
Why are there so many bad reviews?
I bought this car used for $5,700. When I bought the car it had 165 thousand miles and I take care of it very well. Most people complain about the car and that it keeps breaking down constantly. I only had two problems with my car. 1. The front light bulbs died out... Yeup. 2. I need a new head gasket. It's a great car if you can't take care of it. If you can't, well buy a Honda.
First Ultimate driving machine - Wow!
Now I see what all the hoopla is about. I was warned once you drive a BMW you can never go back to anything else. Well they were absolutely correct, excellent driving car. Put 20,000 miles on it already in just 7 months. Any excuse to drive this car. Love the handling after coming from an 95 SHO Taurus. Car looks and drives just as good as my neighbors 2005 325 for $10,000 less. Can`t wait to get my 3 series convertible next summer.
I give it a ten
Simpily Exalent
Windows and everything else
I bought my 323i about 4 months ago. It's an automatic with the option to drive manually. I love driving it, but I have had to replace two window regulators and the battery so far. The sunroof cover has come all to pieces and I need to replace my windshield fluid container. I have taken it to a couple of different people to figure out why my abs, brake, and traction control lights stay on and they can't figure it out. Other than that I really do like my car.
Not Cheap to Own, But a Ton of Fun
I have owned 5 BMW's and currently own 2 and a Porsche. Not one is cheap to own or drive, but boy do they drive! The comments and smiles you get are nice. How many people are excited about seeing another Honda? I have owned plenty of those too and the answer is none! My father passed down my love for cars and drove some of the coolest cars ever built! He told me owning an expensive car was like marrying a beautiful women, they are beautiful to look at, expensive to keep up and everyone will be jealous of you! He was right, my wife is as beautiful as my cars and not cheap to keep! But man, do I love all four, and HOW!
Buyers beware
Before this car I would have bought BMW's for the remainder of my driving days. Now, I will not buy another one. True, it is fun to drive. Although sluggish on the uptake, the sport auto transmission makes up the difference. Mechanically this car is a nightmare. Mine is in the shop every 6 weeks and when I get it back I call the next week to set up another service appointment. For city dwellers with less than expressway quality roads, don't buy this car. You will be replacing wheels (rims) every year at a cost of $1200+ and tires every 15k miles. Keep your money and buy something more economical and reliable.
next car won't be a bmw.
i had a datsun 280 zx with 73,000 miles for 18 years. never replaced anything but one window motor and tires. with this bmw, the right front turn signal light burned out, all four electric window motors and assemblies had to be replaced, as did the sunroof motor - oh, and let's not forget the two new tires i had to buy at only 25,000 miles! also, my car was towed and the alarm never went off! a cheap little rental chevy cavalier i was driving was attempted to be towed, and that alarm blared - go figure. if you bought my car, it would probably be fine because of all that i have had to have repaired. i am so disappointed.
major headache
31 technical service bulletins after spending $3000 in repairs, 2 days later the check engine light comes on ultimate driving machine my a$$..i have NEVER had a car with so many problems..one car was a 1990 mitsu eclipe turbo AWD with 240,000 miles and it was more reliable than this thing they call a car!!!
Once you own one, you'll be hooked
This is hands down one of the best driving experiences you'll ever have. Words really can not describe the "emotions" you feel when driving a BMW, you really should just drive one. I own 3 BMWs (one 5 Series and two 3 Series) and have had no major problems with them. My 323i is my project car and has been nothing but a pleasure to work on. Actually BMW's are the easiest car I have ever worked on. I completely rebuilt the front end, including struts, on my 323i for less than $400 and about 4 hrs. I replaced all 4 brake rotors, pads and sensors for less than $200 and a COMPLETE brake job took less than an hour!!! NEVER take the car to the Stealership, you will [violative content deleted] in parts & labor cost.
Fun with Opportunities to Repair
This is my first BMW, bought used at 80k miles, now has 134K miles and it's falling apart. While the car is a blast to drive, it has cost me more over the last 2 years than the car is worth. And it now needs the CVC valve replaced, quoted at $900, far from the amount in the reliability section. If the car starts honking, you know this valve is gone. C'est la vie; fast cars, pretty women, and good wine. It somehow will not be as much fun in a Toyota. Just cheaper.
Not as bad as everyone says it is!
Most everyone here complaints about the car being unreliable. Most of them also claims that they have replaced major things on their 10 yr old cars. I have been a BMW owner since 1994 and have driven nothing but BMW's ever since. Here's the real deal: Yes they have their quirks (window regulators, etc.) but most of the complaints I've read here involves just basic maintenance. Yes the cooling system are not 100% but with a little TLC one can update all the issues and drive a Bimmer for 600,000+km for a lot less than a Civic! Don't be taken in by the hype, these cars are great and don't cost a lot to maintain! Stick with a manual transmission, the autos WILL fail if not maintained properly!
