What to look out for when purchasing an E46 M3?

[cyberdemon]

I was recently in the market for an E46 ///M3 but after seeing how many of them have such high mileage I was put off (The high mileage could be a testament as to how long the engines last etc, but this is besides the fact)

I don't have the knowledge to make an informed enough decision (I just drive the cars) so I figured I'm better off without it.

Perhaps we can use this thread to show possible buyers what they need to look out for, the expensive parts, the parts one always needs to change etc and also what you should look out for across the different models.

 

[BMW M]

Been warned to stay away from the early SMG boxes by a BMW Mechanic...

 

[cyberdemon]

Been warned to stay away from the early SMG boxes by a BMW Mechanic...

+1 from someone that owned it.

 

[Phumi]

Earlier models had a bearing knock issue & there was a re-call, check if this was sorted if not stay clear.


Sent from my iPhone4s using Tapatalk

 

[AdiS]

I have researched this for quite awhile, and to be honest, there's more than a single thread could cover. I don't mean there's a million things that will go wrong, its just that if you want to make an informed decision, there's a lot you should know which will make your life easier.

Theoretically, there is nothing wrong with owning a higher mileage m3 provided it has been maintained properly, and you adopt the approach of preventative maintenance. You can DIY a lot of stuff, for which there are guides online ad nauseum, but you do need a little bit of cash on the side to finance the operation.

If you want to get going, my advice is to hop on over to the us forum, m3forum, and have a look at their stickies. It's a good start. And that forum literally has the answers to every question you could think of regarding these cars.

Other than that, if you really want one, be patient and wait for a good one. They are out there. Somewhere. But at the end of the day, it is an enthusiasts car, and expect it to require a bit of enthusiasm regarding the ownership

 

[zabbo]

I just looked at a White 2005 model with only 57000kms on the clock but it was not in the greatest condition.

It was also the 3rd one i've seen where the rear windscreen's factory tint was peeling.

 

[E46M]

what you looking to spend?

 

[calypso]

I just looked at a White 2005 model with only 57000kms on the clock but it was not in the greatest condition.

It was also the 3rd one i've seen where the rear windscreen's factory tint was peeling.

Factory tint?

 

[kabal]

no factory tint here

 

[zabbo]

There is a gluey substance which disintegrates over time on the rear screen. Maybe "factory tint" is an incorrect reference but it is there.

MiniMike had the same issue with the Laguna Seca Blue M3 which he detailed not too long ago.

 

[cyberdemon]

I just looked at a White 2005 model with only 57000kms on the clock but it was not in the greatest condition.

It was also the 3rd one i've seen where the rear windscreen's factory tint was peeling.

a buddy of mine has this issue with his E92 M3. I assumed it had something to do with the demister?

 

[iyerm2]

From what year was the bearing knock solved?

I know there are lots of things that could go wrong but what are the major issues that one should look out for when purchasing?
(apart from gearbox)

 

[bimmer330]

From what year was the bearing knock solved?

I know there are lots of things that could go wrong but what are the major issues that one should look out for when purchasing?
(apart from gearbox)

2003

 

[Fordkoppie]

# Rear subframe tearing out of the body becuase of hard launches.
# 4th gear syncro is weak
# oil pump failure
# Vanos to sprocket to cam bolts becoming undone

 

[scunick]

# Rear subframe tearing out of the body becuase of hard launches.
# 4th gear syncro is weak
# oil pump failure
# Vanos to sprocket to cam bolts becoming undone

Agreed
I have seen a number of them with cracks on the rear subframe.
Also the clutch is not the strongest component on the vehicle.
Brake disks are problematic if they are not driven in properly.
My last challenge is a fair amount of play on the diff...

 

[iyerm2]

Should i consider purchasing a 2002 model with low mileage if it has gone in for the recall?
Or is it a bad idea
What should i look to pay for a low mileage 2002 model?

 

[Alfaholic]

Im in the same boat, i currently drive a tuned GTI and while its fun in a straight line ive been looking for a car that is a real sportscar but also a grand tourer of sorts. As you can see i love Alfa Romeo's but i need a rwd car in my life. The E90/92 range is about R150k out of my budget now, but im still young and skeem i can own one by the time im 30.

Ive been looking at alot of 2005 models and i think thats the ones ill aim for when im ready to purchase.

So any more detail into the known niggles of an E46 M3 will be greatly appreciated!