Used 2003 BMW 3 Series Consumer Reviews
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Prepare to Spend
subroo13, 07/19/2011
2003 BMW 3 Series 325i Rwd 4dr Sedan (2.5L 6cyl 5M)
4 of 7 people found this review helpful
I traded my Honda Accord for a BMW 325i. As long as the car was under warranty, everything - including a car wash was covered. But as soon as the warranty period expired, here are some of the problems that surfaced: 1. AC stopped working - $800 2. Seatbelt Sensor error - $300 3. Ignition Key stopped working - $800 Secondly, there is hardly any storage in the car. The only storage is the trunk. So if you are trading in your Japanese car, set your expectation right - be prepared to compromise on the space, and the overall reliability. German engineering is eloquent as far as the detail on aesthetics of the car. For a car with low maintenance and function, its always a Honda or a Toyota!
Good dream went bad
paulbasden, 11/28/2014
2003 BMW 3 Series 330i Rwd 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5M)
12 of 26 people found this review helpful
I bought a 2003 330i in August 2012 for $8,500. It drove well for 27 months. Then in November 2014 it blew a head gasket at 122K miles. Needs a new engine. I will not but a BMW again.
2003 BMW 3 Series for sale near you
Showing 3 of 45 listings
- 330i Sedan 4DMSRP: $14,99091 mi away
- 330Ci ConvertibleMSRP: $8,999311 mi away
- 330Ci ConvertibleMSRP: $7,950360 mi away
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BMW first timer
JB, 09/17/2010
2003 BMW 3 Series 325Ci Rwd 2dr Coupe (2.5L 6cyl 5M)
3 of 8 people found this review helpful
2003 325CI coupe w/ 5-sp manual. Pure delight to drive. Manual shifter absolutely glides through each gear, never resisting, never sloppy, just smooth as silk. Power is best termed as graceful. Around town, passing, or normal acceleration just FEELS authoritative, confident and agile quick. Interstate driving is where you especially feel like you own the road. Passing cars and filling holes in traffic so effortlessly. When I test drove this car, I had to run the car out through the gears to get an idea of it's power. Quite frankly, my first impression wasn't that high due to it's lack of high-rev power. The 2.5 is never going to be a screamer. But who actually drives a car full-out anyway?
Fun and practical
Adam, 04/12/2008
2003 BMW 3 Series 330i Rwd 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I moved from a Miata to this after the 2nd kid forced the need for a back seat. It's been a great car so far. Incredibly comfortable for interstate driving and commuting, but still fun enough to toss around without requiring insanely high speeds to enjoy it. Maintenance costs haven't been too bad when I've used shops other than the dealer.
Best sports sedan under 40k!!
EvilPossum, 02/26/2003
2003 BMW 3 Series 325i Rwd 4dr Sedan (2.5L 6cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
My first thought after driving this car... is that this is not a car. It really is an ultimate driving machine. Handling is very responsive. Great breaks. The breaks saved from few occations where I'd have gotten into an accident if I was driving other cars already. I feel very safe in the car. Awesome leather and Harman kardon speakers with subwoofers! Only regret I have is not purchasing sports package and xenon headlights on my ultimate driving machine. I can't believe this machine can be driven even better with sports suspension!!! .
Great Buy
joshcaul, 12/11/2009
2003 BMW 3 Series 325i Rwd 4dr Sedan (2.5L 6cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Fun to drive, comfortable and great fuel consumption. I think BMW hit the mark with the 325, my issues are really quite minor. I like the dependability, power, handling and overall style of the car. My soft points are minor, however in a car of this class, these issues should have been addressed prior to production. Cup holder location. I know this sounds petty, however drive it around for a few weeks and you will agree. In order to utilize both cup holders you have to sacrifice your arm rest. Brake dust! I am yet to see a car with this much brake dust. If you are like me and enjoy your car shiny, good luck! Otherwise I love the car and am very happy with the purchase!
Wow
Ish, 06/16/2003
2003 BMW 3 Series 325i Rwd 4dr Sport Wagon (2.5L 6cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I highly recomend buying one.
"The Ultimate Driving Machine
C1234567, 10/28/2002
2003 BMW 3 Series 330i Rwd 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Overall a Great Car. Lots of power, smooth transmission. Exterior is good looking. Interior is not as nice as a Mercedes but it is still very nice. Older people may not like the loud yet pleasent pur the car gives or the bumpy ride if you get the sports package. Lots of excitement. You can do things in this car with more reliability than most cars(i.e turning, handling). Fuel economy (miles per gallon) is standard in comparison with like cars, but the car is so fun to drive that you feel inclined to drive it really hard and end up burning more gas than the stated miles per gallon.
Buy two so you can drive one
Bad Decision, 12/05/2002
2003 BMW 3 Series 330i Rwd 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Car has spent way too much time in the shop. If I wasn't so upside down on trade-in Iwould unload it and get the 320 or maybe the new Saab.
2003 BMW 325ci
Walid Moumneh, 04/29/2003
2003 BMW 3 Series 325Ci Rwd 2dr Convertible (2.5L 6cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Very nice car. Solid structure. Excellent performance. Very slick style. Love the automatic top. The only thing I do not like about it is the standard sound system.
Amazing car!
VB, 12/30/2009
2003 BMW 3 Series 325Ci Rwd 2dr Convertible (2.5L 6cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I've been driving sporty Japanese cars all my life through my 20's and 30's. Now that I am approaching my 40's (whew!) and have a wife, a couple of kids, etc. I decided to buy a car of my dreams, a BMW 3-series convertible. So, when the time was right I went ahead and purchased a beautiful E46 325Ci Convertible with sport package, premium package, cold weather package, and 5- speed. Ive had it for over a year now and obsession doesnt stop (just ask my wife). It does everything very well. It is a pure joy to drive and I still wake up in the morning with the thought that I am going to drive it and leave work looking forward to hugging corners on the way home. It is an amazing car!
Amazing Car!
Christa, 03/09/2008
2003 BMW 3 Series 330i Rwd 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I have owned my 330i for almost 4 years. I used to drive a Honda Accord and had several problems with it. I never looked twice at the BMW. The first time I drove it, I absolutely loved it! I wouldn't settle for the 325 - less horse power. I purchased the extended service warranty, which I think was a waste of money. I have the sports package and the front end had to be rebuilt at 62,000 miles. That was disappointing and expensive! It now has 72,000 miles on it. I am torn about what to do - keep it or get another car. I have also had to replace the driver's side window regulator, the tail light assembly, a valve cover gasket and hoses. Still love it - no other like it!
Celebrating 1 year with my BMW
gregnick, 05/28/2003
2003 BMW 3 Series 325i Rwd 4dr Sedan (2.5L 6cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
After one year and 28000 miles I could not be happier with this car. I have only had to do one oil change, which was covered under warranty and put gas in the tank. I have had zero problems. It's the best car I have ever owned. I can't beleive I was even considering a Camry when I bought this car.
Beyond my expectations.
D.Viana, 04/20/2003
2003 BMW 3 Series 330Ci Rwd 2dr Coupe (3.0L 6cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I did't think my 330 CI coupe was going to be so much fun to drive. Now I think of any excuse to get the car out of my garage. It's truly an experience every time I drive off, turn the DC player on and get on the road. The car responds to my commands and there is no hesitation whatsoever. It's truly a blast to drive this car. Now I understand what it means to be inside the ultimate driving machine.
Get A Grip
1racefan, 12/10/2002
2003 BMW 3 Series 330i Rwd 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I have owned several competitors cars to the 3 Series, but I'm home now. Do not be lured into an imitation. The "want to be's" will come and go, and the 3 is the package. This car just begs you to do more with it, to use its potential. I'm delighted with the dealer service I've received, also. If you want, got to, have a good time behind the wheel .... there is only one ultimate ride, BMW 330i.
Ready for my third 3 series.