Not a Long term Car
Bought this vehicle for travel. It looks great, but wow, for a high rated vehicle, i wouldn't buy another BMW. The windows fall into the doors (BMW dealer says thats normal) and cost to fix $$$$. Heater doesn't work well, air doesn't work well. The heated seats they work. Wouldn't recommend a used BMW or keep one past 3 years. Not worth the extra money!
Buy a ford Instead
This is my first BMW. It has been a reliability and maintenance nightmare I wouldn't wish on my worst enemy. And it has been properly maintained. The car hasn't gone four weeks in a row without requiring major work. To date all four window regulator have had to be replaced, all six ignition coils, both cam sensors, the MAS, both front control arm assemblies, the transmission had to be replaced, the o2 sensors, and the list goes on and on and the damn engine light is still on. Average cost for repair and maintenance per year $3,000.00. My Ford F150 has 200K on it and it has only required one O2 sensor, tires, a battery, and oil changes.
I'll NEVER buy another bmw
I purchased a 2000 BMW 323i. I thought I finally bought a great car. It had 77,500 on it. I now have 90,200, this car has been a piece of crap since the first month. Its so bad, BMW will admit they break down all the time. These cars are for the wealthy only. The cooling systems are so poorly designed, they have sensor after sensor, but the cars still overheat. Definitely not reliable. Now i'm paying 3 1/2 more years on a car I can't drive. BMW is fully aware of these problems and wont even tell you. BMW resale value is poor. I only recommend buying a BMW if you are very, very wealthy
Problems Galore
I bought my 328i used and thought that I should be able to get 200k out of it. I have had more than $6000 in repairs in two years and I am finding out that there are several problems with a lot of these cars, power steering pump replaced at 90k with OEM and the new one broke at 125k, window regulators have been replaced at least one each, A/C modules replaced, cracked head at 119k due to overheating problem with these cars, no warnings at all, break pads every 20k, replaced water pump, etc etc etc. I would not recommend this year to anyone.
Fun, until 100k
I bought this car from my mom when it had 98,000 or so miles on it, I just drove to school and around with it. I will miss its power and handling. I will not miss bringing it to my mechanic every two weeks for a major problem. I rolled my window down in the summer and it would not go back up while I was far from a BMW dealer. The car stalled a few times on the freeway and I needed help from truckers to push it off to the side. Its reliability is horrid, I put more money into the car than I made at work. I liked the heated seats and comfort of the seats. I got about 20.5 MPG which is okay for a straight six but not great. Sunroof got stuck twice, rear window leaked water until duct taped.
BMW 323 Outstanding
A great driving expierence, well worth the money.
Great car until it needs maintenance
I am the original owner. It is garage kept and only has 71,000 miles. I have really enjoyed it - it still looks almost new. However, like other reviewers, I have had maintenance issues - all 4 window regulators broke early on (was told they are made by a vendor of BMW), both headlights and three turn signal bulbs replaced, windshield wiper fluid reservoir leaked and was replaced. Also have creaking and thumping of frame which my mechanic could not diagnose. Now I may need the bushings replaced and the ABS may also need to be replaced - over $5,000 for both in addition to normal maintenance. If it comes to that I will be looking for another car. I do not trust it long term.
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.
Good stuff
Great car...love the handling and such, what with the big wheels and tires and the way it turns.
A very pleasant ride
Considering the 3-Series is the "bottom of the line" BMW, this is the finest automobile i have owned. It has a very smooth ride, great acceleration and plenty of power, and provides very responsive handling. The road noise is minimal - it is almost a pleasure to drive in total quiet, but why waste the audio system with 10 speakers that surround you? Free maintenance for 36000 miles is ok with me too! If i were shopping for another car, it certainly would be in the BMW line
awesome!
The most fun to drive car out there for the money... highly recommended.
Impressive Sports Sedan
This is my third 3 series, all I can say is they are all awesome! This car is has an unbelievable style along with power, handling and just plain fun to drive. The larger 17 inch rims and sports package definitely turns heads and is a must have for me. Cost for service is a bit high but rarely needed. I found a great independent authorized BMW certified mechanic that does all my work for less than half what the dealer charges. I love this car, buy one and I know you will enjoy for many years!
Truly the ultimate driving machine
This is the third 3 Series BMW I have owned and each car has gotten better than the the previous one. On my first BMW maintenance was rather often and expensive. It is totally different now. Oil changes are at 15,000 mile intervals and I have had no major repairs on the car at 75,000 miles. It truly is the ultimate driving machine and I will continue to own them as long as it is possible for me to do so.
BMW Does Not Equal Quality
I'm a 32 year old financial planner. Owned a Honda and two Toyota's before deciding to buy THE car. I bought a used 2000 328i with 45k miles on it two years ago. It now has a little over 100k on it. It still runs great, feels great, looks great, it's a real joy to drive. BUT the maintenance costs on this car are crazy. Sensors, computers, brakes, thermostat. I've probably spent an additional $3,000 in the last 12 months on maintenance issues. I finally found a local shop that works on them rather than getting robbed at the dealership for every little thing. Fun car to drive, expensive to own.
