3 Star Reviews for 2002 BMW 3-Series

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 1 through 10 of 334.00
  • I should have taken advice the 1st time - 2002 BMW 3-Series
    By -

    I recently purchased my 2002 BMW 325Xi this year from a private one owner family. Stay away from the dealership. They are very expensive ($140.00 for an oil change). Please, at all cost, if you can, take the time to learn how to work on these cars. With some basic tools, a service manual and some patience, you can do some of your own work. Once I brought my 325Xi home, everything that could go bad went bad. The first problem I incurred was when inserting the key to unlock the door the lock cylinder fell out of the door. All my window regulators failed in all doors. The side mirror cover fell off. The gas mileage is horrible, despite full tuneup. I am unsure if I want to continue ownership.

  • Fun to Drive but expensive to maintain - 2002 BMW 3-Series
    By -

    I love the handling of my 325. I have encountered several problems with the car which it continues to add up. I have had three window regulators break which the company is aware of the problem, but will not do a recall. The rotors cannot be turned so brakes cost $400 just for the front. I had a bushing replaced which BMW dealership didnt put the parts back on the vehicle correctly. Be prepared when you go for an oil change, you will end up paying for more than a simple oil change. I cant believe the amount of magazines praising BMW cars. The magazines never mention anything about reliability or the lack of. I am disappointed with the quality of my 325.

  • My Story....... - 2002 BMW 3-Series
    By -

    I have been on a first name basis with my BMW mechanic. My 2001 BMW has been in the shop 5 times with one stint lasting a little over 2 weeks with only 4,000 miles on it! The auto transmission failed miserably, too many failures to list, and it still has problems shifting. The passenger air bag has been replaced along with the explosive charge. Some of my rattles have been fixed, and I found a new one today within the driver side door. This has been a nightmare.

  • Dont buy it! - 2002 BMW 3-Series
    By -

    When gas prices started to rise a few years ago I got out of my yukon denali and bought this BMW. It has had 2 window regulators $350.00, 1 new battery $100, a new alternator $400.00 and now the transmission is shot $5300.00. Not to mention a few months ago the car started sparking around the battery which sits in the trunk and cost $9,000 worth of fire damage. This is the WORSE car I have ever owned not to mention the bills to fix these problems. I would not recommend this car to anyone.

  • 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.

  • BMW 3-Series is a MONEY PIT!! - 2002 BMW 3-Series
    By -

    While the performance of this vehicle is phenomenal, BMWs commitment to customer service, and establishing brand loyalty is 0. Vehicle reliability is terrible as it has left my wife stranded on several occassions. This year alone Ive spent $3,000 in repairs. First the a/c, then 3 of the 4 power window motors went out at the same time, not to mention the times the vehicle has left us stranded. When I contacted the North America Corporate Offices I was simply advised to buy another BMW...no customer goodwill credit for repairs, no complimentary service, No..No..No. In conclusion, not the brand of QUALITY, customer service, and/or commitment they portray to be.

  • Less Car for More Money - 2002 BMW 3-Series
    By -

    Wish I had waited one more month. Test drove the Infiniti G35 recently and there is no comparison. More room, more zip, more horsepower, longer warranty, better service (I have heard) and 8 - 10K less. Vanity and ego kicks my ass again. No more ultimate driving machine for BMW...move over the king is dead. BTW...took a huge hit on my trade in...some value...haaaaaa!!!

  • I hate this car - 2002 BMW 3-Series
    By -

    There is always something wrong with this car. The top quit working, the trunk lid wont catch properly, the all-window switch broke, the auto door locks stick, the brake rotors are wear items(!!), the covering has worn off the center console, the glove box wont open. I will admit it drives great, but I cannot accept the constant stream of annoyances. BMW customer care couldnt care less. Ill NEVER own another BMW.

  • The Best Car Ever - 2002 BMW 3-Series
    By -

    I love this car

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