1997 BMW 318IC Problems: 1 Complaint, 1 Recall

The worst 1997 BMW 318IC problems

Ranked by number of owner complaints. Mileage and cost come from what owners wrote.

Tap a problem to see which part fails, at what mileage and in which other years.

Vehicle speed controlReported August 19, 1997 · 410,000 vehicles affected

What is wrong: The cruise control and throttle cables are attached to the same throttle valve actuating lever at the throttle housing. It is possible that the plastic bushing on either cable could break due to environmental influences coupled with vibration. If the bushing breaks, the outer cable housing can separate from the bushing. In this case, during application of the throttle pedal without cruise control being engaged, the outer tube could catch on the edge of the broken bushing.
Risk: This could cause the throttle valve to remain partially open. It his were to occur, the car might not decelerate as expected increasing the risk of a vehicle crash.
Remedy: Dealers will install a spring steel clip on the outer tube of each cable in the area of the adjusting screw and plastic bushing. The clip is designed to prevent the outer tube from dislodging from the bushing.

Recall number 97V131000 · Recall details

Bulletins tell dealers how to fix known problems. A warranty extension means the manufacturer pays for that repair for longer.

Most recent owner complaints, unedited.

Filed Feb 1, 1999 · Visibility · CA

Windshield cracked.

Used buying checklistWhat to check on a 1997 BMW 318IC before you buy

Is the 1997 BMW 318IC reliable?

Owners have filed 1 complaint about the 1997 BMW 318IC, fewer than a typical 318IC model year.

What is the most common problem with the 1997 BMW 318IC?

Windows, wipers and visibility, with 1 complaint.

How many recalls does the 1997 BMW 318IC have?

1 recall, covering vehicle speed control.

See the problems and recalls for an exact car

Check the exact car before you pay: accidents, salvage or flood titles, odometer readings and previous owners.