E46Forum.co.uk

Posted: **Wed Oct 23, 2024 4:55 pm**

BMW E46 328i: In-Depth Inspection Guide for Savvy Buyers

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

b) BMW E46 328i Cooling System: Common Failures and Preventive Measures:

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

c) BMW E46 328i Transmission Options: Manual and Automatic Gearbox Care:

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

d) BMW E46 328i Suspension and Steering: Wear Indicators and Replacement Costs:

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

e) BMW E46 328i Electrical System: Common Faults and Diagnostic Tips:

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

f) BMW E46 328i Body and Corrosion: Rust-Prone Areas and Inspection Guide:

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

g) BMW E46 328i Braking System: Maintenance Schedule and Common Issues:

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

h) BMW E46 328i Service History and Mileage Verification:

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

i) BMW E46 328i Pre-Facelift vs Facelift Models: Key Differences:

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

j) BMW E46 328i Test Drive Checklist: Key Points to Assess:

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

k) BMW E46 328i Maintenance Costs: Annual Budget and Major Expense Planning:

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

l) BMW E46 328i Common Mechanical and Electronic Issues:

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

m) BMW E46 328i Interior Quality and Common Wear Points:

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

n) BMW E46 328i Documentation and Legal Aspects:

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

o) BMW E46 328i Modifications and Tuning: Performance Upgrades and Considerations:

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

p) BMW E46 328i vs Competitors: Performance and Ownership Cost Comparison:

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

q) BMW E46 328i Long-Term Ownership Considerations:

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

r) BMW E46 328i Parts Availability and Cost Comparison:

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

s) BMW E46 328i Market Value and Depreciation Trends:

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