[PJ]

I'll start by saying that I've never owned a German car before.

A friend of mine has a B6 A4, and the constant problems he's having is enough to scare me away from ever looking at a used Audi.

That said, are BMW's in the same boat? I'm aware that they're not as reliable and hassle-free as most Japanese cars, but are they really that unreliable?

I'm asking because a friend of a friend is selling his E46 325i for a price that's very hard to resist. All maintenance is done on time, he has all records from every visit, and the condition is drool worthy.

I've only owned Japanese cars, and I've done most of the regular maintenance on them myself. I understand that a German car would require more attention, but coming from exclusively Japanese cars, would I just get frustrated and want to push the BMW off a cliff in a few months? Is maintenance on them pretty straight forward? Or am I going to need 13 new tools and an hour to do an oil change?

I'll admit I haven't done much research, so maybe some owners can chime in?

Thanks in advance, RS.

[westopher]

Treat them well, and they will treat you well. My "shitbox" vw has not been a shitbox. It depends on what people define as unreliable. Electronics are notoriously frustrating in german cars. The more options, the more I'd be nervous. I've only ever owned 3 cars, and they were all german, and I wouldn't call a single one of them unreliable. Stupid stuff seemed to break. Window switches, door handle strikers, automatically raising spoilers, but engine and drivetrain I never had any issues. I think a car as popular as the e46 is a safe bet. Used parts are plentiful and bmw engines are notorious for lasting when maintained.

[dared3vil0]

You have to remember the whole "German cars are very unreliable" stem mostly from people not maintaining a vehicle and complaining when shit breaks. If you ensure it's in good condition mechanically... Well obviously you aren't going to be breaking down every week. Buy some E46 M3 someone has beaten the living shit out of for the past ~10 years and took in for a servicing once a year? Pretty self explanatory...

[dark0821]

Ive seen my fair share of E46s, 2 of my pretty close friends have one, as far as the transmission (manual) or the engine goes, if its maintained, I would say they are if not more reliable than japanese cars.

But one thing you do need to keep in mind is that even stupid stuff from BMW costs a stupid amount. like any sort of sensor on that car is gonna cost you probably about twice as much compared to JDM stuff. But almost all regular maintenance are pretty straight forward and can be done with a regular tool set. If you are doing any major things, then YES, BMW does have alot of BMW specific special tools (which I have never encounter with my 240SX, done think my 240 has any model specific tool) Good luck, things do cost a bit more (insurance/parts), but nothing really outrageous in my opinion. Off course I could be wrong because well, ya I have never personally owned one =P

[bcrdukes]

They suck. Send your friend's car my way. :troll:

[greendb7]

I've owned an E46 M3 for the past 4 years and I've had practically zero issues whatsoever, except the exception of 1 relay gone bad.
Get one with a good service history and you're golden.

[PJ]

Thanks guys.

I've never really thought about any car being that unreliable. But the two friends I have who drive the A4 and an X5, I swear, it's like every time I see them, they have a new issue.

From some quick research it seems like the most common problems are regarding the thermostat and cooling system.

Most of the fixes seem pretty doable, and help online is very available, probably due to the wide demand :lawl:

I'll admit I'm getting a little nervous, but it's SOOOOoo pretty :love:
This is reminding me of when I dated my first high maintenance Vancouver broad.

[ts14]

e46 are pretty reliable if u take care of it well and parts do cost a shit load, i still remember changing out the damn $300 battery. but other than that, it was a good car

[The_AK]

I'm surprised no one has mentioned sub-frame issues...

[PJ]

Subframe issues on the E46 seem to only be evident from drivers who track their cars or extensively drive like morons.

Either way, it's an easy check for previous damage.

[Tapioca]

The subframe issue is something to watch out for on early build E46s: 1999-2000.

