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I am considering buying a previous canadian car BMW is it hard to resell
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2004 BMW 3 Series Reviews, Pricing & Specs
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User reviews for 2004 BMW 3 Series
Write a reviewUser rating:
by John G
Sep 03, 2022
The ride was smoother than I expected since its a sport car and it handles corners stiff and solid. The sound system is amazing even for a cconvertable.Sep 03, 2022
by William R
Jun 13, 2022
Car is one of the best performing sedans/coupes on the used car market, with quality and value that are hard to beat.Jun 13, 2022
by John P
Dec 17, 2021
This generation of the 3 series was one of BMWs best. Classic styling, power, performance. Theyve aged well and held their value. Dec 17, 2021
User rating:
by John G
Sep 03, 2022
The ride was smoother than I expected since its a sport car and it handles corners stiff and solid. The sound system is amazing even for a cconvertable.Sep 03, 2022
by William R
Jun 13, 2022
Car is one of the best performing sedans/coupes on the used car market, with quality and value that are hard to beat.Jun 13, 2022
by John P
Dec 17, 2021
This generation of the 3 series was one of BMWs best. Classic styling, power, performance. Theyve aged well and held their value. Dec 17, 2021
by Anonymous
May 12, 2015
While the car is nicely appointed for its age, the driving experience of the car is what makes it stand out and it's why I bought it. The manual transmission was critical to the purchase as it allows me to throw the car around for a fun drifting thrill. The engine is strong enough for fighting doldrums. The Harmon Kardon amplification and sound system creates a most pleasant atmosphere whether Classic Rock or Symphonic is blarring over it. Seat are just right for my body build and weight.May 12, 2015
by Stuart B
Dec 21, 2014
Fun car to drive - brilliant balance between ride and handling, good looking vehicle, great color combination for Southern climates, superb handling in heavy rain, mind blowing sound system, heated front seats for winter driving, all amenities of German engineering and styling, Dec 21, 2014
by Joseph A
Nov 20, 2014
I have loved this car since I've had it. With 113k Ive only had to put $400 in it to keep it driving perfectly! Few cars can be this much luxury, performance, handling and elegance in one package but this one pulls it off.Nov 20, 2014
by Anonymous
Nov 29, 2013
Car is awesome. Drives great sticks to the road. I have nothing bad to say about the car, its a v6 but in my opinion is still good on gas. it looks amazing inside and out. The nice thing about driving a bmw is that not everyone has one, everywhere you look there are civics and toyotas (I own a 97 camry as well and LOVE that car is tough as nails 450k one motor still runs like a top.) bmw's are a true treat to drive!Nov 29, 2013
by Anonymous
Aug 13, 2013
This car handles great, it is a blast to drive. It looks like a four door M3, which wasn't offered in 2004. It has the M Wheels and Body Kit which were big pluses in the styling department. It is built solid and doesn't have any rattles or clanks common with a lot of cars. I think the quality of the build is the reason it hasn't had any major maintenance issues. Aside from oil changes, new tires, new brakes there hasn't been anything wrong with the car. The gas mileage ranges from about 17 with very spirited driving and about 29 on the highway.
It has enough power to give you a rush while driving hard, but is just as comfortable putting around town.
