What make e46 ownership awesome is having youtube videos from Nathan, shop life, 50's kid, the russian dude, and many more. Also e46 handles well, drives well, looks best, but alternator mounted on the oil filter housing and liners fall off. I just bought 2 months ago. I saw the posting at 8:00 am, run to it, offered $1,000, by 10:30 am I have my 2nd e46 parked at home. It was a true 73k miles, overheating due to thermostat and has this weird body electrical problem where you cannot save settings you make on pasoft1.4. Looks like zke module problem. I like this video and timely for me as I'm still searching for cars to buy after losing my e83(m54) and e60(n52) to flood during Ida in NJ. My e46 survived(not much electronics as you mentioned) but with a bit of roof damage. In my search I came across a 318ti in good shape for 200k miles but a true M-package. I'm interested but not sure about buying a 318ti with tiny m44 in 2022? Any thoughts. How about make a video about 318ti, what to expect, improvements, engine swaps, worth it in 2022, scarcity, appeal, etc. Love Nathan's videos. Noticed videographer with gimball.
My 325xi is the best car I’ve ever owned overall, but I wouldn’t recommend it to most people, UNLESS you are willing to wrench on it a bit. I have owned all kinds of cars, some well into six figures, but my most enjoyable ownership experience has been with the E46
I know man!!!!! It’s something about em!!!! I drove my wife’s Honda CR-V , dropped it off at her job ( she had my E46 ) hopped in the E46 and it was sooo sunny ☀️ out I put the windows down and the music and listened to the hum of the engine as I roared down a twisty road like I was 17 years old 😂😂 I’m actually 45 but I felt like a kid that morning
Same here with my 330i. Only broke down on me once because of a mistake I made on the previous repair. My E46 will always be in my arsenal. Er... 'car'senal 🙂
Honestly these cars are starting to be a reliable option if you think about it there not hard to work on like newer bmws and the cars are old enough now where parts are cheap
Still quite expensive on parts tbh but yeah it’s gotten better. I’m nearly there with mine reliability wise a couple loose ends to finish off and she’ll be very mechanical sound… then upgrades ahah
Love my "02 E46 cica. Nathan, I wish you would get a convertible and do a whole series on the car, especially about the tops. Love your channel. Always a good watch, my friend!
Not sure about that. If you get the right e46 it's value may go up. I have a 05 330i zhp. I've been offered 2 and a half times over what I paid for it 5 yrs ago. I get asked all the time to sell it but I won't. Over all the market on the zhp models have gone up. I've been watching for atleast 5 yrs. Same for the e46 m3. Other e46 really hasn't really gone up. Your right though...decent cars over all I have a 06 330 also and isn't as good as a car. I have a few bmws lol bit of a problem lol
@@stickybucket1851 It was my uncle's, he died 8 months ago and I bought it out of the estate. He bought it with 12k miles on it. I just finished a complete refresh and replaced ccv, fuel hoses, complete intake manifold rebuild, new starter, new crank sensor, new cam intake and exhaust sensors, Vania solenoids, valve cover gasket, alternator, idle control Valve, throttle body, intake boots, heater valve, every coolant hose (inc hard lines along block), radiator, expansion tank, power steering pump, power steering reservoir, power steering high pressure lines, new windscreen washer system (inc tank and pump), full m Sport conversion (inside and out), coilovers, f series 18 inch wheels, brake rebuild, Morimoto headlight conversion with switchback halos and still working on it. After all this I reckon it should be trouble free for a long time!
My 01 330 5spd had more subframe cracks than I thought. Once I dropped the rear diff subframe (bad diff), I saw a lot. Drill stopped and welded, then made plates and welded them in.
I have a 2002 330ci Convertible. It has 230,000 miles, it has almost factory compression !! It drives and looks great. I get compliments on it all the time. I do ALL of my own work. I have gone through and replaced all worn out parts, I mean everything. Just keep the water pump and coolant system healthy, smoke test for vacuum leaks, and always change the oil. These engines will run a VERY long time with basic TLC ! Fuel pump is extremely easy to change,
Had a 325i e46 with rear diff locked so easy to drift never one issue at all. Now I have n55 335i its in the shop now for valve cover, valve cover gasket, oil housing replacement, control arms all In one year 3800 total
if u change the cooling system, trust me, don’t forget the two plastic hoses under the manifold connecting to the engine.. i changed everything and it still leaked and then found a melted hose..
@@R2RO1 well as of today I no longer have my E53. An idiot lady crashed into it causing my car to be totaled. But I managed to get my beautiful E46 330ci! Absolutely love it. Next is the E38!
@@trustyoungpierre9959 Are you sure, bruh? E39 is a mid-size saloon, about a foot longer than the equivalent E46. Anyways, too bad about the E53. Hope no one hurt.
i bought my 318i e46 in 2020 and it only had 111,000 on it. i am happy, never gave me any problems. just doing preventative maintenance on it. so next is the cooler expansion tank! wish me luck. great vid keep em coming
I restored a 87 bmw 325i convertible still own it I had a 2001 bmw 325ci And my dad had a 2004 bmw 325i he passed I restored it and still have I only drive bmw
I’ve never owned a e46 but I know from experience if you are willing to put the extra time and money into it the e39 chassis is a blast! My 540i is my favorite car to this day
Easier to replace the engine than doing a head gasket job. Especially when the head bolts are stripped. Pain in the ass Also the Xi has problems with the front differential going out. Same with the 04- 06 X5 . The 325Xi will no longer move if the diff goes out. The X5 will still move if the front diff dies.
