a) BMW E46 328i Engine Characteristics and Potential Issues:
- 2.8L M52TU engine (193 bhp at 5500 rpm, 280 Nm at 3500 rpm)
- Double VANOS system: Listen for rattling noise at idle, indicating worn seals
- Timing chain designed for engine's lifetime but can stretch at high mileage
- Timing chain replacement typically needed around 150,000-180,000 miles
- Timing chain replacement cost: £1000-£1500 at independent specialist
- Failure to replace stretched timing chain can lead to catastrophic engine failure, potentially costing £4000-£6000 for a replacement engine
- Oil capacity: 6.5 liters; use only 5W-30 or 0W-40 fully synthetic oil
- Oil change interval: 15,000 miles or annually, whichever comes first
- Check for oil leaks around valve cover gasket and oil filter housing
- Listen for ticking noise indicating lifter or valvetrain issues
- Plastic expansion tank prone to cracking; replacement cost £80-£100
- Water pump typically fails around 60,000-80,000 miles; replacement cost £200-£250
- Thermostat and housing can leak; check for coolant residue
- Radiator can develop leaks, especially in lower corners; replacement cost £250-£300
- Electric fan failure can cause overheating; replacement cost £150-£200
- Full cooling system overhaul recommended every 60,000 miles, total cost £700-£900
- Manual: ZF 5-speed, generally reliable but check for smooth operation
- Manual transmission issues:
- Clutch typically lasts 80,000-100,000 miles; replacement cost £600-£800
- Listen for grinding noises, especially in 2nd gear, indicating synchro wear
- Clutch hydraulics can fail; slave cylinder replacement costs £180-£220
- Gearbox oil should be changed every 60,000 miles; neglect can lead to premature wear - Automatic: ZF 5-speed, ensure smooth shifts and no slipping
- Automatic transmission issues:
- Fluid and filter change recommended every 50,000 miles; cost £250-£300
- Neglecting fluid changes can lead to premature failure
- Valve body issues common; replacement costs £900-£1300
- Torque converter failure possible; replacement with rebuild costs £2000-£2800
- Complete transmission failure if maintenance neglected; rebuild or replacement costs £2800-£3800 - 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
- Front control arm bushings prone to wear; replacement cost £250-£300
- 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; replacement cost £400-£500 for all four
- Full suspension refresh cost: £1000-£1300 at specialist
- 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 £120-£180
- Battery drain issues can occur; check for parasitic draw
- Alternator failure possible at high mileage; replacement cost £280-£350
- Verify all warning lights illuminate briefly on startup
- 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
- Check for even panel gaps, indicating possible previous accident repairs
- Front: 325mm discs, Rear: 320mm discs
- Check for pad wear and rotor scoring; minimum pad thickness 3mm
- Test ABS function; sensor failures common (£60-£80 per sensor)
- Brake fluid change every 2 years; full brake service cost: £300-£400
- Listen for squealing or grinding noises during braking
- Verify service stamps match mileage progression
- Look for timing chain replacement on high-mileage engines
- Check for regular oil changes (15,000 miles or annually)
- Major service interval: every 30,000 miles or 2 years
- Verify coolant system overhaul around 60,000-80,000 miles
- Facelift introduced in late 2001
- Updated headlights and taillights on facelift models
- Interior received minor updates, including new door panels
- Engine remained largely unchanged between versions
- Facelift models have slightly updated suspension for improved handling
- Check for smooth cold start and idle
- Test acceleration through all gears, noting any hesitation or misfires
- Listen for suspension noises over rough roads
- Check brake performance, including handbrake efficiency
- Verify all electrical systems work correctly during the drive
- Monitor temperature gauge for consistent reading
- Annual service: £200-£300 at independent specialists, £350-£450 at BMW dealers
- Major service (every 30,000 miles): £400-£500 at independent, £600-£700 at dealers
- Timing chain replacement (if needed): £1000-£1500
- Budget £700-£900 annually for maintenance on a well-used example
- Factor in potential for larger one-off repairs (e.g., transmission) when budgeting
- VANOS seals failure causing rough idle and poor performance
- Crankcase ventilation valve failure leading to oil leaks and rough running
- Window regulators prone to failure, especially front doors
- ABS module failures can occur; check for ABS warning lights
- Oxygen sensor failures can cause poor fuel economy and engine performance
- Check driver's seat bolster for wear; leather re-coloring costs around £150
- Ensure all dashboard lights and displays function correctly
- Verify smooth operation of climate control system
- Inspect headliner for sagging, especially around sunroof
- Test all audio system components, including CD changer if present
- Verify full V5C document is present and matches car details
- Check for outstanding finance using online HPI check (costs about £20)
- Ensure all previous MOT certificates are available; check for advisories
- Verify service book entries match mileage progression
- Check for any outstanding recalls, particularly for airbag systems
- Popular upgrades include ECU remap (adds 15-20 bhp), costing £300-£400
- Aftermarket exhausts common; ensure cat-back systems to maintain emissions compliance
- Check for non-standard suspension; lowering springs can affect ride quality
- Verify any engine modifications are properly documented for insurance purposes
- Be cautious of cars with extensive modifications; they may indicate hard use
- More refined than contemporary Audi A4 2.8 or Mercedes C280
- Better handling but potentially higher maintenance costs compared to Japanese rivals
- Fuel economy: expect 25-30 mpg combined, compared to 23-28 mpg for Mercedes C280
- Higher prestige factor but potentially costlier to maintain than mainstream brands
- Stronger residual values compared to non-premium competitors of the same era
- Parts availability generally good, but some electronic components may become scarce
- Consider joining owners' clubs for advice and potential group buys on parts
- Insurance costs can be higher than average due to performance and repair costs
- Potential for future classic status, especially for well-maintained examples
- Consider specialized storage solutions if keeping the car long-term
- 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) - 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
- Factors boosting value: full service history, recent major work completed, original paint, no accident history
