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 41 through 50 of 459.00
  • Follow-up Review 1 Year Later - 2004 BMW 3-Series
    By -

    The driving experience dramatically improved after I replaced the stock Continental tires with Pirelli PZero Nero. The cold start issues I had were resolved with a software update. The flickering trunk light was resolved by replacing the locking mechanism. The felt next to the weather stripping on both doors were replaced as the original glue did not hold. The moon roofs sliding shade was replaced as the plastic clips broke off. Im currently getting 27 MPG on the HWY with conservative driving speeds. I have put over 43k miles. I took it on a cross country 6.2k mile road trip, and received compliments at gas stations and in Canada.

  • What 3 series is all about - 2004 BMW 3-Series
    By -

    Ive owned 2 E30 body style 3 series (early 90s), as well as a Z3. This 2004 325i gets me back to my roots and back to what i expect from a BMW - riding on rails, good acceleration, and feeling like I am in a solid car. Unfortunately, the car has become the symbol of the yuppie. If you are a true car afficionado - a true lover of what BMWs mean (and call them properly a bimmer and not a beemer - which is reserved for their bikes), than you wont be disappointed. I looked at Mercedes, and they are great cars, but if you are focused on performance, take a ride in this one and see how well it picks-up and goes and corners.

  • Things You Can Do Without - 2004 BMW 3-Series
    By -

    Im just going to go straight to the point. I like my car and I have a-lot of fun driving it. However, there are points that one should be aware of. First, the Harmon Kardon speakers was a waste of my money. They are weak speakers. Second, the car is too low that you are likely to hit, raised manholes, rocks, metals on the street. Third, the windows rattle loud when driving fast. Fourth, the driver and passenger SIDE MIRRORS doesnt go back far enough. Fifth, the chairs are very hard and thin. Sixth, rear bumper too low and unprotected and will get easily hit by other cars especially if you live in the city.

  • A Great All-Rounder - 2004 BMW 3-Series
    By -

    Our first BMW. Its difficult to summarize why we love this car so much - lets just say it does everything well. All the components work together perfectly. Athletic and refined at the same time. Driving it can be relaxed or exciting - you choose. Options can add up quickly, but do yourself a favor and spring for heated seats and park distance control. The stock halogen headlights are the best Ive ever used - no need for Xenons in my opinion. The 2.5 liter engines fine above 2500 rpm and absolutely loves to run at highway speeds.

  • Style - 2004 BMW 3-Series
    By -

    My BMW now has 7200 miles on it, at 3000 miles the transmission was replaced, at 4000 the engine computer was replaced, at 5000 the ignition coils were replaced at 7000 the radio was replaced. It continues to have transmission problems and has been back 7 times to the dealer it is a 2003 model

  • BUY IT - 2004 BMW 3-Series
    By -

    I bought my 05 325xi six months ago. I love it. It was one of the best decisions Ive made. Just disappointed that leather and bluetooth was not standard. For the amount of money you pay for the car, one can just expect a few luxuries, and with gas prices running through the roof, I wish it was better on gas. You do have to buy supreme. The Mercedes C-class is comparable, but the BMW was more sporty. Since Ive only had the car for six months, I havent had any problems. Overall, its a good car. Its a BMW.

  • Horrible quality - 2004 BMW 3-Series
    By -

    Okay.. I dont even drive much. in fact I have 7000 miles on my car after having it for a year.(its a 2003). So far I had to get my car fixed 4 times. Twice engine related problems. My 2002 Hyundai Sonata has been much much more reliable than this junk. I like the prestige of owning a BMW but thats about it. and what kind fo 30K+ car doesnt even have a CD changer?? German quality cannot compete with Asian brands any more...

  • Love the car, hate the problems - 2004 BMW 3-Series
    By -

    Ive wanted a BMW coupe for years and was excited to finally get one. I truly love the styling of the car and the way it drives. In less than 2 years of ownership, Ive had to bring in the car in for unscheduled maintenance/repairs 6 times. These issues included, replacing the door locking mechanism so I could get out of the car (problem has resurfaced), new transmission, dead battery, emissions issues, coolant system leak, and A/C recall. If the problems with the car had been relatively minor as can be expected in some German cars, I could understand, but I dont think Ill ever purchase another BMW again.

  • Overpriced - 2004 BMW 3-Series
    By -

    I previously owned a 2001 330xi and was looking forward to owning another. While the reliability is terrific, this car is not as well designed--and has developed many vibrations and rattles and does not handle nearly as well. The quality has diminished (for example, two of the speakers, one of the mirrors and the front brakes have all been replaced). There are many other cars on the market which offer better value.

  • Firm, Fun Ride - 2004 BMW 3-Series
    By -

    This is a great car. I bought 330i w/Performance package. It moves much quicker than standard 330, which is already a great car. low profile tires really feel road, and steering will pull strong on uneven roads. This really can annoy as steering is SUPER sensitive and reactive. Car feels the road in a big way. Fanstastic acceleration and cornering ability. Compared to TL and G35, and they have a more "luxurious" feel (especially the TL. They felt "softer".

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