I love your videos man! I have a 02 330ci my 3rd gear is acting up. What replacement do u think i should do? Its a 5 speed auto. Car was garaged kept it's whole life. I got all the maintenance that was never done. 126k miles. I never did a transmission swap myself but it doesn't look too bad.
These cars are brilliant. Very easy to work on, even if you take the car to the shop for the odd hard job that’s a challenge to do on the driveway it’s really not bad 👍🏼
Best first car ever imo for someone wanting a sporty car and still learn on it is a 330ci comes with a reliable 5 speed getrag and a m54b30 been with it for 9 months now and I love it got it for cheap only 2k and 140k miles but DO NOT get one expecting to never wrench on it like I said this is a perfect car if your trying to learn but not for comfort and for a bmw and my first car I’d say it’s pretty easy to work on and can’t forget the looks 😩 got myself a 02 pre face lift too beautiful
I have a black e46 and have the peeling clear coat on the side mirror cover, and the hood, roof and now trunk lid paint fading. I have another in orient blue metallic without those issues.
mine is a 2004 325i SULEV with sport, premium and ski package with angel lights as they call them. It's got $48,000 miles and yes I'm the original owner. So far I've replaced brakes, oil sensor and one missing ignition coil. Well only one went bad but I replaced all the ignition coils with Eldor coils after learning about them. OEM tires were done at 25k, then got some Good year Eagle GTs which supposedly would last 80k miles. However, those just got replaced and I wne with Michelin tires. They're so much better than the Good years. Loving the ride again especially after the Eldor coils and tires. I'm hoping to hold on to it as much as I can. It is a touch too small for me as I'm 5'10" but to sell a car you spent 39k on for nothing is not worth it to me. Anyhow, good to hear it's a good idea to buy one. Have thought of getting an e39 or another e46 but my garage is full and although I'm in California, I don't think leaving one outdoors as you once said, is a good idea.
Glad your not quitting Nathan, your videos are always very informative. Beside the E46 3 series an F30 3 series or a F32 4 series would be a nice addition. Many current followers will probably be looking into the newer gen BMW's over time.
E46 are overall good cars if’s maintenance was on time and undercarriage was protected from rust..brake lines on rear with time getting flavor ,front differential on Xi models last 30-40 tkm or less… I have think like you so I build my own… 03 325Xi touring auto was base for build because stronger and not shot subframe mounting points,engine,manual gearbox,subframe,electric harnesses,pedals etc came out from donor low mileage 03 325i manual.Rear diff 3.23 325Xi manual , M3 coupe heated seats,Everything get resealed,Vanos,brakes,bushings,suspension,tuned,no any light on dashboard,leaks,noise … Owners of multiple cars but this one make me feel good about everything…but only now when it’s everything sorted and improved and it’s works how’s it should … price: 500-600 hours of work,2150 for 2 cars ,3600 in new parts . After 5 months total cost without time was
Have my 2000 BMW 323i from 2008 change the motor because of me not being a car guy back then but now I know how to work on them n go to auto wreckers most weekends looking parts as back up 🛠 The bmw e46 is a solid built car this coming from a guy that own Infiniti g35 / fx45 would recommend the BMW e46 to any car guy who likes German engineered cars n don't wan break the bank Have a buddy wit the 2017 BMW 4 cylinder turbo I'm waiting to see how long he keeps it after the warranty expires 🤣
I have a 1997 e39 auto with passenger side turn signals not working emergency flashers work on all four corners any advice would be great haven’t driven the car for two years I really love it I got a modular from eBay but didn’t fix problem
a few days ago i bought a cheap e46 to beat on for the winter, do drifts and stuff, then i crashed into a small ditch, pulled out with another car and now the car won't start no crank, no pop start. never buying an e46 again. probably an electronics issue
I miss my e46. it was a 2001 330 imported from Guam and garaged in SF all it's life until taken to Tracy and put under a tree. So then it had seeds and prob like squirrels living inside the engine. we took care of that. 180k miles. very great condition but had been salvaged out for a tiny accident so airbag light was on. then I hit a HORRIBLE pothole and somehow the passenger side airbag blew (door and curtain) then a lot of things started going wrong due to the pothole hit. then the cat went out. I sold it to a very enthusiastic kid for $2000. I miss the clutch though. I have a 2007 e90 now and I HATE that the thing has no oil dipstick or anything. I hate the computerized stuff. Otherwise it's very reliable. Of course we switched out the water pump when we bought it to prevent that from failing. Overall, I preferred the old e46. If it hadn't hit that pothole, I think it would still be running well. The heated seats were so good, they'd actually get too hot. The car was the luxury model so it had every extra on it.