All in all it has been a phenomenal car. I would recommend it to anyone that wants a sporty but practical four door car. Long trips are fine with the extra space of the backseat and trunk, but fun enough to make a trip to the mountains for some tight twisty roads worth while.Aug 13, 2013
by J Z
Jun 20, 2013
I've owned alot of cars and this is, as a whole, my favorite. Everyone should own a BMW three series at least once, otherwise, what would you compare all the other cars against? They say its the ultimate driveing machine for a reason. The balance is unmatched.Jun 20, 2013
by Leo A
Sep 10, 2012
This car is AMAZING! I have the 325CI i with automatic transmission, the sport package and the premium Harman Kardon sound system(Which sounds like a movie theatre in your car). I've had the car a little over two years ago and bought it with aprox. 56,000 miles. The exterior styling is timeless, the interior is of higher quality materials and the engine and body are very solid. Other than that I've been very happy with this car and will probably purchase another one when the time comes. This car is for someone who wants look really nice driving in it. Business sport package. The PRO-CARSep 10, 2012
by phary s
Aug 13, 2012
Like I said there is nothing I would change about this car. Since I had it I was never really disappointed by it performance. It handle great on the wet roads. It fun to drive with the SMG gear box. You wont be disappointed with it performance.Aug 13, 2012
by Jason G
Feb 14, 2012
330i ZHP (performance pkg) is an incredible car. Lots of perfomance without paying for an "M". 6 speed trans, upgraded suspension, M trim and ZHP specific wheels make it a standout. IMO, the E46 bodystyle is the second best 3 series (only the e30 beats it). Feb 14, 2012
by WillPWR W
Oct 22, 2011
In 2004, BMW started a special package, code named the ZHP, as an optional upgrade to the already best-selling 3 series. It is called the performance package; which adds 4 bhp and 8 lb-ft of torque to the original engine, making the final 235 bph and 222 lb-ft of torque. In addition, a more aggressively tuned sports suspension and various upgrades that bridges the gap between the 330i and the M3. It is a pleasant addition; not only does it feel better in terms of road holding, the engine feels a lot more lively than a regular 3 series. This is a sports sedan that can haul your family (albeit slightly small), and yet it turns into a sports car on the track and the mountain roads. BMW has yet again made a great addition to its already great 3 series line.Oct 22, 2011
by Marc E
Oct 20, 2011
It's the best of the best cars !!!
Performance - perfect acceleration, braking and handling
Build Quality - has it needed repairs? no! Over 200'000 km and no repair!!!
Appearance - both interior and exterior styling absolutly cool
Fun Factor - is this car fun to drive? Oh yeah, it's magic!
Oct 20, 2011
by Anonymous
Feb 03, 2011
Love the handling, its definitely a point and shoot car that hugs the road.
In manual "sport" mode the car is much more fun to drive. No squeaks or
rattles, this car is solid. Although it's an entry level Bimmer, it doesn't
disappoint.Feb 03, 2011
by Kornel S
Nov 06, 2010
Excellent quality and speed, the appearance is going to be changed soon so its gonna be 5 stars.. I just love it, although its not a 320i - it's a diesel.. but there was no such choice. Rear wheel drive and a torque of 340 Nm need I say more?Nov 06, 2010
by John K
Oct 21, 2010
Used to own a 1995 325IS and now I won this one and I am very pleased. The interior seems alot more roomy. Performance is very good whether you need to accelerate to overtake a person on the highway or your putting it through corners this car is well rounded is a notch above the competition. This car is very fun to drive. Whether your accelerating in a straight line or putting it through corners you will not be disappointed by this car. When BMW claims to be the ultimate driving machine they are right. I will probably only buy BMW from now on.Oct 21, 2010
by Leon v
Jun 17, 2010
5 stars for all categories sums it up. Ive had C-class, A4, Mondeo, Volvo, Golf GTi and more. But none, not one gives the feel of solidness and control more than this car did. The sound and performance of that straight 6, the solid thunk when the doors closed, the 100% trouble-free motoring. The 100000km motorplan offered with the car is back-up by efficient, professional and friendly staff.
The car would have been perfect if it had a more rear space for passengers, a bigger boot or even just a folding down rear seat. But those are minor issues. Everytime I get into a new BM with its run-flats and odd-looking interior I miss my old 325 again. I should NEVER have sold this one and I seriously miss it!Jun 17, 2010
by Kemit M
Feb 27, 2010
I have always owned Honda or Toyota. They are good, reliable vehicles, but not exciting to drive. When I drive my BMW I almost always have a smile on my face. The handing, steering response is so amazing. This what the Japanese aspire to, but never really qiute get. The horsepower is good(less than my son's TL), but the torque from the straight 6cyl is one of the reasons it is so much fun to drive. It is so soild feeling, even when going 105mph(going to Vegas). The styling is the best, one of the most attractive, for a vehicle that is not a supercar.
I have not needed any major repairs, just replaced drive belts, in 62k. The only downside is the price of replacing the tires($880), but all in all a great car.Feb 27, 2010
by Richard M
Dec 30, 2009
Reliable and solid.
Less frequent maintainance-oil changes every 15,000 miles
Nice growly sounding engine.
