[jakex1]

So i decided to buy a 05+ e46 m3, since the earlier models dont have the LEDs + bearing problems.

But is there anything else i should be looking for exclusively to e46's / bimmers, other than what i would usually look for in a regular car?

[tbkonwso]

not much, pretty reliable car , fun and fast

[JJ no Baka]

My friend is obsessed with the car. He basically raves all the good things about it. But insurance is going to cost a lot.

[ilikeyoface]

My friends love there m3s, just maintenance is costly.

[MPowerKai]

Its a pretty solid car, just have bmw do a ppi so they can scan for any codes. Also check the subframe, they tend to crack on the e46 m3. LED's came in 2003.5. Make sure you do a valve adjustment at every Inspection. Also don't go by the clock to change your oil. you should change it every 5k

[sddynamix]

+1 on Subframe inspection, though this was a problem with ALL E46's, not exclusively the M3. There's actually a Class Action in progress now for free inspections/repairs. Every E46 owner should have gotten information about this in the mail - you should make sure your prospective seller performs this inspection.

Maintenance - If you're a DIY type of person it's not too bad. I do everything myself except for valve adjustments. You'll want a car that's been meticulously maintained (oil changes at the very least at every half interval), all inspection I and II's performed on time, etc. IMO following the factory scheduled maintenance, which calls for an oil change every 15k miles isn't good enough. Although don't let that counter fool you, it usually counts faster because its based on fuel consumption and not actual mileage.

LED's can always be retrofitted (I have a 2003, and I ordered an OEM retrofit kit from a reputable internet parts department. Steer clear of non-OEM retrofits, they're not the same).

I guess my only gripe is that I eat rear tires every 9 months (I don't rip on the throttle or anything... its my DD), which can get costly, but hey, gotta pay to play

Are you looking to get a 6MT or an SMG?

[jakex1]

6mt, smgs arent fun enough. My friend has had a e46 325 for 50k miles without a problem, when does the subframe start to give issues?
Im thinking for a car like a m3 i am just going to do a ppi, will that be enough information for me to rely on when i make the decision?

[MPowerKai]

6mt, smgs arent fun enough. My friend has had a e46 325 for 50k miles without a problem, when does the subframe start to give issues?
Im thinking for a car like a m3 i am just going to do a ppi, will that be enough information for me to rely on when i make the decision?

Subframe problem is different on every car depending on the terrain they usually drive on and at what speeds

[mikez]

Subframe problem is different on every car depending on the terrain they usually drive on and at what speeds

I'm guessing it would more of a problem here in the NE?

[MPowerKai]

I'm guessing it would more of a problem here in the NE?

Dunno, I sold my M3 with 60k on the clock and no sign of the problem

[sikfahn]

My friend is obsessed with the car. He basically raves all the good things about it. But insurance is going to cost a lot.

yes i AM obsessed with m3's

e46, e90, e92 =D

[sikfahn]

^ *sigh* Good luck trying to afford it! HAHA.

edit: OH mini cooper. Sorry, I thought this was my account (JJ no Baka).

[idodatkd]

Haha e36 ftw. Yes, I said e36! Yeah maintenance is very very expensive, but I mean if you could afford the car in the first place shouldn't be a hassle. I suggest you check bimmerforums.com, and ask their opinion. Friendly, and most knowledgable bmw forum out there.

[yoon001]

depending on mileage look for a car with service I or II done at least

[phantompc4]

get a regular 3 series and slap an m3 badge on there.

bam m3

MOST people won't even be able to tell the difference.

[andyroxs]

lol the OP chose a G37 over the M3 MONTHS ago i think..

[dhan]

i have a 08 lotus exige s in black..

[jakex1]

lol the OP chose a G37 over the M3 MONTHS ago i think..

this, i was surprised this was still being discussed.

[HakuTheDog]

i have a 08 lotus exige s in black..

Why do you post this? And in another thread not related to you? Your car doesn't make the person, fool.

Anyway, minus the subframe inspection, if you know (or know someone) wiring and electrical inspection as well.

[idodatkd]

get a regular 3 series and slap an m3 badge on there.

bam m3

MOST people won't even be able to tell the difference.

YOU SIR deserve to be smacked. Plus people who are in the scene will know. It's almost as bad as the civics with bmw badges