The E46's that are worth the most are the RWD sport package cars with a manual transmission. I'm kind of surprised to see you making this video, you made one a few years ago absolutely shitting on the E46 platform. These cars last forever as long as you keep quality oil in it and don't overheat it. I've had E90's for 6 years, I'm relieved to have another E46 again. It is so simple and inexpensive to work on.
I just purchased an X3 E83 in a needs work condition. I went for a high spec car with the 3.0 M54, I really have the feeling that once I sort out all the bugs and issues, it will be a better long-term option than a new or newer car would be without even considering the money. The best thing of all is I do not need to deal with dealerships and service advisors.
I have my 325i for sale right now for $3400. 185k miles. Body is rust free and is in overall great condition. Needs a new suspension. As it's a bit lofty over the highway. Probably still original. But it still rides nice. The interior, on the other hand, isn't great. Seats have normal wear. But the a, b, and c pillar cloth as all been loosening around the edges. It's frustrating. But it runs and drives really well. That's why I'm asking what I am asking for it. And I totally expect to be talked down about 10% on the price. But it's a good everyday driver. Nothing special.
I love my E46’s but $500 for all the parts you listed is hilarious 😂 try at least triple that if you want OEM or good quality Still worth it if you do it yourself!
Starter motor/ solenoid will do that , Some times there’s electrical contact some times there’s not meaning that that the starter it’s slowly on it’s way out. If not you’re having a ews key problem , your ews module does not recognize the chip inside your key fob . Look for 50’s kid and the guy he knows in California whom can fix this problem but you have to remove your ews module under the dash by the steering column and send all keys and module together for a bench diagnosis and fix. So you have to pay for shipping both ways.
@@paulgarcia458 OK than. i had the same problem with my 2003 bmw 330i zhp , so if you can buy or borrow a schwaben bmw scanner you're gonna look for anything that reads " EWS" it could be random key not recognized , ews module going bad or anything in between it means you need to replace or re-code your keys to the module under the steering wheel , under the dashboard close to the ob2 connector. Remove the whole panel under there , loosen the two 10mm bolts the hold the EWS module in place , now that its hanging using both hands unplug it wait a few seconds and plug it back in , leave it hanging still and go to start your car , if these works than its that module that is bad or your key fobs need new battery inside of them or everything needs to be re-aligned and synchronized.
Iam prob gonna be burried in my e46 um yeah i stripped the skins of my seats and swapped them for 7 series seats with the perforated leather and the cooling fans throughout with the headrests tht wrap around they turn out so good still manual and still work as they should I've done so muchcustom stuff to mine leather pillars suade headliner touch screen DVD stereo double din now tht was a fuct up job those cars are clearly not made for double din but my grandfather taught me don't fit make fit I even putinmy own angel eyes with led conversion also hooked day time runners up to a switch so I can turn em off if I want makes angel eyes look tht much better
It’s mentioned at the end of the video. Less common/critical in the 2.5xi cars due to far lesser twisting on the rear subframe from lower overall power, shared with front diff, and likely owners have probably been easier on them than the M, 330i, 330ci etc.
You must be joking Nathan. Probably 95% of all e46 cars at this point in time, will have the rear chassis cracks, which you can't really see properly until you drop the rear subframe. Just not worth the time and trouble and cost.
The cost to fix an E46 and get it in good running order is around $500 to $600 dollars. You're joking right. Anyone who truly appreciates their BMW or legitimately cares for it and wants it to be fixed properly and run correctly isn't getting their parts from E-Bay or Amazon. Honestly. $500 to $600 dollars isn't even close to what it's going to cost the buyer to get it up to par. Even if he or she is the one who is turning the wrenches. For instance. Take any BMW model in the price range you're searching. E-Series models built before 2010 most likely. Go find a similar BMW that's a "CPO" vehicle. Take the price of that vehicle and subtract the price of the BMW that's needing the "$500 to $600" dollars worth of work. The difference in the price is roughly what it's going to cost the buyer to fix it properly and have it in good running condition. You can't even get a set of tires for that cheap of a price. I would think that if the vehicle is below $10,000. And assembled before 2010. Expect to put as much money $$$ into the vehicle as you've paid for it.
@@NathansBMWWorkshop so you're talking about getting a 330i engine for the 325ix.... You're saying that the 325ix ECM will function with the 330i engine?
@@doylesmith8678 yeah I either look there or Turner Motorsport OEM bimmer parts bimmer world or ECS tuning of course none of these have a warranty program like FCP Euro does.
