There are no safety recalls for the 2002 BMW E36, but owners have filed 7 complaints with NHTSA.
2002 BMW E36 problems reported by owners
| Problem area | Reports | |
|---|
| Structure | 2 | |
| Power Train | 2 | |
| Seat Belts | 1 | |
| Suspension | 1 | |
| Electrical System | 1 | |
| Vehicle Speed Control | 1 | |
| Visibility | 1 | |
Most reported parts
- Seat Belts › Front › Buckle Assembly — 1
- Structure › Frame and Members — 1
- Suspension › Rear — 1
- Power Train › Automatic Transmission — 1
- Power Train › Transfer Case (4-Wheel Drive) — 1
- Visibility › Windshield — 1
Typical mileage at the time of the problem: 89,000 miles (median of owner reports).
Problems that are not covered by a recall are paid repairs; labor rates follow local mechanic pay — see what auto mechanics earn in each state.
Recent 2002 BMW E36 complaints
Owner reports filed with NHTSA, as written (personal details removed). Complaints are not verified by NHTSA.
Structure · reported Aug 24, 2007
The windshield molding is susceptible to breaking up and the whole windshield has to be removed to reinstall the molding. Pretty bizarre for such an expensive car.
Vehicle Speed Control · at 89,000 miles · reported Jun 28, 2007
The contact owns a 2002 bmw e36. While idling at a traffic light, the vehicle accelerated while the brake pedal was depressed. The contact crashed into the rear end of another vehicle. The dealer did not inspect the vehicle. Approximately eight months later, while driving in reverse and with the brake pedal depressed, the engine RPM's increased to 750. The dealer was unable to diagnose the cause of failure. The current mileage is 89,950 and failure mileage was 89,000.
Power Train · at 58,000 miles · reported May 12, 2007
Bmw 325xi 2002 bought used in mint condition with 60000 miles drivetrain vibration related to transfer case output bearing. Bmw international said that was too bad, but not concernd at the failure. Expected as that year had problems with transfer case bearings.
Power Train · at 100,955 miles · reported Apr 17, 2007
After 100,000+ miles of normal operation the 2002, bmw x5 4.4 began exhibiting unusual transmission operation. At random times, during start up, the transmission shifted to neutral, allowing the engine to rev very high, then engage in 1st, causing an abrupt lurch forward. Also, it will experience this disengagement sometimes when down shifting into passing gear, causing the engine to rev, and a loss of forward motion, and then an abrupt engagement, resulting in a major lurch forward. This was a major safety issue, as you cannot be certain the transmission will engage or disengage when pulling…
Structure · reported Nov 21, 2006
I was hearing noises coming from the rear of the car took it into bmw, and they said the rear subframe was cracking. Then they proceeded to tell me that there was nothing they could do! Also the rear control arm bushing are bad which was caused by the rear or in reverse!
Frequently asked questions
Does the 2002 BMW E36 have any recalls?
No. NHTSA has no safety recalls for the 2002 BMW E36 as of this update. Check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls for the latest status.
What is the most common problem with the 2002 BMW E36?
Owners report structure problems most often (2 reports), followed by power train (2). The typical mileage when problems were reported is about 89,000 miles.
Are BMW recall repairs free?
Yes. Safety recall repairs are free at authorized BMW dealers, whether you are the first owner or bought the car used.