2004 BMW 325Ci

2004 BMW 325Ci

The 2004 BMW 325Ci is a 2-door coupe with a 3.0-liter M54 inline-6 engine. It produces 215 horsepower and 214 lb-ft of torque. The 325Ci is available with a 5-speed manual transmission or a 5-speed automatic transmission.

People like the 325Ci for its handling, performance, and luxury. However, it is also known for having some reliability issues.

Engine

• M54 3.0L Inline-6
  • VANOS Solenoid Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The VANOS solenoids control the timing of the variable valve timing system. When they fail, the engine may experience reduced power, rough idling, and increased fuel consumption.
  • Solution: Replace the VANOS solenoids.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
  • Valve Cover Gasket Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: The valve cover gasket can leak oil, which can cause a burning smell and reduced engine performance.
  • Solution: Replace the valve cover gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

• 5-Speed Manual
  • Clutch Slave Cylinder Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The clutch slave cylinder can fail, which can cause the clutch to engage or disengage unexpectedly.
  • Solution: Replace the clutch slave cylinder.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• 5-Speed Automatic
  • ZF 5HP19 Transmission Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The ZF 5HP19 transmission can fail due to a variety of issues, including worn clutches, faulty valve bodies, and torque converter problems. Symptoms may include slipping gears, delayed shifting, and shuddering.
  • Solution: Rebuild or replace the transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Control Arm Bushings
  • Description/Symptoms: The front control arm bushings can wear out, which can cause clunking noises, reduced handling performance, and increased tire wear.
  • Solution: Replace the front control arm bushings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Shock Absorbers
  • Description/Symptoms: The rear shock absorbers can fail, which can cause a bouncy ride and reduced handling performance.
  • Solution: Replace the rear shock absorbers.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The alternator can fail, which can cause the battery to drain and the vehicle to stall.
  • Solution: Replace the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Window Regulator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The window regulators can fail, which can cause the windows to become stuck or to operate slowly.
  • Solution: Replace the window regulators.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Sunroof Drain Plugs
  • Description/Symptoms: The sunroof drain plugs can become clogged, which can cause water to leak into the cabin.
  • Solution: Clean the sunroof drain plugs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Climate Control Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The climate control system can fail, which can cause the temperature to be incorrect or the air flow to be weak.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the climate control system.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2004 BMW 325Ci is a reliable vehicle, but it is not without its issues. The most common problems are related to the engine, transmission, and suspension. These issues can be expensive to fix, but they are not typically catastrophic. Overall, the 325Ci is a good choice for a used luxury car.