Lol I was just thinking same thing. Bought one of these for my daughter 9 months ago for $2k. Have watched every 50’s kid video there is and replaced everything that goes out. Valve cover gasket, intake manifold gasket, vanos gasket, vanos refresh, rebuilt vanos bearings with kit, water pump upgrade to metal impeller, clutch fan, belts, cooling system, disa valve, all vaccum lines, coils, plugs, sensors, oil dipstick gasket, transmission fluid, filter, gasket, temp sensor, thermostat, all pcv lines/system, front rear diff service, transfer case fluid change, wheel and brake sensors, brakes, rotors, known wiring issues with taillights, windshield wiper cowl that cracks and splits with age along with everything else rubber on the car, fuel pump and sending until are notorious for going out, vanos solonoids junk at 130k, secondary air pump, crank sensors… NOT INCLUDING front suspension kit he is talking about for $200-299? im about $6000 total into this car right now. lol $600 my ass 😂. and everything i just mentioned HAS to be replaced on every single one after 130k miles. New key will cost you $200 if u dont know how to crack case open and soldier a new battery in as well to replace the old one that wont take a charge. Lets not forget the sunroof cassette/cables that go bad in every one as well. Air intake boots made from rubber that cracks and rots that all need to be replaced. Headliner material peeling falling off a, b, c pillars. lol think that covers everything? that light module for auto lights is about $400 as well. cant just swap one from another 20yr old car in without expecting same issues or resetting fault codes at dealer. Don’t get me wrong, was very fun and easy to work on. Parts are reasonably cheap on comparison to new cars today. But $600 aint gonna cut it. I can promise you that. But once done? thing runs like a champ. Very reliable now. $600 will only get you started lol.
I've been down the E46 road many times since buying a new one in 2002 and whilst there were superb then, I wouldn't have one now - ditto E39's. They are too old, too needy and often a bastard to fix. Rusty arches, boot floor cracks, GM5 module, drivers door lock, window regulators, LF20 PAS pump, oil leaks, a cooling system 10 times more complex than it needs to be (compare with E36) and made from shit plastic, heater resistor, oil leaks, that stupid diamond key after 2000 where you cannot easily replace the battery, sintered planet gears in the diff that wear out and give that annoying driveline thunk on take up - and much more. Oh, more oil leaks. No, the old 3 Series to buy now is the E36. Find a good or saveable 325i or iron block 328i.
Probably the worst gen ove BMW's to buy lol When you have to completely replafe the rear subframe on these cars, that automatically doesn't make them reliable.
The reason i love most the e46 (and mine too) is cause of the community support we got so far over the years! Keep it up Nathan!
What make e46 ownership awesome is having youtube videos from Nathan, shop life, 50's kid, the russian dude, and many more. Also e46 handles well, drives well, looks best, but alternator mounted on the oil filter housing and liners fall off.
I just bought 2 months ago. I saw the posting at 8:00 am, run to it, offered $1,000, by 10:30 am I have my 2nd e46 parked at home. It was a true 73k miles, overheating due to thermostat and has this weird body electrical problem where you cannot save settings you make on pasoft1.4. Looks like zke module problem.
I like this video and timely for me as I'm still searching for cars to buy after losing my e83(m54) and e60(n52) to flood during Ida in NJ. My e46 survived(not much electronics as you mentioned) but with a bit of roof damage. In my search I came across a 318ti in good shape for 200k miles but a true M-package. I'm interested but not sure about buying a 318ti with tiny m44 in 2022? Any thoughts. How about make a video about 318ti, what to expect, improvements, engine swaps, worth it in 2022, scarcity, appeal, etc.
Love Nathan's videos. Noticed videographer with gimball.
My 325xi is the best car I’ve ever owned overall, but I wouldn’t recommend it to most people, UNLESS you are willing to wrench on it a bit. I have owned all kinds of cars, some well into six figures, but my most enjoyable ownership experience has been with the E46
I know man!!!!! It’s something about em!!!! I drove my wife’s Honda CR-V , dropped it off at her job ( she had my E46 ) hopped in the E46 and it was sooo sunny ☀️ out I put the windows down and the music and listened to the hum of the engine as I roared down a twisty road like I was 17 years old 😂😂 I’m actually 45 but I felt like a kid that morning
Same here with my 330i. Only broke down on me once because of a mistake I made on the previous repair. My E46 will always be in my arsenal. Er... 'car'senal 🙂
You can’t own a bmw out of warranty unless you have basic wrenching skills.
@@diasporaman5419 be honest your windows were stuck down * e46 issues
@@bostontechteam3217 lol 👍 I own one.
Honestly these cars are starting to be a reliable option if you think about it there not hard to work on like newer bmws and the cars are old enough now where parts are cheap
Still quite expensive on parts tbh but yeah it’s gotten better. I’m nearly there with mine reliability wise a couple loose ends to finish off and she’ll be very mechanical sound… then upgrades ahah
@@the46guide94 sounds like me with my E39 525i, 7.5K later she is reliable !
I have a 2003 BMW 330xi. 165000 miles and still going! Maintenance is the key. Love my car!
Always fun to stop by Nathans place for a little car-chat..
Love my "02 E46 cica. Nathan, I wish you would get a convertible and do a whole series on the car, especially about the tops. Love your channel. Always a good watch, my friend!
I sure agree with you. I have a couple of e46's. They are not going to be worth a lot but a descent car. Not to expensive to fix as you say.
Not sure about that. If you get the right e46 it's value may go up. I have a 05 330i zhp. I've been offered 2 and a half times over what I paid for it 5 yrs ago. I get asked all the time to sell it but I won't. Over all the market on the zhp models have gone up. I've been watching for atleast 5 yrs. Same for the e46 m3. Other e46 really hasn't really gone up. Your right though...decent cars over all I have a 06 330 also and isn't as good as a car. I have a few bmws lol bit of a problem lol
I've got an 05 E46 touring with only 60,000 miles on the clock - love it!
