This is The best f31 review yet. I found your personal comments very useful and relevant to my use-case. The points covered and filming style is simple and straightforward.. Thanks!
Finally, a review that actually talks about the car ♡ I swear to god, everyone on youtube just makes videos showing what we can already see from the photos and the first 2 paragraphs you can read on google about it
Just about to purchase a 2017 320d touring MSport with pro pack.Your video absolutely made up my mind for sure.The detail you went into puts most reviews to shame,although your model is 2013 most of the detail still applies and the rear screens etc are spot on as we have a few dogs as well.Keep up the good vids.👍
I drive a 320d Msport since 2017. Just can tell you this is the best money I.ve ever spent and all the online stories about its poor reliability are complete nonsenses.
Hello mate, you are an absolute legend for that parcel shelf hack at 8.22 - had absolutely no idea it slots into that compartment. I just got my 318d estate but was just keeping the parcel shelf lying long ways in the boot as I don't use it and regularly need to use the boot with the seats folded - was thinking of somewhere else to store it until I watched this video, thanks man.
Ive had my bmw 3 series 320d 2013 7 years. Its best car ive ever had. Its past 7 mots without problems only thing ive did is changed the tyres a very good car and most reliable car ive had nice review.
Great review and pretty much agree with all you said. I have a 2014 Efficency Dynamics version (and I love the boring steering wheel with flappies which still looks like new, is totally solid and more importantly is not to fat!), yes it is a bit down on power at 164 hp and has 16" wheels (which I also love) and I appreciate the touch more ground clearance. I have had it for 6 years from 12000 miles and it now has 70000. It has been totally reliable apart from the electric tailgate, despite me servicing it myself (have just done the gearbox). Yes would love the inline 6 but was pleasantly surprised by it's power (maybe because I wasnt expecting much). My other car is a V6 Amarok (which really is 2 ton) and the BM is definately faster and just feels so solid on the road. The the interior may seem boring but I love the idrive and the way it has held up just cries quality, still looks like the day I bought it despite much family abuse and 2 large dogs!
Fantastic and informative video - thank you for making this. If you haven’t cleaned that steering wheel yet, use an All Purpose Cleaner (like Autofinesse verso) and a detailing brush and that’ll look brand new again - I’m a car detailer and you can get leather looking lovely again with an APC 👌🏻 Thanks again 👍🏻
Leather is one of those things you just have to keep clean to stay matte unfortunately! I tend to just keep on top of it by wiping with a cloth after every wash so I don’t have to fully brush it 👍🏻
Thanks for the video. I’m about the take the plunge on a 150,000 mile 2016 320d Luxury as a workhorse. Let’s see how it copes with another 20,000 miles a year for the next 2 years. Haha
I have got a 2014 one owned 9 years and I have learned a few things I didn't't know from your video. Been very reliable , just a few bulbs and recently dust covers on front shocks and one rear failed so replaced the pair. I have never found out how to go D after using the paddles. I sometimes use the paddles to change down on hills.
I've owned my F30 2013 M Sport 320d since 2017. Things I've done that I'd recommend to you. 1 Change to LCI rear lights. 2 Debadge. 3 remove single exhaust for double. Looks well better. I've added the front back grill too. Only thing left to do now is 'Maybe a stage 1 map' what are your thoughts on maps for 320d? Reliability?
I get my 2018 320d m sport f31 on Tuesday, this is the video I needed to see to seal the deal. Shame you've only got 51k views. Keep up the content. Do a review.
Nice vídeo, congrats man 👍🏻 i was looking for a touring after selling my bmw 123d. I Will buy one f31 320d today just like yours with pack m and 19" wheels and your vídeo was very helpfull. Dont understand why the rear bumper have a diffuser with just a single exhaust tip, could have space for two Cheers from Portugal 👍🏻👍🏻
Good thorough review of the tourer as been looking at these for while now….only issue as u said was the pre 2015 models which had belt chain n turbo issues….so after 2015 shud be ok. Always driven estate cars myself n the BMW tourer always been the top car…if the UK police have them then must be good!! Macc to Whaley Road I’m guessing as I’m in Stockport. Liked n subbed!!
Nice video, thought you had 10k subs haha, can i ask a few questions? Were u looking for estates or did u stumble across? Why did u prefer the estate over the sedn?
Haha one day I will. And I’ve always loved estate cars. I think it looks 10x better than the saloon and obviously you get the added practicality, plus the automatic tailgate and I’m a child and like being able to open and close it with the key 😂 struggling to think of a car where I actually prefer the looks of the saloon to the estate tbh, it’s just down to preference
Awesome review, thanks so much. Thinking of getting one of these and was wondering people's thoughts on auto vs manual and X Drive vs RWD? Any feedback gratefully received!
