amdaman 5 Report post Posted October 12, 2013 So after much deliberation I got bored and just decided to pick a car. I decided to go for the E46 M3 because I always wanted one and I have previously had an S2000 and this seemed like it could be a step up. So the car has FBSH and I got the inspection II put on credit for when I want to use it as part of the deal. I've ordered some VANOS parts to be fitted when it goes in for the inspection (thanks for the help on the previous thread guys). It looks really tidy and minimal marks on the car, the interior is in great condition, even the door handles are unmarked (which seemed to be an issue on most I looked at). I also got the car PPI'd and the subframe was good - few weeping seals though and the passenger mirror isn't working. The SMG pump was done 10k kms ago as well. So onto the car, what I like; - it's quicker than the S2, the engine power and delivery is beautiful! - it gives me a lot more confidence than the S2 did in the bends at high speed - The SMG blips on the downshift are sweet - it's comfortable - I quite like the noise - great brakes What i'd change; - It's not as pin sharp as the S2 was in the steering dept - Kind of missing the gearbox (but who wouldn't coming from the S2 box!) - the exhaust note isn't loud enough for me - the upshifting is harsh - no aux for the radio So i've got a few questions! How do I get aux on this thing or ipod control? I don't know if it has a multichanger but i think i read you can replace it if it does? Did these things come with an alarm as standard? The owner said it didn't? Anyone know what the issue with the passenger mirror might be? It was raining the other day and the drivers mirror was crystal clear but the passenger one wasn't so the heating element and motor doesn't seem to work. Is it difficult to fit OEM LED lights to the E46? Are the aftermarket copies worth a look or not? Are there any common mods / changes people generally do on the E46? Not specifically engine mods but just improvements. Few phone pics; Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Tristan 338 Report post Posted October 12, 2013 (edited) What i'd change; - It's not as pin sharp as the S2 was in the steering dept - Kind of missing the gearbox (but who wouldn't coming from the S2 box!) - the exhaust note isn't loud enough for me Lots of aftermarket options, Supersprint would be my choice! - the upshifting is harsh - You know you can change the shift speeds, right? - no aux for the radio So i've got a few questions! How do I get aux on this thing or ipod control? I don't know if it has a multichanger but i think i read you can replace it if it does? I used a tape deck adaptor in my old one, sound quality was not sacrificed hugely and you can get them for $10. At the very least they'll tie you over until you get a proper AUX. (I'd probably talk to a car audio specialist) Did these things come with an alarm as standard? The owner said it didn't? Anyone know what the issue with the passenger mirror might be? It was raining the other day and the drivers mirror was crystal clear but the passenger one wasn't so the heating element and motor doesn't seem to work. Is it difficult to fit OEM LED lights to the E46? Are the aftermarket copies worth a look or not? I don't think it's difficult from what I can tell. I had aftermarket ones on my one (from previous owner) and they worked just fine. Are there any common mods / changes people generally do on the E46? Not specifically engine mods but just improvements. Short shift kits (AutoSolutions, Rogue Engineering, UUC are popular)ZHP Gear knob (shorter, weighted) is a popular change from the stock gear knob Coilovers Edited October 12, 2013 by Tristan Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
E46MSport 0 Report post Posted October 12, 2013 So after much deliberation I got bored and just decided to pick a car. I decided to go for the E46 M3 because I always wanted one and I have previously had an S2000 and this seemed like it could be a step up. So the car has FBSH and I got the inspection II put on credit for when I want to use it as part of the deal. I've ordered some VANOS parts to be fitted when it goes in for the inspection (thanks for the help on the previous thread guys). It looks really tidy and minimal marks on the car, the interior is in great condition, even the door handles are unmarked (which seemed to be an issue on most I looked at). I also got the car PPI'd and the subframe was good - few weeping seals though and the passenger mirror isn't working. The SMG pump was done 10k kms ago as well. So onto the car, what I like; - it's quicker than the S2, the engine power and delivery is beautiful! - it gives me a lot more confidence than the S2 did in the bends at high speed - The SMG blips on the downshift are sweet - it's comfortable - I quite like the noise - great brakes What i'd change; - It's not as pin sharp as the S2 was in the steering dept - Kind of missing the gearbox (but who wouldn't coming from the S2 box!) - the exhaust note isn't loud enough for me - the upshifting is harsh - no aux for the radio So i've got a few questions! How do I get aux on this thing or ipod control? I don't know if it has a multichanger but i think i read you can replace it if it does? Can you please post pics of the stereo? I'm sure you can put AUX input such as GROM Audio or Dension. Did these things come with an alarm as standard? The owner said it didn't? Few comes with OEM alarm, but all comes with OEM immobilizer Anyone know what the issue with the passenger mirror might be? It was raining the other day and the drivers mirror was crystal clear but the passenger one wasn't so the heating element and motor doesn't seem to work. Is it difficult to fit OEM LED lights to the E46? Are the aftermarket copies worth a look or not? LED lights as in park lights, etc? its not hard, but you have to buy the one designed for European cars, otherwise your bulb fail warning will lights up. Are there any common mods / changes people generally do on the E46? Not specifically engine mods but just improvements. Few phone pics; Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Dyl 4 Report post Posted October 12, 2013 Lovely. Would love to see it. You won't regret your choice Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Neal 545 Report post Posted October 12, 2013 IPod integration can be done via dice or Denison gateways. They replace the cd stacker and allow iPod control via head unit. Denison has Bluetooth option for hands free calling via phone. Alarm is optional , if jap import there is a good chance its doesn't have pre wiring. If nz new it may be pre wired which means adding alarm system is start forward. Just a case of getting tilt sensor , interior ultrasonic transducer , bonnet switch and alarm siren. Easy ish to install yourself but the system will enabling at a dealer or specialist. Jap version without pre wire will take quite a bit of time to install. Wiring paths means pulling interior and head lining apart and routing various bits around the car. Check door connector for mirror operation issues as a starting point. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
amdaman 5 Report post Posted October 12, 2013 Hey Tristan - Yeah on the lowest setting though the gear change just seems dim witted and slow, I'll have a play around with the in between settings tomorrow. I mean the tail lights to make it look like 2004+ spec.. I think it would freshen the rear up a bit! Steve I'll get some pics up tomorrow, it looks like the standard business tape deck. There's a 10 cd stacker in the boot though. Thanks Dylan! Which do you recommend between the dice and denison? I saw a cable that simply plugs into the h/u that has an aux input? The alarm sounds like a hassle hiding cables etc? I might just get the parts and let bmw do it! It is nz new though. Thanks - is that visible when the door is open? Cheers Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Phil-540i 166 Report post Posted October 12, 2013 Sweet car!! Looks like a great reason to have loooooong weekends, fairly often............ ...... Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
APT 195 Report post Posted October 12, 2013 Car looks good, congrats! Did you guy this from a member? Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
amdaman 5 Report post Posted October 12, 2013 Cheers Blue, looking for any excuse to drive it! I'm not sure if he's a member on here Apt, I bought it off trademe Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
E46MSport 0 Report post Posted October 12, 2013 Hey Tristan - Yeah on the lowest setting though the gear change just seems dim witted and slow, I'll have a play around with the in between settings tomorrow. I mean the tail lights to make it look like 2004+ spec.. I think it would freshen the rear up a bit! Steve I'll get some pics up tomorrow, it looks like the standard business tape deck. There's a 10 cd stacker in the boot though. Thanks Dylan! Which do you recommend between the dice and denison? I saw a cable that simply plugs into the h/u that has an aux input? The alarm sounds like a hassle hiding cables etc? I might just get the parts and let bmw do it! It is nz new though. Thanks - is that visible when the door is open? Cheers in that case, you can put iPod integration unit which replaces the 10 disc stacker and control your iPod from the HU. LED tailight is easy. there's a shop in Mt. Wellington AKL who sells those. check with them. I'm sure its plug n play unit. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Dyl 4 Report post Posted October 13, 2013 in that case, you can put iPod integration unit which replaces the 10 disc stacker and control your iPod from the HU. LED tailight is easy. there's a shop in Mt. Wellington AKL who sells those. check with them. I'm sure its plug n play unit. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Dyl 4 Report post Posted October 13, 2013 Do these guys sell on trademe? I have the led tail lights in mine but some of the LEDs are out. I wonder if they can repair if I take them in? Where are they?? Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
amdaman 5 Report post Posted October 13, 2013 Thanks Steve, so you reckon grom or denison will do it? What year is yours Dylan? I've been out all day looking for some willing cars on some choice twisty roads.. No one wanted to play Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Dyl 4 Report post Posted October 13, 2013 Mines a 2003 mate so I missed out on the factory spec led lights by a matter of weeks ? the aftermarket ones are very convincing though. If you want to have an M3 play flick me a pm. I have a few buddies that would be game too Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
E46MSport 0 Report post Posted October 13, 2013 Thanks Steve, so you reckon grom or denison will do it? What year is yours Dylan? I've been out all day looking for some willing cars on some choice twisty roads.. No one wanted to play yeah man... Dension or GROM or even Dice will do it. I think Dice is one of the forum's sponsor. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
E46MSport 0 Report post Posted October 13, 2013 Do these guys sell on trademe? I have the led tail lights in mine but some of the LEDs are out. I wonder if they can repair if I take them in? Where are they?? http://www.trademe.co.nz/motors/car-parts-accessories/bmw/accessories/auction-649153259.htm not sure if this would fit yours. They're in Mt. Wellington, Auckland. Same building as Redline Performance. 19 Industry Road, Penrose, Auckland ( we are right next to redline performance ) Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