Loaded with all the options.
Rear-wheel-drive - good snow tires a must!
Roomy interior and trunk for a convertible.
Soft top has glass rear window with defrost- rare!Dec 30, 2009
by Anonymous
Aug 05, 2009
The car envelopes you inside of it and becomes like an extension of your being. It responds to every driver input like its receiving neurological inputs from your brain's synapses. It almost dares you to explore its limitations which one really has to push to reach. Where mortal cars will go skidding off the road, the BMW 325Ci, with sport package, digs in and asks, "is that all you got?" Aug 05, 2009
by Lajitha M
Jul 10, 2009
Excellent car although it s my hubby's car.
Amazing brakes. Feels safe driving a BMW.
according to my husband low maintenance.
Just did two services in almost 3 yrs. It just cost us DHS 2000. Service is done on 25000 kms only !!!Jul 10, 2009
by Dustin M
May 25, 2009
The BMW 325ci convertible is car #14 for me but has ended up being the car that I've had the most. This is probably due to the fact that I've actually loved the car more than the others, from its german design, to the tight steering, to the sleek appearance. It gets alot of looks.. especially w the top down! Definately a nice sweet ride that drives like a nice sunday afternoon ride... on speed! hahaMay 25, 2009
by Casey C
Jan 15, 2009
I love driving, and my car is a joy to drive. It's solid
and handles curvy roads with aplomb, as I drive
around wine country or along the breathtaking
California coast. The car has been very reliable thus
far as well; I haven't encountered any issues, and I
just keep up with routine maintenance. But, there's
an element of practicality as well with the wagon
body. I can go to the store or on a trip and fill it up
with friends and goods/supplies, or to the winery
and fill it up with cases. To sum it up, it hauls!Jan 15, 2009
by Michael W
Dec 19, 2008
This is the model that was produced until 2005-06, and is my favorite 3-series. This is my fourth one, and my first all-wheel drive. Love everything except the clutch on this one. I think I like the RWD better, or maybe the previous owner just conditioned this clutch to be grabby. Otherwise, a spectacular car.Dec 19, 2008
by Peter C
Dec 01, 2008
I love everything about my car. Handling, acceleration, trim, looks, colour.
I get about 30 miles to the gallon average and about 17000 miles between services. Heating system and A/C are really great and I love the heated seats. Great fun to drive and always feels safe. Sounds good too.Dec 01, 2008
by Won-kyu K
Aug 12, 2008
Best 3 series in the histroy of BMW. Mine is touring for pracicality and inline 6 for performance.
Gas milage is a little disappointing, but not too bad.
In overall, it really fits my lifestyle and needs.
It's got a sports package (sports wheel, sports suspension, sports body kit, sports seat and M-steering wheel).Aug 12, 2008
by Will N
Aug 09, 2008
Excellent 5 speed car. Inline 6 cylinder -has everything to make the everyday drive pleasurable, excellent handling, shifts smoothly, gets 24-30 mpg. Performs like it should... haven't had to do any maintenance whatsoever... Makes everyday or long trip driving fun, very fun on curves B+ overall rating! Not a ton of power but enough for nowAug 09, 2008
by Michael G
Aug 09, 2008
A great car that I wished I had kept. E46 is best modern chassis BMW has built, though 325Ci was a bit down on power. Best combo of form, function, and comfort - plus fun to drive! Better engineered than the E92, which has too many electronic gadgets that replace perfectly good mechanicals and detract from the overall package. Aug 09, 2008
by Dmitriy D
Jul 29, 2008
The E46 3-series really shines with the Performance Package (ZHP) factory option. Everything about the car becomes tighter and more precise - the steering, braking, chassis response, transmission, and to a small extent even the power. This is what the E46 was meant to be from the start.
Problems with interior trim vibrating cropped up way earlier than they did on my 2000 328i, and the dealership was useless in tracking down a strange transmission/clutch noise. Other problems are minor including control arm bushings wearing out too quickly and the like. Let us not forget the debacle with the E46 subframe failures either!Jul 29, 2008
by Colin B
Jul 21, 2008
Had this car for a while, really nice, a few too many kms on it when I got it. Good on fuel and fund to drive, with a great engine note, and a cool exhaust noise on overrun. Handling was tops, and nice big alloys on it, that were a pain in the butt to keep clean. Nice cream leather interior.Jul 21, 2008
by Kev T
Jul 18, 2008
Performance, acceleration, braking, handling all pretty good
Build Quality is really good
Appearance, both interior and exterior is good
Fun Factor, this car is fun and comfortable to drive
If you want a nice looking, good performing, solid car for work or for yourself, then this car's for you
The photo shows the car as it was when I first bought. It was a nice looking car in good condition, and the BMW reliability reputation was a clincher for the saleJul 18, 2008
by Kevin K
Jul 17, 2008
Fun to drive, safe, well made, you know BMW's, German made (as you probably already know), performs well and is fast, surprisingly fuel efficient for a fast car, very cool car, battery is in the trunk, jumper cable hookups in the front, powerful engine, rear wheel drive, and brakes are good, control radio volume and cruise on steering wheel, digital pedometer and average mpg.Jul 17, 2008
by Meng T
Jul 15, 2008
It still runs perfectly after 4 years. Sturdy handling around curves, good pickup speed on freeway, and smooth suspension for comfortable ride. Strong body with exception of front bumper. Hit a cuve so had to change bumper once. One of the cheaper to maintain cars in BMW line-up. Considered the M3 initially....2x the price and i3X the insurance of 330i. Will definitely own another BMW in the near future. Probably the BMW 550.....for the family. Jul 15, 2008
by Vaheed A
Jul 08, 2008
The 330cd combined good looks with reasonable practicality and a sense of occasion when driven to it's limit. Re-mapped - this very capable diesel car turns into a sports car bashing power house. Jul 08, 2008
by Alexander P
Jun 29, 2008
The best car I had so far. Fantastic engine and superb handling.Jun 29, 2008
by Kevin S
May 18, 2008
Drove the 325i on a closed course for C&D Mag, and it proved to be the best car on the course. Acceleration, handling, braking, looks, luxury...you get it all. I dont know how it holds up for long miles, but the time I drove it I loved it.May 18, 2008
by Anonymous
Jul 07, 2007
This is our first BMW. We couldn't afford a a new one so we bought a 2004 325i with 39,000 miles. It has the Premium and Sport packages along with the SMG Transmission. It's fun to drive in town, on the back roads, and the highway. The transmission is a blast. The only downer is I'm a big guy and it's a little difficult getting in and out of the car. We had to have two ignition coils replaced and the service provided by the BMW dealer was excellent. No charge for the work and a new 325i loaner. I'm impressed with the car and will get another. The only problem is I don't like the styling on the new models. Jul 07, 2007
What users have asked
Is this bmw 2004 325xi worth buying?
I seen this ad for this 2004 bmw 325xi with 204k I am wondering what should i ask him in order to decide if its worth buying. From what you see from this ad , what can you determine or expect? Anything i should be aware of? LINK AD : http://worcester.craigslist.org/cto/4098645717.html
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Water in transmission fluid, will not go into reverse, "limp mode"
After driving through a very large puddle, water got into my transmission fluid. Since parking (only driven less than 1 mile after puddle), the transmission light is now on, and the car will not go into reverse. Any suggestions on trouble shooting, short of rebuilding?