I just bought the F31 2016 320d, I hope I didn't make a wrong decision, it has 195.000kms already. I think that LCI already has the B47 moto engine, right? this one is the N47? BTW thanks a lot for the video, was very nice to learn a lot from your videos. Is my first time into the BMW world, before I had an A180, was very happy with the car, but I decide on this one because is bigger and I also have dogs 🤣
Great video, 2 questions for you,?what year did the facelift come out (looking at a 2015 320d ) and how tall are you just to give an idea of headroom in the back? Thanks
Facelift came out in 2015 so there will be some 15 plate cars that are facelift and some that aren’t. Best way to tell is to look at the rear lights, facelift is a curvy design pre-facelift is like straight lines. And I’m just under 6 ft. Cheers!
I own a 65 plate 36k Luxury model . V rare and speced with £4200 extras. Fantastic £30 a year road tax. Prefer it to the M Sport. My only concern about your car is no badges on the back. Has it been de badged at factory or been rear ended ?
Brilliant review and car. What was the mileage of your car when you bought it? I'm looking for one and wondering if I should be afraid of high miler. Thanks
Bought on 75k. Now on 103k and still no issues. Just be wary of the timing chain as apparently they can go on the n47 engine (pre facelift). When my warranty runs out in a year I’ll probably get it changed then as preventative maintenance if I’m going to keep the car a long time
Phone holder is a magnetic one from Mega Mounts. Best phone holder I’ve ever had. You stick a metal plate to the inside of your phone case and then it just sticks
I’ve never had runflats on it, I previously had some ‘landsails’ on the rear and Dunlop’s on the front that came when I bought the car which weren’t amazing. But I’ve since put a full set of Hankook Ventus Evo or something and they’re great, but I only found out after that I could’ve got a full set of Michelin PS4S for the same price from Costco on a special deal that I didn’t find when looking before so I’d go for them
I’m buying the 3 series 320d automatic 2013 it’s on 110000k milles any advice before i go ahead pls your advice means a lot to me as I don’t want to put my money on car with bad engine or knowing for something bad pls help
Just standard stuff for any used car of that mileage really. I’d make sure it’s got full service history, at that mileage I’d maybe check for a gearbox service although BMW say it’s lifetime fluid. Mines on 110k now and not been serviced (yet) and is fine. See when tyres, brakes etc were last changed. Check every electric thing works (my heated seat stopped working a while ago but was just a lose wire), tell the salesman to be quiet on the test drive to listen for knocks/rubbing etc
@@jimdcars thank you so much for the advice i checked the mot history of the car it failed once since in 2019 due to windscreen washer not providing enough fluids the rest of the mot’s are all clean even without advisory i have to choose from the bmw or vw passat 2012 80k on the clock auto 2.0 what you advise me between the two cars
@jimdcars I really wish I'd test drove for longer haha. I've noticed my right leg sits lower the seat isn't level is this same on yours?. Hoping its just from previous owner putting weight on right side. But its causing pain in right thigh and ass cheek. I've ordered a new seat from breakers hoping it sorts the issue.
Any help would be appreciate, my 2014 f30 2.0d n47 does 28mpg and thats in eco mode with a very light right foot. 76k on the clock and very well looked after, baffled
@@playeronearcademode7217 thanks buddy no engine light on, no running issues at speed or at idle,also had a terra clean done,could it still be DPF?????
I have got 1 annoying thing about my 2013 320d. in comfort mode the rpm goes back between 1100 - 1300 but that gives a deep vibrating sound ( very hard for my ears) but no feel in the steering wheel. Does this sound familiair to anyone ? AllerAfghaanst tried with tyres and replaced discs and bearings in the propshaft.
You didn't mention anything about the DPF, or the problems with shorter journeys, regeneration or how much extra fuel it burns doing the regeneration. I had to get shut of mine as economy dropped to 30MPG and the DPF completely blocked after 5000miles from new, then 20,000miles. Useless car!
If you’re only doing short journeys you wouldn’t (or shouldn’t) be getting a diesel anyway. I’ve never had any problems with the DPF, if you don’t do short journeys and don’t drive like a granny I think you’ll be fine from what I’ve read! Cheers
We have no problem with shorter journeys day to day 10km and then once in two weeks longer motorway journey 100+km and the car is totally fine having 320d gt m 2014 for about 2 years 150k km no problem
I'm sat here like a little boy on Christmas Eve. I'm off to a dealer to potentially make a deal on a 320d MSport Shadow Edition. Really enjoyed this real world and practical review from someone just like me. Great video, great effort, thanks a lot! Feel very confident that I'm making the right choice. Cheers man.
