2002 BMW 3 Series 330Ci
WBABN53482PH02096
Vehicle history report for the 2002 BMW 3 Series 330Ci (VIN WBABN53482PH02096). Red, coupe, 3.0L 6-cyl 225 hp, gasoline. 151,535 mi reported. Registered in Ca. No NHTSA recall campaigns on record for this model year. Unlock full title, salvage, lien & accident history.
Should you buy it? Looks clean — a solid candidate
Weighed from safety recalls, known problems and market price.
- Owners most often report air bags trouble on this model — inspect it closely.
- Lower mileage than typical for the year.
- Priced within the typical range for the model.
💵 A fair offer is around $3,256 (typical range $1,650–$5,600). Start a little below and leave room for anything the inspection turns up.
Full vehicle history report
Everything below is in the paid report for VIN WBABN53482PH02096, compiled live from NMVTIS and licensed providers the moment you unlock it. Not every vehicle has every record type — the report shows what is on file, and says so when nothing is. No recall campaigns are on record for this model year.
📜 Title & ownership
- Title statusClean, salvage, rebuilt, junk, flood or lemon — from the national title database (NMVTIS)🔒
- Title brand historyEvery brand ever applied, by state, with what each one means🔒
- Title & registration recordsHow many times it has been titled, where, and the years-per-owner pace🔒
- Decode consistency checkThe provider's decode cross-checked against ours — a mismatch is a cloned-VIN warning sign🔒
🛞 Odometer
- Odometer timelineEvery reported reading with its date and state, drawn as a timeline🔒
- Rollback checkFlags any reading that goes backwards🔒
- Miles per yearThis car's pace against the US average🔒
💥 Damage, loss & theft
- Total-loss recordsInsurance total-loss declarations, with the reporting insurer type and date🔒
- Salvage & junk-yard recordsSalvage, junk and auction dispositions, including export flags🔒
- Theft screenActive and recovered theft records🔒
- Accident indicatorsDamage events reflected in title data (NMVTIS does not carry police crash reports)🔒
- Flood-exposure checkTitle activity in a disaster area soon after a major flood or hurricane🔒
💰 Liens & value
- Liens, impounds & exportOpen liens with the lender, tow/impound and export records🔒
- Market value for this exact carRetail adjusted for its mileage and state, trade-in, loan value, auction low/avg/high and retail by condition🔒
- DepreciationDrop from original MSRP, yearly rate and a one-year projection🔒
- Sticker vs dealer invoiceWhat it cost new, and what the dealer paid🔒
🧰 Factory warranty & equipment
- Remaining warrantyBasic, powertrain and rust coverage left, estimated from the first title date and odometer🔒
- Standard equipment & coloursWhat this trim came with from the factory, and the colours it was offered in🔒
🚨 Recalls on this VIN
- Per-VIN recall statusWhether each campaign has been repaired on THIS car, remedy availability, do-not-drive and stop-sale flags, dealer labour time🔒
At a glance
Vehicle identity & specifications
🧾 Window sticker / build sheet → All 2002 BMW 3 Series data →
📋 All factory specifications on file5 more fields from the manufacturer's VIN record (NHTSA vPIC)
⚙️ Engine, fuel & battery
📐 Body, chassis & dimensions
🛡️ Safety & driver assistance
🏭 Manufacturing & other
Values are as reported by the manufacturer for this VIN pattern; blank or "not applicable" fields are omitted.
What's a 2002 BMW 3 Series worth?
What comparable 2002 BMW 3 Series vehicles are listed for — a quick gut-check before you negotiate.
Is the seller's price fair? Get this exact VIN's current market value — retail, trade-in & loan value — in the full report.
See this car's exact value →Crash-test safety ratings
NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings for the 2002 BMW 3 Series.
Source: NHTSA New Car Assessment Program, tested as the 2002 BMW 3 Series 4-DR. w/SAB. Ratings can differ by body style and drivetrain.
Investigations & service bulletins
NHTSA defect investigations 6
Air Bag Inflator Rupture Open
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened PE14-016 in June 2014 based on six inflator rupture incidents involving consumer owned vehicles produced by five vehicle manufacturers. All six vehicles were operated in Florida or Puerto Rico at the time of the rupture and for the majority of their service life, and were equipped with inflators produced by Takata, a tier-one supplier of automotive air bag systems. Dur…
NHTSA #EA15001 · Air Bags · opened Feb 2015Air Bag Inflator Rupture Closed
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened PE14-016 in June 2014 based on six inflator rupture incidents involving consumer owned vehicles produced by five vehicle manufacturers. All six vehicles were operated in Florida or Puerto Rico at the time of the rupture and for the majority of their service life, and were equipped with inflators produced by Takata, a tier-one supplier of automotive air bag systems. Dur…
NHTSA #PE14016 · Air Bags · opened Jun 2014 · closed Mar 2015Rear Lamp Illumination Closed
In a letter submitted to the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) dated August 25, 2011, BMW indicated that it will conduct a voluntary recall campaign to remedy the subject vehicles. The issue involves the rear lamps in the vehicles body panel. Through normal vehicle use over time, the rear lamps ground wiring and associated 8-pin connector can experience an increase of the resistance at the electrical contact poin…
NHTSA #EA09019 · Exterior Lighting · opened Dec 2009 · closed Sep 2011REAR LAMP ILLUMINATION Closed
ODI HAS RECEIVED COMPLAINTS FROM CONSUMERS STATING THAT THEIR TAIL LIGHT ASSEMBLY IS NOT PROPERLY ILLUMINATING. THE TAIL LIGHT ASSEMBLY CONSISTS OF A TURN SIGNAL LAMP, A TAIL LAMP AND A BRAKE LAMP. THE COMPLAINANTS HAVE INDICATED THAT THE ISSUE IS WITH AN 8 PIN CONNECTOR AND ASSOCIATED GROUND WIRING. THESE COMPONENTS ARE ALLEGEDLY OVERHEATING AND MELTING DUE TO EXCESSIVE ELECTRICAL CURRENT THAT RUNS THROUGH THE SYSTE…
NHTSA #PE09036 · Exterior Lighting · opened Aug 2009 · closed Dec 2009REAR LAMP ILLUMINATION Closed
IN MARCH 2009, THE OFFICE OF DEFECTS INVESTIGATION (ODI) RECEIVED A PETITION FROM MR. MARK PETERS REQUESTING AN INVESTIGATION OF REAR LAMP FAILURE IN MODEL YEAR 2002-2005 BMW 3-SERIES VEHICLES. AN INFORMATION REQUEST LETTER WAS SENT TO BMW IN APRIL 2009, AND ODI RECEIVED BMW'S RESPONSE IN JUNE 2009. THE TAIL LAMP ASSEMBLY CONTAINS LIGHTING FOR THE BRAKE LAMPS, TAIL LAMPS, AND TURN SIGNALS. A TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETI…
NHTSA #DP09002 · Exterior Lighting · opened Apr 2009 · closed Aug 2009INADVERTENT SIDE-IMPACT AIR BAG DEPLOYME Closed
THE SUBJECT VEHICLE'S AIR BAG ELECTRONIC CONTROL MODULE CONTAINS PROGRAMMABLE LOGIC FOR DEPLOYING THE SIDE-IMPACT AIR BAGS. BMW REVISED THE MODULE SEVERAL TIMES OVER THE SPAN OF THE MODEL YEARS 1999 THROUGH 2002 (IDENTIFIED AS MRS2.CA, MRS2.BB, MRS3, MRS3+ AND MRS4). ALTHOUGH MODEL YEAR 1999.5 VEHICLES WITH VERSION MRS2.BB HAD 6.5% OF THE SUBJECT POPULATION, IT ACCOUNTED FOR 29% OF THE TOTAL REPORTS RECEIVED. THE MRS…
NHTSA #EA02012 · Air Bags · opened Jul 2002 · closed Jun 2003An investigation means NHTSA is examining a possible defect — it is not a recall, and many close without one.
Manufacturer service bulletins 86
Technical notes the manufacturer sent to dealers about known issues and fixes. Useful to mention to a mechanic — they are not recalls and repairs may not be covered. Showing the 10 most recent of 86.
Starter Return
Bulletin B063026 · Engine · May 2026The basic conditions for initializing the power windows are not met.
Bulletin B510819 · Electrical System, Visibility · Jan 2024When using the Key Reader to retrieve information from the customerâÃÂÃÂs key, the data is not updated or current.
Bulletin B000706 · Equipment · Nov 2023Customer is unable to power up or charge accessories through a plug adapter inserted in the front 12-volt power socket plug. Alternatively, it will only operate when constant downward hand pressure is maintained.
Bulletin B610120 · Electrical System · Sep 2022Vehicle cannot be opened or closed using comfort access, engine start is not possible, and the vehicle may not start when placing the key against the steering column.