The E46 (and E39) are the last BMWs that are DIY-friendly. Parts are readily available (and cheap if you know where to source them other than the stealer) and information about how to handle routine maintenance to complex problems is available all over the internet. With that said, the E46 was designed to last the duration of the warranty period and since most examples are now around 10 years old, you will run into some issues that require attention. Here is what you need to take care of when you acquire an example (if it hasn't been done by a previous owner):

- Cooling system refresh: thermostat, water pump, expansion tank, and hoses (roughly 300 bucks in parts from a supplier in the States)
- Valve cover gasket (20 bucks and 2-3 hours labour). My cover was warped and the cover cost me about 220.
- Crankcase vent valve: 100 buck part and about 4 hours in labour
- Worn guibo: part is about 50 bucks and will require you to drop the exhaust to change

Considering the condition of the car, you may also need to overhaul the suspension:
- Control arms
- All bushings

I would of course want to see routine transmission, brake, and differential fluid changes. And don't forget about the possibility of having to replace window regulators (about 130 a pop.)

Are E46s reliable? Compared to other BMWs, relatively. Are they reliable like Japanese cars? No because BMWs are engineered differently. My theory is that you pay a penalty for driving feel and that penalty is preventative maintenance. But, if you're willing to put in the time (or spend the money), the E46 is a very enjoyable car. Again, it's really one of the last cars that drives and feels like a BMW.

[NLY]

Like many have already stated, the E46 when maintained properly fares not less reliable than it's Japanese counterparts, although most parts do cost sufficiently more.

One thing I did notice though (and I'm sure many people don't care) is the gas mileage isn't the greatest. I remember fill ups were about $90 ish and the tank would only last 350-400 km, not completely terrible but basically on-par with my Lexus RX350 (3075 lbs vs 4178 lbs)

[PJ]

Like many have already stated, the E46 when maintained properly fares not less reliable than it's Japanese counterparts.

One thing I did notice though (and I'm sure many people don't care) is the gas mileage isn't the greatest. I remember fill ups were about $90 ish and the tank would only last 350-400 km, not completely terrible but basically on-par with my Lexus RX350 (3075 lbs vs 4178 lbs)

What the... I didn't expect gas mileage to be great, but I didn't think it'd be THAT bad. That's roughly what my FX35 got

[Tapioca]

What the... I didn't expect gas mileage to be great, but I didn't think it'd be THAT bad. That's roughly what my FX35 got

If you drive in the city, you will get about 400kms per tank (65L). Don't forget that the engines are naturally aspirated inline-6s which aren't all that fuel efficient to begin with. As with any other BMW, you gotta pay to play. Besides, when you wind up that inline-6, there aren't many things that sound better in the world, at least when it comes to cars.

However, highway mileage is very respectable. I've taken my E46 to Seattle on various occasions and I've been able to get there and back on a half-tank.

[jpark]

no problem with our e46 325i so far. Previous owner who is also a member here also maintained it religiously well which is an added bonus.

i say e46 is the ultimate bang for the buck.. the interior quality is amazing for a car that's over 10 years old (mine is a 01). Materials on every single panel are soft, high quality and the overall cabin and driving feel is a lot more modern and refined than cars that are 10 years newer.

i get around 420kms from $80 full tank and that's highway and city mix.. its not the best but I'm okay with it.. just wish it had a bit more power to even out that gas mileage..and oil changes are really easy, just like any other regular cars


These are all the parts that have been replaced from the previous owner. Something to look out for or ask your friend about if you decide to buy the car
-expansion tank replaced
-camshaft position sensor replaced
-O2 sensors replaced
-secondary air pump replaced
-fan clutch replaced
-rear trailing arm replaced
-water pump replaced
-spark plugs replaced
-brand new front upper strut mounts
-brand new rear upper strut mounts
(im pretty sure the strut mounts are because he had coilovers... not too sure)

what year is your friends e46?

[PJ]

i say e46 is the ultimate bang for the buck.. the interior quality is amazing for a car that's over 10 years old (mine is a 01). Materials on every single panel are soft, high quality and the overall cabin and driving feel is a lot more modern and refined than cars that are 10 years newer.

This is exactly what I was feeling.

I never understood the whole BMW craze when the Japanese luxuries were known to be more reliable.

But I get it now. Just sitting inside and driving. My god, everything just feels so sleek and sexy, and the car runs smooth as butter.


what year is your friends e46?

It's a 2000.

[Tapioca]

It's a 2000.

You should definitely get the car on a hoist and check for cracks by the rear subframe.