Hi, I pretty much have the same car. Mine is a year newer but higher miles. Everything you said in the video is spot on, and these are also the things I would tell other people who were considering buying something in this class/sector. The Touring is definitely a better overall car than the saloon In the right colourway. I think the siilver wheels suit the grey or silver metallic paint. Mine is in Estoril blue with Black wheels and like yours it's the shadow edition (de-chromed), so looks quite serious despite only having the 2.0 diesel lump in it. Mine was the Msport x-drive version and I have to say I'm still hitting pretty much the same numbers in terms of combined and motorway miles, but as you mentioned it's all down to driving style and individual factors. The x-drive gives you a lot of confidence going through chicanes. It's ridiculous how well balanced it makes the car when its being thrown around. Downside is that there is no drifting or handbrake turns but at my age that's not a big loss You are right about the M-sport brakes. For the extra cost of disks and pads I'm happy mine just has the standard setup. It stops perfectly well and i'm not likely to be going round the nurburgring any time soon The ONLY downside for me, and as someone who does go back and forth to the continent at least three times a year this is quite important. It's the absence of a real spare wheel and somewhere to stow it. BMW decided that run-flats were the solution. But not only do they rumble and whine, they cost an arm and a leg to replace and given how low profile they are if your tyre comes of the rim or you have a blowout you are going to be at the roadside looking up the phone number for your breakdown firm. You can get a spacesaver but it's vital you get one that gives you the same rolling diameter as the original if you have x-drive otherwise you will damage the transfer box. It would have been nice if BMW had incorporated a spare especially in what is usually bought as a motorway miler. Great video about a great car !!
Thanks for your input, I agree about the spare wheel, seems silly to not put one in. I don’t have run flats as EVERYONE says they completely ruin the ride. I just keep a can of that instant puncture repair stuff you spray inside the tyre in the boot just incase.
As someone who's thinking of buying a secondhand 3 series touring, this was a really really helpful review. As many others have said, it's far better than most reviews on the car you find online. Thanks! 👍
I’m getting one, but had a question. Is it common for these models to have issues with the trunk’s electronics. One, i’m getting, got it fixed, but it’s the second time i’ve heard of this issue.
Scotland is still part of the Uk and believe me where I live you are glad of the X drive which I have. My 2013 320 X drive diesel has 140k on the clock and it is plenty powerful enough for our roads.
Good video mate and very informative thanks ( funny when you start watching a UA-cam video and then you are like oooo that’s where I live lol ) and I love Buxston road I could drive over it all day long
sorry dude but you're not applying the mode control system in proper way. Actually when you press that mode button on central console, you just change the engine mode but this action should be accompanied by change of gearbox mode as well so when you choose sport or sport plus mode, better to push the gear lever to left as well and then you can feel the real change of the mode.
Hi mate great video, i have just purchased 2014 320d GT 75k miles on clock. Do you find on intially flooring the accelerator from a stand still there is a slight delay/ not full power given straight away? I Have tried all modes and still seems same. Also done launch control like you done in your video as mine has that feature too. And it is better but still very smooth and linear on take off. In your video yours looks pretty agressive which what i was hoping mine would be like. Once out of 1st gear, I feel it starting to pull strong then. I am wondering if it is normal or a potential issue. Timed a 0 to 60 at about 8.2 seconds. Spec sheet says 7.9 sec. But i do have the m plus pack bigger wheels ect. So wondering if that can effect acceleration also. Just trying to figure out if all normal or just mine.. hope to here back from you cheers
Yeah unless you’re holding the brake and throttle to launch it there is a bit of a delay. Think it’s just turbo lag, I find if you’re over 2k rpm it’s fine but it can be kinda annoying pulling off from roundabouts having no power then loads of power after a delay
@jimdcars cheers mate you have put me at ease a bit now. I was concerned it was just my car, but if yours is similar and i have just read a few forums saying similar
I haven’t driven one so can’t comment. If you do long journeys go for the diesel. You don’t need xdrive in the uk imo just makes the car heavier and less economical
I’ve just hit 130k miles and 4 years of ownership and there’s been a few things… I’ve had 3 buckled wheels, the vibration damper broke, a rear wheel bearing, rear shocks (faily sure the fronts need doing as well now) and all the front suspension arms. But no serious mechanical issues. Might make an update video soon
@@jimdcars good to hear nothing major has gone bad! I’m currently driving a 15’ MB CLA ShootingBrake 55k miles, within 1 year of causal driving and one car trip to a rural farmhouse one ABS sensor went bad(fixed), now the rear wiper spray thingy won’t spray, center console box won’t close, car sometimes have AC problem during winter times, and huge condensation in headlight during winter as well😅 really keen on trying this BMW if I get the chance.
I bought my f31 320d lux having seen your service video. 2 months and over 4K miles. Upto now it’s been ace and can return 63mpg (dash figures) with just over 700 mile range. Not bad for a 8 year old 108k miles team bus. 👌 great vids btw 👍
Hey Jim, Thank you for this content. it has been so helpful! I'm currently looking at a nearly identical car on auto trader , but with 124k on the clock. It hasn't had it's timing belt done. Some forums are saying don't leave it past 100k. Have you now had yours done 1.5 years after this video? Are you still owner?
