1991 BMW 318 Recalls
NHTSA lists 3 recall campaigns for the 1991 BMW 318. A recall applies only to vehicles built within the affected range, so check your own VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. Repairs for recalls are free at a franchised dealer.
- Fuel system, gasoline › Delivery › Hoses, lines/piping, and fittingsCovers: BMW 318 1989–1993, 525 1989–1993, 325 1989–1993 +2 more
Reported issue: Feed fuel hoses can harden and "set" over time, allowing a seepage of fuel at the connection between the hose and the engine fitting. The clamp used to hold the hose to the fitting is unable to compensate for the hardening of the feed fuel hose.
Possible consequence: Fuel seepage between the feed fuel hose and the engine fitting can result in free fuel in the engine compartment, which could result in a fire when exposed to a source of ignition.
Remedy: A redesigned feed fuel hose and hose clamp will be installed to alleviate the fuel seepage.
- Visibility › Defroster/defogger/hvac system › Heater coreCovers: BMW 318 1984–1985, 1991–1992, 325 1984–1993, M3 1988–1991
Reported issue: The malfunction or failure of a coolant system component results in significantly increased coolant temperature and a resulting increase in system pressure.
Possible consequence: Vehicles operated under this increased cooling systempressure condition can suffer damage or failure of parts of the cooling systemsuch as (1) leakage from a coolant hose, (2) leakage of the radiator orexpansion tank, (3) disconnection of a hose from a pipe or a fitting, and (4)cracks in the heater core end piece…
Remedy: Dealers will install a thermostatic bypass valve in the engine compartment to control coolant temperature in the heater core. Also, a new design radiator cap will be installed, to control pressure and provide greater coolant overflow in the event of overheating.
- Vehicle speed controlCovers: BMW 318 1991–1992
Reported issue: The crankcase ventilation system, vented into the intake tract of the engine at the bellows boot ahead of the throttle housing, allows warm water vapor from the crankcase vent to condense and freeze in the colder bellows boot when the ambient air temperature is 15 degrees fahrenheit or less. The build up of ice can dislodge and move into the throttle housing, preventing the throttle plate from fully closing when…
Possible consequence: If the throttle plate is prevented from closing, thereis an increase in idle speed as well as slower than normal deceleration, whichoccurs without prior warning and could result in an accident.
Remedy: Replace the throttle housing with a version containing a modified heating system along with rerouting of the cvs hose. This will prevent ice build-up in the intake tract.
NHTSA investigations
← All problems reported for the 1991 BMW 318
About this data. Data from NHTSA (ODI) complaints, recalls, TSBs and investigations, updated Oct 31, 2026. Complaints are unverified consumer reports and may be duplicated or inaccurate.