Just wait til u get to 240,000... The engine will still run like new!!!! It's awesome 🙂
@@stickybucket1851 It was my uncle's, he died 8 months ago and I bought it out of the estate. He bought it with 12k miles on it. I just finished a complete refresh and replaced ccv, fuel hoses, complete intake manifold rebuild, new starter, new crank sensor, new cam intake and exhaust sensors, Vania solenoids, valve cover gasket, alternator, idle control Valve, throttle body, intake boots, heater valve, every coolant hose (inc hard lines along block), radiator, expansion tank, power steering pump, power steering reservoir, power steering high pressure lines, new windscreen washer system (inc tank and pump), full m Sport conversion (inside and out), coilovers, f series 18 inch wheels, brake rebuild, Morimoto headlight conversion with switchback halos and still working on it. After all this I reckon it should be trouble free for a long time!
@@stickybucket1851 I just hit 250K
My 01 330 5spd had more subframe cracks than I thought. Once I dropped the rear diff subframe (bad diff), I saw a lot. Drill stopped and welded, then made plates and welded them in.
Nice, I have a 330ci and I need to do this next spring
@@jessesward9429 why not in winter?
@@nickg4135 don’t have a garage currently and I stored it at my gpas retirement home. Can’t really work on it there
I have a 2002 330ci Convertible. It has 230,000 miles, it has almost factory compression !! It drives and looks great. I get compliments on it all the time. I do ALL of my own work. I have gone through and replaced all worn out parts, I mean everything. Just keep the water pump and coolant system healthy, smoke test for vacuum leaks, and always change the oil. These engines will run a VERY long time with basic TLC ! Fuel pump is extremely easy to change,
I had a 2004 330I ZHP drove it for 4 years and loved it. I have been eyeing high mileage ones to wrench on and have fun.
Had mine for 12 years Nathan….I love ❤️ it still !!!!greatest car ever!!!!
i have a 2004 manual. great car. i bought it for 500.00. 128k miles. i put 17in wheels on it.
Owned 2 e46's brand new (325 Convertible, M3 manual) and they were the best cars I ever owned. Wish I still had them especially the M3.
I removed the auxiliary fan and mounted the mechanical fan instead so I never worry about overheating the engine
It's nice to get compliments on the street when I drive my 2000 BMW 528i. Still like new and will keep it until I die or until the engine blows up. :)
Had a 325i e46 with rear diff locked so easy to drift never one issue at all. Now I have n55 335i its in the shop now for valve cover, valve cover gasket, oil housing replacement, control arms all In one year 3800 total
if u change the cooling system, trust me, don’t forget the two plastic hoses under the manifold connecting to the engine.. i changed everything and it still leaked and then found a melted hose..
How many miles did you have when the hard cooling lines started to leak?
E46 and the E38 are next on my list to get. I have an E53 currently and looking forward to collecting them all.
Me too. Have an E53 and got a 1 owner 330ci. You won't be disappointed.
Add an E39 and you’re all set!
@@R2RO1 well as of today I no longer have my E53. An idiot lady crashed into it causing my car to be totaled. But I managed to get my beautiful E46 330ci! Absolutely love it. Next is the E38!
@@PicardZ4 I would love too but I can barely fit the E39! I’m too tall and when I hit the brakes on it I don’t got enough room. It’s a shame! 😭
@@trustyoungpierre9959 Are you sure, bruh? E39 is a mid-size saloon, about a foot longer than the equivalent E46. Anyways, too bad about the E53. Hope no one hurt.
i bought my 318i e46 in 2020 and it only had 111,000 on it. i am happy, never gave me any problems. just doing preventative maintenance on it. so next is the cooler expansion tank! wish me luck. great vid keep em coming
Good thing I bought mine in 2014. Still running strong 💪
I restored a 87 bmw 325i convertible still own it
I had a 2001 bmw 325ci
And my dad had a 2004 bmw 325i he passed I restored it and still have I only drive bmw
Watching this vid sitting in my turbo e46. Best car ever
I’ve never owned a e46 but I know from experience if you are willing to put the extra time and money into it the e39 chassis is a blast! My 540i is my favorite car to this day
My fave non Mercedes channel
Easier to replace the engine than doing a head gasket job. Especially when the head bolts are stripped. Pain in the ass
Also the Xi has problems with the front differential going out. Same with the 04- 06 X5 . The 325Xi will no longer move if the diff goes out. The X5 will still move if the front diff dies.
Glad to see another E 46 on the channel Nathan!
I love your videos man! I have a 02 330ci my 3rd gear is acting up. What replacement do u think i should do? Its a 5 speed auto. Car was garaged kept it's whole life. I got all the maintenance that was never done. 126k miles. I never did a transmission swap myself but it doesn't look too bad.
