What To Look For When BUYING A BMW | BMW e46

This video is about What to look for when buying a BMW | BMW e46
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Check out ECS Tuning for all your Euro part needs. Use my affiliate to help the channel: bit.ly/2JqszXb This description contains affiliate links. If you buy a product through my custom link, I will earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. This video is for entertainment purposes only. Evan Goyuk assumes no liability for any repairs or modifications performed by the viewer as a result of the information contained in this video.

[@rollydoucet8909]

Years ago, I bought a 2005 320i with the small 2.2 litre 6 cylinder engine. I bought it as a second car to use during the winter. It had over 150,000 miles and required a new power steering pump, cooling system expansion tank, and a brake job. I paid $2200 for the car, and $1240 for repairs. Since then, it's been nothing but pure driving enjoyment and I've put over 100,000 miles on it. Don't expect to buy a ten year old 3 series bimmer, and not have to fix a few things, but once you've done that, you'll have a great car to drive.

[@Supremepikachu]

That extra 1240 dollars wasn't worth it lmao.

[@rollydoucet8909]

@@Supremepikachu For the service I got from a car that has cost me less than $3500 and still going strong after five years? Not worth it? Give your head a shake.

[@Hughzeeeeeeeee]

@@rollydoucet8909 the guy has a bmx picture and links to a gaming channel called "funkyfreak" dw this guy definitely isnt old enough to drive so he won't understand

[@Supremepikachu]

@@rollydoucet8909 For those extra dollars you could have gone for a more recent car, a 2005 car still going strong? Lol shake your own head, a car from 2005 has nowhere near the power that Bmw's have now, it maybe doesn't fall apart in your experience but it surely loses at mostly everything compared to a newer Bmw. Rust is already developing without you knowing it and the stuff you replaced, it surely comes back real soon. Good luck with that maintenance.

[@Supremepikachu]

@@Hughzeeeeeeeee Idiot, i never updated this account since 2016 why even? KZbin will be dead anyway sooner or later, i'm 21 now and owning a e46 dipshit.

[@BurzzyJ]

This is a fantastic video! Great job Evan! Car looks great!

[@kennethclement8742]

100% Valuable information, thanks.

[@jorgeconj]

Good video. Just wanted to add that is really important to ask the last owner if the water pump was replaced at least once. This pumps are prone to fail after 30k miles and if the car has ever overheated is a real problem. The cylinder head will actually bend or twist pulling the head bolts and damaging the bolts threads on the block leaving you with no other choice but to re-thread them with a kit. And yes is beter to do them all !!!

[@seanb796]

I have 2002 bmw 325 xi , i brought 3 years ago for 4000 dollars. Perfect condition 107000 miles. Just changed fuel pump. Best car i ever drove hands down

[@danieldorsz1047]

I am getting mine soon ! Happy for you

[@khariezekiel5830]

dunno if anyone gives a shit but if you're bored like me atm then you can watch pretty much all of the latest series on instaflixxer. Have been watching with my girlfriend these days xD

[@ayaanalberto7712]

@Khari Ezekiel Yup, I've been watching on InstaFlixxer for months myself =)

[@hannahj9540]

Love your channel! Thanks for sharing

[@EvanGoyuk]

Thank you for watching

[@hindflight]

Good video, I have had two of these and they all develop most of the problems mentioned here at some point. The OFH gasket leak is a higher pressure oil leak and will have to be dealt with pretty quickly. The oil pools in that waffling thats on top of the engine block. I also have the oil pan gasket leak that is a bear to fix, it's not as common though. The entire subframe has to be dropped and Im in the process of doing it now... ugh..

[@mohammadiqbal7271]

Very helpful video

[@gk_filer]

Thanks The a pillar can leak water into the computer that controls the door locks etc near or under the glove box

[@connorjames2705]

Thanks for making these videos bro. You make good content. You're a legend.

[@EvanGoyuk]

Thank you

[@ppppugh7892]

He's a foot alright.

[@cod4jumper5555]

Thank you so much for this video, it helped me a lot!

[@winisa7878]

Thx a lot

[@kimdotnet8151]

Note: Power steering reservoir leak is common and can leak on the alternator causing that to fail as well.