BMW 323i- Things to watch for........
Was not pleased when the window regulators on BOTH the driver and front passenger windows needed to be replaced within 24 months. Also, had to get the moonroof liners replaced twice between 12 and 24 months. Make sure to ask for windshield wipers @ your 12 mo. maint. repairs. (Need to claim they are streaking.) Don't bother writing to BMW about quality problems (windwow regulators) - they will just send you a form letter saying they are sorry to hear from you. Also - the firm they outsource to will be good at calling to follow up on how you felt about your recent repair experiance - but when you complain nothing happens.
Slack-jawed
I finally understand why people take "joy rides" in their cars. The performance of this sedan is superb on the twisting, dipping, back-country roads near my residence. The engine power is impressive, the transmission shifts are smooth, the tires hug the road, the breaks stop on a dime...the car lives up to the title of "ultimate driving machine". For high speed driving, I recommend a high-end set of tires...my all season's transmit vibrations starting at 85mph (but disappear around 100mph). The car is absolutely convenient, only had 2 minor (<$20 fix) problems so far.
Unreliable
Purchased used with 33,000 miles. This is my second, and how disappointed I am. Way too many problems, with everything from the windows to the braking system, to the engine and etc. 14 trips to the dealer for repairs since 10/2003. I would never buy another, and am looking into an Audi or Mercedes. I do have to admit the the MPG is awesome, at times I have clocked 40+. BMW is not what it used to be!! BMW really needs to work on the reliability. This car is way too expensive to maintain!
Good Looking Lemon
Had owned 2 previous BMWs. After the warranty expired, within a couple of years it cost me $12,000 in repairs. Had to replace transmission, control arm, and power steering. This all from someone who drives once a week with a max. of 5000 kms a year. Wished I would have read all the driver reviews before buying it almost brand new from a distant cousin. Low mileage, looks brand new inside and out but do not trust driving it on the highway. Give your money to a panhandler instead. Sits handsomely in the garage. Looking for a new car.
AWESOME CAR!
This car is everything we could have asked for. It's fun to drive, everytime I get into it I renew my love for it. We came out of a Cadillac Seville STS and will probably never go back.
Buy the warranty
I purchased my BMW 328 with 44,000 miles on it. It is beautiful and drives like a dream. The problem is that many little things keep breaking. I don't even drive it everyday. I have only put 5,000 miles on it in one year. It has been in the shop 3 X. Currently, the emergency light is not working. That's bad. Great cars but make sure that you buy the warranty.Also, when you call to get it fixed the wait is 2 weeks. Good thing I have a backup car. My dependable Jeep Grand Cherokee! (for real) Husband drives a 1991 BMW and has had no trouble with it. Purchased it with 65,000 miles on it. Again, make sure you get the warranty!
Perfect
What can I say. Best car I've ever owned.
One great Three!
This car is a blast to drive! Do youself a favor a put on a set of Michelin Pilot Sport PS2's. Premium rubber will take your 3 to the next level - it's well worth the cost. I recently took a trip up to CT where I blew the doors off my brother-in-law's new S-Type Jaguar with a 4.2 V8! When I hit 140mph my 328i still felt rock solid going around highway bends as he disappeared in my rear-view mirror.
Wow
This is simply the best purchase i have ever done. The car is magnificent, drives smooth, its comfortable and its quiet. Simply the best. BMW lives up to its name as the ultimate driving machine. I have a SPORT/PREMIUM PKG with 17 inch alloy rims with crom tip exhaust and with FULL OPTIONS. The premium sound is spectacular, the steptronics on this car is the best. I know for a fact my next car will be a BMW.
Best car I've owned
This car is the best I've owned. Fit and finish are second to no one. No problems in past year.
The Ultimate Driving Machine
This is my second BMW, I previously owned a 323i. This is the best 3- series for the money. Although the 330 IS faster and has more torque, I couldn't see paying the additional 5K. The plus side, 328 steering feels better than 330 steering. I've only had the car in the shop once to get some new rotors and brakes. The OEM rotors were squealing everytime I stopped. Did that service at 36K miles at a cost of $800.
323i
This car has an agressive exterior coupled with a luxuriously appointed interior. The black exterior/tan leather interior combination is striking. The car seems to be engineered as a whole instead of pieces cobbled together. Performance from the 2.3 litre engine is suprisingly strong and smooth. Mileage hovers around 30 mpg at 80 mph. Impressive!
BMTroubleU
30+ unscheduled trips for dealer service says it all.
Costly Repairs
Driving the BMW328i is a pleasure, but my driving pleasure is overshawdowed by the times my car has been in the shop for repairs. In 2001 with 24,000 miles on the car, I replaced the front brakes, pads and rotors for $1500. While on business travel in September, my husband called to tell me he was at the dealer's with my car and all it needed (smile :() was front and rear brakes, pads, rotors and a new suspension system to the tune of $3,000. My previous car, '94 Honda never went in the shop for suspension problems, and it had over 85,000 miles on the odometer when I gave it to my son