E46 330i / 330Ci

[Karl M N]

Hello everyone.

 

I'm now in a position to replace my boring little daily driver with something else I would much prefer, which is an E46 330. Another member on here has already given his (positive) view on the car. I just want to know if anyone else has any comments regarding the cars reliability, especially on one with around 100k miles. I have seen multiple ones with 70k-80k within my budget but they were not what I was looking for.

 

I'm aware of the rusting wheel arch situation. I've been told to be weary of subframe issues but how solid is the engine at higher miles? One particular car going for £3750 has 130k on the clock, and I very much like this one. Is there anything in particular that should be a red flag for one of these, such as not having a water pump changed recently etc?

[Havard]

Got one as a track car with 98K on it. I paid £4K about 17 months ago. I would hold out for a lower mileage car if possible.

 

There are plenty to choose from so I would take your time. The rusting issue is the biggest problem and have a good look to see if it has just been tarted up like mine had. After that it is the sub frame / chassis problem. The 330 shouldn't be as badly affected at the M3 due to the power difference. I love mine, drives like a dream but it has had all the bushes replaced recently.

 

I would just look for regular servcing and see if the brake fluid has been done. My calipers bleed nipples were seized solid and in the end I had to get new calipers all round.

 

Other than that, 60 - 70 laps of Oulton Park and she hasn't put a foot wrong. Engine is bomb proof, the N54 will go for miles.

 

H.

[Karl M N]

I was hoping for some reassurance about the engine.

 

There are a few about with new subframes, although they arent exactly what I was after. Not many people are mentioning rust in their adverts either.