Buying a used E46 M3 Tips?

[nimdivino]

Hey guys, I'm trying to help a friend who wants to purchase a used E46 M3 but I don't know some details to look for such as what's a good year to buy, the difference between 03 and 04. What parts needs replacing in say 70K miles, etc.

Here are her choices.
http://www.vehix.com/inventory/Vehi...7E5FD&N=127+4294966042+4294964469&pagesize=25

and

http://www.vehix.com/inventory/Vehi...B041F&N=127+4294966042+4294964469&pagesize=25


Normally I'd go with the higher mileage/cheaper one but that's because I only get japanese cars. I know the phrase BMtroubleU, and I also know a lot of people trade their BMWs after the warranty because its maintenance especially for the M3s are quite expensive.

So, any pointers? What would you pick? If she decides to go with the higher mileage, what does she expect to replace soon?

Thank you so much.

Oh, this is something will help me in the future too because my girlfriend only wants a BMW after her G35.

niM

 

[gotbhp?]

The main differences between the '03 and '04 are the taillights and navigation system. The '04 has LED taillights (some people think they look cooler), and the Nav. was changed to being DVD-based.

Since you are looking at newer versions, you don't have to worry about the con-rod bearing replacement issues present on the earlier versions.

Regardless which one you go with, just make sure there is no damage, has service records, and that you get it inspected before you buy.

I had an '04 SMG, and hated it after 6 months. The SMG pump would overheat at the track and give me problems, I wish I had gone with a 6 speed. Despite it having an automatic mode, it will never ever perform as smoothly as one.

 

[davidf]

Heres one by a member here.http://www.nsxprime.com/forums/showthread.php?t=105434

 

[brahtw8]

Most of your questions can be answered here.

http://m3.madrussian.net/

The LED tail lights started with the 2003.5 production, which began in June of 2003.

http://m3.madrussian.net/modelchanges.shtml

A CPO warranty is a good idea.

I am selling my 2003.5 M3, 83k, CPO through 8/09 or 100k. Priced in the mid $20s. It is not really on the market yet, but will be soon.

 

[Deltron Zero]

Don't let LED tails influence your decision too much. A set of nice aftermarket LED tails cost less than $300. Too bad NSX LEDs are about 15x more. The service at @ 50k (Inspection II) is a big one that cost me about $2k at the dealership so keep that in mind. Some drivetrain slack on the Getrag tranny is normal, but by the time I sold mine it was getting pretty bad. Oh, and you should get LSB cuz that color is sick!

 

[jorligan]

Really no major differences between the years except for the LED tailights and navigation changes. The Main bearing issue is resolved as it was a recall. There have been I think 3 other recalls, all of the issues were taken care of in my 01 before the recall notices. CPO definitely the way to go since it provides you with extended drivetrain warranty. Have 100K miles on my 01 with stock clutch and no issues except as performed by warranty (recall notices).

 

[nimdivino]

Thanks guys for the info.. Very much appreciated.

Unfortunately she won't be buying any of those two links above because they are all SMG... She definitely just wants a manual, which makes me happy. haha.

Anyway, time to go help her find one.

Thanks again..

niM