[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