1994 BMW 318i

[thesaynt]

Hello Guys,
About to buy a 1994 BMW 318i with 130000 miles on it. I was hoping to find out what kind of problems do these cars have at a mileage like that, or problems in general. Thanks a lot!

[Autotechnica]

Please check the "FAQ" section. There is a lot of information about problems to expect.

Bry

[thesaynt]

yeah, in the process of doing that. But are the manuals known to have any transmission and clutch problems?

[Autotechnica]

Originally posted by thesaynt@Aug 8 2004, 06:11 PM
yeah, in the process of doing that. But are the manuals known to have any transmission and clutch problems?

Not really. However, if you are like me and want every part of the car to be perfect for as long as you own the car, you'll want to replace the shifter linkage. After a few years the cheap plastic bushing used in the stock shifter linkage will begin to wear off. You will notice a lot of play and a very sloppy feel. This can often cause you to mis-shift and grind your gears during more spirited driving. I'd recommend UUC's derlin (basically metal) bushing for a tight shift throw. Linkages are difficult to install so I recommend finding a mechanic to do it for you. If you're happy with your shifter, don't bother. If you also find that the shift throw is too long. Install a shift lever (not knob) from an MZ3. You can buy these from the dealer for $80. Much cheaper than an aftermarket short shifter kit. It will reduce your shift throw by 40-60%, depending on which model you have.

Clutch and tranny do not have any specific problems. However, if you plan to upgrade to something better, I'd recommend going with a used M3 flywheel and new pressure plate and clutch disc from a '96+ M3 model. They can take more heat and up to 450HP +. More than you'll ever need. I found stock BMW non M clutches to be very soft. They would often overheat in heavy traffic conditions with a lot of stop and go. They seem to slip quite a bit as well.

Bryan

[ghettozn]

Originally posted by thesaynt@Aug 8 2004, 05:54 PM
Hello Guys,
About to buy a 1994 BMW 318i with 130000 miles on it. I was hoping to find out what kind of problems do these cars have at a mileage like that, or problems in general. Thanks a lot!

How much is the asking price for that car?

[thesaynt]

Thanks for the great tips Bryan. I got him down to $4100. A little bit over kbb private party value, but it is loaded and drives well. Don't see any major problems with it at the moment. But I don't know what has usually been changed on that car with this mileage. He is the second owner.

[97alpineM3]

Nice buy... Good luck.. enjoy

[thesaynt]

It feels like a relatively good price, and the reason he is selling it is because he wants to buy a new 325ci. The dealer gave him around $3000 for it, so he figured he can make more selling it himself. I know it's a good deal, but it wouldn't be nice changing things like the head gasket, water pump, thermostat, clutch, transmission, or God forbid engine any time soon. I guess my main question would be, at this kinda mileage, have any or most of these parts been replaced?

[ghettozn]

Ahh, i got my 1992 318is @ 88k miles for 5.5k. Nice find

[BmwBlondie]

I have the same car.. same amount of milage. A few things to check.. The Air conditiong for sure. Mine gets Cold-ish but never super cold like it should. Obviously all the window motors.. but listen to them carefully one of mine just went the other day. sunroof leaking and all the smaller lights on the air conditioning/ defrost settings.

[thesaynt]

Def took care of the basics. BmwBlondie, do you know anything about your head gasket and other parts mentioned?

[Autotechnica]

thesaynt,

Profile gasket failure was only on the first year of production 318's (1991) '92 year model. They usually fail after about 5000km's. If you're car has that much milage, chances are it has been changed with the improved gasket. It really should have been a recalled, but BMW claimed that it would put them out of business. The labour should be around $300-$500 depending on where you bring it.

Bry

[thesaynt]

As usual, good ideas Bryan. Thanks