1991 BMW M3

Introduction

The 1991 BMW M3 is a high-performance version of the E30 3 Series. It is powered by a naturally aspirated 2.3-liter S14 inline-four engine that produces 192 horsepower and 170 lb-ft of torque. The M3 came with a 5-speed manual transmission as standard, with a 5-speed automatic transmission available as an option.

The M3 is known for its excellent handling, powerful engine, and iconic appearance. However, it is also known for having some reliability issues.

Engine

S14 2.3L Inline-Four Engine

• Crankshaft Position Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The crankshaft position sensor fails, causing the engine to stall or run erratically.
  • Solution: Replace the crankshaft position sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Adjustment
  • Description/Symptoms: The valves need to be adjusted periodically to maintain optimal engine performance.
  • Solution: Have the valves adjusted by a qualified mechanic.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

Getrag 265 5-Speed Manual Transmission

• Synchro Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: The synchros in the transmission wear out, making it difficult or impossible to shift gears.
  • Solution: Replace the synchros.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $1,500
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut Mounts
  • Description/Symptoms: The strut mounts fail, causing the suspension to become noisy and unstable.
  • Solution: Replace the strut mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found
• Control Arm Bushings
  • Description/Symptoms: The control arm bushings fail, causing the suspension to become sloppy and imprecise.
  • Solution: Replace the control arm bushings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The alternator fails, causing the battery to die.
  • Solution: Replace the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $700
  • Recalls: None Found
• Brake Light Switch Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The brake light switch fails, causing the brake lights to not work.
  • Solution: Replace the brake light switch.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Sunroof Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: The sunroof leaks water into the cabin.
  • Solution: Replace the sunroof seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Pixelation
  • Description/Symptoms: The pixels on the dashboard display start to fade or disappear.
  • Solution: Replace the dashboard.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 1991 BMW M3 is a high-performance icon with a number of reliability issues. The most common problems are related to the engine, transmission, and suspension. The severity of these issues can vary depending on the specific part that fails. The cost to fix these issues can also vary depending on the severity of the issue and the parts that need to be replaced. Overall, the M3 is a great car, but it is important to be aware of the potential problems that it can have.