The nice thing about the earlier builds (323 and 328) is that they use a mechanic throttle and have a much stiffer steering box. They are a bit lighter in weight also. The M54 engines (325 and 330) use an electronic throttle. Post-2001 builds also feature a lighter steering box which makes parking easier, but provides less feel (at least compared to ealier BMWs). However, the M54 engines do have a modified exhaust system with dual pipes all the way and a throatier sound.
Posted via RS Mobile

[Kidnapman]

gas mileage is pretty shitty. I drive like a granny and still only get about 450km max...

[Cman333]

I had an E46 when it was new. Had it 3 yrs. I'd say reliability was ok although considering mine was under warranty it had it's fair share of issues. The engines are solid, it's just all the little things. After 3 years I had transmission issue, keyless entry was half working, ballast for HID died, and handful of service recalls.

Definitely not as bad as a benz or audi, but when things do go it does get expensive to repair.

I opted to go for a older japanese car (same era as e46) and have had less issues with it over my brand new (at the time) bimmer.

Gotta pay to play. All in all, great car to drive.

[PJ]

Definitely not as bad as a benz or audi, but when things do go it does get expensive to repair.

:confused: I always thought Benz was the most reliable out of the 3. Their aesthetics just don't appeal to me at all.

[BABU]

Kinda off topic, since people here has more experience on European cars.
how about Land Rover LR4 ? I am looking at a used one anything I should look out ?

[jpark]

^cool thread jack bro

[BABU]

:troll: sorry

[Yodamaster]

Cars are only as reliable as their owners, that being said, reliability out of the box depends on what the previous owner has done (or not done) to the car. I've seen people put 500,000 miles on MK2 Jettas on the original engine, and they are still going strong despite what most people claim to be a "shitbox".

People who complain about reliability are often the ones who don't care about maintenance, would you run a nuclear power plant without checking up on it's systems now and then?

[PJ]

Cars are only as reliable as their owners, that being said, reliability out of the box depends on what the previous owner has done (or not done) to the car. I've seen people put 500,000 miles on MK2 Jettas on the original engine, and they are still going strong despite what most people claim to be a "shitbox".

People who complain about reliability are often the ones who don't care about maintenance, would you run a nuclear power plant without checking up on it's systems now and then?

Agree, but there's more to the equation than just keeping up with maintenance.

The German cars generally have more parts in their mechanical designs, and therefore more chances of something failing. But like everyone says, you have to pay to play.

My family and I have ever only owned Japanese cars, and we've never once had to do anything other than regular maintenance. No leaks, no overheating, no CEL's, no bad fuses or relays, nothing out of the ordinary ever happened. (Except for my G35's window motor.)

The obvious quick answer to my question is that German cars aren't as forgiving as its Japanese counterparts, but will do just fine if you address their issues immediately. I was just questioning to what extent in practical terms that the extra minding is actually evident in BMW's.

In other words, are they actually as finicky and high-maintenance as everyone says?

[bcrdukes]

Having owned both Japanese and German cars (currently BMW) you have to keep up and stay on top of maintenance on German cars. They're just not the same as Japanese cars where you can get away without having to do something at a set interval.

And as "refined" as I find BMWs (or Euros in general) it's the stupid little things that go wrong make me think "Why did I buy this POS!?" Then again, I still like my M3. The E91 - not so much. :D

The example of the MKII VW hitting 500,000km - everybody says that but how much stupid shit went wrong along the way? On a Civic or Corolla? What, a window regulator went bad and it probably needed new shocks and an oil change here and there and still managed to squeeze 500,00km on the same motor before the rebuild? *Shrug* My E91 - what a piece of shit. CEL or some warning comes on every fucking time I start the car. But is anything really broken? No. So for fuck sakes BMW, throw me a bone. I'm a very particular owner for all things mechanical so when my CEL shows me that my tail light is out (but really, it's not) it drives me crazy. I can't accept this nor can I shrug it off. My E36 isn't the same. Things just work as-is.

I'm not trying to deter you from getting a BMW or trash talk Euro cars but if you are coming from an FX35 to a 2000 BMW 323/325i, you must be prepared to accept the reality that things will go wrong during your ownership. Not if, but when and being prepared to accept this for what it is. Some people can't accept this as part of Euro ownership and vow to never buy Euro ever again.

[PJ]

Having owned both Japanese and German cars (currently BMW) you have to keep up and stay on top of maintenance on German cars. They're just not the same as Japanese cars where you can get away without having to do something at a set interval.

And as "refined" as I find BMWs (or Euros in general) it's the stupid little things that go wrong make me think "Why did I buy this POS!?" Then again, I still like my M3. The E91 - not so much. :D

The example of the MKII VW hitting 500,000km - everybody says that but how much stupid shit went wrong along the way? On a Civic or Corolla? What, a window regulator went bad and it probably needed new shocks and an oil change here and there and still managed to squeeze 500,00km on the same motor before the rebuild? *Shrug*

Exactly.

I think it's more about how forgiving the car is.

On a Civic, you hear a weird noise, you can still get away with driving it for X amount of time, and then finally take it to a shop for a $300 fix.

On a German, I imagine, if you hear a weird noise and don't immediately beeline it to the shop, A, B, and C will go wrong within hours, and by the time you get to the shop, you've racked up a $2000 bill.

The "stupid shit" you brought up is exactly what's going on with my friend's A4. I think every electrical problem that could go wrong, did. Mechanically, Audi addressed the timing belt issues by throwing in a timing chain on the B6, but because of that, the timing chain guides are known to break. :rukidding:

So far it seems like the E46 is relatively okay. And of the common issues, I'm pretty confident I can do the fixes myself.

I'm still a little uneasy about making the jump, but god damn, it's SO SHEXSHY.

Totally feels like deciding whether or not I want to date a high maintenance Vancouver girl.

[bcrdukes]

E46 is fine overall. But...personally...I don't know about ones made in 2000. (That's just me.)

To put things into perspective, my coolant expansion tank cracked (previous owner used an OE equivilant, NOT OEM BMW). I was lucky to get away with replacing JUST THAT one part but typically, you would have to replace everything, such as thermostat, hoses, radiator end tanks and all sorts of stuff. Then again, BMW has NEVER managed to figure out what they're doing wrong with their cooling systems since the beginning of time. Might as well go back to fucking air cooled motors.

On a Toyota/Honda/Nissan etc. If one thing breaks, just that one part breaks. Not an entire system or family of parts.

Bonus: If you ever browse BMW parts vendors, you will notice that many of them sell "maintenance packages." You don't see that with many Japanese cars. ;)

[68style]

I feel like you're waiting for someone to guarantee you that it's okay to go ahead and buy it and that you won't have significant problems. It's not going to happen, every car is different, I've known lots of people who had shitloads of problems with their E46's (and I worked at BMW at one point) and I know people who relentlessly beat on theirs and never have anything go wrong.

My advice is that if you feel like you're reaching for something, you're asking for it... you should feel 100% about what you buy not be afraid of stuff... like my buddy bought a Lotus Esprit V8 which has got to be one of the worst reliability cars ever, but he 100% knew that's what he wanted and accepted it was going to cost a bundle to upkeep but didn't care because he has always wanted one... the way you're talking right now I get the feeling it's going to be a situation where you buy it, and the first thing goes wrong you'll be like "DAMNIT I knew I shouldn't have done this!!!" and get all down about it.

[PJ]

^Not exactly, but good points.

I'm just simply wondering if any owners here have found them to be better than the word on the street, worse, or about right. So far, it seems like the latter.

I'm fully aware that this will not be as hassle-free as the Japanese cars, I'm just wondering to what extent. Like I said a couple posts ago, the worst I've ever had happen to any of my cars was a window motor dying on my G35, so I'm just trying to get some insights from local owners.

You're completely right that I'm still unsure. I stated that this is my first time stepping into the German arena, so it's a whole new world to me. But there's a strange romance to the uncertainty that makes it even more enticing.

Also, funny you bring up the Lotus. A friend of mine has an Elise, and it's always having issues, but he loves it.

I think I need to drive it again and stare at the car for a bit longer. :willnill:

[dared3vil0]

You know what i've noticed with German vehicles vs Japanese/American? If something breaks on a US/Japan vehicle, "Hey that doesn't sound so good, this sucks, better get it into the shop within the next week." Something breaks on a German vehicle? "RING ING ING ING ING"

OBVIOUSLY shallow examples but you get the point.

[jmanhas]

I've owned an E46 M3 convertible, and the subframe on my car was slightly cracked but was welded and reinforced by Speed Syndicate so i could sleep at night. That was the only major repair that was done for my car. There are other little things to look out for when reaching a higher mileage, like spark plugs and engine misfires. Those are probably the most common issues. Misfires can be caused by a lot of shit on a BMW, and if you do decide to get one, definitely invest in a BMW Peake reader. Those tell you specific engine codes, not just a generic code from a OBD reader

Good luck!

[T4RAWR]

i look forward to updates on how ownership of the e46 is going if you buy it.

[Gerbs]

Whoops sorry accidentally hit send or smthi.gPosted via RS Mobile

[Cman333]

" But the reality is that BMWs are not cheap cars to run, neither in terms of fuel nor maintenance. And buyers looking for stellar reliability need not apply; BMW enthusiast website BimmerFest.com flat-out admits that BMWs are not as reliable as most Japanese makes and that if you buy one, you most likely will have problems with it.

Thankfully, the E46 appears to be one of BMW’s more reliable models in recent years. Consumer Reports gives it an “average” used car verdict, noting problems with power-operated accessories as the only consistent mechanical issues. Again, BimmerFest.com’s FAQ backs this up, noting that the E46 3 Series is “very sensitive to maintenance, or a lack thereof.” Well-documented problems include grouchy sunroofs; bad window regulators (the bits inside the doors that move the windows up and down); weatherstripping that likes to fall out of place (an easy fix); suspension control arm bushings that need replacing at as early as 60,000 km; and BMW issued a recall for engine ignition coilpack failures. The BimmerFest FAQ also lists a couple of other items covered by technical service bulletins.


Now, I said above that there are no serious mechanical flaws with the E46, and that’s true. But there is a potentially serious problem with the car’s rear suspension, wherein the rear subframe – to which the rear suspension and differential are fastened – can separate from the car’s body"

Used Vehicle Review: BMW 3 Series, 1999-2005 - Autos.ca (http://www.autos.ca/used-car-reviews/used-vehicle-review-bmw-3-series-1999-2005/)

[Cman333]

:confused: I always thought Benz was the most reliable out of the 3. Their aesthetics just don't appeal to me at all.

O hellz nooooooooo

In my own personal experience of dealing with them, owning them and having many friends/fam with them. BMW>BENZ>AUDI for reliability IMO.

They're all great cars, just more expensive to maintain and have alot of little electrical issues over time (which they all will if they're 10+ years old). Just more issues that cost more to fix.

Before buying a used car of any sort should always do your research.


That being said, the e46 was one of my most favourite overall cars in terms of driving factor. The car just feels more solid, the steering more precise, the sound of the I6 engine, the exhaust note, and the pretty looks. Just imagine it being a high maintenance gf. If you're a sucker for looks then doom is imminent. If you're a more practical type of person. Go Jap. (again some jap cars have their flaws, so do research)

[PJ]

Just imagine it being a high maintenance gf. If you're a sucker for looks then doom is imminent. If you're a more practical type of person. Go Jap. (again some jap cars have their flaws, so do research)

Love that line.

And that's the problem. I'm one for looks AND (somewhat) practicality, which is why my Infinitis served me well.

But now I'm stepping dangerously close to the BMW world, and this is a whole other ball game.

God damn, it's just so pretty.

[Happy]

I've owned an E46 M3 convertible, and the subframe on my car was slightly cracked but was welded and reinforced by Speed Syndicate so i could sleep at night.

This is probably the most expensive thing to fix you'll run into on a bimmer. I had to get mine reinforced around 100k kms

I've owned a E46 coupe for about almost 3 years now. I don't regret any second of it. Maintenance hasn't been bad at all, however my car is mostly stock though. I was skeptical like you at first, so I bought a car with really low milage for the year (86k for an '02). Inspection I and II were already done. Service records since the day it was bought. Sounds like you got all that info, lift up the car at a shop, check it out, and if everythings good to go, buy it!

[Tapioca]

If you want more of a purists car, then why not a late-model E36, such as a 1997-98 328is?

Sure, the E36 looks like shit inside (the all-black interiors are probably the best out of a bad bunch), but they are more nimble than the E46. They don't have as many sensors as the E46 and aside from the cooling systems (which you need to replace every 100K), they are quite reliable.

[Kidnapman]

^^^ +1000. An E36 imo beats the E46 in almost every way. I wouldn't say the E36 interior looks like shit tho... relative to the E46 which isn't much better. Steering in the two cars feel pretty similar but the E36's is a bit more heavier and connected. If I could I would totally trade my car for an E36 coupe or hatchback. Just my 0.02 cents.

[bcrdukes]

I'd rather have a late model E36 than a first model year E46.

Late model E46 however - :sweetjesus:

[?uestlove]

european cars are like that smoking hot chick you're sleeping with that's got daddy issues and stupid friends you can't stand and she always wants to go to nice places and shit. and really fucking good in bed.

japanese cars are the cool chicks that got your back, pretty ok looking and alright in bed. it's be decent pooning all the time every time

[BrRsn]

It's not so bad ... until you start adding aftermarket parts. If you're a smart dude who knows how to use a computer, you can find a lot of the parts for half or even a third of the price online versus buying locally.

If i had to do it all again, I probably would avoid doing all the aftermarket tuning because it just turns into a giant headache :(

Buy a decent socket set w/ torx heads, a top side oil changer (change your oil through the dipstick at home, and get a full oil change done every 2-3 oil changes), a bluetooth OBD2 adaptor and sign up on e46fanatics. It's not that hard to keep a decently running e46 -- then again I've had one parked since february :fuckthatshit:

[bcrdukes]

BMWs turns to shit once you mod it. No joke. :fuckthatshit:

[BrRsn]

BMWs turns to shit once you mod it. No joke. :fuckthatshit:

But ... that raspy metallic exhaust note of headers :sweetjesus:

[Tapioca]

^^^ +1000. An E36 imo beats the E46 in almost every way. I wouldn't say the E36 interior looks like shit tho... relative to the E46 which isn't much better. Steering in the two cars feel pretty similar but the E36's is a bit more heavier and connected. If I could I would totally trade my car for an E36 coupe or hatchback. Just my 0.02 cents.

Until BMW used all-black interiors in E36s, the two-toned interiors didn't age well.

The early E46 (pre-2001) had steering racks that were very close in weight and feel to the E36. However, you do feel more connected in an E36. If you're going to do an E36, you either get a 1992 325 (no Vanos, and LSD instead of traction control, and an absolutely bulletproof drivetrain), or you spring for a late 328 with a stick shift.

[PJ]

If anyone's still wondering, I decided to pass.

Not so much because of the money, but because of the constant attention it requires. As much as I love the looks, I feel I would constantly be paranoid every time I start the car. And I have enough on my plate right now; don't need a finnicky car to be added onto that.

I think Lexus and Infiniti are more geared towards my lifestyle. At least, for now.

Thanks for all the replies, and please do keep the conversation going. I did learn a few things, and I'm sure it's of interest to more people than just me :)

[T4RAWR]

Aw man, I was hoping you were going to buy it :troll:

[dink]

my e46 just experienced:
cracked expansion tank
bad oil level sensor
washer fluid pump failure

all within the last 3 months. one after another. lol

[BrRsn]

^annoying thing is, that's "normal" lol

What's your mileage at? I have a bad coolant level sensor but to replace it everything needs to be drained so I'm leaving it as it is :fuckthatshit:

[jmanhas]

its just one thing after another with these cars..i'd almost say its a love/hate relationship with the E46

[bcrdukes]

my e46 just experienced:
cracked expansion tank
bad oil level sensor
washer fluid pump failure

all within the last 3 months. one after another. lol

I know that feel bro... :okay:

[BEEB]

I'd my SMG E46 M3 for 4-5 years and it was pretty good ! Don't be scared by cheap BMW owners. I'd multiple european cars and never experience bad things like what others describe on the internet.

[BrRsn]

if anyone is confused,

I had = I'd

[BEEB]

Sorlee la, I do not sepeak engrish all the time ga.... Forgive my poor engrish la

I had a smg m3, ML430, C230, etc, and I've ( if anyone is confused, I've = I have)a twin turbo 335i now !
Posted via RS Mobile

[dink]

i have 89,xxx km on it.

[dink]

I know that feel bro... :okay:

o well, its my beater... and working at a BMW dealership, i get some ok deals on parts.

[bcrdukes]

LOL WUT!

BMW = beater

Ballin! :fuckthatshit:

[PJ]

:lawl:

I wish I had a BMW as a beater

[Tapioca]

My E30 was supposed to be a beater... Until I started to really like it.

E36s can work as beaters as long as you replace the cooling system and don't mind sagging interior trim pieces and LCD displays going out. Engines are basically no maintenance.
Posted via RS Mobile

[T4RAWR]

... Engines are basically no maintenance.
Posted via RS Mobile

i know someone who'd disagree with that statement :troll:

[Ferra]

not sure about maintenance...but it always amaze me how the e46 still look so hot after almost 10 years and 2 generations (e90 & f30)

saw a very clean e46 zhp like this yesterday.. :love:
http://www.bmworld.fr/photos/voiture-de-serie/330ci-e46-coupe-(2002)/800x500/07-330ci-e46-coupe-(2002).jpg

http://www.mad4wheels.com/webpics/hires/00004118%20-%202005%20BMW%20330ci%20(%20E46%20)%20Performance% 20Package/2005_BMW_330ci_(_E46_)_Performance_Package_002_672 4.jpg
(btw...coupe only...i hate the look on the sedan)

[jpark]

hell nah.. sedan>coupe imo..
imola zhp sedan.. soo hot.. looks better than many e90 sedans imo

http://i1098.photobucket.com/albums/g361/Dinan19/2012-11-18133235-1.jpg
http://i1098.photobucket.com/albums/g361/Dinan19/2012-11-18133302.jpg
http://i1098.photobucket.com/albums/g361/Dinan19/new%20zhp%20pics/2012-12-31_16_43_27.jpg (http://s1098.photobucket.com/user/Dinan19/media/new%20zhp%20pics/2012-12-31_16_43_27.jpg.html)

:sweetjesus:

[tofu1413]

ZHP/ZCP Sedans... :sweetjesus:

pretty solid cars and have great build quality.. I usually recommend them over the E90's..

[essel]

Love ZHP coupes! Been looking to buy one for a while now. Gorgeous cars.

[Cman333]

hell nah.. sedan>coupe imo..
imola zhp sedan.. soo hot.. looks better than many e90 sedans imo


:sweetjesus:

Hellz yeah...


Here's my old one....Didn't slam it as low, needed it to be still practical
http://www.cardomain.com/ride/733874/2004-bmw-3-series/

[bcrdukes]

i know someone who'd disagree with that statement :troll:

Who would this person be!? :fullofwin:

Best E46 - ZHP, hands down. (M cars are in a different league, sorry fan boys.)

[godwin]

I rather people perpetuate the myth that e46 is hard and expensive to maintain..Heck all BMWs are. so don't buy them please! :whistle: good used ZHP is hard to come by enough as it is.

Who would this person be!? :fullofwin:

Best E46 - ZHP, hands down. (M cars are in a different league, sorry fan boys.)

[bcrdukes]

yeah man, BMWs suck. dont buy them. :troll:

[cressydrift]

Wouldn't you know that a ZHP is on craigs right now and its a red sedan...
2004 bmw 330i , zhp package (http://vancouver.en.craigslist.ca/nvn/cto/3790117256.html)

[essel]

Wouldn't you know that a ZHP is on craigs right now and its a red sedan...
2004 bmw 330i , zhp package (http://vancouver.en.craigslist.ca/nvn/cto/3790117256.html)

This particular ZHP has been up for over a year now, although not consistently.

His old ads from before : 2004 BMW 330I ZHP Performance Package North Vancouver, Vancouver (http://www.usedvancouver.com/classified-ad/2004-BMW-330I-ZHP-Performance-Package_16854771)

:- Welcome to Empire Vehicles-: (http://www.empirevehiclesolutions.com/detail.php?id=10891)

Looks like a dealer vehicle, or maybe dealer's private car.

[Tapioca]

This particular ZHP has been up for over a year now, although not consistently.

His old ads from before : 2004 BMW 330I ZHP Performance Package North Vancouver, Vancouver (http://www.usedvancouver.com/classified-ad/2004-BMW-330I-ZHP-Performance-Package_16854771)

:- Welcome to Empire Vehicles-: (http://www.empirevehiclesolutions.com/detail.php?id=10891)

Looks like a dealer vehicle, or maybe dealer's private car.

Plus, it's an automatic. It's another possible component that could break (every ZF automatic transmission from the E36-on is a sealed unit and may not take kindly to fluid changes) and really, what's the point of driving an enthusiast's car if you're saddled with an automatic? (I don't care if automatic transmissions shift faster than humans; it's the principle.)

The ZHP is a beautiful car and if I could do the E46 thing all over again, I would wait for a good example. None of the maintenance of the M3, but pretty close in terms of driving experience for the average driver.

[Energy]

hell nah.. sedan>coupe imo..
imola zhp sedan.. soo hot.. looks better than many e90 sedans imo

http://i1098.photobucket.com/albums/g361/Dinan19/2012-11-18133235-1.jpg
http://i1098.photobucket.com/albums/g361/Dinan19/2012-11-18133302.jpg
http://i1098.photobucket.com/albums/g361/Dinan19/new%20zhp%20pics/2012-12-31_16_43_27.jpg (http://s1098.photobucket.com/user/Dinan19/media/new%20zhp%20pics/2012-12-31_16_43_27.jpg.html)

:sweetjesus:

Beautiful car. Only thing I'd do is paint the trim/moldings to match.

[westopher]

If that zhp was 6 speed it would probably be top of my list for next car at that price/mileage/colour.

[The_AK]

dont mean to bump old thread, however, w/e
Are subframe issues only in the coupe/M3 or sedan as well?

[BoostedBB6]

These types of threads are often because of un-informed people.

German cars are no more or less reliable than any other car made in any other place (of course there could be exceptions and models that have issues). It is a car, it requires matinence, and when this is done on time and correctly the car will run properly.

The issues people often run into with German cars is that they are better equipped than many similar cars on the market. This causes you to have more "things" in the car that could break or need upkeep.

I have owened many German cars (mostly BMW and Mercedes and a couple VW's), many Jap (Nissan, Datsun, Toyota, Lexus, Mazda) and a few odd balls as well. None of them are more of less reliable, but some of them have matinence needs that others would not.

So if you are willing to pay the upkeep costs for your selected vehicle and to do it on time you will do just fine. If not.....buy a Honda.

[The_AK]

So... subframe cracks on sedans common?

[xjc11]

So... subframe cracks on sedans common?

Not 100% sure on this answer, but from what I learned subframe cracks are more common on pre-face lift models (1999-2001) coupes more than sedans, Convertibles even more. Less incidences of later models developing cracks. (2002-2005; 2006 for coupes)

M3 regardless of year I believe are not immune to subframe cracks.

If you search "*** Sub frame Damage *** Sign here if you have this Problem (Letter to BMW)" you will see a list of people who have this issue. Take a look at the list, most are earlier model e46

[jsran]

e46 known for their cooling systems failing, at around 150k(give or take a few)

[bcrdukes]

Here you go:

Edge Motorworks - List of Common Problems on E46 @ 75K Miles (M and non-M cars) (http://edgemotorworks.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=25&Itemid=55)

[Cman333]

These types of threads are often because of un-informed people.

German cars are no more or less reliable than any other car made in any other place (of course there could be exceptions and models that have issues). It is a car, it requires matinence, and when this is done on time and correctly the car will run properly.
.

I think for most people when they think "reliability" I don't think they mean just the engine itself. It's usually things like electronics that fail. You can't exactly maintain a power window motor or some sort of sensor.

When you have to replace something electronic all the time, it tends to be a design flaw due rather than lack of maintenance.

I've personally only had one mechanical issues with any Euro car, but electronically had tons of issues with my Euros. Maybe it's just shitty luck. But when multiple of my Euro's have these similar issues, you tend to get jaded. Can't exactly maintain an OEM alarm, fuel sensor, TPS, etc etc.

[Stiig]

it's a pretty reliable car. Used to own an e46 sedan.
But of course it needs more maintenance done compared to japanese cars.

keep up with your maintenance and you wont have components breaking on you when you need it.
For example, the coolant tank on these cars are notorious for cracking. In some japanese cars, these are parts that you probably will never replace, but for these it is recommended you replace every 100k kms.

Pay to play.