Looking at older E46s

[Jazzbass]

Looking at an older E46 323/325 for my son. Preferably a manual. Anything to look for when checking out the cars? Looking at the E46 boards, I know the early models had the subframe cracking problems, but it doesn't look like you can really check on that without a lift and removing part of the rear suspension (which they typically frown on during a test drive). So avoid the 1999/2000s? Or is this overblown? I also read the we'd need to plan on a cooling system overhaul. Anything else?

[BeerBurner]

One thing I learned when I bought our E36 (I believe the suspension is pretty much the same as the E46, correct me if I'm wrong) is that the suspension bushings on these cars aren't the most reliable so make sure you check those out. They aren't hard to replace with aftermarket tools so that might even make for a good price reducer should it come up.

BB.

[Patrick3000]

Looking at an older E46 323/325 for my son. Preferably a manual. Anything to look for when checking out the cars? Looking at the E46 boards, I know the early models had the subframe cracking problems, but it doesn't look like you can really check on that without a lift and removing part of the rear suspension (which they typically frown on during a test drive). So avoid the 1999/2000s? Or is this overblown? I also read the we'd need to plan on a cooling system overhaul. Anything else?

Great car just bought one for my 16 YO son, enjoy the search. The AWD does not have the subframe issues. Almost forgot six airbags in the later ones, our 2002 has six bags.

[Trak Ratt]

^ U have a 914 problem boy-o (sig has way to many)

[Lupin..the..3rd]

Looking at an older E46 323/325 for my son. Preferably a manual. Anything to look for when checking out the cars? Looking at the E46 boards, I know the early models had the subframe cracking problems, but it doesn't look like you can really check on that without a lift and removing part of the rear suspension (which they typically frown on during a test drive). So avoid the 1999/2000s? Or is this overblown? I also read the we'd need to plan on a cooling system overhaul. Anything else?
If rear subframe is already torn/cracked, I've read there will be a hard "clunk" you can hear and feel while driving. I inspected these on my 325 and see zero signs of cracking. ~110k miles. I think the problem is more prevalent on higher HP models, especially those that see autocross/track use.

[smdubovsky]

I'll ping Wong to pipe in here. I think you can see the rear susp bits jut by jacking up the car. I welded his up on his racecar. We had to take everything off to do that obviously but I *THINK* he was showing me what needed to be done before we got that far.

[roundel]

I have a good friend with an E46 325 coupe. His has been reliable, but has needed the shocks and front control arms replaced. Also, the interior trim, especially along the door frames likes to fall down. I have had good success with Gorilla Glue to hold it back up. Also, the kidney grills pop out over time. His trunk release trim also fell off. Before 100K you will want to replace the radiator, hoses, and thermostat. The thermostat is a hole assembly so not as cheap as you might expect.

His car has been tracked many times, but never on track tires and on a stock suspension.. I think if you avoid track tires and a really stiff suspension, the E46 rear subframe mount areas are fine.

[magnetic1]

They all have possible subframe issues. Harder to inspect w/ jack but it can be done. Typically driver side has hairline crack which starts it all. typical E36 cooling issues, etc. Take a look at the following checklist. Covers most items:

http://edgemotorworks.com/wordpress/checklists/3-series/e46-3-series-1999-2005-including-m-edition/

[John Clay]

Not directly E46 experience, but my E39 has now had officially all parts of the cooling system replaced (latest -- auxiliary fan -- put the #of BMW AAA tows in the lead over the fo fo by the way, but for some reason all BMW tows have been with Pam driving even though she rarely drives them). Pretty sure my prior E36 had just about every part of it's cooling system replaced as well. Definitely a plus if this has already been done.

[slbates]

I bought a new E46 when they first came out. No track sessions ever but still had the rear subframe tear (under warranty at about 30k miles). Traded it in disclosing the rear clunk that BMW wouldn't fix and took a big hit for being honest. Other problems were rear differential replacement (in hindsight was probably the frame tear), sunroof motor, window regulators and electronic thermostat. I will say the interior was very robust and the leather looked brand new after 36k miles.

[magnetic1]

o yea and on modified or track driven E46s, front shock towers can crack.... fix for that is some E46 wagon plate that goes underneath.