Top 5 Problems BMW 3 Series Sedan E46 4th Generation 1997-06

These are the top 5 problems with the 4th generation of the BMW 3 series, the E46. Model years ranged from 1997 to 2006, depending on the configuration. In this video, Andy explains some of the top issues facing owners, buyers, or maintainers of the E46. He also offers suggestions for repairs and fixes. Check below for links to more E46 videos!

E46 BMW 3 Series playlist:

How to Replace Front Window Regulator:

How to Check and Fill Oil:

How to Replace Oil Separator Breather Hose:

0:00 Top Problems BMW 3 Series 4th Generation 1997-06
0:23 Oil Leaks
1:11 Coolant Leaks
2:08 CCV System
3:06 Front Lower Control Arm Bushings
4:08 Window Regulators

⚠ DISCLAIMER:
While 1A Auto strives to make the information provided in this video as accurate as possible, it makes no claims, promises, or guarantees about the accuracy, completeness or applicability of the content. No information contained in this video shall create any expressed or implied warranty or guarantee of any particular result. All do-it-yourself projects entail some risk. It is the sole responsibility of the viewer to assume this risk. 1A Auto is not responsible or liable for any loss damage (including, but not limited to, actual, consequential, or punitive), liability, claim, or any other injury or cause related to or resulting from any information posted in this video.

[AAuto]

√ *Watch the Video*
√ *Do it Yourself*
√ *Save Money*

[AllgoodthingsTv]

I have had every single one of those problems haha... But I still love these cars. Great handling and feel very connected to the road.

[jadedguy]

I own a 325i 2005 and I love it. Yes I have put some money into the car but it runs like a beast. There is no secret, just take care of your car maintain it and it will run solid. These generation of cars was made to last a lifetime.

[MyZhiyuan]

I realized all the thing that go wrong are plastic, the engine won’t break but everything around the engine will lol

[victorchan]

I agree with this video because I also had the exact same problems which are fixable with one day of DIY work. I do not recall any problems which took more than one day. Great car and I would buy this car again. BMW are great cars for people who can do their own work.

[juanjrodriguezdiaz]

Great cars, I’ve had 3 and only issues I’ve ran into was bushings and window regulators, other than that they were 200k+ in miles.

[mleindek]

That generation is the last true driver-oriented BMW with no super overcomplicated electronics and electric everything. I miss mine every single day.

[robmarshall]

I am using BMW 1998 Model, all that you told in this video are correct. Very informative. thanks

[chrisheyer]

I had a 97 and I had to change the valve cover gasket it's not a hard job to do but it sure fix the problem

[melissaiodice]

I love my 325xi 02 it has over miles and had to replace alot of things but I love it still will continue to fix whatever it needs to keep driving it.

[ginobambino]

I had a 2010 BMW 325i. 150k mi. Bought used w/100k. Loved it. Great ride. Then one day it wouldn’t start. Found fuel pump was dead. This is the one year BMW sealed the pump in the gas tank. My mechanic wouldn’t attempt it. He said it’s a dealership job. Dealership wanted $8500. They have to raise the car, remove sub assembly, gas tank, replace fuel pump and put everything back. I got rid of the car. BMW - THE ULTIMATE DRIVING MISTAKE.

[kaystar]

I have had all of these problems and more until I finally decided not to sink another penny in my 330i. I sold it last month, but I would love to get another one.

[Yorumikata]

Really helpful
My dads getting one and I wanna be sure he’s not getting a bad overall car

[bilalahmed]

I had a 2003 BMW 325i with a 5 speed Auto steptronic transmission. Best car I ever owned !

[mrlafayette]

Good info, I upgraded my whole cooling system..only 77k on my 99 but I'll be checking for the other things, subscribed.

[DeeGeeDeFi]

I've got about 141k miles on my 2001 325Ci convertible. Yep, coolant and oil leaks are an ongoing thing (like once every three years) but I get compliments on my car every day just about. I'm the second owner since 2013 and it was well maintained. I say that I'll probably be buried in it.

[gianfrancoa]

Amazing that all the problems could fit in a 5 min video

[eazyhambone]

This channel never ceases to amaze me in the material the cover!

[xstacz]

I legit had 3 out of 5 of these problems one point in my car 😂😂

[kymmedia]

Yes you just figured out my lean problem deff doing the Ccv replacement and new water pump .