2002 BMW 330xi

The 2002 BMW 330xi is a popular all-wheel-drive sedan known for its sporty handling, comfortable ride, and classic BMW styling. Other engine options available in the E46 3-series include the 2.5L inline-6 (325xi) and the less common 3.0L diesel in some markets. The 330xi’s 3.0L inline-6 engine produces 225 horsepower and 214 lb-ft of torque. Owners often appreciate the driving dynamics and build quality of the E46, but common complaints revolve around maintenance costs, aging components, and the complexity of the electrical systems.

Engine

3.0L M54 Inline-6

• Oil Filter Housing Gasket Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leak from the oil filter housing, leading to oil loss, burning smell, and potential engine damage.
  • Solution: Replace the oil filter housing gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+
• Valve Cover Gasket Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leak from the valve cover gasket, leading to oil loss, burning smell, and potential engine damage.
  • Solution: Replace the valve cover gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+
• Cooling System Overhaul
  • Description/Symptoms: Failure of various cooling system components such as the water pump, thermostat, expansion tank, and hoses. Can lead to overheating and engine damage.
  • Solution: Replace all vulnerable cooling system components proactively.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+
• DISA Valve Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattle from the DISA valve area, loss of low-end torque, and potential engine damage if the valve disintegrates.
  • Solution: Replace the DISA valve.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
• CCV (Crankcase Ventilation) System Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idle, misfires, oil leaks, and excessive oil consumption, particularly in cold weather.
  • Solution: Replace the entire CCV system (valve, hoses, and oil separator).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
• VANOS Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, rough idle, and engine hesitation, especially at lower RPMs.
  • Solution: Replace or rebuild the VANOS seals or the entire VANOS unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $250 - $1000+
• Oxygen Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Poor fuel economy, rough running, and engine hesitation. Can cause catalytic converter damage.
  • Solution: Replace faulty oxygen sensor(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
• Idle Control Valve Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: High or fluctuating idle speed, stalling, or rough running.
  • Solution: Clean or replace the Idle Control Valve (ICV).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+

Transmission

GM 5L40-E Automatic Transmission

• Valve Body Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Hard shifting, slipping, delayed engagement, or failure to shift.
  • Solution: Rebuild or replace the valve body.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering at low speeds, slipping at high speeds, or complete transmission failure.
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+
• Transmission Fluid Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Leaks from the pan gasket, seals, or transmission cooler lines.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking gasket or seal.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+

Getrag 250 Manual Transmission

• No Issues Found

Suspension

• Control Arm Bushing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noise from the front suspension, loose steering, and uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replace the control arm bushings, or the entire control arm assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per side.
• Rear Trailing Arm Bushing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Wandering rear end, vague steering, and uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replace the rear trailing arm bushings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ per side.
• Strut Mount Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noise from the suspension, particularly over bumps.
  • Solution: Replace the strut mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ per corner.
• All-Wheel Drive Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Noisy all-wheel drive system, clunking from under the vehicle, failure of the front axles.
  • Solution: Replace front axles, replace fluid, or replace the transfer case.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300-$1000+

Electrical

• Window Regulator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Window failing to go up or down, or making grinding noises.
  • Solution: Replace the window regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ per door.
• Instrument Cluster Pixel Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Missing or distorted pixels on the instrument cluster display.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the instrument cluster.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
• General Module (GM5) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Issues with central locking, power windows, interior lights, or wipers.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the GM5 module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $700+
• Ignition Switch Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Car not starting, intermittent electrical issues.
  • Solution: Replace the ignition switch.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery draining overnight or within a few days.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the source of the electrical drain. Common culprits include the final stage resistor (FSR) or aftermarket accessories.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ (depending on the cause).
• Final Stage Resistor (FSR) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Blower motor operating erratically or not at all, even with the climate control turned off.
  • Solution: Replace the final stage resistor (FSR).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $250+

Exterior

• Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust on the rocker panels, wheel wells, and around the rear license plate.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the affected panels and repaint.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+ (depending on severity).
• Door Handle Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The door handle mechanism is worn out and will not open the door.
  • Solution: Replace the door handle assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+

Interior

• Headliner Sagging
  • Description/Symptoms: The headliner fabric detaching from the backing board.
  • Solution: Replace or re-glue the headliner fabric.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
• Glove Box Sagging/Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The glove box latch breaks or the glove box door sags.
  • Solution: Replace the glove box door or repair the latch.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof sticking, making noise, or failing to open/close properly.
  • Solution: Clean and lubricate the sunroof tracks, or replace the sunroof motor or cable.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+

Recalls:

• 2000V046
• 00V401
• 01V169
• 01V211
• 02V004
• 02V120
• 03V297

Summary:

The 2002 BMW 330xi, while a desirable car, is now an older vehicle prone to a variety of age-related issues. Engine issues, particularly those related to oil leaks and the cooling system, are common and can be costly to address. Suspension components wear out and contribute to poor handling. Electrical gremlins can also be a source of frustration. The severity of these issues can range from minor inconveniences to major mechanical failures, with repair costs varying widely depending on the specific problem and the repair shop. Potential buyers should be prepared for ongoing maintenance and repairs when considering a 2002 330xi.