Bulletin B662419 · Equipment · Sep 2022Vehicle cannot be opened or closed using comfort access, engine start is not possible, and the vehicle may not start when placing the key against the steering column. Note: Opening, closing and starting via the BMW Digital Key or the Digital Key Card are not a…
Bulletin SIB662419 · Electrical System, Equipment · Jun 2022Any or all of these conditions may be present: A. The exterior rearview mirror glass is discolored or cracked B. The power windows and folding mirrors may not operate C. One or more of the following LIN bus faults are stored in the BDC (Body Domain Controller)…
Bulletin SIB511318 · Visibility, Electrical System · Jun 2022On these Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEV), the air conditioning cycles from cold to warm air while driving or while at a standstill. The vent outlet temperatures vary by 25 degrees Fahrenheit or more (38 F to 60 F+; 3 to 15+ Celsius) without changing an…
Bulletin SIB640921 · Equipment, Electrical System · Jun 2022A rattling/droning noise is heard in the vehicle interior when the air conditioning (AC) is activated. Vibrations are felt in the driver's footwell.
Bulletin SIB640521 · Engine And Engine Cooling, Equipment · Jun 2022Starting mid-May 2022, the QR code on the tite sidewalls of Pirelli tires has been omitted due to patent reasons.
Bulletin SIB360222 · Tires · Jun 2022Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation, listed for the 3 SERIES. Model-year data, not specific to one car.
Canadian recalls 8
Transport Canada recall campaigns for the 2002 BMW 3 Series. Relevant if the car was first sold in, or imported from, Canada.
Airbag
Issue: This recall is for certain vehicles that had an airbag inflator replaced as a part of an earlier recall campaign. This recall provides a final repair. Long-term exposure to high absolute humidity and temperature, combined with high temperature cycling, may eventually degrade the propellant contained in the passenger-front airbag. This could cause the airbag to deploy wit…
Transport Canada #2020009 · Jan 2020Airbag
Issue: 2023 Update - BMW has updated this recall and issued a do not drive advisory for all vehicles that that not yet been repaired. This recall is for certain vehicles that had an airbag inflator replaced as a part of an earlier recall campaign. This recall provides a final repair. Long-term exposure to high absolute humidity and temperature, combined with high temperature cy…
Transport Canada #2017034 · Jan 2017Airbag
Issue: 2023 Update - BMW has updated this recall and issued a do not drive advisory for all vehicles that that not yet been repaired. Long-term exposure to high absolute humidity and temperature, combined with high temperature cycling, may eventually degrade the propellant contained in the driver-front airbag. This could cause the airbag to deploy with more force than normal. I…
Transport Canada #2015230 · May 2015Airbag
On certain vehicles, the passenger (frontal) airbag inflator could produce excessive internal pressure during airbag deployment. Increased pressure may cause the inflator to rupture, which could allow fragments to be propelled toward vehicle occupants, increasing the risk of injury. This could also damage the airbag module, which could prevent proper deployment during a crash w…
Transport Canada #2014299 · Jul 2014Airbag
On certain vehicles, the passenger (frontal) airbag inflator could produce excessive internal pressure during airbag deployment. Increased pressure may cause the inflator to rupture, which could allow fragments to be propelled toward vehicle occupants, increasing the risk of injury. This could also damage the airbag module, which could prevent proper deployment during a crash w…
Transport Canada #2013148 · May 2013Lights And Instruments
Certain vehicles may experience the loss of one or more rear lamp functions (tail, brake, turn signal) on the portion of the rear lamp assemblies that are mounted in the body (the portion of the lamps mounted on the trunk are not affected). Failure of any rear lamp function may result in the following road users being unaware of the driver's intentions, as well as reducing vehi…
Transport Canada #2011322 · Aug 2011Source: Transport Canada Motor Vehicle Safety Recalls Database.
About the BMW 3 Series
The BMW 3 series is a line of compact executive cars manufactured by the German automaker BMW since May 1975. It is the successor to the 02 series and has been produced in eight generations.
From Wikipedia, licensed CC BY-SA 4.0. Describes the model line in general, not this model year specifically.
Safety recall campaigns None on record
NHTSA lists no safety-recall campaigns for the 2002 BMW 3 Series.
These are NHTSA recall campaigns for this model year, last checked 7 Oct 2026. They don't show whether this particular car has had the repair done — check this VIN on NHTSA.gov or ask a franchised dealer. Recall repairs are done at no charge.
