Brand New 325Xi Exploded

I have alwayed loved BWMs. Thus, I though that buying a 325Xi would be a wonderful experience. I was certainly wrong!
So sad...I finally got the new 2002 325Xi (Manual Trans) and what happened? While driving it off of the lot, the clutch basically self-destructed--the engine reved to 7K+ RPM in first gear while going 5mph in the parking lot. Dealer says the cluch is absolutely hosed. Now I am wondering, should I wait another 5 mos. for a another 325Xi or should I defect and go with a Lexus IS300?

thats the problem with BMW nowadays, new technology that hasnt been developed fully. Go look at the 7 series forums, notice a pattern, everyone is complaining about problems with them. later model 5 series aint too hot either from what i have seen and heard of them. Take the advice of someone who has been connected to the motor trade for many years and go get you're Lexus, you will have years of trouble free motoring, or you could go get another BMW and risk the same happening again.

Hard Decision! I have to agree with Pennzoil GT-R, if you get the Lexus(i.e. Toyota) you should get bullet proof reliability. I also work in the automotive industry and find toyota to be one of the most reliable brands on the market. Having said that, even they have their problems.

I think your decision really should come down to which car will you really be happy driving!

Rossco
1996 E36 320i
http://www.automotiveforums.com/vbulletin/attachment.php?s=&postid=518748

I agree. It comes down to which car you really enjoy driving. If it is still BMW, have either the dealer or BMW's HQ for your country provide you with a comparable loaner while you wait. BTW, is the wait really 5 months?

Hi !!!
I have to agree with the others. Don't get me wrong because I only love German cars, especially BMW's. But I find the Lexus IS 300, the most georgeous Lexus in the world.
I remember my father once told me that nothing is as good as a German car but the day he saw the new Lexus IS 300, he was shocked and thought it was a Mercedes. And him being a man of his word withdrew his statment and reconsidered buying a Lexus as a new car next time.
And plus you'll get the same comfort and luxury than a BMW and more... So go with the Lexus.
And like the others said... It's all about preference...
PEACE !!!
:smoker2: :grey: :sun: :bandit:

That's totally a tough call. If it's a Bimmer you want, then tough it out and get a Bimmer. If you're marginal, then a Lexus might be the way to go. It's all up to you.
:greenchai :smoka:

unless you really want a brand new car, how about buying something like an old shape S-Class or 7 series. you will get the badge prestige, and you will also get a car that will NEVER break down.

Hey we shouldn't forget that one of the major benefits of purchasing a Bimmer is the 3 yr / 36,000 maintenance plan. Last time I checked, Lexus does not offer a maitnenace plan. I have a buddy who bought a Lexus ES 3000 last year, he loves the car but he complains bitterly that every time he takes the car into the dealership for general maintenance, he never gets out of there spending less than $200.00. The technicians always find something that needs to be fixed or replaced. Maybe it's the dealership my buddy uses... I don't know but I have heard similar complaints from other Lexus owners.

Oh, is it just me or does the Lexus IS 300 look like an overpriced Honda Civic?? :confused:

hehe .. that's an esp interesting situation b/c it's a 325xi vs an IS300 .. I have a BMW, and initially bought it not b/c of the badge. But since you have a stunning experience that only a small fraction of BMW owners have, my opinion is that you testdrive both cars again and go with your gut. If you do get the 325 again, buy a lottery ticket as well b/c that's about the same chance of the 325 disappointing you again.

Was this a German or US manufactured car???

If it was teh US, then tha is not suprising, as it is a contest of quantity, not quality.


If it was German then :eek: :eek: