I own a 1999 BMW 323I. Recently, the check engine light keeps coming on along with the sign for the transmission (the exclamation in the circle). Then the power was significantly reduced which didn't allow me to drive over 40 mph. I took it to the BMW dealer near my home and after they ran the expensive diagnostic test they still weren't sure what the problem was. However, they said they received a bulletin from BMW telling them that resetting the computer for the torque and transmission would fix the problem. However, this was only a temporary fix, as it only lasted for one week. The light still came on and they still don't know what the problem is. This frustrates me that the BMW dealer doesn't know what the problem is. I know of several other BMW owners and they have the same problem. They all have traded their cars in for a Honda or some other Japanese made car, which I am considering too! however, I shouldn't have to resort to this, as I have spent a lot of money for this luxury car and would like to keep it. Nevertheless, I believe this is a manufacturing problem, as many electrical problems among others have been reported by BMW owners and dealers. A co-worker's had a '98 325 and had only about 70K miles on it and she had major engine problems and spent about $3500 dollars and the problem still wasn't fixed. So, she trade hers in for a Honda. I spent about $400 and my problem is still not fixed. I am hesitant to pour any more money into fixing my car especially, after my friend spent much more and hers wasn't fixed, and when the mechanics aren't sure what the fix is. I believe this is an across the board type of problem with many if not all BMW's and the manufacturer doesn't want to admit it. Just go to bmwcomplaints.com to see for yourself. I would like an investigation into this problem and a recall to fix these serious problems.

- Silver Spring, MD, USA

I believe that carmax sold me a lemon. It is a 1999 BMW 323ci, was purchased used at the independence boulevard store on Nov 28, 2003, with 57,097 miles. The purchase price was $21,420 including a $1,699 extended warranty for 3yrs/36000. Automobile warranty agreement number: 7106508410. Since shortly after purchase, there have been excessive and expensive defects, including safety items. The car has broken down, failed to start, required towing, and the control panel flashes spurious warnings. Despite the warranty, and despite my requests to carmax, critical repairs have not been performed. Safety defects still occur and are not being repaired by carmax (I.e. current control panel warning for lights). Major mechanical items are not being performed under warranty (e.g. transmission). This has all occurred in less than a year, and with less than 5,000 miles of my driving. Summary of repairs since purchase: 12/17/0357,561mi.air bag light fault, seat belt, electrical & control panel 12/23/0457,694rear defroster, electrical, window replaced, worn brakes 06/04/0459,565horn replaced, fuses & electrical 9/10/0461,230clutch replaced, warning lights, control panel failure light intermittently comes on (has not been fixed) the car is currently unsafe to drive...reference the control panel warning indicator that carmax cannot analyze nor repair. The history of safety problems include fuses, air bag, electrical system, and horn. Summary: I was sold a "lemon" and have an unsafe automobile. I require a safe car to drive, and I want to stop paying for repeated defects and breakdowns. Recommemded solution: I suggest that either: (a) the car be returned for a full refund, including reimbursement for the cost of all defects, or; (B) I be reimbursed for all defects and that the terms of the 30 day warranty be extended to November 29, 2006.

- Charlotte, NC, USA