These cars are brilliant. Very easy to work on, even if you take the car to the shop for the odd hard job that’s a challenge to do on the driveway it’s really not bad 👍🏼
Best first car ever imo for someone wanting a sporty car and still learn on it is a 330ci comes with a reliable 5 speed getrag and a m54b30 been with it for 9 months now and I love it got it for cheap only 2k and 140k miles but DO NOT get one expecting to never wrench on it like I said this is a perfect car if your trying to learn but not for comfort and for a bmw and my first car I’d say it’s pretty easy to work on and can’t forget the looks 😩 got myself a 02 pre face lift too beautiful
Absolutely beautiful car man
Had a 330ci was lovely car No rust at all was 20 years old had engine mods as to help stay alive defo get the coupe looks much better
Nice land how many acres do you have Nathan? Do the e46 get water in the trunk like the e39?
I have a black e46 and have the peeling clear coat on the side mirror cover, and the hood, roof and now trunk lid paint fading. I have another in orient blue metallic without those issues.
mine is a 2004 325i SULEV with sport, premium and ski package with angel lights as they call them. It's got $48,000 miles and yes I'm the original owner. So far I've replaced brakes, oil sensor and one missing ignition coil. Well only one went bad but I replaced all the ignition coils with Eldor coils after learning about them. OEM tires were done at 25k, then got some Good year Eagle GTs which supposedly would last 80k miles. However, those just got replaced and I wne with Michelin tires. They're so much better than the Good years. Loving the ride again especially after the Eldor coils and tires. I'm hoping to hold on to it as much as I can. It is a touch too small for me as I'm 5'10" but to sell a car you spent 39k on for nothing is not worth it to me. Anyhow, good to hear it's a good idea to buy one. Have thought of getting an e39 or another e46 but my garage is full and although I'm in California, I don't think leaving one outdoors as you once said, is a good idea.
Glad your not quitting Nathan, your videos are always very informative. Beside the E46 3 series an F30 3 series or a F32 4 series would be a nice addition. Many current followers will probably be looking into the newer gen BMW's over time.
I daily a 325ci manual with 276k mi. I love it. Keep the cooling system up and they are reliable as hell. 26mpg avg
In the e46, I'm noticing that the xi are much easier to find, and cheaper to buy than the i!
I love my 330ci , runs like a boss !
Just got a 01 325ci with 160k most cooling system and control arms are done just got the dreaded 0741 torque converter code so here we go..
E46 are overall good cars if’s maintenance was on time and undercarriage was protected from rust..brake lines on rear with time getting flavor ,front differential on Xi models last 30-40 tkm or less… I have think like you so I build my own… 03 325Xi touring auto was base for build because stronger and not shot subframe mounting points,engine,manual gearbox,subframe,electric harnesses,pedals etc came out from donor low mileage 03 325i manual.Rear diff 3.23 325Xi manual , M3 coupe heated seats,Everything get resealed,Vanos,brakes,bushings,suspension,tuned,no any light on dashboard,leaks,noise … Owners of multiple cars but this one make me feel good about everything…but only now when it’s everything sorted and improved and it’s works how’s it should … price: 500-600 hours of work,2150 for 2 cars ,3600 in new parts . After 5 months total cost without time was
Hey Nathan you said if any of the headbolts are loose theyre garbage. What specific reason why that would be on a m54? Overheating?
330d Manual Touring… with the torque delivery, it’s fun at legal speeds
I bought an 05 e46 in 2017, it has eldor coils, getting ready to swap out all cooling system, but still cant figure out y it wont start sometimes,
Great,like your videos,was worried when I checked last video that you are quitting your tube...Thanks for posting
Have my 2000 BMW 323i from 2008 change the motor because of me not being a car guy back then but now I know how to work on them n go to auto wreckers most weekends looking parts as back up 🛠
The bmw e46 is a solid built car this coming from a guy that own Infiniti g35 / fx45 would recommend the BMW e46 to any car guy who likes German engineered cars n don't wan break the bank
Have a buddy wit the 2017 BMW 4 cylinder turbo I'm waiting to see how long he keeps it after the warranty expires 🤣
I have a 1997 e39 auto with passenger side turn signals not working emergency flashers work on all four corners any advice would be great haven’t driven the car for two years I really love it I got a modular from eBay but didn’t fix problem
Start by checking the trunk wiring harness
a few days ago i bought a cheap e46 to beat on for the winter, do drifts and stuff, then i crashed into a small ditch, pulled out with another car and now the car won't start no crank, no pop start. never buying an e46 again. probably an electronics issue
I miss my e46. it was a 2001 330 imported from Guam and garaged in SF all it's life until taken to Tracy and put under a tree. So then it had seeds and prob like squirrels living inside the engine. we took care of that. 180k miles. very great condition but had been salvaged out for a tiny accident so airbag light was on. then I hit a HORRIBLE pothole and somehow the passenger side airbag blew (door and curtain) then a lot of things started going wrong due to the pothole hit. then the cat went out. I sold it to a very enthusiastic kid for $2000. I miss the clutch though. I have a 2007 e90 now and I HATE that the thing has no oil dipstick or anything. I hate the computerized stuff. Otherwise it's very reliable. Of course we switched out the water pump when we bought it to prevent that from failing. Overall, I preferred the old e46. If it hadn't hit that pothole, I think it would still be running well. The heated seats were so good, they'd actually get too hot. The car was the luxury model so it had every extra on it.