Hi mate, I still own the car and it’s just passed it’s mot with no advisories at 114k miles and on the original chain (as far as I’m aware). As long as you’ve got full service history you should be fine, I think it was the E9x generation N47 engine that was more problematic. I’ve just had to replace front thrust/control arms as the bushes were worn giving me a vague steering feel, and a track rod end ball joint boot had torn. Then the rear wheel bearing has started making a little noise but the garage said it’s nothing to worry about yet. Other than that it’s been very reliable for the (almost) 3 years and 40k miles I’ve owned it. I do a full service when it tells me to and an oil change in between which is usually very 7/8k miles and runs perfect. Hope this helps
@@jimdcars I’ve been looking at a 13 plate 320d msport and cannot for the life of me figure out if they do on the 13 plate… how’s the sound system on yours any way?
@@THEfrostyKID basically if it’s got HK it’ll have small speakers in the corner of the front windows/in line with the wing mirror and I think they say Harmon Kardon on them as well. The sound on mine is okay, it’s not incredible but it’s deffo not shit, I don’t feel the need to upgrade it really unless I want to feel the bass
This is The best f31 review yet. I found your personal comments very useful and relevant to my use-case. The points covered and filming style is simple and straightforward.. Thanks!
Finally, a review that actually talks about the car ♡
I swear to god, everyone on youtube just makes videos showing what we can already see from the photos and the first 2 paragraphs you can read on google about it
Just about to purchase a 2017 320d touring MSport with pro pack.Your video absolutely made up my mind for sure.The detail you went into puts most reviews to shame,although your model is 2013 most of the detail still applies and the rear screens etc are spot on as we have a few dogs as well.Keep up the good vids.👍
I drive a 320d Msport since 2017. Just can tell you this is the best money I.ve ever spent and all the online stories about its poor reliability are complete nonsenses.
I prefer the G21 version from 2019, interior and exterior but man, there 3 series Touring or not were always a dream since 2013
Hello mate, you are an absolute legend for that parcel shelf hack at 8.22 - had absolutely no idea it slots into that compartment. I just got my 318d estate but was just keeping the parcel shelf lying long ways in the boot as I don't use it and regularly need to use the boot with the seats folded - was thinking of somewhere else to store it until I watched this video, thanks man.
ive had mine for 7 years and stumbled on this vid and never knew this 😅
It's how you look after it, and listen to it, drive it with mechanical sympathy.
Ive had my bmw 3 series 320d 2013
7 years. Its best car ive ever had. Its past 7 mots without problems only thing ive did is changed the tyres a very good car and most reliable car ive had nice review.
Do 320d not recommend for short trips?
6:52 when i got my 335d i was like this is a gimic that is nonsense i don't need. Now i can't imagine a car without it!
As prospective buyers, we have watched a lot of similar vids. You mentioned LOADS of things that nobody else has. Consider me subscribed.
Great review and pretty much agree with all you said. I have a 2014 Efficency Dynamics version (and I love the boring steering wheel with flappies which still looks like new, is totally solid and more importantly is not to fat!), yes it is a bit down on power at 164 hp and has 16" wheels (which I also love) and I appreciate the touch more ground clearance. I have had it for 6 years from 12000 miles and it now has 70000. It has been totally reliable apart from the electric tailgate, despite me servicing it myself (have just done the gearbox). Yes would love the inline 6 but was pleasantly surprised by it's power (maybe because I wasnt expecting much). My other car is a V6 Amarok (which really is 2 ton) and the BM is definately faster and just feels so solid on the road. The the interior may seem boring but I love the idrive and the way it has held up just cries quality, still looks like the day I bought it despite much family abuse and 2 large dogs!
The best review of a 320d available on UA-cam!!
I do like Chris Harris' review of it, too
you shopuld be on the TV reviewing cars honestly . you soo good !
What a talented reviewer! Thanks mate
A great review - thanks - and good to see my home town of Macc in the background, and it takes me back to spirited drives up to the Cat and Fiddle!
Fantastic and informative video - thank you for making this.
If you haven’t cleaned that steering wheel yet, use an All Purpose Cleaner (like Autofinesse verso) and a detailing brush and that’ll look brand new again - I’m a car detailer and you can get leather looking lovely again with an APC 👌🏻
Thanks again 👍🏻
Thanks! I tried autoglym leather cleaner and balm and made it Matt for about a month but it’s shiny again now
Leather is one of those things you just have to keep clean to stay matte unfortunately! I tend to just keep on top of it by wiping with a cloth after every wash so I don’t have to fully brush it 👍🏻
Solid review. Best one I've seen for this car to be honest. Well in!