Dan C., 04/06/2009
2003 BMW 3 Series 330Ci Rwd 2dr Convertible (3.0L 6cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Started with a 328Ci convertible - loved it and sold it to an employee - she's still driving it. Currently own 330Ci conv. - almost 6 years later and still love it. No problems mechanically, looks as good as new, fun to drive, responsive, quick. Have absolutely no negatives for this car and tough to part with such a nice car, but ready for a 335Ci convertible for the spring. I would really have to wonder about some of the negative comments on this model - I have none.
Definitely Worth the Money
EvilJ, 10/31/2002
2003 BMW 3 Series 330i Rwd 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
When we first bought our 2003 330i (Premium, Sport, Xenon, Steptronic), I was skeptical of all of the raving reviews my car magazines gave the car. Now that we've had the car for a couple weeks, I can do nothing but rave about this car. It is perhaps the most gorgeous, most fun to drive car we have ever owned.
Love this car
Ferrari, 09/04/2007
2003 BMW 3 Series 325Ci Rwd 2dr Coupe (2.5L 6cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I bought this car over a year ago and have had no major problems. I bought it Certified Pre-owned from a BMW dealer, paid a slight premium because of it, but well worth it. I can't stress enough how much I love this car. The handling is amazing, the beauty of the exterior is flashy and immediately recognized, and the interior is sleek and classy. Corner handling is great, and the sound of the 6 cylinder engine revving up is well worth the hype. The only downside is a few awkward features inside, such as the second cup holder. It is located right below the center armrest, and the center storage holds, at best, a wallet and pad of paper. Hardly reason enough not to love the car though.
My experiences
no problems here, 12/05/2002
2003 BMW 3 Series 330i Rwd 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I was just looking over the Edmunds review of the 2002 330i an thought I'd look at the other reviews by people like me to see if they were as satisfied as me. I can't believe that people are complaining about the 330i. I (and the Edmunds reviewers) have had no problems regarding reliability. Truth be told, my wife and I do a rock, paper, scissors EVERY morning to determine who gets the privilege to drive the 20 miles into the City to work. I make up reasons to go to the store just so I can zip around some. This car is fun.
Butter
HappyChap, 04/10/2003
2003 BMW 3 Series 325i Rwd 4dr Sport Wagon (2.5L 6cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
We recently purchased a 2002 325 Sports Wagon. We are surpized at how fun and luxurious it has been, as well as functional (we stuffed a full sized front door in the rear last week). The fit and finish has been great. We had one little rattle in the dash and broken hatch latch, but the dealer fixed promptly. I like to drive hard and this car is a dream. It takes the corners hard, slap it into sports mode on the auto transmission and it is a completely different car. The car has an amazing amount of road feed back, but without being tiring. Drove the A4, G35, & others, but they didn't have the same feel. It drives like butter, smooth.....
It just goes
John Pelkey, 08/11/2008
2003 BMW 3 Series 325xi AWD 4dr Sedan (2.5L 6cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I bought my BMW new, no hassle, car and price matched internet specs exactly. 130,000 miles later and it is like the first day. It had an electrical problem and a headlight out that BMW fixed, and I've gone though two sets of tires. Oh, and two extra quarts of oil. That's it. Original brakes, original everything else. I get 30 MPG with the heater and AC off, and 28 with either of them on, those are combined miles.
No Better Choice
robot, 07/16/2004
2003 BMW 3 Series 325i Rwd 4dr Sedan (2.5L 6cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I've owned my Titanium Silver with sports package, leather, and moon roof for 15 months and have had absolutely no problems. Over the years I have had some nice cars--Hondas, Volvos, abd a Mazda Miata--and this is the best one ever. It is beautiful and classy--I just like to look at it sometimes. It handles like a dream, with the perfect combination of sportiness and smooth solid comfort. I'm not easy to please, but my 325i does it for me. Finally, I bought it from a small family dealership and they have treated me very well.
Not Making the Cut
T. Davy, 01/20/2005
2003 BMW 3 Series 325i Rwd 4dr Sedan (2.5L 6cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I have had several problems with my BMW, fuel filter and pump went bad, ignition coils burning out, window regulators failing, moonroof not sliding properly, I could name a few other minor problems, but why?! I'm currently in the market for a new car, maybe a G35 or C320, definitely not another BMW!
