2005 BMW 3-Series Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.67/5 Average
171 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

A power moonroof and Myrtle wood trim are now standard on all models. Brushed aluminum column trim is available as a no-cost option. Front lumbar support has been added to the Premium Package for all 325 models; a power top is now standard on the 325Ci convertible; and new star-spoke wheels are standard on the 325Ci coupe and convertible. The 330Ci convertible gets an auto-dimming rearview mirror, lumbar support and a universal garage door opener as standard. This year, the sequential manual gearbox (SMG) is available only on 3.0-liter models, and only in combination with the Sport Package. Buyers can now order both the Performance and Premium Packages together. Lastly, a flat tire warning and white indicator lights are now standard on all models.

Pros:
  • Still the standard when it comes to perfectly sorted vehicle dynamics, high-quality interior materials exude luxury, wide range of configurations to suit any style, available all-wheel drive for sedan and wagon.
Cons:
  • Still costs more than most of its competitors, limited rear-seat space and cargo capacity, confusing array of options and packages.

User Reviews:

Showing 21 through 30 of 171.00
  • Not Again - 2005 BMW 3-Series
    By -

    I traded in my 1998 honda accord coupe for a bmw 2005 325I. i am so disappointed, my car keeps shutting off while driving. I am amazed no one has slammed in to the back of me. Everyone tells me that the car wont start cause it sounds like its starving for fuel, although there is plenty. I have had the fuel filters changed last year, again yesterday my car shut off while driving and had to be towed to my mechanic. I am becoming very concerned because i could be driving on the highway and all of a sudden it shuts off.

  • Maybe a Lemon - 2005 BMW 3-Series
    By -

    I bought my 2005 325i from a friend who had purchased it at auction a year earlier. I travel 50 miles one way to work daily, so the miles have been piling up. The car had 35K miles when I bought it. It now has 94K miles. Have spent close to $3,000 so far, including driving side window controller replacement, thermostat replacement, bush kit replacement, and new set of tires. Seems every time I get one thing fixed, something else shows up. Now, gotta have brake job and replace two worn hoses. Also, had accident (no fault), and now fighting with insurance co. because repairs not up to par. But still love to drive it! And at 94K miles, I guess the repairs are expected.

  • Best car ever! - 2005 BMW 3-Series
    By -

    I recently traded in my 2007 Chrysler 300 for a 2005 BMW 330CI Convertible. I know some of you may be thinking, "why would you trade a 2007 for a 2005?". In my case, I wanted something that was both Sportier and more Luxurious than the base model 300. This car "fits the bill" and more than I could have ever expected. I have owned SEVERAL Sports Cars and Luxury Cars, and this car is BY FAR the best of both worlds. It had relatively low mileage (60K) for a 2005, and is a Certified Pre Owned, with the 100K warranty and maintenance package intact. You cannot get a better, more rounded car for the money ($20K) spent, in my honest opinion. I was never a BMW fan, UNTIL NOW!

  • Boringly perfect - 2005 BMW 3-Series
    By -

    Bought this 05 325i sedan certified pre owned with 45k. Honestly I think they built the mid 90s 3 series more germanesque and robust, but still an awesome car. I would lose the wood colored trim on the interior, bad call. This car is boringly perfect. It drives so nice you just dont have to do any work, you are one with the road. Stays rock solid and smooth at high speeds, takes the turns effortlessly leaving everyone behind.

  • Fun - 2005 BMW 3-Series
    By -

    This car has been a blast to drive. It is truly a "handling" car. It is a bit underpowered at times, but the precision steering through the turns makes up for it. The reliability is a bit questionable. Ive never had a serious problem with it, but little nagging things at times. All covered under warranty but still annoying. Would definitely buy another one. They are that much fun and they look classy even in an older body style.

  • THIS CAR IS MY SOUL!!!!!!! - 2005 BMW 3-Series
    By -

    I Have loved this car since day one since I bought it. The girls love it, my family love it, everybody loves it. I bought it salvage for $10,000 and so far so good. I get about 250 miles full tank. my car is v6 2.5 automatic with xenon lights.

  • Worlds Worst Vehicle - 2005 BMW 3-Series
    By -

    Do not get me wrong, Really Nice "Looking" Car. That is it ,though. Rides like a board, Problems with top, Ac, Wheel Bearings, Alignment issues, Power windows stopped working all under 40k miles. German engineered junk. Same as a VW. Problematic. Unreal for a $50k new price tag. So dissapointed, I sold it and lost $10k, But ius what worth it because I figured That would be the cost of a few Scheduled Maint. intervals. Seriously, No Joke, My wife loved the looks, But PLEASE, PLEASE trust me, It will be a Bad mistake to purchase one.

  • Best Car Ive Ever Owned - 2005 BMW 3-Series
    By -

    Having read car magazine reviews on the BMW 3 series since childhood I had always wondered if they were truly as good as advertised. After having a 330Ci for the past 5 years, I can attest to you that they definitely are. This car is amazing - a perfect balance of sport and luxury, utterly dependable, well built, and low maintenance. I have not had a single problem with the car, and it still looks great. Very functional - I use it to commute to work and occasionally take it on cross-country moonlighting gigs. It is a joy to drive, and can actually carry quite a bit with the rear seats down. Fit and finish is outstanding.

  • No More BMWs - 2005 BMW 3-Series
    By -

    Day 1: Check engine light came on. I had to take some time off my work and took it to the dealer. No loaner. I had to rent a car. They called me and they could not really found the problem after swapping coils and injectors between cylinders. After owning the car for 3 years (60k now), I can assure you that these are the most unreliable cars. The main problem, in my opinion, is the buggy engine management software that cannot function without problems for long. Basically it throws these errors and lights all the time in your face. Mine is 6 years old now and the dealer for the last two years could not figure out why I am getting a misfire on cylinder 3, 4, etc.. Avoid

  • Not a muscle car - a driving machine - 2005 BMW 3-Series
    By -

    Needing a second commuter car and having owned BMWs before, I chose this high mileage 325i as my toy/commuter. It was not a mistake. After a thorough check up by a good BMW certified mechanic, I was off. Now after adding another 7k miles to it, still no problems. This car rips through the turns and has the size and punchiness to get through heavy traffic but gives u a thrill each turn when the road opens up. Its style is classic and turns heads in the parking lot and at street lights. This is a drivers car and it gives you a sense of control you wont get from any other "luxury" car. Some people wont like the firm ride, for others, thats what its all about - being one with the road.

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