[@cfunited6885]

just bought a 2001 325i for 900$ cad with 260k km. has lots of cosmetic issues but cant wait until it looks beautiful

[@ifadebarbersupply4696]

I got my 330ci 3 months ago I’ve changed Transmission pan gasket, trans oil ,trans filter ,oil pan gasket ,oil filter housing gasket, oil filter, oil filter o ring, thermostat, upper coolant hose and the skinny hose that connects to the coolant tank, coolant tank , coolant tank bracket , automatic trans thermostat, mass airflow sensor, air filter, VALVE cover gasket, intake boots upper n lower, i think that’s it, I’m repairing my driver door handle rn, i got the car for cheap as i knew it had problems. I did it all myself except the oil pan gasket , i had help wit that. Don’t buy an e46 unless u can work on it ur self .... now I’m waiting for a disa valve gasket, then i can pass smog , 2 1/2 - 3 months later ... 😂🤙🏽 e46 life

[@rghmods4466]

Ifadelv sounds like u got one that was shit I bought a 330xi 05 for 1000 with a bad oil leak and it was just the vanos oil line $20 fix :)) didn’t tell the seller tho :) now I’m a happy boy

[@sirbader1]

If you can fix yourself, it's a great car. It's a great car anyways.

[@christianb1134]

Yea you just got a shitty run down e46 😂

[@JFKKARZ]

Great cars... I have owned over 10 E46s so carried out some of the most common jobs, with videos. ;)

[@thelegendaryredx7710]

Sir can you fill me in on some things to look for in an e46, I’m checking one out tomorrow

[@ppppugh7892]

I've owned over 11, maybe 590.

[@isrealperez9069]

You forgot to mention two other places of an oil leak as some people would not see or catch you got a front main seal and even a rear main seal and most of all there's a tiny little corner if you own a sedan the corner side and the passenger side in the front near the housing I was a passenger Axle

[@ARAR148]

I just bought a 264,000 mile 2003 325i black for only $600 runs and drives quite well, cold a/c, working cruise control, interior is a little beat up but overall good shape, all windows work, only light on dash is brake pad wear, driven 1500 miles already

[@diegofernandorosero5484]

Hi there. What are your thoughts after 2 years owning the car. Some major issues? I want to buy a E46 330i, year 2001.

[@frigoff1841]

@@diegofernandorosero5484 hope you bought it

[@rolac6109]

Ecv valve there is always a trouble code related to that .. high end plastic disposable car let say

[@Miks_Petersons]

I bought myself a 2000 330D for 1000 euros. Invested another 800 to get it running perfectly. Really great car that handled many days of -20 celcius winter drifting without any major issues...apart from ABS, but you can disconnect that hehe. Recommending everyone to buy brand new ABS sensors to prevent brake pad and disc wear from faulty sensors causing braking.

[@vaclavfiala3947]

only a 1000 euros? thats a deal of a lifetime🤣

[@theweekndmusictapes802]

I appreciate you for this video bro because I just bought her 325I and there is an engine light but the car is in good condition and I really don’t want to get rid of it I love the car I fell in love with the car

[@QUiNTiNBANKS]

Welp to late for me now , I just got a 5 series and looking into videos about it after I purchase

[@MiddleEasternGuy]

Nice steering wheel. I can see you added the BMW i Series emblem. 👍🏼

[@992turbos8]

MiddleEasternGuy Yes and also had a mini badge on the dash, he’s just really confused. And not very knowledgeable

[@MiddleEasternGuy]

KEVIN MANSFIELD It could be a Mini-branded magnetic phone holder, though I’m not too sure. I agree, it does look out of place in a BMW.

[@alexhibbert63]

I'm buying a 2001 325ci with 92k original miles for $4000 has ujoint issue and needs camshaft position sensor and wiper motor replaced other than that car is solid

[@lilmacfarlan3]

The rear vent windows on the coupe is a pain in the ass to close if it’s stuck out.

[@02lucy666]

You shouldve add that if you were to buy a pre-facelift 320 and higher(basicly the 6cylinder models), if the rear-axle has been fixed throughout the recall back in the day because (at least here in germany), they tend to literally brake loose. Iirc this issue was fixed with the LCI/facelift models. Its pretty crucial if you ask me. But i didnt know about the leaking issues, thanks for that :) Also, i love your steering wheel!

[@blubden7732]

They fixed this issue in the first facelift 2001/09 no?

[@02lucy666]

​@@blubden7732 only partly, the CSL and the compact (of all versions) are actually strong enough throughout their production times not to tear. Also, simply stancing and driving around and even drifting tend to rip the rear axles regardless of which MY we are talking about. So yes, even an M3 has severe issues with that very issue. The CSL, the compact and (probably) the GTR road cars are fine.

[@StayGold_Michele]

Any opinions on the G30s yet?

[@Mr2pint]

The subframe with manual transmission is a serious problem with this model. Also don't ever overheat the engine which can happen easily, if you do the engine is usually toast due to head bolts being destroyed

[@ev.collinsokinyi5769]

Hi. What's the problems with the one that's manual. I have come across one and before I put in my nose, I want to research widely to help me make a wise decision.

