4 Star Reviews for 2004 BMW 3-Series

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.66/5 Average
459 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

A six-speed SMG (Sequential Manual Gearbox) transmission is now optional on select 3 Series models, while a five-speed Steptronic automatic is now offered with the 330i Performance Package. Rain-sensing wipers, automatic headlights and hands-free wireless cell phone capability are now standard features on the sedan and wagon. There are new alloy wheel designs for the 325i, 325xi and 330xi Sport Package. All 330i sedans get a revised grille -- a new black grille instead of silver, with a lower grille combination of body color and black. All 3 Series coupes and convertibles receive a revised front fascia, plus new front and rear bumper contours, Adaptive headlamps and taillights and new designs for both the standard and optional wheels. Interior changes are limited to a revised climate control panel. Finally, Sirius Satellite Radio is now available as an accessory on all 3 Series models.

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

User Reviews:

Showing 1 through 10 of 459.00
  • I love this car!! - 2004 BMW 3-Series
    By -

    This car sold me on BMWs. The only complaint is that little things break.

  • Amazed! - 2004 BMW 3-Series
    By -

    I bought this car with only 56K miles on the odo in Feb of 2011. Ive since added a good 24K and this car still runs and feels like new! Ive bought new vehicles before, including a new 1999 Ford Windstar and a 2006 Mazda 5 and I have to tell you the BMW runs way smoother than either of those vehicles did brand new! This car has the most comfortable seats Ive ever encoutered and has the smoothese ride Ive ever experienced. Sure there are some downsides like the expensive oil changes due to requiring synthetic oil and gassing up costs a bit more as it requires 91 or higher octane. I was never a BMW fan but owning one has put me on top of the fan list!

  • Most Reliable BMW, 2004, 325i - 2004 BMW 3-Series
    By -

    The 2004, BMW 325i is the most reliable and aggressive engine of the 3 series BMW line. I purchased the BMW in Heidelberg, Germany brand new in 2003 October. Since then, I have not really spent any money replacing or changing mechanical parts, except for the rotor, shocks, struts, and of course the occasional oil change. Driving this vehicle is a dream. At 100,000 miles, I just got the transmission and differential oil change. For $36K, it has been the best purchase of this magnitude, ever. The only bad thing about the 2004, BMW 325i is the interior is made very cheap. Stuff start to fall apart after a few years.

  • Awesome Car! - 2004 BMW 3-Series
    By -

    I bought my car from its first owner in Sept. 2010, and the only regret that I have had is that I did not buy it sooner. Im a first time BMW owner, and I now know what they mean by the Ultimate Driving Machine. With the 6-speed, the car is more than quick enough to maneuver through traffic. For some terrible reason, this car becomes even more fun as the speeds climb. At 100+ MPH it still feels like its on rails. Mechanically this car seems immaculate, I love the perfect mechanical sound the gear box maxes as you change a gear at low speeds. Both exterior and interior build quality is fantastic and I love the driving position/feel despite being 62" and 225 lbs.

  • Purchased for my Sons 16th Birthday - 2004 BMW 3-Series
    By -

    Ive been driving BMW 5 series for years purchased new. When my son was turning 16, I wanted a safe and reliable and lets face it, a hot car...youre only 16 once :-). I located a great priced 2004 325ci, red, with 40K miles in 2009 I made the deal and brought it home. I had an option to purchase the same car albeit blue with the CPO warranty but they wanted 2K more and I said no...big mistake. My whole family really likes this car...sporty, peppy, looks great, etc. But...I purchased the car for 13K and put 7K into it. I belive the other two previous owners just didnt keep up with maintenance or it was listed as a lemon. Once I got beyond all the repairs, awesome well keep the car

  • I like this car - 2004 BMW 3-Series
    By -

    I have really enjoyed driving this car.

  • Overall, "The Ultimate Driving Exp." - 2004 BMW 3-Series
    By -

    My wife and I purchased our 04 325i in Oct. 2008. It was a blast to drive until we sold it today. Alpine white/Montana sand leather color combo was perfect and received tons of compliments! In the 21k miles we drove it, the water pump, lower air intake boot, mirror motor, oil separator and secondary air valve all had to be replaced due to failure. Replaced due to "wear and tear" were f & r brakes, belts, window regulators, etc. Other than a few small repairs, we loved this car and honestly hated to see it go. Pick up a certified pre-owned for the best results, and if possible, one with the extended maintenance plan as these are both fully transferable! Rotate your tires every 3k!

  • My personal opinion of the 2004 325ci - 2004 BMW 3-Series
    By -

    Even though BMW exterior design continues to disappoint me, they remain the best handling, best balanced automobiles on the road today. The current 325 convertible may seem underpowered on paper, but is a joy to drive quickly, which cannot be said for some of its competitors (Audi A4, MB C series). The 325 version is reasonable value for money (I picked mine up in Europe)and drives like a BMW should. If you want a comfortable highway cruiser, or a car with all the latest gizmos, look elsewhere. If you want a car that enjoys being driven hard, and has great feedback through its brakes, steering and suspension, stick with the Bimmer.

  • Best small station wagon I have owned - 2004 BMW 3-Series
    By -

    Great performance. Brisk acceleration and a feeling of complete control in handling.Somewhat limited cargo carrying space. Better value than Mercedes, Audi or Volvo. Best way to buy is to order with features you really need as car comes pretty well equipped with standard features.

  • The Ultimate Driving Machine - 2004 BMW 3-Series
    By -

    Ive had my BMW 325Ci all of three weeks but I must say I am already smitten with it. This is the most fun automobile to drive Ive ever experienced. It makes you want to just get in and drive around with no particular place to go. Ive already done that a lot! It has torque at-the- ready all across the RPM band so never any lag when you need to move. The car feels more powerful than it is. Its handling is incredibly dynamic.

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