Still the best
ajm, 12/15/2002
2003 BMW 3 Series 325Ci Rwd 2dr Convertible (2.5L 6cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I traded my 328Ci coupe for a 325CiC convertible. I was afraid I'd miss the extra horsepower of the 328, but can barely tell the difference. I was able to get a loaded 325CiC for the price of a basically equiped 330CiC. The only shortcoming I can think of is that you can't get adjustable lumbar support, not even a manual adjustment. This should be standard on a car in this class. It is extremely fun to drive, has a wonderful exhaust sound, seems much smoother and quieter than my coupe, and gets better gas mileage. All in all I'm very satisfied.
Great Car
Savanna, 03/17/2003
2003 BMW 3 Series 325i Rwd 4dr Sedan (2.5L 6cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I was recently in a car accident in my new BMW. I was hit in the back at a speed of about 40-50 mph. The women in her sabb ( 9-3 ) was hurt because the airbag did not open.I was fine thanks too the aribag and saftey features. Once i was hit in the back the airbag came out and i saw smoke. I thought the car was on fire and i quickly jumped out. It turned out the car wasn't on fire it was just chalk from the airbag. My husband told me that BMW has a saftey feature when it is hit the car turns off to eliminate fire. I can't be happier of this car. This is " The Ultimate Driving Machine."
330ci
Bob, 04/08/2010
2003 BMW 3 Series 330Ci Rwd 2dr Convertible (3.0L 6cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Got the car during summer 08. I loved the cabrio part of the car and the handeling. After month or 2 power steering failed had to replace the hoses. A little later engine started overheating which was cover under the warranty. Then i kept getting other minor issues. Then all of a sudden the tranny went down had that rebuilt under the aftermarket warranty. The car was fun till it lasted with all those problems i still liked recently the computer gave up on me that when i realized i should just sell the car.
Come buy a lemon
Dissatisfied with BM, 11/07/2002
2003 BMW 3 Series 330Ci Rwd 2dr Convertible (3.0L 6cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I special ordered a 2002 BMW 330 convertible. It has been in the shop 7 times since. Twice for problems with the convertible mechanism but 5 times including 4 tows for mechanical issues. My car has been in the shop since mid September and they can't figure out what is wrong. They keep on replacing the throttle mechanism stating this is the problem, but this only fixes the problem temporarily. They even had service technicians from BMW North America look at the car. Also BMW as a company is terrible to deal with. Very customer unfriendly and currently in litigation. Another colleague with a 2001 330 CIC is having the same problem. Very frustrating.
bmw 3-series
jseibenick, 10/22/2003
2003 BMW 3 Series 325xi AWD 4dr Sedan (2.5L 6cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
This car drives like a dream and is very reliable. It is my 2nd 3-series. I had my first one for 6 years and sold it for more than the blue book value. I love the way it powers on the highway. Great pickup and great maneuverability. Who needs a big, dumb SUV (get those things out of my way on the highway!)? This little car is super!
Get one - you won't regret it
P2, 12/31/2003
2003 BMW 3 Series 325xi AWD 4dr Sedan (2.5L 6cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
In the 38 days that I have owned and drove this vehicle, I am just as excited today as I was the day I purchased it. I am a firm believer of their MOTTO: This is the Utlimate Driving Machine. Will definitely own BMW's for a long while now.
Still fun, but expensive
DennisGNY, 07/20/2009
2003 BMW 3 Series 325Ci Rwd 2dr Convertible (2.5L 6cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
One of the car's best features was BMW's all inclusive warranty (I also was able to buy a second year coverage). While I didn't have any major complaints the first year, BMW paid for thousands of dollars in parts and labor (mostly electronic). Fun to drive, very expensive to fix. Worn parts like springs, bushings & brakes should have lasted much longer. Based on my first two years experience I purchased a third party warranty to cover the next 37,000 miles. Don't buy a BMW without a BMW warranty. None the less the car is fun to drive, performance is excellent and you can feel the assuredness that is built into the car. Put on the Ray Bans, find an open road, drop the top and crank up the stereo.