Thanks for the video. I’m about the take the plunge on a 150,000 mile 2016 320d Luxury as a workhorse. Let’s see how it copes with another 20,000 miles a year for the next 2 years. Haha
Thanks for the great review, but above all, thank you for introducing Marcus King !
I have got a 2014 one owned 9 years and I have learned a few things I didn't't know from your video. Been very reliable , just a few bulbs and recently dust covers on front shocks and one rear failed so replaced the pair. I have never found out how to go D after using the paddles. I sometimes use the paddles to change down on hills.
Amazing review! Sir, you have some quite nice skills as a car journalist! Congratulations! All the best
I've owned my F30 2013 M Sport 320d since 2017. Things I've done that I'd recommend to you. 1 Change to LCI rear lights. 2 Debadge. 3 remove single exhaust for double. Looks well better. I've added the front back grill too. Only thing left to do now is 'Maybe a stage 1 map' what are your thoughts on maps for 320d? Reliability?
Agree..I went one step further and replaced stock exhaust with a full stainless quad..plus remap..has transformed the car..
@@donaghgavin8132 How does the remap effect MPG?
@@markhumphries3982 depends on your right foot..
@@markhumphries3982 in theory depends on tune but if start of injection is changed and duration you can see sometimes 10% gain on economy.
I love this specific specs. Im looking for one of these with less than 100k km
I get my 2018 320d m sport f31 on Tuesday, this is the video I needed to see to seal the deal.
Shame you've only got 51k views.
Keep up the content.
Do a review.
Nice vídeo, congrats man 👍🏻 i was looking for a touring after selling my bmw 123d. I Will buy one f31 320d today just like yours with pack m and 19" wheels and your vídeo was very helpfull. Dont understand why the rear bumper have a diffuser with just a single exhaust tip, could have space for two
Cheers from Portugal 👍🏻👍🏻
Can't wait for the next video and you comparing the cars
Good thorough review of the tourer as been looking at these for while now….only issue as u said was the pre 2015 models which had belt chain n turbo issues….so after 2015 shud be ok. Always driven estate cars myself n the BMW tourer always been the top car…if the UK police have them then must be good!! Macc to Whaley Road I’m guessing as I’m in Stockport. Liked n subbed!!
Great video. 👌 A lot of work went it to that. Big fan of the F31 😊
agree, definetely looking sweet!
Excellent vid, subbed.
Nice video, thought you had 10k subs haha, can i ask a few questions?
Were u looking for estates or did u stumble across?
Why did u prefer the estate over the sedn?
Haha one day I will. And I’ve always loved estate cars. I think it looks 10x better than the saloon and obviously you get the added practicality, plus the automatic tailgate and I’m a child and like being able to open and close it with the key 😂 struggling to think of a car where I actually prefer the looks of the saloon to the estate tbh, it’s just down to preference
Awesome review, thanks so much. Thinking of getting one of these and was wondering people's thoughts on auto vs manual and X Drive vs RWD? Any feedback gratefully received!
Great detailed review!
Is the boot screen/divider standard or additional extra?
Tbh I’m not too sure. Easy to see if it’s there when looking at adverts tho
great review, thankyou.
Looking to get a newish car in Nov when my mot on my audi runs out and I think this estate might be it
I just bought the F31 2016 320d, I hope I didn't make a wrong decision, it has 195.000kms already. I think that LCI already has the B47 moto engine, right? this one is the N47? BTW thanks a lot for the video, was very nice to learn a lot from your videos. Is my first time into the BMW world, before I had an A180, was very happy with the car, but I decide on this one because is bigger and I also have dogs 🤣
Hey- how did that buy pan out> I am pending a 2015 320d with 98,000kms... worried about the high mileage? is yours well? what issues do they have?
thanks for the review
Still love this car
Great video, 2 questions for you,?what year did the facelift come out (looking at a 2015 320d ) and how tall are you just to give an idea of headroom in the back? Thanks
Facelift came out in 2015 so there will be some 15 plate cars that are facelift and some that aren’t. Best way to tell is to look at the rear lights, facelift is a curvy design pre-facelift is like straight lines. And I’m just under 6 ft. Cheers!
I own a 65 plate 36k Luxury model . V rare and speced with £4200 extras. Fantastic £30 a year road tax. Prefer it to the M Sport. My only concern about your car is no badges on the back. Has it been de badged at factory or been rear ended ?
Pretty sure it’s never been in a crash, and I’m fairly sure you can opt to de-badge when buying it new. Looks cleaner imo
"If you want a car to sleep in, get a 5 series" 😆
Fair play. Great video. Have you tested a 330d tourer by any chance?