57 views
Top Comparisons
Have you driven a 2004 BMW 3 Series?Compare this car
2004 BMW 3 Series Pricing
Original MSRP
$28,795 to $44,795Price range
$7,967 to $8,547Average price on CG
$7,967YoY price change
$8,242 to $7,967Trims & specs
Air Conditioning
Automatic climate control front air conditioning
Airbags
Dual front airbags · Front side airbags · Front side curtain airbags
Audio System
Single disc in-Dash CD · Premium Brand: Harman-Kardon · AM/FM radio
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel
Comfort Features
Steering wheel trim: leather
Convenience Features
Memorized settings: driver seat · Multi-function remote: trunk release · Steering wheel: tilt and telescopic · Steering wheel mounted controls: audio
Lights
Exterior entry lights: security approach lamps · Headlights: Auto on/off
Mirrors
Exterior mirrors: heated · Inside rearview mirror: electrochromic
Rear Seats
Type: bench
Roof
Moonroof: power
Safety
Parking sensors: rear
Seats
Front seat type: bucket · Heated: front seats · Upholstery: leather
Tires and Rims
Wheel type: aluminum alloy
Windows
Front wipers: rain sensing
Air Conditioning
Automatic climate control front air conditioning
Airbags
Dual front airbags · Rear side airbags · Front side curtain airbags
Audio System
Single disc in-Dash CD · Premium Brand: Harman-Kardon · AM/FM radio
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel
Comfort Features
Steering wheel trim: leather
Convenience Features
Memorized settings: driver seat · Multi-function remote: trunk release · Steering wheel: tilt and telescopic · Steering wheel mounted controls: audio
Lights
Exterior entry lights: security approach lamps · Headlights: Auto on/off
Mirrors
Exterior mirrors: power · Inside rearview mirror: electrochromic
Rear Seats
Type: bench
Roof
Moonroof: power
Safety
Parking sensors: rear
Seats
Front seat type: bucket · Heated: front seats · Upholstery: vinyl
Tires and Rims
Wheel type: aluminum alloy
Windows
Front wipers: intermittent
Air Conditioning
Automatic climate control front air conditioning
Airbags
Dual front airbags · Front side airbags · Front side curtain airbags
Audio System
Single disc in-Dash CD · Premium Brand: Harman-Kardon · AM/FM radio
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel
Comfort Features
Shift knob trim: leather · Steering wheel trim: leather
Convenience Features
Memorized settings: driver seat · Multi-function remote: keyless entry · Steering wheel: tilt and telescopic · Steering wheel mounted controls: audio
Lights
Exterior entry lights: security approach lamps · Headlights: Xenon
Mirrors
Exterior mirrors: power · Inside rearview mirror: electrochromic
Rear Seats
Type: split-bench
Roof
Moonroof: power
Safety
Parking sensors: rear
Seats
Front seat type: bucket · Heated: front seats · Upholstery: leather
Tires and Rims
Wheel type: aluminum alloy
Windows
Front wipers: rain sensing
Air Conditioning
Automatic climate control front air conditioning
Airbags
Dual front airbags · Rear side airbags · Front side curtain airbags
Audio System
Single disc in-Dash CD · Premium Brand: Harman-Kardon · AM/FM radio
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel
Comfort Features
Steering wheel trim: leather
Convenience Features
Memorized settings: driver seat · Multi-function remote: keyless entry · Steering wheel: tilt and telescopic · Steering wheel mounted controls: audio
Lights
Exterior entry lights: security approach lamps · Headlights: Xenon
Mirrors
Exterior mirrors: power · Inside rearview mirror: electrochromic
Rear Seats
Type: split-bench
Roof
Moonroof: power glass · Roof rack color: black
Safety
Parking sensors: rear
Seats
Front seat type: bucket · Heated: front seats · Upholstery: vinyl
Tires and Rims
Wheel type: aluminum alloy
Windows
Front wipers: intermittent
Air Conditioning
Automatic climate control front air conditioning
Airbags
Dual front airbags · Rear side airbags · Front side curtain airbags
Audio System
Single disc in-Dash CD · Premium Brand: Harman-Kardon · AM/FM radio
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel
Comfort Features
Steering wheel trim: leather
Convenience Features
Memorized settings: driver seat · Multi-function remote: trunk release · Steering wheel: tilt and telescopic · Steering wheel mounted controls: audio
Lights
Exterior entry lights: security approach lamps · Headlights: Xenon
Mirrors
Exterior mirrors: power · Inside rearview mirror: electrochromic
Rear Seats
Type: split-bench
Roof
Moonroof: power glass · Roof rack color: black
Safety
Parking sensors: rear
