a) BMW E46 325i Engine Specifications and Known Issues:
- 2.5L M54B25 engine (192 bhp at 6000 rpm, 245 Nm at 3500 rpm)
- Double VANOS system: Check for rattles and proper operation
- Timing chain designed for life of engine, but can stretch at high mileage
- Timing chain replacement typically needed around 150,000-180,000 miles
- Timing chain replacement cost: £900-£1400 at independent specialist
- Failure to replace stretched timing chain can lead to engine failure, potentially costing £3500-£5500 for a replacement engine
- Oil capacity 6.5 liters; use only 5W-30 or 0W-40 fully synthetic
- Oil change interval: 15,000 miles or annually, whichever comes first
- Common issues: VANOS seals failure (£500-£700 to repair), oil leaks from valve cover gasket (£150-£200 to replace)
- Listen for ticking noise indicating lifter or valvetrain issues
- Check for blue smoke on startup, indicating worn valve stem seals (£600-£800 to replace)
- Plastic expansion tank prone to cracking; replacement cost £70-£90
- Water pump failure common around 60,000-80,000 miles; listen for bearing noise
- Thermostat housing can leak; check for coolant residue
- Radiator can develop leaks, especially in lower corners
- Electric fan failure can lead to overheating; check operation
- Full cooling system overhaul recommended every 60,000 miles, cost £600-£800
- Coolant flush recommended every 2 years or 30,000 miles
- Check for rust along entire length, especially center section and rear silencer
- Listen for exhaust leaks at manifold and flex pipe connections
- Catalytic converter can fail; check for rattles and loss of performance
- Exhaust hangers can wear; look for sagging exhaust
- Full system replacement cost: £700-£900 at independent garage
- Aftermarket systems available, but ensure they comply with emissions regulations
- Front control arm bushings wear; listen for clunks over bumps
- Rear trailing arm bushings can deteriorate; affects handling
- Check for even tire wear; uneven wear indicates alignment issues
- Power steering pump can fail; listen for whining noise
- Shock absorbers typically last 60,000-80,000 miles
- Full suspension refresh cost: £1000-£1300 at specialist
- Check for play in ball joints and tie rod ends
- Front: 300mm discs, Rear: 294mm discs
- Check disc thickness and surface condition; minimum thickness 28mm front, 20mm rear
- Ensure even pad wear; minimum pad thickness 3mm
- ABS sensors can fail; each replacement costs £60-£80
- Brake fluid should be changed every 2 years
- Consider upgrade to 330i brakes for improved performance
- Full brake service cost: £300-£400 at independent garage
- Manual: ZF 5-speed, generally reliable but check for smooth operation
- Manual transmission issues:
- Clutch typically lasts 80,000-100,000 miles; replacement cost £500-£700
- Listen for grinding noises, especially in 2nd gear, indicating synchro wear
- Clutch hydraulics can fail; slave cylinder replacement costs £150-£200
- Gearbox oil should be changed every 60,000 miles; neglect can lead to premature wear - Automatic: GM 5-speed, ensure smooth shifts and no slipping
- Automatic transmission issues:
- Fluid and filter change recommended every 60,000 miles; cost £200-£250
- Neglecting fluid changes can lead to premature failure
- Valve body issues common; replacement costs £800-£1200
- Torque converter failure possible; replacement with rebuild costs £1800-£2500
- Complete transmission failure can occur if maintenance is neglected; rebuild or replacement costs £2500-£3500 - Listen for whining noises in manual, indicating bearing wear
- Check for leaks at transmission seals and gaskets
- Ensure smooth gear changes in both manual and automatic
- Verify no slipping or harsh engagement in automatic, especially when cold
- Check all electrical components: windows, mirrors, lights, wipers
- Ensure ABS and traction control lights go out after startup
- Dim pixels in instrument cluster common; repair cost £100-£150
- Battery drain issues can occur; check for parasitic draw
- Alternator failure possible at high mileage; replacement cost £250-£350
- Verify all warning lights illuminate briefly on startup
- Check for proper operation of climate control system
- Inspect rear wheel arches and sills for rust, especially behind plastic trims
- Check front fenders near headlights for corrosion
- Sunroof drains can block, causing water ingress; check footwells for dampness
- Door bottoms can rust; look under rubber seals
- Boot lid can corrode around number plate lights
- Paint quality generally good, but stone chips can lead to rust if untreated
- Check for even panel gaps, indicating possible previous accident repairs
- Check driver's seat bolster for wear; leather re-coloring costs £150-£200
- Ensure all dashboard lights and displays function correctly
- Verify smooth operation of climate control system
- Inspect headliner for sagging, especially around sunroof
- Check for wear on steering wheel, gear knob, and handbrake lever
- Ensure all electric seat functions work if fitted
- Test all audio system components, including CD changer if present
- Verify regular oil changes (15,000 miles or annually)
- Check for major service every 30,000 miles, including spark plug replacement
- Look for timing chain replacement on high mileage examples (150,000+ miles)
- Ensure cooling system overhaul has been performed (around 60,000-80,000 miles)
- Verify brake fluid changes every 2 years
- Check for any documented repairs or parts replacements
- Inspect for regular transmission fluid changes (especially important for automatics)
- Facelift introduced in late 2001 (from September production)
- Updated headlights and taillights on facelift models
- Facelift models have slightly revised interior trim
- Engine remained largely unchanged between versions
- Facelift models may have updated navigation systems and improved electronics
- Minor suspension tweaks in facelift models for improved handling
- VANOS system failures; listen for rattling noise at idle
- Oil leaks from valve cover gasket and oil filter housing gasket
- Cooling system component failures (expansion tank, water pump, thermostat)
- Window regulator failures; test all windows for smooth operation
- ABS module failures can occur; check for ABS warning lights
- Suspension bushing wear, especially front control arms
- Automatic transmission issues in high mileage examples
- Listen for engine noise on cold start, particularly timing chain rattle
- Check for smooth acceleration and no hesitation throughout rev range
- Test brakes for even stopping power and no pulling to one side
- Verify smooth gear changes (manual) or shifts (automatic)
- Listen for suspension noises over bumps and during cornering
- Check all electrical systems during the drive
- Monitor temperature gauge for consistent reading
- Test air conditioning effectiveness
- Verify VIN matches all documentation
- Check for outstanding finance using HPI check
- Ensure V5C is present and matches the car details
- Verify MOT history for recurring issues and mileage consistency
- Check for any outstanding recalls
- Ensure all keys and master key are present
- Popular upgrades include ECU remapping, intake, and exhaust modifications
- Verify any modifications are properly documented for insurance purposes
- Be cautious of heavily modified examples; they may have been driven hard
- Suspension upgrades common; ensure they don't compromise ride quality
- Check for appropriate tire sizes if wheels have been upgraded
- Offers better performance than contemporary Audi A4 2.4 and Mercedes C240
- Generally more reliable than equivalent Alfa Romeo 156
- Higher maintenance costs compared to Japanese rivals like Lexus IS
- Better handling characteristics than most competitors
- Strong residual values compared to mainstream brands
- Annual service: £250-£350 at independent specialists, £400-£500 at BMW dealers
- Major service (every 30,000 miles): £450-£550 at independent, £650-£750 at dealers
- Timing chain replacement: £900-£1400 if required
- Budget £800-£1000 annually for maintenance and repairs on a well-used example
- Unexpected repairs: Set aside an additional £500-£1000 per year for older vehicles
- Consider specialist insurance for better coverage and potentially lower premiums
- Good availability of both OEM and aftermarket parts
- Example prices:
- Oil filter: £10-£15 (Mann or Bosch), £20-£25 (OEM BMW)
- Air filter: £20-£25 (Mann or Bosch), £35-£40 (OEM BMW)
- Brake pads (front): £40-£60 (Pagid or Brembo), £80-£100 (OEM BMW)
- Shock absorbers (pair, front): £120-£150 (Bilstein), £220-£260 (OEM BMW)
- Alternator: £180-£220 (Bosch), £350-£400 (OEM BMW)
- Water pump: £60-£80 (FEBI), £120-£150 (OEM BMW) - Consider joining owners' clubs for access to group buys and specialist advice
- As of 2023, average asking prices:
- Under 80,000 miles, excellent condition: £4,000-£6,000
- 80,000-120,000 miles, good condition: £2,500-£4,000
- Over 120,000 miles, fair condition: £1,500-£2,500 - Well-maintained, low mileage examples can fetch up to £7,000-£8,500
- Expect 5-8% annual depreciation for average examples
- Coupe and Convertible models typically command 15-20% premium over Saloons
- M-Sport models can fetch 10-15% more than standard versions
- Values are stabilizing for well-kept examples due to growing classic status
- Factors boosting value: full service history, recent major work completed, original paint, no accident history
