1978 BMW 320I recalls
Problem: When subjected to the extremely high temperatures that can occur in the engine compartment, the damper sleeves which cover the return springs of the accelerator control system can deform and prevent their returning the throttle to idle position after release of the accelerator pedal.
Fix: Dealer will replace the throttle return damper sleeves with new sleeves of high temperature-resistant plastic material.
66,600 units potentially affected · Full recall details →
Problem: The hex head bolt that connects the main wiring harness to terminal #30 may not have been tightened to the proper torque.
Fix: The dealer will remove the fuse panel and retighten the 5-mm hex head bolt in the main power terminal underneath the fuse panel, without charge to owner.
28,819 units potentially affected · Full recall details →
Problem: Due to the high fuel flow rate in the fuel system, conditions of extreme altitude, temperatures, or fuel contamination, may lead to the formation of fuel vapor bubbles.
Fix: The dealer will install an additional fuel pump in the right side of the fuel tank at no charge to owner.
32,500 units potentially affected · Full recall details →
Tires · NHTSA 78V056000 · Mar 13, 1978
Problem: Due to a material stuctural defect, the rubber seal between the metal valve stem and rim allows slow seepage of air around the valve base.
Fix: The dealer will replace defective metal tire valve stems and rubber seals with new ones, at no cost to the customer.
4,681 units potentially affected · Full recall details →
Latest owner complaints
Seat Belts · Dec 2, 2003 · 60,000 miles · CA · 1 injured
After driving at 30 MPH and sitting at a stop sign heater core exploded. Scalding hot water gushed from beneath the dash board. Consumer sustained third degree burns on the legs and feet. The seat belt latch would not come undone at the time of the incident. *ak
Visibility · Dec 2, 2003 · 60,000 miles · CA · 1 injured
After driving at 30 MPH and sitting at a stop sign heater core exploded. Scalding hot water gushed from beneath the dash board. Consumer sustained third degree burns on the legs and feet. The seat belt latch would not come undone at the time of the incident. *ak
Visibility · Jul 7, 1999 · TN · 1 injured
The heater core ruptured causing servere injury to driving which resulted in property damage. *yc
Frequently asked questions
Does the 1978 BMW 320I have any recalls?
Yes. NHTSA lists 4 safety recalls covering the 1978 BMW 320I, the most recent one (80V076000) for vehicle speed control. Recall repairs are free at authorized dealers.
What are the most common problems with the 1978 BMW 320I?
Based on 2 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the most reported areas are visibility (2), seat belts (1).
Have there been crashes or injuries linked to the 1978 BMW 320I?
Owners reported 0 crashes, 0 fires, 3 injuries and 0 deaths in complaints to NHTSA. These are unverified owner reports, not findings of fault.
Is NHTSA investigating the 1978 BMW 320I?
NHTSA has opened 1 defect investigation that include this vehicle, most recently DP78034: Spark plug fouling.