The BMW E46 3 Series was one of BMW’s more reliable cars of this modern era, so you don’t have to worry about too much. However, that doesn’t mean it isn’t without its faults.
Is BMW 3 Series E46 reliable?
A couple of factors make the E46 important; besides its exquisite design, the E46 revived BMW’s reputation in making reliable cars. The previous model, the E36, had numerous maintenance issues, which made the buyers frustrated. But the E46 is still among the most reliable models of BMW.
How many miles can a BMW E46 last?
I’ve personally seen numerous models surpass the 200,000 mile mark, like my own 236,000-mile E46 ZHP, while online we’ve seen some odometers surpass the 400,000 and 500,000-mile thresholds.
Is an E46 a good car?
If you’re looking for a cheap daily driver of any kind, I can’t recommend the E46 enough. It’s such a solid overall package and it honestly doesn’t matter which model, trim level, or body style you get. They’re all great. And yet they can also be had for under $3,000 US.
Which BMW E46 is reliable? – Related Questions
Why is E46 so popular?
It had a high-revving inline-6 engine, and lightweight construction, capturing the essence of the iconic BMW M3 E30. Since then, people considered the E46 generation as the greatest M car built due to its simplicity, appeal, and just overall design of it all.
What is so special about the E46?
As mentioned, the design characteristics of the E46 is a well-rounded, balanced car with just the right curves. With powerful proportions like a bulged hood, wider fenders, and aggressive front bumper that allows for better cooling, it still lives up to modern-day car designs.
What the most common E46 issues?
Valve cover gaskets and valve covers are one of the most common issues on all E46 models. You identify this problem by seeing oil dripping from the valve cover and smelling burning oil. Replace them as soon as you notice the first signs of trouble! Another issue with older vehicles, in general, are the worn bushings.
Is an E46 a good first car?
The E46 is very basic at its core, which helps with quick learning. Although there are some larger issues, like the subframe or lifter-tick, they are, mechanically, relatively reliable. Aside from the common maintenance needs of any vehicle with over 185,000 miles, I haven’t had many issues.
Will E46 go up in value?
Values of the E46 M3 have started rising in recent years, and this upward trend is expected to continue. Despite it not being the rarest M car, it’s still a very sought-after model.
What engine is in the E46?
| BMW 3 Series (E46) |
| Engine |
Petrol: 1.6–2.0 L M43/N42/N46 I4 2.0–3.2 L M52/M54/S54 I6 Diesel: 2.0 L M47 I4 2.9–3.0 L M57 I6
|
| Transmission |
5-speed manual 6-speed manual 4-speed automatic 5-speed automatic 6 speed SMG-II |
| Dimensions |
| Wheelbase |
2,725 mm (107.3 in) |
Which one is better E46 or E90?
For example, the E46 330i ZHP offers better performance than the E90 325i. That said, in general the E90 wins the performance aspect. Model for model, the E90 offers more power, torque, and quicker acceleration compared to the E46. The E90 transmissions are also better and slightly faster at shifting.
How much horsepower does a E46 have?
The BMW M3 E46 generation left the BMW factory in Regensburg with 333 hp and 268 lb-ft of torque.
How much is a BMW E46?
BMW E46 M3 Price, Availability, and Ownership
| BMW E46 M3 Coupe |
$46,500 (est) |
| BMW E46 M3 Convertible |
$54,500 (est) |
Is the BMW E46 a future classic?
Screaming, high-revving six-cylinder engine, understated but unmistakeable looks and the perfect balance of power and performance make the E46 M3 a definitive future classic
Is E46 M3 rare?
BMW M3 GTR E46 was released in February 2001 and became the first M3 in the history of the company, equipped with a V8 engine. BMW M3 GTR of the E46 generation was released in February 2001 and became the first M3 in the history of the company, equipped with a V8 engine.
What is a BMW E46 M3 worth?
Q: What is the average sale price of a M3 – E46? A: The average price of a M3 – E46 is $28,553.
Why is the BMW E46 so expensive?
The BMW E46 M3’s all-round excellence and increasing scarcity have led to high prices. The BMW E46 M3’s timelessness means finding one to call your own takes a considerable amount of money, especially for models in pristine condition. The magic of this car is that it can be many things to many drivers.
How many E46 are there?
Out of 85,766 cars produced, around 56,000 were coupes, and 30,000 were convertibles.
Why are older BMW M3 so expensive?
So, why is it that these cars have risen so much in value over recent years? The simple answer is : because they have great build quality, they’re getting rarer, they look great and they’re just fantastic fun to drive. They also have a huge fan-base, of both young and old.
What does the M stand for in M3?
BMW M (“M” for “motorsport“) was initially created to facilitate BMW’s racing program, which was very successful in the 1960s and 1970s. As time passed, BMW M began to supplement BMW’s vehicle portfolio with specially modified higher trim models, for which they are now most known by the general public.