BMW 318IS Engine problems by year

Consumer noticed antifreeze on the ground in the garage, took vehicle to the dealer, and it was determined timing case profile gasket was defective.*Ak...This gasket has caused problem until it was replaced in middle of 1994. This was a frequent failure on 318 vehicles. Bmw was aware of the problem. Their representative indicated she was not allowed to discuss the profile gasket problem. *Ak

THE HEAD GASKET WAS REPLACED TWICE. *JB

While driving at any speed and no warning cooling system cracked, causing fluid to leak out. Dealer notified.*Ak

This has been a widely reported failure on early 1990s 318 models. No safety defect listed. *Ak

Timing case profile gasket failure is verh high for the motor. Unexpected loss of engine coolant, which leaks slowly or all at once is due to gaskets design.

There is a coolant leak in engine because an inferior form of rubber sealant is used on engine. Coolant goes back into engine. Contacted dealer, and dealer stated they knew about leak and its a frequent problem, but not under warranty.*Ak the head had to be replaced due to this problem, the problem is a rubberized gasket, known as the timing case profile gasket. *Jb

ENGINE GASKET FAILED. BMW DENIES DEFECT.*AK

While driving at high speed, 65mph, the profile gasket in my engine failed. Large amounts of steam came out of the engine compartment and resulted in a condition of almost zero visibility. My windshield was covered with antifreeze and I could not see throught he steam. I believe this failure to be a serious safety issue.

While driving car overheated. Had vehicle towed to the dealer, and was told that there was an engine head gasket failure. *Ak

Profile gasket material weak causing it to leak antifreeze resulting in smoke coming from the car.

The first problem is the clips that hold the interior door panels fail causing the door panels to come lose and fall or crack. The second problem is the heat shield rattles causing a rattling from under the hood at any speed above 5 mph. Thank you

The profile gasket failure is apparently a common problem on this model engine...And while bmw acknowledges it is because of ba materials used for this gasket, no recall nor offer to repair free of charge has apparently been made.

Engine gasket failure, causing a sudden loss of coolant on the roadway under the driving wheels.

Timing case profile gasket failed causing loss of coolant on the roadway and vehicle overheating.

Timing case profile gasket failure is verh high for the motor. Unexpected loss of engine coolant, which leaks slowly or all at once is due to gaskets design.