curryinahurry 39 Report post Posted February 25, 2008 Hi guys, I'm planning on having a look at a 98 e46 318i. I've never driven one before, so I don't really know what to expect. Are there any problems I should look out for? And what would be a resonable price? Any opinion would be much appreciated. Thanks! Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Yuen 16 Report post Posted February 25, 2008 Two extra cylinders - they make a world of difference +1 Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
matwithe30 0 Report post Posted February 25, 2008 Two extra cylinders - they make a world of difference haha amen Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
jochen 4 Report post Posted February 25, 2008 Hi guys, I'm planning on having a look at a 98 e46 318i. I've never driven one before, so I don't really know what to expect. Are there any problems I should look out for? And what would be a resonable price? Any opinion would be much appreciated. Thanks! Check the rear suspension subframe mounts. The metal wears and tears (metal fatigue) resulting in a fix that can cost thousands and thousands.... sometimes $10,000. google E46 suspension subframe problems Read this: http://www.turnermotorsport.com/image/susp...inforcement.pdf you can also see videos on youtube: BMW subframe damage video Problem was fixed in factory on post 2001 (I think) cars. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
mr E34 11 Report post Posted February 25, 2008 Hi guys, I'm planning on having a look at a 98 e46 318i. I've never driven one before, so I don't really know what to expect. Are there any problems I should look out for? And what would be a resonable price? Any opinion would be much appreciated. Thanks! E46 released in 98, probably takes a few years to iron out bugs. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Apex 693 Report post Posted February 25, 2008 May not be any help but my Mum has had a NZ new E46 for 6 years and nothing has gone wrong with it. Ever. That car changed my opinion of BMW’s, If they are looked after and properly maintained they are brilliant reliable cars so I would sagest getting NZ new with full service history, it may cost a few grand more but you’ll get it back in saved repair costs and resale value. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
hybrid 1043 Report post Posted February 26, 2008 Check the rear suspension subframe mounts. The metal wears and tears (metal fatigue) resulting in a fix that can cost thousands and thousands.... sometimes $10,000. google E46 suspension subframe problems Read this: http://www.turnermotorsport.com/image/susp...inforcement.pdf you can also see videos on youtube: BMW subframe damage video Problem was fixed in factory on post 2001 (I think) cars. This isn't really a problem in the 318's as they dont have enough torque to stress the subframe areas. The problem only manfests itself in M3 / 330 and the occasional 328. The other ways it comes about is people riding around with little or no suspension (cut springs / lowered past 60-70mm) It also again depends how the car was driven. Put it this way, I've had my '00 330i lowered for about 3 years to 50mm and its fine. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites