Planning to get an E46

[Iridescent]

Planning to daily drive an E46.

Not sure if this approach is feasible/advisable, but since it's not easy to find a 330i at the moment, is it alright to get any available 330i on the market right now, and set aside a 5-10k budget for all major repairs? I understand that it is always better to find one from an owner who has maintenance records but looks like the current supply is limited. So I thought maybe I'll just get one regardless of the condition and repair it from scratch. Feedback regarding this would be appreciated.

I was also suggested to get a 325i and engine swap to B30, but after some research, I think that it may be cheaper with less headache to just get a 330i instead.

As for E46 specialists, any place to recommend or which you currently frequent? I am aware that BMW Club MY has a lot of info regarding E46 but maybe getting an updated info from 2020 would be great.

Also, is there any place that does a full inspection of a used E46 to find out what components require fixing? Is it advisable to do this?

In regards to important repairs when the car is purchased, I have seen that these parts are most frequently mentioned that require immediate attention:
1. Cooling system, expansion tank, radiator, water pump, thermostat, fan clutch.
2. Control arms bushings, rear trailing arms bushings.
3. Fuel pump, throttle body intake boots, sealing ring.
4. Crankcase vent system, vacuum tubing.
5. Alternator, a/c blower final stage resistor, pulleys and belts, starter, sub frame mounts.

I have seen feedback to check the rear frame but I believe face lifted bodies may have rectified this issue?

Please do let me know if there are other things which I missed to look out for. Any feedback or advice is appreciated.

 

[jarance]

I think you have cover all the parts that need to be look at.
1. Cooling system, expansion tank, radiator, water pump, thermostat, fan clutch and Aux Fan
2. Control arms bushings, rear trailing arms bushings and Engine/Gearbox mountings.
3. Fuel pump, throttle body intake boots, sealing ring.
4. Crankcase vent system, vacuum tubing.
5. Alternator, a/c blower final stage resistor, pulleys and belts, starter, sub frame mounts.

Stay away from conversion to avoid headache unless you have a mechanic that have vast experience.
A M54B25 is reliable engine and they are also robust.

Take note an E46 is a relative old car and they tend to have a lot of issue if the previous owner never take care of it.
Once you taken care of all the wear and tears part, you are going to have a smile whenever you floor your ride.

 

[Hanif]

May i have some advice on e46
Kindly ws or call 01121302147

 

[enkil]

Congrats!

 

[jackyyong]

I'm a newbie to BMW, but I am interested to get an E46. Is it still worthwhile to get one? Looking at a straight 6 engine, which I think are 320, 323 or 328. Or should go for the E90 instead? Budget lesser than RM50k pls, so no F30 or G20.

 

[gendong]

I'm a newbie to BMW, but I am interested to get an E46. Is it still worthwhile to get one? Looking at a straight 6 engine, which I think are 320, 323 or 328. Or should go for the E90 instead? Budget lesser than RM50k pls, so no F30 or G20.

the e46 is still a worthwhile pursuit bro. Just bear in mind that by now, the car is already 20years old, so you would have to have that maintenance mentality plus having to change wear n tear parts. Try getting the unit from a direct owner with complete service records, so you'd be able to prioritize what needs to be done first.

Yeah get the inline 6 engines. a 325 at minimum. You might be able to squeeze in a few deals for the e90 too, but i'd still go for the e46.

all the best in your hunt!