The E46's that are worth the most are the RWD sport package cars with a manual transmission. I'm kind of surprised to see you making this video, you made one a few years ago absolutely shitting on the E46 platform. These cars last forever as long as you keep quality oil in it and don't overheat it. I've had E90's for 6 years, I'm relieved to have another E46 again. It is so simple and inexpensive to work on.
I just purchased an X3 E83 in a needs work condition. I went for a high spec car with the 3.0 M54,
I really have the feeling that once I sort out all the bugs and issues, it will be a better long-term option than a new or newer car would be without even considering the money.
The best thing of all is I do not need to deal with dealerships and service advisors.
Ive had a2005 3. 0 x3 for 3 years, it takes care and you need to be aware of what usually goes wrong, but usually nothing too bad or difficult
I have my 325i for sale right now for $3400. 185k miles. Body is rust free and is in overall great condition. Needs a new suspension. As it's a bit lofty over the highway. Probably still original. But it still rides nice. The interior, on the other hand, isn't great. Seats have normal wear. But the a, b, and c pillar cloth as all been loosening around the edges. It's frustrating. But it runs and drives really well. That's why I'm asking what I am asking for it. And I totally expect to be talked down about 10% on the price. But it's a good everyday driver. Nothing special.
Hi, Can I put a regular wool blanket on my bmw battery in the winter?
Another good and useful video from, Nathan that will be appreciated by current and future owners of this particular car.
Just want to point out that my 2004 325i touring has a GM auto and it is RWD.
I know that most 330i’s got the ZF auto iirc
What years do you recommend
If you have to swap the engine anyway, how hard is it to put a 2.8 or 3.0 in it?
i will try and get a 3.0, this car already has a buyer so we will see what he wants
@@NathansBMWWorkshop Don't the 3.0s have more issues with oil pump nuts backing out? Good video; love my 01 325xi... lots of poly and mods!
Great info Nathan
Thank you Nathan!!
What about a sought after e46 M3? Would you ever make a video on this car? I’m sure you’ll get lots of hits! 👍
Your Camera Man is GOOD!!!!!
I love the e46 thank you for your videos
I love my E46’s but $500 for all the parts you listed is hilarious 😂 try at least triple that if you want OEM or good quality
Still worth it if you do it yourself!
$250 just for 6 plugs. $200 for the DISA. that PCV was around $600 for me
Mine has starting issues, starts when it wants to, other than that drives great
Starter motor/ solenoid will do that , Some times there’s electrical contact some times there’s not meaning that that the starter it’s slowly on it’s way out. If not you’re having a ews key problem , your ews module does not recognize the chip inside your key fob . Look for 50’s kid and the guy he knows in California whom can fix this problem but you have to remove your ews module under the dash by the steering column and send all keys and module together for a bench diagnosis and fix. So you have to pay for shipping both ways.
@@Journalistification the starter works, but it just wont fire,
@@paulgarcia458 OK than. i had the same problem with my 2003 bmw 330i zhp , so if you can buy or borrow a schwaben bmw scanner you're gonna look for anything that reads " EWS" it could be random key not recognized , ews module going bad or anything in between it means you need to replace or re-code your keys to the module under the steering wheel , under the dashboard close to the ob2 connector. Remove the whole panel under there , loosen the two 10mm bolts the hold the EWS module in place , now that its hanging using both hands unplug it wait a few seconds and plug it back in , leave it hanging still and go to start your car , if these works than its that module that is bad or your key fobs need new battery inside of them or everything needs to be re-aligned and synchronized.
Iam prob gonna be burried in my e46 um yeah i stripped the skins of my seats and swapped them for 7 series seats with the perforated leather and the cooling fans throughout with the headrests tht wrap around they turn out so good still manual and still work as they should I've done so muchcustom stuff to mine leather pillars suade headliner touch screen DVD stereo double din now tht was a fuct up job those cars are clearly not made for double din but my grandfather taught me don't fit make fit I even putinmy own angel eyes with led conversion also hooked day time runners up to a switch so I can turn em off if I want makes angel eyes look tht much better
And don’t forget boys if it’s an auto you can swap it for relatively cheap if your source everything from a junkyard
What about the booofloor/acp. This affects all the e46, and can write a car off if damaged severly
It’s mentioned at the end of the video. Less common/critical in the 2.5xi cars due to far lesser twisting on the rear subframe from lower overall power, shared with front diff, and likely owners have probably been easier on them than the M, 330i, 330ci etc.
You must be joking Nathan. Probably 95% of all e46 cars at this point in time, will have the rear chassis cracks, which you can't really see properly until you drop the rear subframe. Just not worth the time and trouble and cost.
I don't understand. I had a r18 civic that never needed a single piece of rubber. This damn M54B30 needed nearly EVERYTHING haha. 😔
How about E39??