Best Entry-level Sedan Available
CROYBOY, 01/07/2003
2003 BMW 3 Series 325i Rwd 4dr Sedan (2.5L 6cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
One word describes my 2003 BMW 325i: Sweet. Although I've only been driving this car for about a month and am still in the break-in period, this car is amazing. Can't wait until I can put it to the test. Whatever you do, don't let your car get low on gas--it messes up the sensors and you have to take it in to get it reset. Leave it to the Germans to make such a solid, well built vehicle. It's too bad passengers can't get the same excitement from riding as the driver.
323xi good in all weather
Tyndaris2000, 02/21/2003
2003 BMW 3 Series 325xi AWD 4dr Sedan (2.5L 6cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I always thought that owimg new a BMW was extremely exspensive. Well, it's not always the case. Expecially when you compare the price with what you are getting. I previously owned a new A4 1.8. Both vehicles are in the same price range. But the 325 xi is way better.
BMW 325XI Review
Valened, 07/25/2003
2003 BMW 3 Series 325xi AWD 4dr Sedan (2.5L 6cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Awesome car. Nice handling, tight turns, smooth ride.
Still a good car for me today
Devon, 05/16/2021
2003 BMW 3 Series 325xi AWD 4dr Sedan (2.5L 6cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I’ve owned this car for two years after i bought it from the only other owner. It has about 158,000 miles and some minor repairs thar costed me a total of 1,250. Works like a charm after the rough idle issue was fixed. My only issue is that it has no aux cord, but in a way i think that would make it more dangerous due to speed. Mine has the sports package and it’s over all a fun car to drive, especially on windy roads. The transmission gears were slipping after i replaced the transmission fluid. Figure I shouldn’t have done that since it was a bit too dark but now it works well.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Great Car- Fiddly Controls & Bad Mileage
Hank-NJ, 02/24/2003
2003 BMW 3 Series 325xi AWD 4dr Sport Wagon (2.5L 6cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Steering, handling, engine & braking are perfect. Rides smooth & solid. AWD great in snow/rain. Looks beautiful. Good utility for couple with one toddler. Very happy with purchase. However. Horrible mileage for small car. Avg only 20 mpg hwy (and it was 12-17 during the 1st 1k miles). I don't expect an econ car, but it should come close to advertised. Controls are fiddly. Rear win washer dribbles into 1 corner and the headlt washers blow fluid onto hood (dealer says not adjustable). Seat cushions too short (I'm told the opt. sport seat are better). But! Will take the negatives because of the driving experience. Fix the little things and it's perfect.
Back in a Beamer Again
bobbyroy, 08/27/2003
2003 BMW 3 Series 325i Rwd 4dr Sedan (2.5L 6cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Had a 3000 Bavaria thatI bought used. Sold the Bavaria for more than I paid for it and went the station wagon route. Kid grew up and we needed a new car for just the two of us. Heard a radio ad for BMW 3 Series and the old memory cells kicked in with exciting remeberences of winding country roads taken with no thought of using the brake pedal, but just hanging on through the curves. Made a phone call to the BMW dealership, faxed over credit info, and leased a 325i, sight unseen. The first time in it was driving it off the lot to home. The only problem we have is choosing who gets to drive it, and who gets stuck with the Lincoln.
Ultimate Tanning Machine!
VB, 08/31/2009
2003 BMW 3 Series 325Ci Rwd 2dr Convertible (2.5L 6cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Great Car! The car is 6 years old and still turns heads. It certainly turns mine every time I walk away from it. The car offers great balance of performance and luxury. The fact that it is a convertible is an icing on the cake. It is very quiet with the top up and offers great insulation (even during WI winter).
