2001 330i...thinking of purchasing...any flaws?
radvra
06-22-2004, 03:18 PM
Just trying to get the "skinny" on this car. Are there any design flaws or reoccurring problems? I am getting reports on BMW quality slipping but I am not sure if the 2001 year or this model applies to the negative reports. Car is beautiful and fast, but has a slight axle or shaft related rumbling sound from the rear left (drivers side). It also translates a bit of tire noise from the road....is this normal?
Car has 66K, and I want to make sure I am not headed for major repairs if I buy at this mileage stage. Your input is appreciated. At $20K it is right at blue book, so it is not a steal but not unreasonable either.
Car has 66K, and I want to make sure I am not headed for major repairs if I buy at this mileage stage. Your input is appreciated. At $20K it is right at blue book, so it is not a steal but not unreasonable either.
scott5598
06-27-2004, 01:30 PM
I have a 2001 325i with the sport suspension and 76K miles on it and I am pretty happy with it. However, to the extent this can be used for reference for a 330i, there are a couple of things you need to know.
One area of concern on this generation of the 3 series has been the robustness of the front suspension. I'm now on my 2nd set of replacement front bushings (so my third set in total). I've had the "vibration on firm braking" over 50MPH that probably suggests I've got a slightly warped rotor. I know the bushings contributed to this too. You'll see other posts on the forum that mention this. Note, however, I live in Detroit Michigan, and our roads STINK! There is no doubt in my mind that the daily pounding over/through chuck holes has taken its toll. Still, I think you need to expect to put money into the front suspension at some regular interval. Other than that, and other than my A/C dieing which is the reason I'm cruising this forum today, I would buy the vehicle again, given the choice. Even after almost four years, I look forwad to every minute behind the wheel!
One area of concern on this generation of the 3 series has been the robustness of the front suspension. I'm now on my 2nd set of replacement front bushings (so my third set in total). I've had the "vibration on firm braking" over 50MPH that probably suggests I've got a slightly warped rotor. I know the bushings contributed to this too. You'll see other posts on the forum that mention this. Note, however, I live in Detroit Michigan, and our roads STINK! There is no doubt in my mind that the daily pounding over/through chuck holes has taken its toll. Still, I think you need to expect to put money into the front suspension at some regular interval. Other than that, and other than my A/C dieing which is the reason I'm cruising this forum today, I would buy the vehicle again, given the choice. Even after almost four years, I look forwad to every minute behind the wheel!
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