kiwi6539 3 Report post Posted June 28, 2009 Hey all Im looking at getting a e36 for my partner. Thinking of a 316i 318ti or maybe something bigger. Are there any common faults to look for on a E36?. I will get a check done by my mechanic, but before I get to that stage are there any things to take a good look at? Also if anyone has a 1995-1997 3 series for sale in the wellington region let me know. Cheers Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
mark247 39 Report post Posted June 28, 2009 Door cards fall apart. #1 most annoying thing for me with e36's. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Mark 178 Report post Posted June 28, 2009 Google "E36 buyers guide" .... results will tell you all you need to know. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Wom 0 Report post Posted June 29, 2009 (edited) the cooling system if it's auto ... the jatco jerk - it'll flare between 1 & 2 + 2 & 3 (usually between 2nd and 3rd is the worse) + it'll be quite jerky changing the gear - this is for the Jap imports, I believe NZ new cars used a different box the climate control unit (if broken it just does what it wants to ... 1 minute it'll be full blast hot, then next minute it'll be full blast cold, that sorta stuff) - guy on trademe fixes them for $100 the display control panel below the climate control - sometimes the characters wont display (pixelated), can be fixed easily using double sided tape electric windows jerk up and down if you hold the button ... window still goes up but you need to keep pressing the button rather than holding it ... another easy fix (just a magnet that falls out of place) the fuel flap lock Don't let this stuff put you off though, I've had a few of the common faults and I still love my car Although the mechanical warranty (with no excess) has really helped out big time edit - check out this thread http://www.bimmersport.co.nz/forums/index.php?showtopic=377 Edited June 29, 2009 by Wom Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Nobimmer 694 Report post Posted June 29, 2009 Roof lining. Leaky boots. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites