Most common 1998 BMW 318i problems
Share of the 8 complaints; one complaint can involve more than one system. "~" is the median mileage when the problem started.
BMW 318i complaints by model year
Best 318i years: 1997. Compare all years →
What 1998 BMW 318i owners say
Speed control & acceleration
BMW is currently denying that this has been a problem in the past, despite NHTSA campaign number 97V131000. Currently, they are refusing to provide anything on this vehicle which is still warrantied. No summary listed.
The vehicle has been serviced continually for extended period of time for engine/throttle related problems, the vehicle would surge intermittently and experience no start conditions and the check engine light illuminating, the dealership repaired vehicle however the consumer does not feel vehicle is repaired properly. Mjs
Electrical system
Consumer was inside of vehicle and went to put key in the ignition to start vehicle, she took the key out of the ignition to turn vehicle off and vehicle was still running, she drove vehicle to the dealership. Mechanic told her that cylinder lock switch needed to be replaced.
Ignition switch failure while driving vehicle key started rotating in ignition while driving vehicle. Pulled off to the side of road and removed key. Engine would not shut off. Only way to shut off vehicle was to disconnect battery. Email: [email]
Frequently asked questions
Is the 1998 BMW 318i a good car?
Based on 8 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the 1998 318i rates average: about as many complaints as a typical year of the 318i at the same age. Complaint counts don't account for sales volume or individual maintenance, so have any used car inspected before buying.
What is the most common problem with the 1998 BMW 318i?
The speed control & acceleration — 3 complaints, 38% of all complaints for this model year. Next are the electrical system (3) and transmission & drivetrain (1).
How many recalls does the 1998 BMW 318i have?
NHTSA lists no recalls for the 1998 BMW 318i. You can still confirm with your VIN using our VIN recall check.
What are the best and worst years of the BMW 318i?
The best years by complaints, compared at the same age, are 1997. See the full BMW 318i years comparison.
At what mileage do 1998 BMW 318i problems happen?
The median mileage reported in complaints is about 91,000 miles; 0% of problems with a recorded mileage started before 50,000 miles.
Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) — owner complaints through October 20, 2026, recalls and defect investigations; fuel economy from the EPA. Complaints are unverified reports and are not proof of a defect. How we rate model years.