BMW E46

[CleanSump]

This vehicle has the M54B25 engine. This is an aluminum block and head design. This is one reason that cooling system failure is such an issue.

oh! I was confusing it the older iron block.

 

[lazarus55]

I owned one for several years, let me know if you have any questions. The head/gasket aren’t as fragile as reported, I overheated mine many times with no issue. The problem is that people will try to drive it several miles or longer with a busted (plastic impeller) water pump. The core power train is very reliable if maintained, can easily go 300k+ miles. Excellent driving dynamics. Easy to work on.

However, you will suffer a lot of auxiliary issues. Window regulators, fuel pump, suspension wears out easily, VANOS, ignition coils, etc. These cars are old and will all be projects now but they can be worth it.