Browse over 9,000 car reviews

BMW 3 Series 2002

BMW 3 Series 2002

FROM
$4,730

The 2002 BMW 3 Series range of configurations is currently priced from $4,500.

You can read the full review here.

The 2002 BMW 3 Series carries a braked towing capacity of up to 1600 Kg, but check to ensure this applies to the configuration you're considering.

Read more
11.3L/100km (combined)
Convertible
5 Speed Automatic
Unleaded Petrol
Overview
Likes
Safe and solid
Dislikes
Maintenance costs

BMW 3 Series 2002 FAQs

Are there any problems associated with the 2002 BMW 318ti?

The engine in the car you’re looking at has the codename N42. It has a timing chain rather than a rubber timing belt, so that should not need to be changed for the life of the car. However, life is not always that simple and the N42 has a bit of a reputation for developing wear in the tensioners that keep the timing chain taut. If that happens, you could have a chain loose enough to jump a few teeth on the timing gears and destroy the engine in the process. So a service record and close inspection of the engine is called for before any purchase.

This model BMW was also caught up in the Takata airbag recall debacle. As a result, many BMWs of this era were actually bought back by BMW and scrapped as the cost of fixing the airbag woes was greater than the value of the cars themselves. Make sure any car like this has had the airbags replaced and is not a candidate to be crushed rather than fixed. Quoting the car’s VIN to a BMW dealership should reveal all.

Will a '02 BMW 318i have low maintence costs?

My best advice to you is to not buy an old used BMW; they will only soak up whatever money you might have saved up. An ageing BMW with high mileage is a money pit; it will cost plenty to service and keep on the road, whether you use a dealer, which I would not recommend, or an independent mechanic. Buy a well-respected Japanese brand, such as a Toyota Corolla, Mitsubishi Lancer, or Mazda 3.

2002 BMW 318i good for highway travel?

As a trade-in a 2002/3 318i would be worth $3000-$5000, if it was sold privately it would be worth $5000-$7000, so the cars you're looking at are in the right price range, and the mileage is about average. The 2.0-litre motor is perfectly fine for highway travel; it will happily cruise on the speed limit and have some left over for comfortable overtaking when needed.

See all BMW 3 Series 2002 FAQs
Disclaimer: You acknowledge and agree that all answers are provided as a general guide only and should not be relied upon as bespoke advice. CarsGuide is not liable for the accuracy of any information provided in the answers.

BMW 3 Series 2002 Fuel consumption

Fuel consumption for the 2002 BMW 3 Series is dependent on the type of engine, transmission, or model chosen. The BMW 3 Series currently offers fuel consumption from 8.5L/100km.
show more

BMW 3 Series 2002 Towing Capacity

The 2002 BMW 3 Series has maximum towing capacity of 1700kg. Some models also offer heavy-duty or towing option packs which can increase towing capacity, as well as options which can hamper towing capacity. Towing capacities can vary wildly on a large number of factors. These include engine, transmission, model, and options chosen. Always check with the manufacturer or in your vehicles handbook before attempting to tow anything.
show more