While driving at 45 MPH, suddenly a popping noise occurred in the front end, the steering wheel shuttered because vehicle was equipped with asc plus t (automatic stability control plus traction) and it was trying to gain back control. This resulted in the driver crashing into a tree head on. Driver side tie rod broke which caused this to occur. No injuries were sustained, upon impact, air bag deployed.. The cause of the tie rod breaking was still be investigated.
The worst 1997 BMW 318IS problems
Ranked by number of owner complaints. Mileage and cost come from what owners wrote.
- Acceleration1
- Steering1
Problems by type
Tap a problem to see which part fails, at what mileage and in which other years.
- Acceleration1
- Steering1
Recalls 1
Vehicle speed control
- 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
Technical service bulletins for the 1997 BMW 318IS 1
Bulletins tell dealers how to fix known problems. A warranty extension means the manufacturer pays for that repair for longer.
What 1997 BMW 318IS owners say
Most recent owner complaints, unedited.
While driving the vehicle with cruise control on consumer applied the brakes and cruise control won't release. Also, air bag light illuminated on the dash board.
Compare the 1997 BMW 318IS
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Questions about the 1997 BMW 318IS
Is the 1997 BMW 318IS reliable?
Owners have filed 2 complaints about the 1997 BMW 318IS, fewer than a typical 318IS model year.
What is the most common problem with the 1997 BMW 318IS?
Acceleration and speed control, with 1 complaint. Next is steering (1).
How many recalls does the 1997 BMW 318IS have?
1 recall, covering vehicle speed control.
Was there a recall on the 1997 BMW 318IS acceleration?
Yes, 1 recall: 97V131000. Check your VIN to see if your car still needs the free repair.
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