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2002 BMW 330i

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By Research the Car 4 min read

The 2002 BMW 330i is a popular sport sedan known for its blend of performance and luxury. Available engine options include the 2.5L inline-6 (325i) and the 3.0L inline-6 (330i). The 3.0L engine produces 225 horsepower and 214 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options include a 5-speed manual and a 5-speed automatic. Owners often praise the 330i for its engaging driving dynamics, precise steering, and comfortable interior. Common complaints include issues with aging cooling systems, electrical components, and suspension parts, typical of vehicles of this age.

Engine

3.0L Inline-6 (M54B30)

  • Oil Filter Housing Gasket Leak
    • Description/Symptoms: Oil leak from the oil filter housing, visible oil drips, burning oil smell.
    • Solution: Replace the oil filter housing gasket.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Valve Cover Gasket Leak
    • Description/Symptoms: Oil leak from the valve cover, visible oil drips, burning oil smell. Can cause misfires if oil contaminates spark plugs.
    • Solution: Replace the valve cover gasket.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Cooling System Failures (Water Pump, Thermostat, Radiator)
    • Description/Symptoms: Overheating, coolant leaks, visible cracks in plastic components. Water pump failure can be identified by a whining noise.
    • Solution: Replace faulty components (water pump, thermostat, radiator, hoses).
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ (depending on the components replaced)
    • Recalls: None Found
  • DISA Valve Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noise from the engine, loss of low-end torque, poor fuel economy, Check Engine Light.
    • Solution: Replace the DISA valve.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic (GM A5S390R)

  • Transmission Slipping/Rough Shifting
    • Description/Symptoms: Hesitation between gear changes, harsh shifts, transmission slipping, difficulty engaging gears, or failure to shift at all.
    • Solution: Can sometimes be resolved with a fluid change and filter replacement. If problem persists, a rebuild or replacement may be necessary.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400 (fluid change), $2,500 - $4,500+ (rebuild/replacement)
    • Recalls: None Found

5-Speed Manual (Getrag S5D 250G)

  • No Issues Found

Suspension

  • Control Arm Bushing Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noise from the front suspension, vibration at higher speeds, poor handling.
    • Solution: Replace the control arm bushings or the entire control arm.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600 (per side, depending on whether just bushings or entire arm is replaced)
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Rear Trailing Arm Bushing Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Vague rear end handling, clunking noises from the rear suspension, uneven tire wear.
    • Solution: Replace the rear trailing arm bushings.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600 (per side)
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

  • Window Regulator Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Window not moving up or down, clicking noise from the door, window falling into the door.
    • Solution: Replace the window regulator.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400 per window
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Ignition Switch Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent starting problems, car stalling while driving, no power to certain accessories.
    • Solution: Replace the ignition switch.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300
    • Recalls: None Found
  • General Module (GM5) Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Central locking malfunctions, erratic wiper operation, interior lights not working correctly.
    • Solution: Recoding or replacement of the GM5 module.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

  • Side Mirror Motor Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Side mirror not adjusting properly, clicking sound when trying to adjust.
    • Solution: Replace the side mirror assembly or the mirror motor.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400 per mirror
    • Recalls: None Found

Interior

  • Pixel Loss in Instrument Cluster/Radio Display
    • Description/Symptoms: Missing pixels in the instrument cluster or radio display, making it difficult to read information.
    • Solution: Repair or replacement of the instrument cluster/radio. Several services specialize in pixel repair.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400 (repair), $300 - $800+ (replacement)
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Airbag Light Due to Faulty Seat Occupancy Sensor (SOS)
    • Description/Symptoms: Airbag light illuminated on the dashboard, indicating a potential issue with the passenger airbag system. Often caused by a faulty SOS in the passenger seat.
    • Solution: Replace the seat occupancy sensor or install a bypass module.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600 (sensor replacement), $50 - $150 (bypass module)
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2002 BMW 330i is a generally reliable car, but like any vehicle of its age, it’s prone to certain issues. The most common problems revolve around the cooling system, oil leaks, suspension components, and electrical gremlins. Repairs can range from relatively inexpensive fixes like replacing a gasket to more costly overhauls like transmission work. Prospective buyers should be aware of these potential issues and factor in the cost of repairs and maintenance when considering purchasing a 2002 BMW 330i. A thorough inspection before purchase is highly recommended.

BMW, 330i
BMW 330i 2002
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