Model year guide

2002 BMW 3 Series

Recalls, most-reported problems, crash-test ratings, fuel economy and what a 2002 BMW 3 Series is worth — from official NHTSA and EPA data. 153 on record.

2002 BMW 3 Series — representative photo
Representative photo · via Wikimedia Commons

2002 BMW 3 Series at a glance

Safety recallsNone
Owner complaints442
Typical price$3,256

Free: specs, open recalls for that exact car, build sheet and fair price.

2002 BMW 3 Series recalls 0

No NHTSA safety-recall campaigns are on record for the 2002 BMW 3 Series.

Source: U.S. NHTSA. A recall applies to a model year, but only a VIN check shows whether a specific car has had the repair done.

2002 BMW 3 Series common problems

The most-reported problem areas from 442 owner complaints filed with NHTSA — and what to check before you buy.

Air Bags
Confirm the airbag light turns on then off at startup — if it stays lit there's a fault (costly, and a safety risk). Check for signs of prior deployment.
Engine
Listen for knocks or ticking, check for leaks and blue/white exhaust smoke, and make sure it doesn't overheat. No check-engine light should be on.
Electrical System
Test every electrical feature: windows, locks, infotainment, charging and all lights. Watch for flickering, dead accessories or warning lights.
Seats
Have a trusted mechanic inspect this system as part of a pre-purchase inspection.
Structure
Inspect for rust, fresh undercoating, mismatched paint, uneven panel gaps and any sign of prior collision or frame repair.
Power Train
Drive through every gear: watch for slipping, hard or delayed shifts, and shudder. Check for transmission/driveline leaks and noises.

What's a 2002 BMW 3 Series worth?

Low
$1,650
Typical price
$3,256
High
$5,600

From 152 comparable 2002 BMW 3 Series listings.

2002 BMW 3 Series trims & engines on record

Trims
325i · 325Ci · 330Ci · 325xi · 330i · 330xi
Engines
2.5L 6-cyl 184 hp · 3.0L 6-cyl 225 hp · 2.5L 6-cyl

2002 BMW 3 Series vehicles on record

Other BMW 3 Series model years

2002 BMW 3 Series — frequently asked questions

Does the 2002 BMW 3 Series have any safety recalls?

No NHTSA safety-recall campaigns are on record for the 2002 BMW 3 Series.

What are the most common problems with the 2002 BMW 3 Series?

Based on 442 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the most-reported problem areas are air bags, engine, electrical system.

How much is a 2002 BMW 3 Series worth?

Comparable 2002 BMW 3 Series listings run roughly $1,650–$5,600, typically around $3,256 (from 152 vehicles).

Sources: NHTSA (recalls, complaints, crash tests), U.S. EPA (fuel economy). Vehicle data only — CarLogs never shows owner information.