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1998 BMW 3-Series Reliability Rating
KEY:
Minimal Problems
Moderate Problems
Significant Problems
Category
Rating
Comments
Engine
A general problem with this vehicle is the Intake Air System. The system leaks and can result in poor running of the engine and/or Malfunction Indicator Illumination. The Intake Air System leaks are identified in TSB # 11 05 98. Occasional problems on this vehicle are failure of the VANOS solenoid, M52 engine only, and the Motronic Control Unit. Failure of the VANOS solenoid is identified in TSB #11 09 98. Failure of the Motronic Control Unit is caused by water intrusion that is identified in TSB # 41 03 93. A periodic problem on this vehicle is failure of the Electronically Heated Thermostat. The failures of the Intake Air System are not specific to any one part, so the $ cost of repairs will vary. The cost to repair the VANOS solenoid is estimated at $260.00 for parts and $32.50 for labor. The cost to repair the Motronic Control Unit is estimated at $1075.00 for the parts and $26.00 for labor. The cost to repair the Electronically Heated Thermostat is estimated at $74.00 for parts and $130.00 for labor. All prices are estimates based on $65.00 per flat rate hour and do not include diagnostic time or any applicable sales tax.
Transmission & Driveline
Infrequent problems reported, all with low repair costs.
Steering & Suspension
Infrequent problems reported, all with low repair costs.
Brakes
Infrequent problems reported, all with low repair costs.
Heating & Air Conditioning
Infrequent problems reported, all with low repair costs.
Starting & Charging
Infrequent problems reported, all with low repair costs.
Accessories
Infrequent problems reported, all with low repair costs.
Overall
5 out of 5
*Repair costs are based on a flat rate of $65.00 per hour and do not include diagnostic time or any applicable sales tax.
Reliability History
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Minimal Problems
Moderate Problems
Significant Problems
Moderate Problems