I haven’t unfortunately but only read good things about them
Brilliant review and car. What was the mileage of your car when you bought it? I'm looking for one and wondering if I should be afraid of high miler. Thanks
Bought on 75k. Now on 103k and still no issues. Just be wary of the timing chain as apparently they can go on the n47 engine (pre facelift). When my warranty runs out in a year I’ll probably get it changed then as preventative maintenance if I’m going to keep the car a long time
Great video, pick my 2014 Touring up on Friday. Quick Q - what phone holder are you using on the vents, just a generic amazon special?
Phone holder is a magnetic one from Mega Mounts. Best phone holder I’ve ever had. You stick a metal plate to the inside of your phone case and then it just sticks
@@jimdcars checking it out now, vents obviously strong enough to hold it? I broke my old vectra ones back in the day.
neat, i love my f31 msport individual -.-
How much faster is the petrol variant?
Have had one of these since Feb 21, love it, am due to replace tyres soon have you tried non runlets & what is the best all round tyre ?
I’ve never had runflats on it, I previously had some ‘landsails’ on the rear and Dunlop’s on the front that came when I bought the car which weren’t amazing. But I’ve since put a full set of Hankook Ventus Evo or something and they’re great, but I only found out after that I could’ve got a full set of Michelin PS4S for the same price from Costco on a special deal that I didn’t find when looking before so I’d go for them
Alot of people on the forums suggest the Michelin PS4. They say it totally transform's the car.
@@jimdcars Landsails?!! 😱
How tall are you for reference?
I think you can make Bluetooth music work with iPhone.
You can but you need the option ‘advanced Bluetooth’
I’m buying the 3 series 320d automatic 2013 it’s on 110000k milles any advice before i go ahead pls your advice means a lot to me as I don’t want to put my money on car with bad engine or knowing for something bad pls help
Just standard stuff for any used car of that mileage really. I’d make sure it’s got full service history, at that mileage I’d maybe check for a gearbox service although BMW say it’s lifetime fluid. Mines on 110k now and not been serviced (yet) and is fine. See when tyres, brakes etc were last changed. Check every electric thing works (my heated seat stopped working a while ago but was just a lose wire), tell the salesman to be quiet on the test drive to listen for knocks/rubbing etc
@@jimdcars thank you so much for the advice i checked the mot history of the car it failed once since in 2019 due to windscreen washer not providing enough fluids the rest of the mot’s are all clean even without advisory i have to choose from the bmw or vw passat 2012 80k on the clock auto 2.0 what you advise me between the two cars
@@maherbboy4949 I don’t know anything about the Passat tbh but have heard they give amazing MPG.
26:52 north west area of GB you mean!
what's that strange sound at 20.31?
How do you handle the seats I'm 6ft3 and find the thigh bolsters horrific. Very uncomfortable
I love the seats. Wouldn’t mind a little more lumbar support but yeah they’re great for me really
@jimdcars I really wish I'd test drove for longer haha. I've noticed my right leg sits lower the seat isn't level is this same on yours?. Hoping its just from previous owner putting weight on right side. But its causing pain in right thigh and ass cheek. I've ordered a new seat from breakers hoping it sorts the issue.
I'm potentially going to get one on 44,000 miles should I be worried about the timing chain?
Mines now at 130k miles and haven’t done the chain so I think you’d have to be quite unlucky for it to go at that mileage
@@jimdcars thx for replying
I have a 320d 2012 luxury manual and there's very little luxurious about it! Don't get a luxury!
Any help would be appreciate, my 2014 f30 2.0d n47 does 28mpg and thats in eco mode with a very light right foot. 76k on the clock and very well looked after, baffled
Sorry pal don’t have a clue with that one! Try joining the F30 owners group on fb and asking there
Probably DPF blocked!
@@playeronearcademode7217 thanks buddy no engine light on, no running issues at speed or at idle,also had a terra clean done,could it still be DPF?????
Can you turn the sport back on after the dsc has been turned off?
Nope
@@jimdcars that's very odd. So the throttle response isn't good when trying to drift/slide it?
@@doubleL_S it’s not bad, but you get the same throttle response as in comfort mode.
hmm I actually prefer the ordinary steering wheel, I must be old and boring;-)
all ye really need innnit
I have got 1 annoying thing about my 2013 320d. in comfort mode the rpm goes back between 1100 - 1300 but that gives a deep vibrating sound ( very hard for my ears) but no feel in the steering wheel. Does this sound familiair to anyone ? AllerAfghaanst tried with tyres and replaced discs and bearings in the propshaft.
You didn't mention anything about the DPF, or the problems with shorter journeys, regeneration or how much extra fuel it burns doing the regeneration. I had to get shut of mine as economy dropped to 30MPG and the DPF completely blocked after 5000miles from new, then 20,000miles. Useless car!
