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BMW 318ti

174 messages,  Last post on Nov 08, 2009 at 9:42 PM

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Messages Page 9 of 18

#78 of 174 1997 ti questions by andrek2

Jan 29, 2003 (1:32 pm)

For your mileage new struts sound like a good idea and wheel alignment should be done after strut replacement. It's recommended to replace rear shocks as well while replacing struts,I don't know if dealer told you that. I don't think the fact that car pulls to side has something to do with rear end. Most likely it's tire pressure. Make sure you have same tire presure in front tires. Due to the current cold weather in NY tire pressure goes down (together with the tempreture), every 4 degrees in atmosphere makes change for almost 1 psi in tire pressure, it needs constant adjustment. Check your pressure at least once a week on cold tires.
Transmission shifting issue could be also due to a cold weather. My car is manual, so I am not familiar with BMW A/T - but I know my wife's automatic Honda doesn't upshift to 4-th unless engine/transm. reach operating tempreture, to protect from excessive wear. Could be the case with BMW A/T as well. You can check transm. fluid level yourself - read how to do it in your manual, it should be easy. And don't let Brooklin mechanics talk you into expensive repairs, always seek second opinion.318 ti is one of the most reliable and simple BMW to fix and maintain. Aftermarket parts store offered me an exhaust for $920 once, when dealer's price was $369.00.
Good luck.

#79 of 174 Thanks, andrek2 by dsjeepti

Jan 29, 2003 (5:58 pm)

I did check the pressure and it was fine.You are probably right about the rear shocks as it feels "loose". The dealer didn't notice.
I also posted these questions on the Problems board as per our Host and I got some additional insight there as well. I am going back to the dealer this Mon. and I will be ready to discuss these issues again, this time with some ammo. I am looking into finding a "good" independant shop. Thanks again for your input.

#80 of 174 318ti decision by billy318ti

Feb 10, 2003 (3:41 pm)

I'm looking at a 98 318ti with sports package. Has 57500 miles on it, and is going for $12,000. Black on Black. Wondering if that may be too cheap and concerned that it may have a few problems. How does the 318 drive and is there any good aftermarket items that can help out the 138hp. Thanks.

#81 of 174 billy318ti by dsjeepti

Feb 10, 2003 (6:54 pm)

The price seems about right, depending on options and condition. I got my 97 ti in 1999 for $10,500 w just an auto trans. and 54,000 miles on it, nothing else. As for driving, it's a blast. I find the power fine and most enjoy driving in the 60 - 80 mph range. The engine loves to rev and I sometimes wish I had a stick to fully utilize the wide power band.
As for after market parts, there are plenty, if your budget allows. I personally don't delve into them as the stock car suits my needs fine. You will find that unless you plan to do maintenance and repairs yourself, the cost of BMW dealer service is high ($98 an hour in NY). My ti now has 116,000 miles on it and recently had front struts and an alignment ($900), new battery ($115), a new frame for the drivers seat ($300 w labor), and new front brake pads ($200 w labor). Not much else other than tune ups and oil changes ($55 at dealer). Properly kept, your 318 ti should last for years (very reliable).
Good luck, DS

#82 of 174 318TI by billy318ti

Feb 10, 2003 (7:15 pm)

Thanks a lot for the feedback.. Appreciate it

#84 of 174 318ti Starter Problems by gerry18

Mar 30, 2003 (9:11 am)

I have a '96 318ti, 1.9L, 74,000 miles and the starter suddenly went out. Sounds like it spins, but doesn't engage. I had planned on fixing it myself, but upon jacking the car I can't find the starter. Anyone have the same problem; know where to look; know what it costs for a dealer repair; any reason an independent can't fix it?
 
BTW, I have owned my ti sense new and really enjoy it.

#85 of 174 Found the starter by gerry18

Mar 30, 2003 (10:02 am)

I finally found the starter. Unfortunately it is buried under the inlet manifold and will require removal of much of what's installed on the driver's side of the engine to get access. Looks like more than I want to tackle.

#86 of 174 96 318ti M Sports package price by billy318ti

Apr 12, 2003 (12:53 pm)

I'm looking at a 96 ti 5-SPEED. with the m sports package. with 26000 miles on it/.. He's asking 12,500 and im not to sure what to offer him. I was thinking around $9,500 cash..because 12,500 is too expensive for that year. Any thoughts on how much i should first offer him. Thanks..

#87 of 174 Hi billy318ti- Welcome back... by revka

Apr 14, 2003 (8:09 am)

Sorry, you have not gotten a response here yet. Weekends are usually a little slower around here, so perhaps give it another day or so for feedback from other members.
 
Have you tried plugging your vehicle into Edmunds' Used Car Appraiser? Good luck and please keep us posted on your purchase.
 
Revka
Host/Hatchbacks & Wagons

Messages Page 9 of 18

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