Are the 1999 323i's plagued with problems? Or is just my car?

[retso73]

Just curious to know if the 1999 323i is known to have more problems than most BMWs (specifically other 3-series models)? I've had so many stupid things go wrong with my car over the years that I'm a little disenchanted with the "Ultimate Driving Machine." Things like 3 of the 4 window regulators breaking (some more than once); water leak in driver's side door; blinker getting stuck in the on position -- even when the control was turned to the off mode; moonroof shade breaking twice; rear flange needing to be replaced; the four or more recalls on the car, etc. I've taken my car in so many times that it's getting frustrating.

And my family mechanic has told me that my front end is worn out and I'll need to drop about $1000 - $1200 on new parts to get things back on track. Does that seem odd? He said that's what I should expect with a high performance car.

My car has 67,750 miles on it, it's been impeccably maintained and it's in excellent condition. I'm just not sure if I have a lemon or if this is the nature of the beast. I'm seriously thinking of getting out from under this car before it starts costing a ton of money, but sadly, I can't find anything that looks as nice as the 3-series. So, I'm caught between a rock and hard place.

 

[BEEMIN]

My 1999 323i has been just fine. I did have one of my rear windows break, but BMW fixed it quickly and at no cost. I haven't experienced any of the other problems you have and (please don't be offended) I would seriously question your family mechanic. That sounds very odd to me.

Seriously speaking, I think it's your car. Perhaps is was built on a Friday before a happy hour?

Good Luck!

 

[retso73]

Thanks for your reply. No offense taken about the family mechanic! I am seriously starting to think it's my car.

 

[JamieD22]

Standard recalls are a normal part of a vehicles life - of course when I say standard, I mean basic consumable parts (ie not tie-rods, airbag sensors, etc), better a car company notify and fix it than ignore it like many will do. Also, window regulators & other simple parts are quite commonly heard of as problematic in our e46 3 series... as for the rest of your troubles, I'm sorry to hear of it, sounds like it's been a real pain in the arse. I've taken mine in probably 6 or 7 times in the nearly 2 years I've owned it - spending a grand total of about $0. Then again I'm a warranty-whore... [read] If you think your situation is beyond reason, then I would bring it up to your Dealer and address your issue - they may be able to get you into a different vehicle at little or no cost to you.