would like to get a E46 318i 2.0

[roksancaspian74]

Hi Guys, Really need ur help! I am planning to get a Japan Spec 318i 2.0 E46 year 2002 model, but so far i never owned any BMW. Can u pls let me know what is the cost of maintenance of BMW if compare to japanese car like honda accord or toyota camry? If we compare on 1 to 1 basis on the spare parts, is there a big difference between camry and 318i? Further, i also understand that in the E46 model, lots of electronic system has been used and it is claimed that only the AB glenmarie can carry out the services, is that so? and if there's any service centre out there in kl that can provide services, is the price tag a lot different than AB? Really appreciate ur help! thks

 

[Dodgy]

E46 Maintenance

Hi,

I'm a wannabe like you. The feedback i have from the member member here is that you'll need to spend around 5k to 8k...sometimes lesser or more depending on the condition of the car. I guess it very much depend on your luck or the condition of the car, so no fix number there, but it'll definitely higher cost than a jap car as the parts is more expensive.

Any feedback from e46 udm owners ?

 

[Ade]

Its definitely higher...much higher than any jap cars....reliability of conti cars is lower than jap cars but its that sheer driving pleasure that keeps u paying for it...

 

[StRat]

Further, i also understand that in the E46 model, lots of electronic system has been used and it is claimed that only the AB glenmarie can carry out the services, is that so? and if there's any service centre out there in kl that can provide services, is the price tag a lot different than AB?

Roksa.. there are plenty of workshops out there who knows a nut more about cars than AB. Besides, even if they could fix up your car, you'll probably be charged 3 times more the price as compared to an outside BMW Specialist

Anyway, here's some of the workshops some of the forummers go to.. Check it out and all the best with your search for an Ultimate Driving Machine..

http://www.bmwclubmalaysia.com/forums/showthread.php?t=246&highlight=workshop

 

[Gunner]

yup i agree.... I've driven jap car b4.. but, after i drive this car... OMG.. the road feeling so different... higher maintenance cost, but fun to drive... so far no big prob... thumb's up for my UDM...

 

[roksancaspian74]

thank you

hi all,
thks for your reply and feedback. hope not making a wrong choice in getting an E46 318 2.0.
and thks for the list of workshop given! I am thinking of getting one unit from Naza. they are giving 1 year warranty. but i have another problem, i went to naza last week and saw the car. apparently the car is only fix with cassettle player! is the local spec also the same? what brand of audio system normally used in bmw? is it harmon kardon? if so, is it easy to find a cd changer that can be hooked on?

 

[KL2DC]

If you're worried about maintenance/repairs then I'd get a new camry/accord with full warranty over a used BMW out of warranty.

You really need to understand that before jumping into a used european car. If its' cool with you then try to get a 6 cylinder E46.

 

[Dodgy]

e46 shopping

i've been doing some research and shopping myself. I went to Naza 6 months ago and found their E46 is not really in good condition on the interior (excluding engine). Their list price is also sky high (not sure about discounted price, cause i didn't ask). My opinion is to try to look at others as well outside, some used car dealers comes with 1 month warranty. Naza has tonnes of luxury car, and if you were to compare, e46 may be one of the lowest end they have. Maybe those are ex-stock in which no one wants. Well, that's the impression i have during my visit, i may be wrong or they may have better e46 stocks now.

Interestingly, some e46 owner told me local used cars may be better as they have better track record (in servicing and the owner) and the car built for local condition. That's what i know so far....still digging....

 

[David Yong]

It's better to get a CKD e46.

 

[daan]

Jasen is selling his 2004 e46, why don't you check him out first.

 

[rookie]

If you get your car from Naza, I don't think AB will entertain you in terms of servicing (not sure if they changed their policies). If cost of maintenance is an issue, then get a new Accord as you will have warranty and 3 years worth of servicing free. UMW only offers warranty for the Camry I think.

 

[meetoo]

I tested both the new Camry and Accord. Actually in their largest capacity variant, the performance is really, really good! But for me, although Jap cars are much more reliable and much better value for money, they still lack in looks, style, class and driveability compare to continentals like BMW.

 

[avictar]

aiyaa....those camries benefitted from the new technology lah...if compare against E46 sure E46 in terms of tech a wee bit outdated...but overall, can never compare with the sheer driving comfort and exhiliration of driving a bimmer....weeee

 

[supergripen]

my mum drives the e46 318i 2.0 valvetronic..i'll have to say that its a superb car.the engine is so driveable with instant response whenever u touch the throttle.if u're not planning to be a speed demon and would just like a family car with adequate go,then i'd go for it.also,i notice that the gearbox is also much better resolved than my e46 328i which can be really sluggish and aloof.
in fact,i sold my 328i partly b'coz of the g'box.. oh yeah,i told my mum recently that if she plans to let go of her 2.0,i'd want to buy it from her...