We'll email you the moment a new safety recall is issued — no spam, unsubscribe any time.
Common problems & what to inspect
Based on all 443 owner complaints filed with NHTSA for the 2002 BMW 3 Series, here are the most-reported problem areas — and what to check before you buy.
💥 18 involved a crash 🔥 31 involved a fire 🚑 22 reported injuries
🔍 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.
🔍 Confirm all headlights, brake lights, turn signals and reverse lights work, with no moisture inside the housings.
🔍 Test every electrical feature: windows, locks, infotainment, charging and all lights. Watch for flickering, dead accessories or warning lights.
🔍 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.
🔍 Test wipers, washers, defrosters and all mirrors. Check the windshield for cracks and any camera/sensor for fogging or faults.
🔍 Drive through every gear: watch for slipping, hard or delayed shifts, and shudder. Check for transmission/driveline leaks and noises.
Pre-purchase checklist
- Match the VIN on the dash, door jamb and title — they must be identical.
- Cold-start the engine; listen for knocks and check for blue or white exhaust smoke.
- Test-drive through all gears at low and highway speed — no slipping, shudder or pulling.
- Confirm every warning light clears at startup (none should stay on).
- Check fluids — oil, coolant, transmission — for level, color and leaks.
- Look underneath for rust, fresh undercoating or signs of collision repair.
- Always get an independent pre-purchase inspection from a trusted mechanic.
Owner complaints 443
Complaints filed with NHTSA by owners of the 2002 BMW 3 Series.
AIR BAGS,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
The contact owns a 2002 BMW 325CI. The contact received notifications of NHTSA Campaign Numbers: 15V318000 (Air Bags) and 13V172000 (Air Bags). The vehicle was taken to the dealer where the recall repairs were completed. The vehicle was retrieved from the dealer. The contact stated that upon retrieving the vehicle from the dealer, the contact's husband state…
NHTSA ODI #11757767AIR BAGS
I brought my 325ci into BMW Buena Park to have an airbag recall completed. There were no issues prior to dropping the car off at dealership but when the car was returned the airbag system light was on and was filled with error codes. I returned the car to the dealer and they cleared the codes but on my way home the dash light returned and faults were prese…
NHTSA ODI #11714560ENGINE
The contact owns a 2002 BMW 325i. The contact stated that upon exiting the store, he observed fire emerging from the driver's side dashboard. The vehicle spontaneously combusted and was engulfed in flames. There was no warning light illuminated prior to the failure. The fire department was able to successfully extinguish the fire. No injuries were reported…
Fire · NHTSA ODI #11699780ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS,SEATS
My car had been sitting across the street from my house for about 3 weeks after i had gotten it back from the body shop. It had been hit on the drivers side by a drunk driver when parked in front of my house. He took out six cars in a row. Heard a loud noise about 2 am - looked out the window and saw nothing. But then the fire trucks showed up after som…
Fire · NHTSA ODI #11575204ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,STRUCTURE,ENGINE
On Tuesday June 20, 2023 at 7:20am I was awakened by my neighbor who informed me that my car was on fire. A report was done by the fire department and they did not believe it was done on purpose but something with my car. My car was totally consumed with fire nothing but ashes.
Fire · NHTSA ODI #11530869AIR BAGS
The contact owns a 2002 BMW 325XI. The contact stated that the vehicle was taken to the dealer to be repaired under NHTSA Campaign Number: 20V018000 (Air Bags). The contact stated that approximately 7-months after the repair, the air bag warning light illuminated. The contact took the vehicle back to the dealer where a diagnostic test showed that a wire from…
NHTSA ODI #11475946AIR BAGS
Air bags deployed after collision, vehicle has been released from Falcon Towing 15600 S Main St, Gardena, CA 90248 to Automobile Club for inspection. Injuries sustained from airbag deploying include, but are not limited to, lacerations, abrasions, bruising as a broken rib and collapsed lung.
Crash · NHTSA ODI #11467183AIR BAGS
2002 BMW 325 I. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO AIRBAG SAFETY RECALL. THE CONSUMER STATED THE AIR BAG WARNING LIGHT REMAINED ILLUMINATED AFTER THE RECALL REPAIR WAS COMPLETED. THE DEALER AND MANUFACTURER STATED THE CONSUMER WOULD BE RESPONSIBLE FOR ANY REMAINING EXPENSES.THE VEHICLE'S WARRANTY HAS EXPIRED.
NHTSA ODI #11462454+ 435 more complaints on record.
