2001 BMW 3-Series Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.53/5 Average
243 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

A boost in engine displacement and technology, plus an available all-wheel-drive system keeps BMW's venerable 3 Series at the top of its game in the competitive entry-level luxury market. Larger wheels and brakes are part of the engine upgrade. Two-stage front airbags, reduced steering effort, a Cold Weather package and Dynamic Brake Control round out the major changes for 2001.

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

User Reviews:

Showing 71 through 80 of 243.00
  • Performs, but sensors and cold not good - 2001 BMW 3-Series
    By -

    For the first 3 years I owned the car, I only needed to change the oil and some minor maintenance, but in Feb of 2007, it was a chilly -20 degrees Fahrenheit and the crankcase vent froze up and it hasnt been the same sense. In fact, it happened again in Jan 2008. I was able to have it brought to BMW who graciously covered $3800 of the $4000 repair bill. Since then, I have had an oil sensor replaced, dipstick brake off and now my rear suspension coil needs to be replaced (not sure how that could have broken). My next car will be a Honda or Nissan..

  • Gold Plated Brakes - 2001 BMW 3-Series
    By -

    Love the car! Bought it used from a Ford Dealer...HA! BMW dealerships were very reluctant to negotiate any. Car is just great. After 1 year, we had to replace brakes and rotors... typical for BMW. Cost around $800. We have good milage on brakes, but rotors usually have to be replaced with pads.

  • Love BMWs - 2001 BMW 3-Series
    By -

    I love my 330i since I bought it. The best gas mileage I have ever seen. This is my second BMW. I go typically one full week and two days off of a full tank, using 91 octane. My ultimate goal is to get a 5 or 7 series though. This car handles great at 120 mph plus. Mine is a 5 speed w/ sports pkg. Regretfully, I will have to sell it soon to get an SUV. I would highly reccommend this style for anyone looking to purchase one that has a smaller family and wants a head turner. They are not hard cars to work on. Servicing and tire rotation every 3000 miles help to keep from having any unforeseen problems, but only take to someone you trust to work on.

  • 325Ci, fun but not cheap - 2001 BMW 3-Series
    By -

    Right from start of ownership, several trips to shop (moonroof, front passenger seat, trunk lock, body molding, O2 sensor) thank good covered by new car warranty. Car not aging well. While still looks & drives great, several sensors (MAF,PCV & steering angle) all have gone bad within 1 year. Total expected cost $1600! Not to mention several interior trim pieces (C-pillar liner, both driver/passenger window moldings & the gear shift knob are either broken or falling off!!) I got a feeling Im getting ready for a major break down & it might be time to sell.

  • Check before you buy - 2001 BMW 3-Series
    By -

    I got it used at 69000 miles. Amazed by low end torque, but annoyed by DSC intervention at quick take offs. Engine sounds nice even at high rpm, exhaust as well all the time. Quiet and comfortable ride. Nice and precise handling all the time. Lots of available upgrades for power, styling and suspension, although most are gimmicks. The car is fun as she is, but supercharger will make her a beast. On the bad side: door and window trims loosen and need to be glued over and over. Stalls due to needed software update. Control arms and bushings need replacement after 70000 miles. Sunroof shade fixed due to poor materials used. Snow tires are a must in snow. High maintenance unless DIY.

  • excellent ragtop - 2001 BMW 3-Series
    By -

    excellent car,my 3rd 3-series and the best by far. A great suspension--not too rough but very athletic. Top is a work of art going down and when it is buttoned up.

  • A Head Turner - 2001 BMW 3-Series
    By -

    This car has it all--style, performance, and quality-built features apparent even at a casual glance. It has real "get up and go" even though I wimped out and got the steptronic automatic transmission. In steptronic manual gear you can pretend youre driving a five-speed and merging into interstate traffic on a short ramp gets fun in sport gear! My only gripe with the 325i is the relatively cramped passenger room in the backseat. Youd better be close friends or family to ride three in the back. But, hey, this isnt a mini-van. If you want a performance car, get a BMW.

  • The Ultimate Driving Experience - 2001 BMW 3-Series
    By -

    I bought this car brand new and have owned it for over 6 years. Driving this car is one of the few enjoyments of going to work in the morning. The maintenace could get expensive so Ive herd, Ive been working on cars as a hobby since before I could drive and do most of my own wrench turning. Ive had some minor mechanical issues that are out side of the routine maintenance stuff that I was able to repair on my own. The only disappointment was the automatic transmission It needed to be replaced after a little over 100K. Lifetime fluid does not mean lifetime. I only have on regret and that is not getting the manual tranny.

  • Bavarian Headache - 2001 BMW 3-Series
    By -

    Beautiful, graceful, hard charging people mover. Ergonomics are perfect and interior finish superb. Most comfortable and fun BMW Ive owned.....when it isnt in the shop. Replaced auxillary fan twice, bearings in rear wheel, front control arm, and I have to bring it in now for a faulty rear brake caliper and a loud suspension rattle. The car just broke 30000 miles. The car gets a higher overall rating from me due to fit, finish, and fun factor but reliability just is not what I know from BMW. Unfortunatley my third will be my last.

  • BMW 325ci - 2001 BMW 3-Series
    By -

    Simply the best BMW Ive ever had. Hands down beat the Mercedes,Volvo,Lexus alternatives when I was shopping.

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