BMW 3-Series Saloon 320d (177bhp) SE 4d (2008/08) BMW 3-Series Saloon 320d (177bhp) SE 4d (2008/08) - Owner Review 5 seats, good space, good boot, blue tooth Rubbish in the ice and snow. 2 Want to know everything there is to know about this car? Then click on a link to see other car buying advice and help including car reviews, car valuations and cars for sale. Read the Parkers review View the facts and figures Compare cars costs Test drive with BMW or request a brochure Tweet Summary 2 out of 5 What does this car say about you? That I fell for the hype about german car quality and main dealer service- this is the only car that's ever left me stranded with engine failure, and far less reliable than a 15 y old peugeot diesel with >250K miles. What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car? Generally like it - but would recoil at the running costs (service, repairs, tyres). Would you buy this car again and why? No. The timing chain issue spoils a good engine, and the ridiculously long service intervals make the turbo's prone to failure (2.5K to fix). Trainers BMW are a nightmare to deal with. What are you likely to buy next? MB, Jag or Lexus. Buying experience 4 out of 5 Type of dealer you bought from? Didn't buy from a dealer Did you buy this car new? Used What price did you pay? £11,250 When did you buy the car? May 2012 Did you get a good deal and why? Yes, a good deal on a locally owned low mileage car which had been well looked after and services. Is there any special reason why you bought this car? I wanted a quality, relaible and sporty compact exec saloon, to do a 25 mile commute twice daily - this was reported by the motoring press to be the best in class. What was the dealer like? Private sale. Driving it 4 out of 5 What's it like to drive? Excellent car to drive very good handling but a hard ride engine now sounds very noisy due to timing chain design fault. What's it like to park? A doddle, thanks to good visibiltiy, power steering and reversing sensors. Living with it 1 out of 5 Have you had any problems with the car? Yes, a lot. Timing chain issues, turbo hose failure, blown turbo despite proper BMW servicing, my first experience of an AA low-loader to get home, numerous punctures on the run flats, with no spare and always needing a new tyre; most recently heater failed. What's most practical about your car? 5 seats, good space, good boot, blue tooth Rubbish in the ice and snow. Favourite gadget, option or accessory? Blue tooth hands free mobile phone excellent stereo/CD good air con. Get an Insurance Quote We've gathered the biggest companies on the market in one place to save you money. Insurance group: 27 Get quote >