[@codylarson6842]

Looking at picking up a 2005 330i has 180k miles but looks well kept, hoping to look at it next couple of days, and stoked on this vid thank you!!

[@PikaTwoB]

How has the car been a year later?

[@themissinglink9676]

Your steering wheel is nice.

[@EvanGoyuk]

Thank you

[@BmwMe-uh9sy]

How much did you get that 330 for anyway

[@egenerationegeneration]

My 2002 has different bumper for light round for light

[@crimsonstang]

What headlights are those?

[@anthonymartinez8458]

My car just got totaled w few weeks ago. Insurance money just hit and im about to go look at one this weekend. Wish me luck!

[@Evqn11]

im in the exact same situation right now, hope its worked out for you. I'm gonna drive a couple hours to look at one this weekend as well

[@jarrettriley4071]

Brooooo ong same😂😂😂😂😂

[@MenaceIISociety223]

Gifted a 01 330i just did expansion tank thermostat new air filter box cabin air filter Maf sensor just need help figuring out why my Abs light is on

[@AaronUncutYT]

I am planning to get a 2001 E46 this week , it says no accidents , manual transmission, 5 owners and 165000miles with engine tuned supercharger essttuning asking price is 18000 is it a good rate for this??

[@Questioneverythingg730]

You can smell oil leaks from inside the car with the engine running. The most common faults normally drip onto hot parts and can be smelt. Most e46 leaks tbh lol

[@stuartabsent5122]

I noticed a cabin smell, only ever uphill, in traffic at the same time as riding riding the clutch. Thought the clutch was giving out at first. Turned out it was a tiny oil leak behind the engine. Replaced valve cover gasket, problem gone away for at least 15,000 miles. My E46 has an M54b30 engine.

[@sirbader1]

@@stuartabsent5122 Why would you intentionally ride the clutch? That could be the smell.

[@marioturkalj3126]

It's normal that valve cover seal leaks oil after many years.....that seal is not lifetime item.....simple pice of ruber.....it happens too on other cars.....

[@kingakim11]

@@marioturkalj3126 happened on my 01 lexus is300

[@pharkasj]

if an E46 is not leaking, there is no oil in it :D

[@aleksandaraca2486]

My bmw e46 was leaking oil , coolant and fluid brakes.. everything that could leak was leaking xD

[@dannyb5863]

I prefer my e46 over my e90 335i all day every day. It’s all about being consistent with maintenance with Bavarians. Mainly look out for coolant leaks and oil leaks. Sooo much plastic in these cars even the new ones that are susceptible to cracking or breaking as well as gaskets all over the place. Most of the jobs are diy and could be done with minimal to moderate mechanical experience. Always carry an obd2 scanner when purchasing a vehicle to see what codes are being throwed. I carry my think obd2 scanner which was 30 bums on amazon and it had proven invaluable when purchasing vehicles.

[@grahamclayclay360]

The jacking point

[@strohhalm1326]

That's more of a E39 problem

[@kenmasters1089]

I have a 2002 330xi I bought in Canada it has 124000 km 7000$ I got 2000 $ stereo system up grade I herd they have crappie coolant system the shitty thing is I don't have a garage so it's outside and it's snowing here I feel bad my baby

[@abdullahhamadeh]

Can this apply to bmw 528i ? Model 2011 .. (Maybe changes changes anything)

[@ifadebarbersupply4696]

How’s that enon head unit ? Thinkin bout gettin one later

[@EvanGoyuk]

Definitely recommend

[@gnomebmw]

I have a Eonon unit in my "03 E46. Its great

[@QUiNTiNBANKS]

Don’t do it , he’s made a video regarding the issues.

[@gnomebmw]

@@QUiNTiNBANKS mine works great with HK integrated sound, even in -30 degree weather

[@PhatomTropix]

I have a 323ci and it looks exactly like this car, is mine an e46 too?..stupid question I know lol

[@EvanGoyuk]

Yes

[@992turbos8]

Hey Forest Forest Gump

[@killingtime669]

Just telling the new mechanic that all European cars come with a pan because they all leak. Good thing about oily motors is less broken or stuck bolts. :)

[@ppppugh7892]

Haha, yes. But apart from the bolts on the exhaust manifold to the exhaust flange. On M54's they like to rot!

[@bladermusics]

@@ppppugh7892 and this is how a 30 minute job turns into a 5 hour one...

