Most common 1997 BMW M3 problems
Share of the 19 complaints; one complaint can involve more than one system. "~" is the median mileage when the problem started.
BMW M3 complaints by model year
Best M3 years: 2007, 2006, 2017. Years to avoid: 2008, 2009, 2011, 2010, 2003. Compare all years →
1997 BMW M3 recalls (2)
Air bags › Side/window
Vehicle description: passenger vehicles. These vehicles are built with a side air bag system consisting of door-mounted thorax air bags (rear door air bags are optional), a central electronic sensor and diagnostic system, left and right satellite impact sensors, and associated wiring.
Remedy: Dealers will reprogram the central computer control module that regulates the performance of all of the vehicle's occupant protection systems.
Vehicle speed control
The cruise control and throttle cables are attached to the same throttle valve actuating lever at the throttle housing. It is possible that the plastic bushing on either cable could break due to environmental influences coupled with vibration. If the bushing breaks, the outer cable housing can separate from the bushing.
Remedy: Dealers will install a spring steel clip on the outer tube of each cable in the area of the adjusting screw and plastic bushing. The clip is designed to prevent the outer tube from dislodging from the bushing.
What 1997 BMW M3 owners say
Wheels & tires
Tires failed twice. In both cases the tires were worn through to the metal before stopping. Another case LED to an accident. In addition, felt softness in steering and vehicle began to slow down. Within 5 seconds, the vehicle went out of control and crashed.
The right rear tire blewout while driving causing the driver to loose control of the vehicle and and caused the vehicle to spin around 3 times, this blowout caused extensive damage to the under carriage and front bumper, this tire was 5 hours old, the second incident involved the right rear tire which had a bubble and blewout while turning a corner, this tire was 6 months old (Bridgestone potenza re730, 245/40zr17bw). Nlm
Windows, wipers & sunroof
Dt: when pulling into a stop the windshield wipers will slow down in the speed that they work. They will slow down to the delay, intermediate setting when the vehicle is stopped. The problem has been going on since purchase of the vehicle in August 2004. When the contact called the manufacturer,they said that it is the way they are designed. There are other year, make, and models that have the same issue. The contact feels that it is a manufacturer's design flaw. The contact states that it impairs the visibility of the driver.
Rear window: driving down highway and the rear window completely shattered. Cause unknown , has not been repaired.
A/C & heater
While drivin air conditioning system malfuctioned, causing a loud noise and gray smoke to enter into vehicle through the vents fogging up the windows which May affect visibility, and could result in a crash. Happened 6 times. Dealer cannot determine the problem. Dealer replaced hoses/seals and etc. Please provide further information.
Loss of fan and unit control settings when vehicle is turned off then restarted. Setting will not remain in off position when vehicle is restarted.
1997 BMW M3 engines & fuel economy
| Engine | Transmission | Drive | MPG city / hwy / combined |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3.2L 6-cyl | 5-speed manual | RWD | 18 / 26 / 21 |
| 3.2L 6-cyl | 5-speed automatic | RWD | 17 / 26 / 20 |
EPA ratings. Class: Subcompact car.
Frequently asked questions
Is the 1997 BMW M3 a good car?
Based on 19 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the 1997 M3 rates use caution: 2.0× as many complaints as a typical year of the M3 at the same age. It is one of the M3 years we suggest avoiding. 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 1997 BMW M3?
The wheels & tires — 5 complaints, 26% of all complaints for this model year, most often about bead. Next are the windows, wipers & sunroof (3) and a/c & heater (3).
How many recalls does the 1997 BMW M3 have?
There are 2 recalls for the 1997 BMW M3, the most recent from November 15, 1999 (side/window). Recall repairs are free at any authorized dealer — check whether yours has been done with the VIN recall check.
What are the best and worst years of the BMW M3?
The best years by complaints, compared at the same age, are 2007, 2006 and 2017. Years to avoid or approach with caution: 2008, 2009, 2011, 2010 and 2003. See the full BMW M3 years comparison.
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.