I am looking to purchase a used BMW 3 series, the E46 version which is model years 1999 to 2006. I know nothing about BMWs other than they bill themselves as "The Ultimate Driving Machines." I have worked with a few people in the past that have really liked them but those were all new purchases. I had a neighbor a few years ago and that was the only brand his family owned. They must have had six of them. He was always extolling the virtues of owning a Bimmer. He moved so I can't ask him and the used car dealership sales person likely won't tell you anything bad about the brand of car he is selling. I cannot afford a new BMW so I thought the used route would be the way to go. I'm not looking for an M series, just a regular 3 series.
This new to me vehicle would likely get driven less than 10K in a year. I don't care if it is 2 or 4 door and manual or automatic isn't a factor either. What years of the E46 are better than others? How well do they last with decent maintenance? Are they hard to work on for simple maintenance items like oil changes, plugs, fuel filter, etc? What about major defects? I have heard their Steptronic slushbox isn't that great but have no real proof. What questions should I be asking when looking at this type of used vehicle?
Please share any and all information you have on these German vehicles.
This new to me vehicle would likely get driven less than 10K in a year. I don't care if it is 2 or 4 door and manual or automatic isn't a factor either. What years of the E46 are better than others? How well do they last with decent maintenance? Are they hard to work on for simple maintenance items like oil changes, plugs, fuel filter, etc? What about major defects? I have heard their Steptronic slushbox isn't that great but have no real proof. What questions should I be asking when looking at this type of used vehicle?
Please share any and all information you have on these German vehicles.