1999 BMW 318is

Introduction:

The 1999 BMW 318is is a compact luxury sedan powered by a 1.9-liter N42 inline-four engine that produces 140 horsepower and 132 lb-ft of torque. It is paired with a standard 5-speed manual transmission or an optional 5-speed Steptronic automatic. The 318is offers a well-balanced driving experience with precise handling, a responsive engine, and a comfortable interior. However, it lacks some features and amenities found in higher-spec models.

Engine

• N42 1.9L Inline-Four

  • Intake Manifold Cracking
    • Description/Symptoms: Over time, the plastic intake manifold can develop cracks, leading to vacuum leaks, rough idling, and decreased performance.
    • Solution: Replace the intake manifold with an upgraded version.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $900+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Throttle Position Sensor Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The throttle position sensor may fail, resulting in erratic engine behavior, stalling, and reduced throttle response.
    • Solution: Replace the throttle position sensor.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Oil Filter Housing Gasket Leak
    • Description/Symptoms: The gasket between the oil filter housing and the engine block can leak, causing oil to seep out.
    • Solution: Replace the oil filter housing gasket.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $300+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Valvetronic System Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: The Valvetronic system, which controls valve lift and timing, can experience various issues such as sensor malfunctions, wiring harness problems, or ECU failures.
    • Solution: Diagnose and repair or replace the affected components.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on the issue
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

• 5-Speed Manual

  • Synchronizer Wear
    • Description/Symptoms: With high mileage or rough shifting, the synchronizers in the transmission can wear out, resulting in difficulty changing gears or gear grinding.
    • Solution: Rebuild or replace the transmission.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Clutch Master Cylinder Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The clutch master cylinder can fail, causing a spongy or unresponsive clutch pedal.
    • Solution: Replace the clutch master cylinder.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $600+
    • Recalls: None Found

• 5-Speed Steptronic Automatic

  • Mechatronic Unit Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The mechatronic unit, a complex electro-hydraulic control system, can develop issues such as solenoid failures or wiring harness problems.
    • Solution: Repair or replace the mechatronic unit.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $3,000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Transmission Gear Slippage
    • Description/Symptoms: The transmission may experience gear slippage, resulting in loss of power, delayed shifts, or shuddering.
    • Solution: Overhaul or replace the transmission.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,500 - $4,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Control Arm Bushing Deterioration
  • Description/Symptoms: The front control arm bushings can wear out over time, leading to increased suspension noise, vibration, and reduced handling performance.
  • Solution: Replace the control arm bushings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Axle Carrier Mount Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The rear axle carrier mount, which supports the rear axle, can break or crack, resulting in handling instability, vibrations, and potential damage to other components.
  • Solution: Replace the rear axle carrier mount.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The alternator may fail, causing electrical system malfunctions, battery discharge, and potential engine stalling.
  • Solution: Replace the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Discharge
  • Description/Symptoms: The battery may discharge prematurely, especially when parked for extended periods. This can be caused by electrical system parasitic drains, alternator issues, or battery failure.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the underlying cause, or replace the battery if necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on the issue
  • Recalls: None Found
• Electrical Harness Faults
  • Description/Symptoms: Wiring harness faults can occur due to wear, corrosion, or manufacturing defects, leading to electrical system malfunctions, intermittent problems, or even engine issues.
  • Solution: Identify and repair or replace the affected wiring harness.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on the location and extent of the fault
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Sunroof Drain Plugs Clogging
  • Description/Symptoms: The drainage plugs for the sunroof can become clogged with debris, causing water to leak into the interior of the vehicle.
  • Solution: Clean or replace the sunroof drain plugs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Door Lock Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The door lock actuators can fail, causing the door locks to become inoperable or difficult to open/close.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty door lock actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Instrument Cluster Pixel Fade
  • Description/Symptoms: The pixels in the instrument cluster may fade or become dim over time, making it difficult to read information.
  • Solution: Replace the instrument cluster or have it repaired.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Heater Core Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: The heater core can develop leaks, causing coolant to leak into the cabin and fog up the windshield.
  • Solution: Replace the heater core.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

Overall, the 1999 BMW 318is has a moderate number of issues compared to other vehicles in its class. While some problems can be costly to fix, such as transmission issues and electrical harness faults, many of the other issues are relatively minor and inexpensive to repair. The severity of the issues varies, with some being more common or problematic than others. It is important for owners to be aware of these potential issues and to have them addressed promptly to avoid further problems and maintain the vehicle’s performance and safety.