2002 BMW 3-Series Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.58/5 Average
334 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

BMW has seen fit to give the sedans and wagons a facelift for 2002. An in-dash CD player finally makes it onto the standard features list. The center stack has been altered to accommodate the new automatic climate controls. Steptronic automanual operation has been altered so that you move the transmission lever forward for downshifts and backward for upshifts. Bi-xenon headlamps are on the options list so that both low and high beams can glow a cold blue and can be set to automatic operation. Rear side airbags are available for coupes and convertibles. Two new colors, Electric Red and Gray Green (and a Natural Brown interior leather) join the color spectrum.

Pros:
  • Luxurious, powerful, exceptional road manners, available all-wheel drive for sedan and wagon.
Cons:
  • Pricey for their market segment, limited rear-seat space and cargo capacity.

User Reviews:

Showing 91 through 100 of 334.00
  • Eat This Lexus - 2002 BMW 3-Series
    By -

    The 330i is hands down the best sports sedan in that category. The 3-series solely define the whole category. For all you Lexus owners, go ahead, drive your Toyota Altrzza (renamed as Lexus IS300), but if you come upon me at a stoplight, prepare to be humiliated.

  • Good car but too many repairs - 2002 BMW 3-Series
    By -

    I bought my car in April and I love the way it drives, for a 2.5 its peppy. I had to replace ball joints and bushings $800. Also had a failed right front suspension spring. $200 fix. The car runs smooth but too many little repairs. Very fun to drive and will recommend purchase with warranty.

  • First 8 months - 2002 BMW 3-Series
    By -

    I drove a 99 Ford Contour SVT before the 325i, and I am so satisfied that I bought a rear-wheel drive car. Ive had two problems when I first bought it. The alternator and reverse-activated rear-view mirror were replaced free of charge, but considering that my last car was about to die on me, they were minor inconveniences. The 190 or so hp (BMW says 184, I dont think so) is used to its fullest extent and doesnt struggle, but if you can afford the near 4-5 grand premium over the 325i for the 330i, get the 330i. The tires are wearing even and the steering, is, Im lost for words. Its awesome. I will have an update around the 14-16 month period.

  • German engineering?? - 2002 BMW 3-Series
    By -

    Bought it brand new, excellent handling and acceleration. As of 07/2007, 60k miles and exterior (metallic blue) looks like new. Interior wood trim and leather trim has held up, although some minor fading/peeling on plastic accents. Had to replace all 4 window rotors within first year and repaired sunroof twice. Brake dust shows daily. Nightmare problems starting at 55k miles, had to replace serpentine belt, battery, throttle, DSC control unit (2k out of pocket, warranty expired). Will not purchase another BMW, although performance is superb, reliability and quality is not favorable. Servicing and repair expenses too high.

  • Not So Reliable, Not so Swift - 2002 BMW 3-Series
    By -

    Im often amazed at how so many reviewers who have only test driven the BMW so readily heap its praise. Ive owned a 330Ci Convertible now through 60,000 miles. In the last two years alone it has been in the shop for major repairs nine times. Count: new transmission, new alternator, battery, and ECU, new radiator, water pump, and impeller, new radio, new seat cover. Most recently it requires a new brake caliper, rotor and pads. Ive come to understand that BMW really means, "Breaking Motor Woerken." There is a reason BMW offers such attractive leases on their cars: The only way worth driving one is as a rental.

  • Clean Tight Ride - 2002 BMW 3-Series
    By -

    Graduated from college, got a job, back on the singles scene, what to do? Bought a new BMW 325ci and love it! I researched the benz, lexus, acura, but BMW was it. I kept it pretty basic, metallic paint, manual trans, sport package, moonroof and paid close to MSRP at 32k. Met a girl the first hour I drove it off the lot, a fellow BMW owner. But forget the girls, this car handles like nobodys business, the engine grrs, the 17-inch tires inspire, and the stick is awesome. For a coupe the roominess is great. Im blown away by Grmn Engineering, they thought of everything. From the full size spare w/ rim to the flip-over trunk mat. This car is AMAZING!

  • Keep cool BABEE - 2002 BMW 3-Series
    By -

    Beautiful drive & design... watch out for over heating problems..in3x for such and now AC does not cool properly.

  • BMW Forever - 2002 BMW 3-Series
    By -

    Bought this car used in May 2005 with 20,000 miles on it. After reconditioning (replaced AC compressor, fuel level gauge in tank and suspension bushings), it has given no problems. Only needed scheduled service. Fun to drive! Nice acceleration and road handling. Full leather trim is easy to keep clean. 17" wheels and M3 type trunk spoiler give it a sporty look. I am adding angel eyes projector headlights to make it look even better. I will definitely buy another BMW when I trade this one in!

  • Im Hooked - 2002 BMW 3-Series
    By -

    I recently traded in my perfectly fine 2006 Honda Civic EX coupe for this car, and I absolutely love it. I was looking for a little more fun than the Honda provided, and also something the family would enjoy. This car is all that you read about and more. It offers the perfect blend of fun, performance, and practicality. This is my first venture into BMW-land, and Im hooked so far. I was looking for a used model with low miles, and I came across my 2002 330 CiC with just 38,400 miles and a clean Carfax. The beauty of BMWs is that they often look much younger than they actually are. I walked away with my "almost new" car for just $25k, down from $46k new. Very happy so far.

  • I love my 325i - 2002 BMW 3-Series
    By -

    I have a 2001 325 (which I think is better looking than the later facelifted models), and really enjoy it. I picked it up in Germany, and drove it on the autobahns for 2 weeks-- I HIGHLY recommend you take advantage of BMWs european delivery program. The car has been absolutely reliable-- but there have been a few rattles that bugged me (I fixed them myself w/ some felt). options 5 speed manual Cold-weather packaged moonroof leather sports package Get these while you can-- as you can see from the new 7 and 5 series, BMWs are becoming quite ugly!

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