2002 BMW 320i

Introduction

The 2002 BMW 320i is a luxury compact sedan with a 2.2-liter inline-6 engine producing 170 horsepower and 155 lb-ft of torque. It comes standard with a 5-speed manual transmission, with a 5-speed Steptronic automatic transmission as an optional upgrade. Owners praise the 320i for its sporty handling, comfortable interior, and refined ride, but criticize its lack of standard features and limited cargo space.

Engine

2.2L Inline-6

• Intake manifold gasket failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, overheating, rough idle
  • Solution: Replace intake manifold gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+
• Valve cover gasket leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks around valve cover
  • Solution: Replace valve cover gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
• Water pump failure
  • Description/Symptoms: coolant leaks, overheating
  • Solution: Replace water pump
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $700+
• Thermostat failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Overheating or running too cool
  • Solution: Replace thermostat
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
• Ignition coil failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Misfiring, loss of power
  • Solution: Replace ignition coil
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200 per coil

Transmission

5-Speed Manual

• Clutch failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Slipping clutch, difficulty shifting
  • Solution: Replace clutch
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+

5-Speed Steptronic Automatic

• Transmission fluid leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Fluid leaks from transmission
  • Solution: Replace transmission fluid and seals
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
• Shift solenoid failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting, slipping gears
  • Solution: Replace shift solenoid
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
• Torque converter failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering, slipping, loss of power
  • Solution: Replace torque converter
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+

Suspension

• Strut mount bearing failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or knocking noises from suspension
  • Solution: Replace strut mount bearing
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ per strut
• Control arm bushing failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Loose or worn suspension
  • Solution: Replace control arm bushings
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ per side
• Rear trailing arm bushing failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Loose or worn rear suspension
  • Solution: Replace trailing arm bushings
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+

Electrical

• Alternator failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Dimming lights, electrical problems, battery drain
  • Solution: Replace alternator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+
• Starter failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine doesn’t crank
  • Solution: Replace starter
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
• Window regulator failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Power windows not working
  • Solution: Replace window regulator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ per window
• Battery drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery dies after sitting
  • Solution: Test electrical system for parasitic drain, replace battery if necessary
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+

Exterior

• Headlight condensation
  • Description/Symptoms: Moisture buildup inside headlights
  • Solution: Replace headlight assembly
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+ per headlight

Interior

• Navigation system failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Navigation system not working, screen blank or glitching
  • Solution: Update or replace navigation system
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
• Heater blower motor failure
  • Description/Symptoms: No heat or AC, fan not blowing
  • Solution: Replace blower motor
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
• Center console trim peeling
  • Description/Symptoms: Trim pieces on center console peeling or chipping
  • Solution: Replace trim pieces
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+

Summary

The 2002 BMW 320i is a reliable and enjoyable vehicle, but it can experience some common issues. While the engine and transmission are generally robust, the suspension and electrical systems may require occasional attention. The interior and exterior issues are mostly minor, but the cost of repairs can vary depending on the severity of the problem.