Used 2000 BMW 3 Series Wagon Consumer Reviews
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Beware of Early Transmission Failure!!
I was in love with this car. It corners like a dream and you can park it anywhere. Unfortunately, the steptronic transmission has a MAJOR design flaw (some say it was an engineering compromise made to meet EPA mileage requirements, but I don't know this to be fact). The reverse clutch drum has a C clip that holds the gears down under pressure. After 50-75k miles the clip breaks off and you suddenly lose reverse. It can't be repaired - you have to completely rebuild the transmission. It cost us $4700. So, if you MUST buy, I would either get one w/ an already rebuilt transmission or invest in an extended warranty.
Time to trade
While my 3-series wagon was under warranty, all was well. I didn't mind the repeated trips to the dealership to replace every motor in each of my power windows, or my power steering leak, or a regulator in my AC. However, once the warranty expires the out of pocket cost to replace a transmission, along with lengthy list of repairs that accompanies each regular check up becomes quite irritating. The door panel inserts became dislodged and even the BMW logo on the hood came off. . . TWICE. Too headache and expense for "the ultimate driving machine."
- 323Ci ConvertibleMSRP: $7,99941 mi away
- 323Ci ConvertibleMSRP: $5,999229 mi away
- 323i SedanMSRP: $3,999308 mi away
323iT Sports Wagon
This is a great car. It drives, handles, and feels like a unique, solid performance sedan should, yet it is smooth and quiet and gets respectable gas mileage. When considering a BMW, please remember that it is not a Japanese car; it won't be as reliable and as simple to drive, nor as cheap. Conversely, you'll be reminded it isn't Japanese every time you drive it -- it's that enjoyable. Maintenance is also more costly: air filters cost $20, it takes synthetic oil, and even special windshield wipers. You should be aware of this before you test drive. My wagon has had only minor problems: door latches and a sunroof drain issue. I love this car -- I wont buy another brand.
City Slickers Perfect Blend
This is the perfect vehicle for commuting in style and quick weekend getaways for a couple or small family. It makes city driving fun and winding roads a thrill.
323 sports wagon
The sports wagon handles like a sports car it is. The back feels larger than the Edmunds review suggests. The cargo room is small, but the wagon carries more than the sedan. My biggest compliant concerns the proximity of the area above the drivers door to by head, there is not enough room, I am sure this is a safety trade- off for headroom. I do not use the visor turned above the door because I have to crank by head to keep it from hitting the visor.
I got the lemon
I initially bought the 2000 BMW Sport Wagon used with just 20,000 miles. It ran great with no problems until it went past 60,000 miles. After 60,000 miles I've had frequent phantom problems with the check engine light (and yes, I've checked the fuel cap every time...it was fine). I've had plastic bits breaking in all 4 windows regulators (one of them twice) and the sunroof clips (I hardly use the sunroof too). I've had electrical problems with the air conditioner, anti-lock brakes/traction/stability control, rear view mirrors and door locks. But, that's not all. I've always taken it to the BMW Dealer for repairs and maintenance to make sure it was done right. I think I got the lemon!
Fantastic Car
I have put all 160,000 miles on this car and except for items that go on any car, like brakes, belts, etc it has not had any serious problem except that the sports shift mode hasn't worked in 2 years. Never uses a drop of oil, gets 31 mpg at a steady 75 and I always feel rested after driving it. While it has not been garaged it still looks brand new as I wax and seal each year. Great car and in 40+ years of driving I have driven the best cars available and some dogs along the way. BMW's have become too complex, but I am buying a new 3 series soon and giving this car to my daughter. Buy one and you'll see.
Yes, friends, it's a wagon ...
We love BMW's, and bought this because my wife thought 3 series wagon was 'cute'. That may be, but it's also a rocket. Get the sport package, put on your driving gloves and hang on! Great on the highway, fun on the backroads! The usual solid BMW build quality, etc.
What a Disapointment
What a disappointment. That is what our first and last BMW is. It has been in the shop over 15 times AND THAT IS NOT INCLUDING THE OIL CHANGES! Every window has gone off track, the radio has been replaced twice, and the brakes needed replacing after 36,000 miles! to name a few of our problems with this car. Luckily, BMW replaced the brakes for free! We will be purchasing another car before the warranty is up...but it WILL NOT be a BMW. I really regret selling my Honda wagon for the BMW. Not once did I ever have a problem with the HONDA.
Stylish but over-rated
Purchased used with 32,000 miles for less than half the MSRP. Even with the sport suspension this is not the ultimate driving machine. The 2.5 six is underpowered and the ride can be harsh. I like the look of the wagon body, but the styling is a bit fussy. The interior is comfortable but uninspired. Would never buy an overpriced new one. I still have my 94 Honda Accord wagon which continues to impress me.
Fun AND Practical
A very practical car but loads of fun to drive. Does well in the mountains or stop-and-go city traffic. Safety and comfort features are excellent.
Good-looking & fun, breaks a lot
Overall, I enjoy this car. I like the wagon's look, that it feels solid, & that it isn't too common. My complaints are that it doesn't have much power for accelerating, I'm replacing brakes every 20k miles, all 4 windows have broken, and the lower control arms have been replaced twice (in 57k miles). Oh yeah, the sunroof is toast, too. It makes me miss my Honda, but I like the feel of the BMW so much that I'm not sure I can go back. I've spent $.04-.08/mile maintaining Hondas & Nissans; this BMW is costing me $.16/mile.
Best car I've ever had!
I fell in love with this car the minute I saw it! It is perfect for commuting to work as well as weekend camping trips. I had never owned a BMW before and now I know why they are so popular.
What a Car!
Always loved Saabs for the way they handled curves and cornering but this first time Bmw owner is convinced that this is the best car I have ever driven.It is powerful,luxurious, and drives smooth.
One year later
Bought my 323it a year ago and I love it more than the day I drove it off the lot! Best car I have ever owned..hands down. The handling in city driving can't be beat - smooth acceleration, precision steering. The ride is still quiet and in no way feels like there are 52,000 miles under its wheels. Weekend getaways are a joy. With the roof rack system we purchased for luggage carrying, it is actually more roomy inside on these trips than my 4Runner was. And the drop down separator in the back seat has been a lifesaver with two boys under 13! Love it, love it, love it.
00 BMW 323 Wagon
Pretty steady car, Great for small families, good performance, interior engineered well and is holding up fine. Real good on tires. First set went about 55K. The cons are not real bad but gas mileage - the auto transmission tank vents and dirt accumulated in the engine compartment. Lots of brake dust and get used to cleaning it - all the time. I would buy another. Repairs are a bit pricey.
what a great sportwagon
First time I bought a Bmw, and I will never go back to Japanese cars. This Bimmer is the highest quality car, driving it is always a pleasure,even after 3 years with 33000 miles. No problems at all. I think the 3 series sport wagon is a rare find,that makes it look more exquisite than the regular sedan. It's a stylist family car, and looks great for sports folks too: skiing,camping,surfing,biking,... excellent car all around.
bought a used one and very happy
after test driving about 7 makers, i was blown away by the BMW sports package ride in this wagon. I bought it certified used and the warrenty coupled with present low apr made it a great deal. My honda seems like it was a tin can in comparison.
Cost of ownership
BMW is an expensive care to maintain. My records show total costs per year to own this car is (exclusive of depreciation, gas, and insurance) averages $2,500/year starting from year two. But, what a fun car to drive!!
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