The ultimate driving nightmare
kekae22, 01/25/2003
2003 BMW 3 Series 330i Rwd 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Purchased new in august 2002. At first 901 miles, left me stranded 200+miles away from home. The dealership said it was the throttle valve and replaced it. Happened again at 1987 mi. Dealer replaced the throttle valve again. Happened again around the 3000 mile mark. This time it was determined it was wiring and connections to the throttle valve that was causing trouble. New problem, car loves to accelerate on its' own. Happened twice making for a dangerous situation. Want my money back and dealer won't budge. Also took BMW forever to refund my rental car expenses associated with the breakdowns. I will NEVER buy another BMW again!!
325xi
325xi, 10/16/2010
2003 BMW 3 Series 325xi AWD 4dr Sedan (2.5L 6cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
This car is an absolute delight to drive. Mileage has been excellent with 20 mpg town and 32 highway. Long trips seem more tolerable due to comfortable, supportive seats. AWD does an exemplary job in snow and rain. We live in a rural area with very rough roads and the car is still reliable and tight at 108,000 miles. This is our second BMW.
The joy of driving
Brent T., 01/31/2003
2003 BMW 3 Series 325xi AWD 4dr Sedan (2.5L 6cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I've been driving my new 325xi for three whole days. What I can tell you is that the more I drive it, the more I enjoy it. Sure, the car looks great, anyone can see that, but when you drive it, it becomes almost an extension of you. I continually catch myself speeding because it doesn't take long to get to the speed limit, and the car never gives you the feeling that you're starting to go too fast for any road I've been on. My advice, if you're going to buy a 325- -DRIVE IT!
BMW 03 Failure of Equipment
Carolyn, 09/07/2009
2003 BMW 3 Series 325i Rwd 4dr Sedan (2.5L 6cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Tail light harness melted and not working. New transmission after 1000 miles. 4-window regulators replaced. Sunroof mechanism replaced. Radio dial does not work. Front tires ride noisy. No one can fit comfortably in the back seat. BMW will not help you with any parts that fail even though they are inferior products that should not have been used in this car. Parts are cheap and are meant to break to keep their parts and service dept. busy. My husband and I have owned 20 vehicle together and we have put more parts on this car then in all of our car combined. Its sad and never buy BMW, buy a Lexus!! or something more reliable . BMW does not care about fixing their problems.
Love/Hate relationship
Jeff, 01/17/2009
2003 BMW 3 Series 325i Rwd 4dr Sedan (2.5L 6cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
This is my 1st BMW, I don't know if I'll buy another. This car is very fun to drive. However, I am a big guy and it is a very small, uncomfortable car. The redesign in 2006+ is a better compromise of room and performance. I spend a lot of time in a car so this matters (30K miles/yr), but it is fun on days off and short trips when I don't spend hours in the car. The worst feature is reliability. I bought it less than 2yrs ago @ 21K miles, I have 74K now. I've replaced all the window regulators (and I'm about to again), an electrical harness, a throttle body boot, and misc other items. The boot wasn't even under my CPO warranty. In less than 2yrs this car has had 20+days in the shop
Transmission
Original Owner, 10/15/2010
2003 BMW 3 Series 325i Rwd 4dr Sedan (2.5L 6cyl 5M)
3 of 9 people found this review helpful
Purchased new in November 2003. Sport and premium package with xenon lights. I took exceptionally good care of the car, always garaged and hardly ever drove it hard.Ignition coil needed replacement at around 10,000 miles and again within 50,000 miles. Front right xenon light went out within 50,000 miles and headlight assembly was replaced. Brakes and discs needed replacement every 25,000 miles. Control arm bushings needed replacement prior to 100,000 miles. Radio replaced at 100,000 miles. Radio dial broke off and radio not working again. Driver side window motor replaced. Now has 125,000 miles and Transmission has issues. Great was car great prior to 100,000 miles.
Worst Car I have ever owned in 30 years
Moore, 02/22/2009
2003 BMW 3 Series 330i Rwd 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5M)
1 of 2 people found this review helpful
Worst Car I have ever owned in 30 years! When I fist bought this Lemon I loved it. But after 9 months and 6 times in the BMW dealership repairing this turkey I am through with BMW! Mt first Bimmer was a 318ti that I drove almost 300 thousand miles with the same timing belt. This thing has had no less than 3 alternators in the past 2 months at $500.00 a pop, cannot fix the radio $600.00, idleing pully $700.00 and its still not fixed. Do not purchase one of these cars without a warranty!!!!
I know what they're missing!!!
Iowa Architect, 05/21/2008
2003 BMW 3 Series 325xi AWD 4dr Sedan (2.5L 6cyl 5M)
1 of 2 people found this review helpful
Bought a used '91 318i in New Mexico and fell in love with it. The faster you went the more that car would hunker down and handle the road. However, that car had zero traction in the winter. I moved to Iowa and needed a better all weather car. In comes the 325xi. Great traction, great handling, great ride, great looks,etc. Sometimes I find myself smiling just because I am behind the wheel. No mechanical or engine issues,however, I did have to change the front tie rods. I found a very reliable certified BMW mechanic and now I feel I am not being fleeced everytime I have service. I do take warrantee work to the dealership. I don't think other car drivers have any idea of what they're missing!
330xi beats all!!
ajm, 09/24/2003
2003 BMW 3 Series 330xi AWD 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5M)
1 of 2 people found this review helpful
absolutely a dream to drive in all kinds of weather. sticks to the road like i'ts on rails! corners flawlessly very quick acceleration.
Great exterior, dodgey interior.........
Steven Zimbelman, 08/26/2003
2003 BMW 3 Series 325Ci Rwd 2dr Coupe (2.5L 6cyl 5M)
1 of 2 people found this review helpful
I love the exterior styling of my 325 CI! Unfortunately the interior stylists were not as talented. Power window controlsa are place uncomfortably. Passenger powerseat controls are inconveniantly places for the driver to operate and the seatbelts constantly get hungup on the seat release levers. A subtle reshaping of the sunvisors would allow them more upward movement. The coin holder is a rediculous and ill- located design. The armrest covers one of the cupholders unless lifted up.... Not well designer on the whole. The Japanese have it better thought out.
The ultimate driving piece of ****
johnj, 08/02/2003
2003 BMW 3 Series 330Ci Rwd 2dr Convertible (3.0L 6cyl 5M)
1 of 2 people found this review helpful
I bought a new 2003 BMW 330CIC. What a mistake! Within 2 months, I started having problems. First the warning lights would go on for no apparent reason. I would bring it in to the shop and they would "hook it up to the computer" and tell me nothing was wrong. Then my car started sputtering and they replaced the choke valve. Next, my car just stopped running. 2 more trips to the shop and 2 roadside assistances later, I finally unloaded this "ultimate driving machine." I had hoped to get another BMW thinking this was just a fluke, but dealing with the dealership and BMW headquarters made me see the light. I love my lexus!
Rattle & Roll on
The sound of rattles, 11/14/2002
2003 BMW 3 Series 325Ci Rwd 2dr Convertible (2.5L 6cyl 5M)
1 of 2 people found this review helpful
I love cars and always dreamed of a BMW convertable, but be careful what you wish for! In the past year it has spent a total of eight weeks getting fine tuned. The top rattles and creeks, the check engine light has gone off three times and the grills were falling off. Each time the dealer was busy and I had to drop off the car for extened periods of time.My list of complaints include, rattles, broken vent, parts comming loose, a bad thermostate, and a check engine light that they keep blaming on a loose gas cap. Next time I will buy domestic, atleast the don't blame you when their products fail!!!!
Fun while it lasts
R. Parker, 07/17/2008
2003 BMW 3 Series 330i Rwd 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5M)
1 of 2 people found this review helpful
I was completely in love with this car when I bought it. Although I bought it used, it was my first BMW but most likely will now be my last. The problems I have had on this car are unbelievable. The warning light that the right tail light is out has been on and off since I bought it. I have had to replace window regulators, the sunroof, injectors, spark plugs, bushings and a host of other things. The straw that broke the camel's back came a few days ago - an engine/exhaust problem that's going to cost $3500 to fix. In the last year I've shelled out $9K on this vehicle. I loved driving this car it was so much fun. But now I am looking at something more reliable - like a Hyundai.