Seats
Front seat type: bucket · Heated: front seats · Upholstery: leather
Tires and Rims
Wheel type: aluminum alloy
Windows
Front wipers: intermittent
Air Conditioning
Automatic climate control front air conditioning
Airbags
Dual front airbags · Rear side airbags · Front side curtain airbags
Audio System
Single disc in-Dash CD · Premium Brand: Harman-Kardon · AM/FM radio
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel
Comfort Features
Steering wheel trim: leather
Convenience Features
Memorized settings: driver seat · Multi-function remote: keyless entry · Steering wheel: tilt and telescopic · Steering wheel mounted controls: audio
Lights
Exterior entry lights: security approach lamps · Headlights: Auto on/off
Mirrors
Exterior mirrors: power · Inside rearview mirror: electrochromic
Rear Seats
Type: bench
Roof
Moonroof: power
Safety
Parking sensors: rear
Seats
Front seat type: bucket · Heated: front seats · Upholstery: vinyl
Tires and Rims
Wheel type: aluminum alloy
Windows
Front wipers: rain sensing
Air Conditioning
Automatic climate control front air conditioning
Airbags
Dual front airbags · Rear side airbags · Front side curtain airbags
Audio System
Single disc in-Dash CD · Premium Brand: Harman-Kardon · AM/FM radio
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel
Comfort Features
Shift knob trim: leather · Steering wheel trim: leather
Convenience Features
Memorized settings: driver seat · Multi-function remote: keyless entry · Steering wheel: tilt and telescopic · Steering wheel mounted controls: audio
Lights
Exterior entry lights: security approach lamps · Headlights: Xenon
Mirrors
Exterior mirrors: power · Inside rearview mirror: electrochromic
Rear Seats
Type: split-bench
Roof
Moonroof: power
Safety
Parking sensors: rear
Seats
Front seat type: bucket · Heated: front seats · Upholstery: vinyl
Tires and Rims
Wheel type: aluminum alloy
Windows
Front wipers: rain sensing
Air Conditioning
Automatic climate control front air conditioning
Airbags
Dual front airbags · Front side airbags · Front side curtain airbags
Audio System
Single disc in-Dash CD · Premium Brand: Harman-Kardon · AM/FM radio
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel
Comfort Features
Steering wheel trim: leather
Convenience Features
Memorized settings: driver seat · Multi-function remote: trunk release · Steering wheel: tilt and telescopic · Steering wheel mounted controls: audio
Lights
Exterior entry lights: security approach lamps · Headlights: Xenon
Mirrors
Exterior mirrors: heated · Inside rearview mirror: electrochromic
Rear Seats
Type: bench
Roof
Moonroof: power
Safety
Parking sensors: rear
Seats
Front seat type: bucket · Heated: front seats · Upholstery: leather
Tires and Rims
Wheel type: aluminum alloy
Windows
Front wipers: intermittent
Air Conditioning
Automatic climate control front air conditioning
Airbags
Dual front airbags · Front side airbags
Audio System
Single disc in-Dash CD · Premium Brand: Harman-Kardon · AM/FM radio
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel
Comfort Features
Shift knob trim: leather · Steering wheel trim: leather
Convenience Features
Memorized settings: driver seat · Multi-function remote: trunk release · Steering wheel: tilt and telescopic · Steering wheel mounted controls: audio
Lights
Exterior entry lights: security approach lamps · Headlights: Xenon
Mirrors
Exterior mirrors: heated · Inside rearview mirror: electrochromic
Rear Seats
Type: bench
Roof
Convertible roof: power
Safety
Parking sensors: rear
Seats
Front seat type: bucket · Heated: front seats · Upholstery: leather
Tires and Rims
Wheel type: aluminum alloy
Windows
Front wipers: intermittent
Air Conditioning
Automatic climate control front air conditioning
Airbags
Dual front airbags · Rear side airbags
Audio System
Single disc in-Dash CD · Premium Brand: Harman-Kardon · AM/FM radio
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel
Comfort Features
Shift knob trim: leather · Steering wheel trim: leather
Convenience Features
Memorized settings: driver seat · Multi-function remote: keyless entry · Steering wheel: tilt and telescopic · Steering wheel mounted controls: audio
Lights
Exterior entry lights: security approach lamps · Headlights: Xenon
Mirrors
Exterior mirrors: power · Inside rearview mirror: electrochromic
Rear Seats
Type: bench
Roof
Convertible roof: soft top
Safety
Parking sensors: rear
Seats
Front seat type: bucket · Heated: front seats · Upholstery: leather
Tires and Rims
Wheel type: aluminum alloy
Windows
Front wipers: intermittent