[@ifadebarbersupply4696]

Tell me sum i don’t know

[@fabiansalazar5257]

Leaking coolant biggest issue on my e46

[@EvanGoyuk]

Yes it is. I blame the old plastic and the o-rings that they use

[@EvanGoyuk]

They are both good, go with the m54 as it’s the newer version

[@lancemannion4113]

@@mislavkonjik2827 definitely go with an m54. talk to any BMW mechanic and they'll tell you it's probably the most reliable engine that BMW has ever made or at least in the last 25 years. I've got 350,000 km on my '04 330ci and it honestly runs like a new car. I've had eight three series, the last four of them with the m54

[@frank_love]

What do you guys think of a 316i ?

[@bladermusics]

it's a weak 4 cylinder, i would go for a 320 because in europe the insurance is the same, but the power not. Towing, drifting, daily driving. Depends on your needs, still a good car, but get at least the 318.

[@breakfree1967]

Timing chain problems

[@ChiHoKo]

would be much better with a flashlight lol

[@mackryan7122]

Im buying an e46 325xi tomorrow and im scared to death! I know im gonna regret this

[@EvanGoyuk]

You won’t regret it. They are great cars just do the maintenance it will be great!

[@mackryan7122]

@@EvanGoyuk thanks! It's in really good shape and a 1 owner.. So i pray its a good one.. My mechanic said it was taken care of... So we'll see.. Ill keep ya posted

[@Boz196]

@@mackryan7122 how did it go?

[@moose3d]

Yeah - don't leave us all hanging....how'd it go?

[@mackryan7122]

@@moose3d sorry didn't mean to leave you guys hanging. But the car was amazing!! I just recently sold it for a profit and wish I'd have kept it. No issues what do ever for almost 8 months of ownership. You were right. Makes me want to purchase another BMW. My opinion on them has totally changed

[@Buglife59]

Its a 20yr old car what to expect

[@glotek1]

You obviously haven’t owned a e46 long enough.... other problems- fan clutch, pulleys, oil pan leaks, rear shocks leaks, control arms, rear tail lamp plug burn out, ccv leak, vacuum leaks, sifva valve rattle, mass flow sensor faults..... God I love my 330i

[@gnomebmw]

I would add: Disa adjuster unit broken or leaking, auto transmission thermostat, SAS check valve leak, upgraded cold weather oil dipstick tube, sunroof drain tubes disconnected or blocked, cps sensor O-ring, power steering cap o-ring

[@kemarbailey9679]

@@gnomebmw i think your still missing a few: oil filter gasket,crack/leaking coolant reservoir,engine motor mounts,transmission motor mounts,speed/yaw sensors,leaking power steering lines,GUIBO joint,oil level sensor,oil dip stick stop reading correct oil level(dont ask me how,i still dont fucking know) and last but not least the VANOS.....wait...now last but not least, the damn electrical problem from mysterious parasitic drain no one can ever fix,no matter how many alternator and batteries you change, and changing all wirings in the car it just will not be fixed....still love my 2001 bmw 325i sports package,with M wheels with new truck handle and new driver door lock actuator because those broke too!

[@juicemanirving]

I really want a 330ci it’s been dream car as far as I can remember, but reading all the comments... I’m not even sure. It would be my first car and I’ve never worked on a car in my life. 🤕 the dream might be dead.

[@arceras]

@@juicemanirving I'm in the exact same situation atm

[@sirbader1]

That's not the thermostat....

[@rikardsmatvajs9873]

4 ads in 12min video, jesus man

[@zains3990]

Rikards Matvajs I didn’t see any ads

[@chasebergstrom9277]

I didn’t have any

[@ginopassaro7905]

Great job 330ic owner 4over to much maintenance

[@tafariyoung1729]

Step 1. Look for a e34

[@juliancontreras6502]

step 2 find a 330i with relatively low miles😂

[@damiandiaz3297]

Man if you want a non issue car go buy you a brand new one.I mean its a 2002 what you expect its all wear and tear.

[@vasme973]

If u know to what to look the car will hold good

[@glenglene8473]

If you are looking for a BMW that not leaking oil, then good luck of finding one. Buying a used BMW is taking high risk because it's known for money pit. If you can't live with that, stay away from BMW.

[@judequah9131]

then i suggest u go buy new car

[@jamesvillano5202]

German engineering...BS! Plastic tanks crimped onto the aluminum radiator, plastic water pump housing, plastic thermostat housing. Guess what happens after about 10 years...yeah catastrophic water leaks. In our case, not just a leak, like the upper radiator hose neck snapped off! Instant total coolant loss, instant overheat before wife could pull over. Overheating wasn't the worst of it, warped head and blown head gasket. Repair shop says $5,400 to fix! Wife loves the car. I would rather cut the top off, fill it full of dirt, park it on the front lawn and grow flowers in the passenger compartment.