If you’re only doing short journeys you wouldn’t (or shouldn’t) be getting a diesel anyway. I’ve never had any problems with the DPF, if you don’t do short journeys and don’t drive like a granny I think you’ll be fine from what I’ve read! Cheers
We have no problem with shorter journeys day to day 10km and then once in two weeks longer motorway journey 100+km and the car is totally fine having 320d gt m 2014 for about 2 years 150k km no problem
❤
f30s are nothing but plastic. i dont like them. e90 is such a better feel
The zf8 makes the f30 worth it over the e90 though imo.
Awesome review man! And like the man in comments sad: you literally legend cause open trunk features for me as well =)))))
I'm sat here like a little boy on Christmas Eve. I'm off to a dealer to potentially make a deal on a 320d MSport Shadow Edition. Really enjoyed this real world and practical review from someone just like me. Great video, great effort, thanks a lot! Feel very confident that I'm making the right choice. Cheers man.
Did you buy it? I’ve recently bought one
How much it cost If you don’t mind So I Know Roughly
Congratulations man. Did you buy it? How is it?
Yup, just bought one too in blue, this is one damn sexy vehicle 👌
Pick up my blue one today🤗
Hi, I pretty much have the same car. Mine is a year newer but higher miles. Everything you said in the video is spot on, and these are also the things I would tell other people who were considering buying something in this class/sector. The Touring is definitely a better overall car than the saloon In the right colourway. I think the siilver wheels suit the grey or silver metallic paint. Mine is in Estoril blue with Black wheels and like yours it's the shadow edition (de-chromed), so looks quite serious despite only having the 2.0 diesel lump in it. Mine was the Msport x-drive version and I have to say I'm still hitting pretty much the same numbers in terms of combined and motorway miles, but as you mentioned it's all down to driving style and individual factors. The x-drive gives you a lot of confidence going through chicanes. It's ridiculous how well balanced it makes the car when its being thrown around. Downside is that there is no drifting or handbrake turns but at my age that's not a big loss
You are right about the M-sport brakes. For the extra cost of disks and pads I'm happy mine just has the standard setup. It stops perfectly well and i'm not likely to be going round the nurburgring any time soon
The ONLY downside for me, and as someone who does go back and forth to the continent at least three times a year this is quite important. It's the absence of a real spare wheel and somewhere to stow it. BMW decided that run-flats were the solution. But not only do they rumble and whine, they cost an arm and a leg to replace and given how low profile they are if your tyre comes of the rim or you have a blowout you are going to be at the roadside looking up the phone number for your breakdown firm. You can get a spacesaver but it's vital you get one that gives you the same rolling diameter as the original if you have x-drive otherwise you will damage the transfer box. It would have been nice if BMW had incorporated a spare especially in what is usually bought as a motorway miler.
Great video about a great car !!
Thanks for your input, I agree about the spare wheel, seems silly to not put one in. I don’t have run flats as EVERYONE says they completely ruin the ride. I just keep a can of that instant puncture repair stuff you spray inside the tyre in the boot just incase.
Brilliant review. Just what I was looking for, thank you for taking the time to make this.
Thank you!
@@jimdcars just ordered the 320d sport efficient dynamics 2017 plate.
As someone who's thinking of buying a secondhand 3 series touring, this was a really really helpful review. As many others have said, it's far better than most reviews on the car you find online. Thanks! 👍
I cannot express how much I wish we got the manual transmission in the US on the F31
I’m getting one, but had a question. Is it common for these models to have issues with the trunk’s electronics. One, i’m getting, got it fixed, but it’s the second time i’ve heard of this issue.
I unlocked Bluetooth music with my OBD11 reader. Cost £20 in credits
Have you box 🤪🤪😄😄😄
😄😄🤪🤪
Scotland is still part of the Uk and believe me where I live you are glad of the X drive which I have. My 2013 320 X drive diesel has 140k on the clock and it is plenty powerful enough for our roads.
Good video mate and very informative thanks ( funny when you start watching a UA-cam video and then you are like oooo that’s where I live lol ) and I love Buxston road I could drive over it all day long
sorry dude but you're not applying the mode control system in proper way. Actually when you press that mode button on central console, you just change the engine mode but this action should be accompanied by change of gearbox mode as well so when you choose sport or sport plus mode, better to push the gear lever to left as well and then you can feel the real change of the mode.
This is an excellent review. I'd watch your reviews on any car. So so useful and all the things missing from other reviews. Wow.
Subscribed at 11:24 very detailed review, even though he looks he tells people his job title is ‘Bitcoin Expert’
Hey are you thinking about getting it tune? Would love to see some 1/4 mile time from stock to tune. Cheers
Great video mate, and on my local roads!
Just purchased one of these 200k full service history auto gray like yours with a front mperformance lip and skirts
Get a good fire extinguisher if you have n47/B47 engine.
Thanks for the honesty review.. much appreciated
Excellent review. Really like your style and detail you provide, spot on. Just ordered one and and waiting on it getting delivered 😁
Great review!! Just what I'm looking for.
