Leah,

I just finished researching the E46 3 Series and bought a 2004 325i this weekend. Here is some info on a serious problem that may occur with the model you are considering. This was taken from the E46 Bimmer Wiki:

There are many reports of cracked or torn subframe mounting points. Most often the rear mounting points are affected. This occurs almost only on the early 323i/328i models. BMW later improved the subframe mounting points on the trunk floor of the car and 325i/330i cars have no occurences of this problem. THis problem seems to be so frequent that a check before buying a 323i/328i IS AN ABSOLUTE MUST! Repairs are expensive and difficult since the unibody frame has to be welded and recurring stress cracking often occurs even after a repair has been made.

http://www.bimmerfest.com/wiki/index.php?title=BMW_E4

Hope this helps.

Paul

• 2000- 323i Purchase - leah735ia 2008-09-01 23:38:38 (130 views)
  • Re: 2000- 323i Purchase - haringpaul 2008-09-02 19:51:43 (148 views)