1994 BMW 318: problems, recalls and reliability
1 recall and 20 owner complaints on record; most reports concern electrical system.
Data updated weekly · latest recall Feb 1994
All counts are reports filed with NHTSA in the United States - US market only, not worldwide totals.
Common problems
Computed from 20 owner complaints filed with NHTSA for this exact model year.
“When there is a heavy down pour or taking car to the car wash, the computer gets wet which won't allow the vehicle to start. Contacted dealer. Dealer had the computer replaced. *ak”Owner report · Electrical System · Jun 1999
“Profile gasket failed, causing the engine to overheat. Much of the antifreeze leaked onto the roadway. Other gaskets, etc. Also had to be replaced: valve cover gaskets, thermostat, intake manifold gas, throttle body gasket, exhaust pipe gasket, valve cover gasket, chain tensioner, and more. The repair bill was $950 in labor and $426.00 in parts. In researching the internet and the NHTSA web site, I found many other bmw 318 owners that had the same problem; most of them with 1993 models. I spoke to the dealer and bmw customer service and they say they can't do anything because the car is no longer under warranty.”Owner report · Engine And Engine Cooling · Nov 1998
“Bumper around windshield flaked off in 3 years. Presently, the bumper is gone, and water is entering into the wiring harness, which may cause electrical problems. Please provide further information. *ak”Owner report · Visibility · Jan 1996
Show 3 more owner reports
“Defective spot welds at the firewall and driver's side door causing clunking noise. Problem was serviced but unable to be fixed.”Owner report · Structure
“I have experienced the same problem for many times ( repeatable ). I am really hoping that you can help me to investigate this problem. The problem is that the fuel gauge does not show accurate level of the fuel in the tank. I have two different dealers to try tackle this problem and solve them; however, I am still experiencing it right now. It's a quality issue. Thank you for your time and consideration in investigating this matter for me and other owner who may not want to report this matter to you. *ak”Owner report · Fuel System, Gasoline
“Water drained into electronic control module, causing an electrical shortage, and resulting in vehicle stalling.also, leaving fuel injectors open, could cause fuel leakage. Please give any further details.*ak”Owner report · Electrical System
When filing, owners marked a crash in 2 of these complaints and injuries in 2 - self-reported to NHTSA, not verified accident statistics.
Recalls - 1 campaign
THE ADHESIVE MATERIAL OF THE TWO PIECE THROTTLE BODY HEATER MIGRATES INTO THE CIRCULATION CHAMBER CAUSING BUILD UP OF IMPURITIES AND RESTRICTION OF FLOW WITHIN THE CHAMBER. THIS CONDITION AND WATER VAPORS FROM THE CRANK THAT FREEZES AT LOW AMBIENT AIR TEMPERATURES PREVENTS THE THROTTLE PLATE FROM CLOSING AS THE DRIVER RELEASES THE GAS PEDAL, CAUSING LOSS OF THROTTLE CONTROL.
Remedy: BMW DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE THROTTLE BODY HEATER WITH A MODIFIED HEATER.
How other years compare
Check your exact 318 by VIN
Recalls and equipment differ between individual vehicles. Decode your VIN to see what applies to yours.
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Is the 1994 BMW 318 reliable?
NHTSA has 20 owner complaints and 1 recall campaign on record for the 1994 BMW 318. The most complained-about area is electrical system.
Does the 1994 BMW 318 have open recalls?
1 recall campaign has been issued, the latest concerning fuel system, gasoline:fuel injection system. Check your specific vehicle by VIN - recall repairs are free at franchised dealers.
Source: NHTSA recall campaigns and owner complaints (public domain). Counts reflect reports on file and are not a defect rate.