Reliability GuideCommon Problems with the
Common Problems with the
1985 BMW 3 Series (E36)
The 1985 BMW 3 Series (E36) has an excellent reliability record with no widely reported common faults for this model year period.
Buying Tips for 1985 BMW 3 Series (E36)
- Check everywhere for rust: rear arches, jacking points, sills, and boot floor
- Inspect the cooling system — radiators and plastic water pump impellers fail
- Check the rear shock mounts, which can tear through the bodywork