BMW E92 320i

[Aaron]

How's it going guys, I'm back after a few years without a BMW and looking for some advice regarding the E92 320i. I've been keeping an eye on these for a few months now and, while I'd honestly prefer a 325i, there seem to be barely any for sale and the ones that are advertised aren't even worth considering.

I went to look at a 2007 320i earlier today and it ticks all the boxes in terms of specification, mileage, condition and history. Before I make a decision I'd like to hear some honest opinions on what they're like to live with. Does anyone here have any experience with the E92 320i? What are the common issues I should be aware of? The one I looked at has a full service history and the timing chain was replaced recently at a cost of €1,200 according to the receipts. What should I expect to pay for one in the current climate?

Any advice or opinions appreciated.

[Don B]

Is that an automatic Montego Blue one by any chance?

[Aaron]

Is that an automatic Montego Blue one by any chance?

Nope, it's black (and manual).

[alan996]

I had an 07 e93 for about a year .. even though it had a 2 year BMW warranty I ditched it after less than 1.

The engines are woeful in them...

Mine kept throwing misfires and I had 8 injectors and coils replaced...

Timing chain replaced

Gearbox oil leak

Failed headlight

Consuming a liter of oil every 2k miles.. and very gutless - diagnosed as valve stem oil seals.

The n52 engine (I think) is well know as troublesome...

But maybe I had a bad one...




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[Aaron]

Mine kept throwing misfires and I had 8 injectors and coils replaced

I spoke with my mechanic this evening - a BMW specialist - and he advised that the injectors on the 320i are a major issue and can give up at any time without warning. I didn't have time to go into too much detail with him but can anyone here tell me a bit more about this? I'm led to believe that the replacement parts alone can cost up to €1,500 from BMW which is mildly concerning to say the least. I'm looking at one at the moment that I'm very interested in buying but this is really making me think twice.

[JordanCoupe]

I have an e92 325i over a year now and really like it. Wanted an Msport Manual in a dark colour but as you say there are feck all about, bought an SE and basically msported it myself since. I obviously can’t speak for the 20i but mine has been super reliable, only had to put a set of shocks and pads all round into it bar normal servicing. Very comfy, handles well with H&R springs with msport shocks and decentish power for everyday cruising, could imagine a 20i being a tad underpowered? Fantastic brakes from factory as well.

They are very cheap to buy in petrols.

Cons would be;
Crap audio like most beemers even with upgraded factory option, iv gone aftermarket since.

The 325i is noticibly thirstier than a 46 325 I had, again maybe not applicable to you.

Horrible gearing!!! My biggest annoyance comes down to the diff; it’s got really long gearing so doesn’t make the best of a good engine and LSD choices are either m3 back end or aftermarket, both expensive and neither ideal.

Overall it’s been a very nice car to own and run. It’s the longest I’ve held onto a “normal” car too so that says a lot!

[alan996]

I don't know the cost as it wasn't under bmw warranty - but even the ones that were replaced failed pretty quickly..

I used Carly diagnostics and ran it every week - so I knew it was misfires

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[eamo]

The wife had on and to be honest I loved driving it - a 08 one. Nice peppy engine and good on juice too. I drove it all over the UK for a week on holidays racking up a fair few miles. She never had any issues bar an injector which was covered under warranty. Injectors and coils seem are an issue.

I too am actually looking to buy one myself at the moment