Great Video Jim, nicely done.
That road is the cat n fiddle 😎
Hi mate great video, i have just purchased 2014 320d GT 75k miles on clock. Do you find on intially flooring the accelerator from a stand still there is a slight delay/ not full power given straight away? I Have tried all modes and still seems same. Also done launch control like you done in your video as mine has that feature too. And it is better but still very smooth and linear on take off. In your video yours looks pretty agressive which what i was hoping mine would be like. Once out of 1st gear, I feel it starting to pull strong then. I am wondering if it is normal or a potential issue. Timed a 0 to 60 at about 8.2 seconds. Spec sheet says 7.9 sec. But i do have the m plus pack bigger wheels ect. So wondering if that can effect acceleration also.
Just trying to figure out if all normal or just mine.. hope to here back from you cheers
Yeah unless you’re holding the brake and throttle to launch it there is a bit of a delay. Think it’s just turbo lag, I find if you’re over 2k rpm it’s fine but it can be kinda annoying pulling off from roundabouts having no power then loads of power after a delay
@jimdcars cheers mate you have put me at ease a bit now. I was concerned it was just my car, but if yours is similar and i have just read a few forums saying similar
What are your thoughts about 320i xdrive sport in terms of performance and mileage? Thanks!
I haven’t driven one so can’t comment. If you do long journeys go for the diesel. You don’t need xdrive in the uk imo just makes the car heavier and less economical
@@jimdcars Thanks!
Like #1K :)
Do you push the gear to the left (M/S) when driving in sport mode?
Sometimes, depends how I’m feeling lol
Appreciate the indepth video! Would you say there are not many other problems other than the timing chain issue? How is your car holding up now? 😄
I’ve just hit 130k miles and 4 years of ownership and there’s been a few things… I’ve had 3 buckled wheels, the vibration damper broke, a rear wheel bearing, rear shocks (faily sure the fronts need doing as well now) and all the front suspension arms. But no serious mechanical issues. Might make an update video soon
@@jimdcars good to hear nothing major has gone bad! I’m currently driving a 15’ MB CLA ShootingBrake 55k miles, within 1 year of causal driving and one car trip to a rural farmhouse one ABS sensor went bad(fixed), now the rear wiper spray thingy won’t spray, center console box won’t close, car sometimes have AC problem during winter times, and huge condensation in headlight during winter as well😅 really keen on trying this BMW if I get the chance.
@@chasew.l.5808 that’s not good at 55k miles at all!
Is this the 2014 pre facelift model.. and GT Version..????
This is a 2013 pre facelift touring, not a GT
@@jimdcars cool cool.!!!
I bought my f31 320d lux having seen your service video. 2 months and over 4K miles. Upto now it’s been ace and can return 63mpg (dash figures) with just over 700 mile range. Not bad for a 8 year old 108k miles team bus. 👌 great vids btw 👍
Thanks man! I’ll normally get just over 500 miles from a tank so 700 is amazing if you ask me! Great cars
A real education on many Q's I didn't know or wasn't sure on.
Many Thanks fella, top stuff.
Hey Jim, Thank you for this content. it has been so helpful!
I'm currently looking at a nearly identical car on auto trader , but with 124k on the clock. It hasn't had it's timing belt done. Some forums are saying don't leave it past 100k. Have you now had yours done 1.5 years after this video? Are you still owner?
Hi mate, I still own the car and it’s just passed it’s mot with no advisories at 114k miles and on the original chain (as far as I’m aware). As long as you’ve got full service history you should be fine, I think it was the E9x generation N47 engine that was more problematic. I’ve just had to replace front thrust/control arms as the bushes were worn giving me a vague steering feel, and a track rod end ball joint boot had torn. Then the rear wheel bearing has started making a little noise but the garage said it’s nothing to worry about yet. Other than that it’s been very reliable for the (almost) 3 years and 40k miles I’ve owned it. I do a full service when it tells me to and an oil change in between which is usually very 7/8k miles and runs perfect. Hope this helps
@@jimdcars super helpful. thank you mate!
Mate does it come with HK speakers?
My car doesn’t but it was an option, I’m sure you’ll be able to find a car with the HK system
@@jimdcars I’ve been looking at a 13 plate 320d msport and cannot for the life of me figure out if they do on the 13 plate… how’s the sound system on yours any way?
@@THEfrostyKID basically if it’s got HK it’ll have small speakers in the corner of the front windows/in line with the wing mirror and I think they say Harmon Kardon on them as well. The sound on mine is okay, it’s not incredible but it’s deffo not shit, I don’t feel the need to upgrade it really unless I want to feel the bass
I sold me XF and bought an M sport 320d. Lovely car and looks the part with the M Performance kit on it, but it is definitely a stiff ride.