Hell ya e46 love….. Best Buy for the dollar
The cost to fix an E46 and get it in good running order is around $500 to $600 dollars. You're joking right. Anyone who truly appreciates their BMW or legitimately cares for it and wants it to be fixed properly and run correctly isn't getting their parts from E-Bay or Amazon. Honestly. $500 to $600 dollars isn't even close to what it's going to cost the buyer to get it up to par. Even if he or she is the one who is turning the wrenches. For instance. Take any BMW model in the price range you're searching. E-Series models built before 2010 most likely. Go find a similar BMW that's a "CPO" vehicle. Take the price of that vehicle and subtract the price of the BMW that's needing the "$500 to $600" dollars worth of work. The difference in the price is roughly what it's going to cost the buyer to fix it properly and have it in good running condition. You can't even get a set of tires for that cheap of a price. I would think that if the vehicle is below $10,000. And assembled before 2010. Expect to put as much money $$$ into the vehicle as you've paid for it.
My black 325xi be smacking…..trust me!!
When you $700, that comes with the ECM from the same car, correct?
No engine only
@@NathansBMWWorkshop so you're talking about getting a 330i engine for the 325ix....
You're saying that the 325ix ECM will function with the 330i engine?
Where you buying your parts from. ?
Fcp euro is the place to buy from. I buy strictly from them for my e36 and e46. Check out their warranty.
@@doylesmith8678 yeah I either look there or Turner Motorsport OEM bimmer parts bimmer world or ECS tuning of course none of these have a warranty program like FCP Euro does.
Been shopping around for a zhp
Thank you from italy. I thunk i Will buy an e46 310i next week. I hope. Bye
Stoppp I’m trying to find a good sealed m54 in Ohio and they’re all being snatched up :(()
Maybe 700 at the local PNP….
Buy if you can work on it. obviously.
Good video
Where are you located ?
Thats why i held on to mine al these years i have 6 of them... Dont let tje secret out... Lol
we just need a remastered E46 in 2022. but know one uses their brain.
If you want to learn how a car works get an e46.
Not for sale!!! Lol if I had a dollar for every time someone asked to buy my E46 touring it would have paid for the swap by now,,,😅
Bought one for 800 bucks. All fcpuero parts. I know have a car for ever
Everything you named is not 600 bucks 🤣😂
Coil packs and control arms are almost 600
Lol I was just thinking same thing. Bought one of these for my daughter 9 months ago for $2k. Have watched every 50’s kid video there is and replaced everything that goes out. Valve cover gasket, intake manifold gasket, vanos gasket, vanos refresh, rebuilt vanos bearings with kit, water pump upgrade to metal impeller, clutch fan, belts, cooling system, disa valve, all vaccum lines, coils, plugs, sensors, oil dipstick gasket, transmission fluid, filter, gasket, temp sensor, thermostat, all pcv lines/system, front rear diff service, transfer case fluid change, wheel and brake sensors, brakes, rotors, known wiring issues with taillights, windshield wiper cowl that cracks and splits with age along with everything else rubber on the car, fuel pump and sending until are notorious for going out, vanos solonoids junk at 130k, secondary air pump, crank sensors… NOT INCLUDING front suspension kit he is talking about for $200-299? im about $6000 total into this car right now. lol $600 my ass 😂. and everything i just mentioned HAS to be replaced on every single one after 130k miles. New key will cost you $200 if u dont know how to crack case open and soldier a new battery in as well to replace the old one that wont take a charge. Lets not forget the sunroof cassette/cables that go bad in every one as well. Air intake boots made from rubber that cracks and rots that all need to be replaced. Headliner material peeling falling off a, b, c pillars. lol think that covers everything? that light module for auto lights is about $400 as well. cant just swap one from another 20yr old car in without expecting same issues or resetting fault codes at dealer. Don’t get me wrong, was very fun and easy to work on. Parts are reasonably cheap on comparison to new cars today. But $600 aint gonna cut it. I can promise you that. But once done? thing runs like a champ. Very reliable now. $600 will only get you started lol.
Please throw those headlights away!
0:21 Is it me or he said “n54” when he meant M54 ?
I've been down the E46 road many times since buying a new one in 2002 and whilst there were superb then, I wouldn't have one now - ditto E39's. They are too old, too needy and often a bastard to fix. Rusty arches, boot floor cracks, GM5 module, drivers door lock, window regulators, LF20 PAS pump, oil leaks, a cooling system 10 times more complex than it needs to be (compare with E36) and made from shit plastic, heater resistor, oil leaks, that stupid diamond key after 2000 where you cannot easily replace the battery, sintered planet gears in the diff that wear out and give that annoying driveline thunk on take up - and much more. Oh, more oil leaks. No, the old 3 Series to buy now is the E36. Find a good or saveable 325i or iron block 328i.
Thought you were leaving YT?
Bruh your prices are so off
Buy one if you enjoy working on your car all the time.
So much old rubber and plastic.
Am selling mine who ever wants it
How much which model
Hello
Hi! 🇵🇷✍🏼
Not Hating...Beemer's are a Bummer
Money pit!
E90 is the car to buy 328 with the n52. Fuck an e46
Probably the worst gen ove BMW's to buy lol
When you have to completely replafe the rear subframe on these cars, that automatically doesn't make them reliable.