I realize that this has probably been covered about a half a million times, but I searched and I couldn't find anything.

What sort of things should I look for when getting my hands on an e46 M3? I'm looking to get into an 00-03. I know in the e36 you're supposed to look for replaced waterpump, t-stat housing, radiator, suspension after 50k, stuff like that. What do you look at on e46's? Any recalls on the e46? Anyway to purchase warranties if the cars has already run out? Any additional tips would be helpful as well. Thanks in advance. Sorry for bringing this up for the 50 millionth time



*Edit*

SMG vs. 5spd...what to do?

Go drive an SMG see how you like it. Personally I love it on my dad's and so does he, but some people on here hate it with a passion so it is a personal decision. Make sure if you are looking at an '01 that it has had the rod bearing recall completed on it. I dont know much more than that since my dad's is an '05 and I am no longer around to know if anything goes wrong. :)

This can't be a giant mystery. Tried searching again, found nothing. This forum needs a sticky like the e36 m3 forum

SMG v 6-speed? Not to start something, but drive both and see which you like. My personal preference is 6-speed. But thats just me. For things wrong with an E46? Check it's had its Rod Bearing Recall, Check the brake discs for wear and tear as it will show if its had track use. Check the diff too, as a few have become noisy. Other than that check the usual stuff and car should be pretty much right !

thanks.

any significant power loss with the SMG v 6 speed?

Depending on how much you are willing to spend I would definitely considering buying a 2003.5 M3 or later.

20,000 miles in the first year of owning mine. No problems (yet). The SMG has done me great. I didnt wasnt that sold at first but now that I have it I love it....

"Check the diff too, as a few have become noisy"

How can you detect something is wrong with it? I read a thread where certain noise is normal.

thanks.

any significant power loss with the SMG v 6 speed?
Not that I know of, but it may sap one or two HP for the hydraulics of the SMG. But otherwise it is the same gearbox.

"Check the diff too, as a few have become noisy"

How can you detect something is wrong with it? I read a thread where certain noise is normal.

Making the noise that mine did certaintly wasnt normal my friend. If you heard it, you would agree.

I am not doubting you, I am asking the difference between your noise and the "normal" one.

Not that I know of, but it may sap one or two HP for the hydraulics of the SMG. But otherwise it is the same gearbox.

No power loss due to SMG, period. Probably somewhat faster acceleration due to quicker shifting. I love mine.

As with any car, a thorough check and a PPI inspection at a BMW store is money well spent. A test drive would be nice, but not maditory if the car is across the country. Do a carfax as well. Keep the miles low and buy the best car that you can afford and you will have fun.