USED BMW 3 Series Coupe (98 - 07)

My car

I traded in my Mitsubishi for this one and it was a big mistake. The car had 60 k on it ( my old Lancer had 140 k when I swapped it didn't have a single problem) and the first thing for me to deal with were warped brake discs caused by sticky calipers which I had to replace all together along with braking pads. Shortly afterwards harmon cardon sound system faied alongside with cyclone valve. BMW $tealer replaiced it for 1800 (!) €. Then it were multiple problems including rear and front bushings, window stuck - had to replace window regulators, gearbox problem. But the stellar thing was when a right front coil spring broke on a straight road. Also had problems with doors refused to unlock , BMW $tealer wanted to replace whole GM5 module for 700€ but I figured out that it were 2 relays that needed to be replaced for 40 bucks (Siemens relays sucks on BMW). Again similar relay fail on viper. Apart from that engine goes to limp mode on a cold start and I figurer out that It is a Vanos problem. I managed to trad in this piece of junk for new Mazda6 and I so releived now. I will never again come near German car. Overplriced piece of junk they are!

My car

I have owned this 318ci for two months so far and completed 2000 miles.

I am a picky person so bear this in mind. I use WhatCar a lot for guidance so thought it only fair I contribute!

I had been looking for one for several months before settling on this 2005 model with 60k on the clock.

Within the first week I had the garage replace the radiator. This was because the car had been sat for at least two months and rusted over. But I have since learnt they are a weak spot on the E46. In fact, the coolant system generally has issues.

I've learnt of other weak spots. The suspension is particularly prone. Expect to pay for new front bushes every so often, the rear springs snap so check for that. The car is known to tramline a reasonable amount, more so on the 18" M Sport wheels. Mine runs on 17" and I've had a four wheel alignment done, it still tramlines a fair bit.

Apart from that, handling wise, it is superb on B roads. I do yearn for more engine power, I should have heeded Whatcar's advice and gone for the 325 and a proper straight six! However insurance and fuel held me back. Economy wise, I try to drive carefully and seem to get 35mpg most days with very mixed driving. 37mpg on the onboard computer.

This is my first BMW and sure enough, they are furiously expensive to look after. Tyres are £130 each for top brands. Servicing too is potty if you don't go to an independent. Parts are expensive side.

Good car, may get a 325 which shows I do like it!

My car

Isnt that bad a car to drive really but if you've kids think again. Boot isnt practical for shopping and buggy at same time. After 60,000mls something BMW service centre doesnt tell you is the crank seal breather needs replaced and also needs oil done and filter changed every 7,000mls from then on in too. Crank sealer breather needs changed every second service. If you dont do this guess what you run the risk of blowing the turbo. Nasty!!!! I didnt replace mine and she slightly went over service of 15,000mls and turbo blew. Car was out of action for at least 6wks until I located a turbo. BMW approved but from another stockist. BMW have a tendency to stick the arm in when it comes to buying parts of them. My advice is if you like or want one make sure you've a big wad of cash or a very rich daddy.

My car

I owned a couple of E30s in the past and after reading reviews, had a desire to try the E46 model. Certainly not disappointed. Fantastic handling and refinement with the 6-speed 2litre diesel, excellent build quality (had a Mazda RX-8 at the same time - the BMW is in a different league) and 43mpg, mixed driving from a 150BHP engine. The seats in the motorsport are simply brilliant, too - I have a back problem which other cars caused major grief to, but I can drive this all day and be fresh as the proverbial daisy at the end of it. Immense! Reasonable insurance costs, too. Had the turbo changed under warranty (common fault apparenty) and dealerships a bit hit-and-miss for customer service. However, I rate this as easily the best car I have ever driven (inc the RX-8!) and I would have no hesitation recommending it to another buyer. Try one - you'll love it!!