amdaman 5 Report post Posted October 14, 2013 Cheers will pick something up soon, the radio is awful ha! I've been looking at those rear lights, look decent.. Wonder if anyone else has fitted them on here Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Tristan 338 Report post Posted October 14, 2013 Fairly sure similar are on Dylan's car, but those ones are from Australia - Another seller on TradeMe sends them over. They don't seem to have any listings at the moment though I did see them the other week. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
CSET 583 Report post Posted October 14, 2013 Nice colour, and looks to be in great condition - awesome weekend car! Those rear lights look good Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
amdaman 5 Report post Posted October 14, 2013 Thanks guys, Might leave the standard lights on for a while longer, they are growing on me. The only issue I'm having is my passenger wing mirror isn't working at all, the heating elements or movement.. Drivers is fine though, are these things separately fused? Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Tristan 338 Report post Posted October 14, 2013 PlastX from the Meguiar's range helps a lot with lights, even if they look alright. It's a plastic polish and improves the clarity immensely! I used it on my tails 2 days ago and although I thought they were pretty good they came up looking stunning. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
central3 31 Report post Posted October 15, 2013 My comments So after much deliberation I got bored and just decided to pick a car. I decided to go for the E46 M3 because I always wanted one and I have previously had an S2000 and this seemed like it could be a step up.Good choice So the car has FBSH and I got the inspection II put on credit for when I want to use it as part of the deal. I've ordered some VANOS parts to be fitted when it goes in for the inspection (thanks for the help on the previous thread guys). Be keen to hear what you have brought here but good skills - next valve adjustment is a good time to check out the exhaust cam oil pump drive tabs It looks really tidy and minimal marks on the car, the interior is in great condition, even the door handles are unmarked (which seemed to be an issue on most I looked at). I also got the car PPI'd and the subframe was good - few weeping seals though and the passenger mirror isn't working. The SMG pump was done 10k kms ago as well. So onto the car, what I like; - it's quicker than the S2, the engine power and delivery is beautiful! - it gives me a lot more confidence than the S2 did in the bends at high speed - The SMG blips on the downshift are sweet - it's comfortable - I quite like the noise - great brakes What i'd change; - It's not as pin sharp as the S2 was in the steering dept - Kind of missing the gearbox (but who wouldn't coming from the S2 box!) - the exhaust note isn't loud enough for me agree - have been pulling the guts out of mine and starting to sound better - never heard Supersprint but they sound like the way to go - the upshifting is harsh - no aux for the radio So i've got a few questions! How do I get aux on this thing or ipod control? I don't know if it has a multichanger but i think i read you can replace it if it does? I went for DICE and very happy Did these things come with an alarm as standard? The owner said it didn't? My NZ new is fully loaded in the alarm department Anyone know what the issue with the passenger mirror might be? It was raining the other day and the drivers mirror was crystal clear but the passenger one wasn't so the heating element and motor doesn't seem to work. Is it difficult to fit OEM LED lights to the E46? Are the aftermarket copies worth a look or not? not up on this but from what I have read some of the aftermarket units look pretty dodgy due to the black strip around the outside of the lights Are there any common mods / changes people generally do on the E46? Not specifically engine mods but just improvements.Endless but IMO cosmetically spacers on the front and and lower is good, maintenance wise understand where the car is for subframe and Vanos (which you are onto). Few phone pics; Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
amdaman 5 Report post Posted October 15, 2013 yeah i've used plasicx before, it's pretty good! I'm looking around for a machine polisher to take some of the elbow grease out of it! VANOS - I got the modified oil pump disc from Beisian, also got the seal kit from them too. I also got the sprocket bolts and loctite from Dr Vanos. I had a PPI done before the sale and the subframe was fine, no mention of the boot floor either. I can't remember seeing a siren in the engine bay, it has a flashing red light under the rear view mirror though? Where are you loacated central? If you're in Welly come for a blast at the weekend Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
jeffbebe 1560 Report post Posted October 15, 2013 Siren's under one of the wheel arches, isn't it? If the light's flashing you should be alarmed. Open the window, lock the car then try unlocking manually and opening the door... You'll soon know if you have an alarm! Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
central3 31 Report post Posted October 15, 2013 yeah i've used plasicx before, it's pretty good! I'm looking around for a machine polisher to take some of the elbow grease out of it! VANOS - I got the modified oil pump disc from Beisian, also got the seal kit from them too. I also got the sprocket bolts and loctite from Dr Vanos. I had a PPI done before the sale and the subframe was fine, no mention of the boot floor either. I can't remember seeing a siren in the engine bay, it has a flashing red light under the rear view mirror though? Where are you loacated central? If you're in Welly come for a blast at the weekend 3.5 hours north of Welly so not too many weekend blast opportunities - the red light under the mirror should flash intermitently when the car is locked if you have an alarm Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
