WE BOUGHT A $2000 BMW E36 M3! How Much Will It Cost To Fix??

Can you believe that we got this 1995 BMW E36 M3 for only $2000??? It came with a clean title and even two keys! We bought this car from Copart in San Diego back in May of 2019 but it was way worse than we had expected it to be. Because of that it sat at our shop in California and then sat at our property in the Carolinas for close to 2 years before we finally got it back on the road. Check out our last video, linked below, to see how it looked before we got it back on the road.
There are so many issues that we need to fix on this car, especially the cosmetics. Watch as we estimate how much it would cost to get this car back to a clean stock condition. We also go over the current market for e36 m3s and previously sold listings on bring a trailer and cars and bids.
Still not sure what I want to do in terms of building this car but I wish BMW had put the S54 in the E36 M3 from factory since the current S50 in it is so underpowered. Maybe we will do just that! But first we have a lot of other things to do!
Fixing and Roadtripping this E36 M3:
• Fixing Copart E36 M3 i...
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[@biz4twobiz463]

"Is this worth it?" Ahhh, YES, if you include it on ur channel. I'm sure LOTS of current fans and might attract some new, would love to see an OEM Plus E36 M3 project car!!

[@ionvasiloi8286]

So you just literally need to replace quite everything. Nice deal!

[@koookao]

😂😅

[@razorrich]

Great vid guys! After hearing your thorough analysis, I vote for restoring on a budget. “Worse than orange peel, more like paint roller peel” comment was just hilarious!

[@ShopLifeTV]

Hahaha hope all is well Rich! Love seeing your comments

[@razorrich]

@@ShopLifeTV You crack me up man. Miss seeing Fluffy & Cali. Bring them out in one of your vids.

[@TrulyClark]

Dude your cost numbers are outrageous

[@ShannonFLHI]

Fix what you need to keep it running without breaking the bank. Modified or stock, I would go the cheaper route of the two.

[@Ross01111]

Looking forward to watching this later. Keep up the great content 👍

[@grantschmidt8662]

I think it would be cool if you did a more budget build, unfortunately it doesn't look financially smart to restore it fully with all the things you listed

[@BaoTieuActor]

Bring it back to it's former glory and save another e36 m3 from dying!

[@erickharran1493]

The most underrated KZbinrs for BMWs or Machanic in general you are a professional you conduct yourself very cordial you are humble and by far very unique and very skillful thank you for your videos thank you for the information I hope you excel in your channel on KZbin because your conscience is very clear very understood and you’re a straightforward person thank you

[@ShopLifeTV]

Thank You Eric! I really appreciate the compliments and support. I'd rather be underrated than overrated, good things come to those who wait!

[@finessedyawife4915]

Love your videos bro. Without you I literally wouldn't have known so much about my car. I respect you and appreciate you alot brother. My dream build is the e46 ls3 build

[@QQ-hm4nu]

Very underrated channel. knowledgeable, clear, entertaining, and have good film quality. keep it up.

[@ZHPBrent]

Watching you guys fix up this M3 is what i wanna see! Buying a clean car is half as much fun as building it.

[@ShopLifeTV]

So true! There's a lot of stuff on this car that will require more time than money. Unfortunately I don't have the time right now to go all out with the build since there are other projects that I am currently working on. This may be a long and slow project!

[@ZHPBrent]

@@ShopLifeTV no matter what you do ill be watching. Cheers

[@jadam7429]

I have a 2002 e46 M3 with 89K miles that has a damanged front end I am working on. I would love to see you restore one. Your videos are so helpful for us Bimmer owners. Good work!

[@ShopLifeTV]

Thanks James! You will be pleasantly surprised with our videos in the next few months! ;)

[@jadam7429]

@@ShopLifeTV Awesome! Definitely will be watching! Have learned alot from you guys and glad you moved back to NC! Lucky to have you. Few reliable BMW mechanics around here! Thanks!

[@hulk-smash-deez-hose.7951]

Love your passion for bmws👍 great channel keep bringing us more videos boss.

[@pebprb]

Vader seats... unique, different, beautiful and for the same price as some sports?! VADER 👍 Continues to do an excellent job for the whole world. BMW ❤❤❤

[@paulvicks1336]

I'm really looking forward to this build! But I have a question about the e46 M3. What kind of security would you recommend for it? My fusebox says something about an immobilizer, but I don't know where it is or how to activate/deactivate it. Also, what are your opinions on killswitches?

[@ohrandyrandy]

Exactly how much I paid for my 1999 Convertible Automatic M3... then put 30K into it. I'm getting my money's worth because my car is now showroom and it's hella fun to drive. Original engine and trans with 174K miles, got it with 163K on the odometer. Got the hardtop and the LTW wheels. My car looks brand new. It literally blows people's minds when they see it. Estoril on Dove Grey FTW.

[@stephenbyers9649]

Love the channel ever since I picked up a 325i sedan 1st bmw I've owned

[@ShopLifeTV]

Thanks Stephen! Hope your 1st BMW treats you well!

[@BMWCubsMan]

Even though it would be close to a wash on price to restore vs what you can buy, values are going up and so no sign of leveling off or going down soon. By the time you get the restoration done it would probably be worth your time. That said, pick up a cheap e36 325is and modify that for a track car. This M3 is something you'd look back on in a few years and kick yourself for not investing in it. I've experienced that regret with an E46 M3 and a 2002 Camaro SS SLP, Both have doubled in value from what I bought them for.

[@black_touring]

I would just do the basics over time when you find parts from a „“pull a part““ or however you call it ( from the scrapyard) your in no hurry and I’m sure the prices will go up even more!

[@MatheusSilva-cg1yq]

Oooo she looks so clean 😍

[@timbre7999]

Top video! There is something to say for both routes but if I had that black M3, I'd probably keep it the running, still low price M3 that it is now (but certainly tidy it up of course) and go for a higher level M3 to go from there to create a wow-factor example.

[@emilrusin5176]

It would be great to see it fully stock brand new looking! But that costs a lot... it’s much easier to do drift project car but it could be heartbreaking... you’re in difficult situation man haha good luck!

[@Jakiirr]

Finally some more content!!!!!! Keeeepo it up

[@aa7h911]

I still reckon it would be great content for the channel. Of course you can go and buy one, but I think a lot of viewers here would like to see a project like this from start to finish, perfecting a classic.

[@Zgegdeouf]

hi, i'm going to start a manual gearbox conversion on a 330d e46, i saw that you had done it, would you have some time to give me some advice? thank you

[@ralphrotten]

SELL IT 7K. Take profit and buy clean M3.

[@jonowen6612]

What a great educational video.

[@josephphelps6913]

I feel you on having to rebuild the Vanoss system. I have to do the same to my 330ci. I have to finish rebuilding the transmission in my 740il Highline Sport first though. So I have a car to drive lol

[@e36boy]

Goodluck! I spent so much on my e36 too. My build was a 316i with S52B32 swap and supercharger. M3 Transmission m3 and m3 lsd and many more. I appreciate it if you really fix that car up.

[@540idioT]

what wheels are those? i’m trying to get some six spokes like that on my z3

[@rockococo4208]

Nice video 👍 keep it up!! Hey Selena should do videos again!! God bless you guys!! Stay always safe!!

[@imestia7911]

5:58 how do you call those? Weather strips?

[@andrewnichols1023]

I’m pretty sure a 95 car is single stage paint with no clear coat. I had a hellrot red one that I sold when it was 20 years old I polished it regularly and the paint was immaculate.

[@friguy4444]

A DIY'er can build a car for much less than you are talking about. You are buying parts at places because you need them right away. If you shop on Ebay and other used parts as well that are shipped parts are much less. As well if it is a DIY (as you are the pro most DIY person I could imagine LOL) the labor cost is all time and not cash. I drive a 2002 330CI converted completely to a 2006 E46 M3. It cost me a total including the car of $9000.

[@notam3230]

Jason! been a long time viewer since 2015 from when you had your big shop in NC! I hope all is well, I've noticed your uploads # have really dropped. KZbin's algorithm is known to not favor someone's videos when they're inactive for a bit. I recall you saying that you used to do paint/body work in your old shop. Considering how much the youtube auto body scene is booming I wouldn't be surprised if you make a video of you repainting the m3 it could possibly blow up easily. Especially if its one of those 8-10 min style video. The reason I say that is because people want short term gratification when viewing videos and could possibly rake in a-good bit of views for painting the m3. Plus it defiantly needs exterior love! A fresh black respray would look mean and you'd be surprised how much of a mirror finish you get when spending a little time sanding, buffing and polishing with a DA polisher, most the time you can sand out all orange peel and runs to make it like glass. I hope you see this comment and hope all is well at your new shop space. (Maybe a series of a turbo build/body resto on the e36?)

[@greatonest.vgreatonest.v8193]

Heyy dose anyone know what misfire fuel cut mean on a e46 330xi mean. And how to fix it

[@francispowell1811]

You have to keep the "Vaders" in to retain value. It wouldn't make sense to use 1 series seat and simultaneously devalue the car. This will be a great resto.

[@rudeboys28712]

I think the paint job price is way too high really. I think around here in North Carolina you can get a great paint job for $2000-3000, that $7000 paint price must be California prices.

[@paranorml]

Gotta get an E46 M3 on here. I own both editions and couldn't be happier.

[@ShopLifeTV]

We have an e46 M3 but it's a convertible and it's a project car just like this one. We also have the s54 sedan that shares all of the components with an e46 M3. Hope to get more content on the s54 in general soon!

[@paranorml]

@@ShopLifeTV sweet. I got to see that. I got an 04 CSL color e46 M3 vert. My favorite for sure. E46 M3 is my daily lol

[@Fee.1]

8:42 what is this filmed with?

[@crisl9518]

Make sure its not just an M50 with the S50 beauty cover lol Edit: btw you can put s54 itbs on the s50 and it will make some pretty good power

[@RickCT2000]

My Vote - bring it back to clean OEM+ state. You'll make appreciation money over the next 5-7 years as M3 coupes continue to draw increased attention and car aficionado "love." Modified may not make the money back, though the S54 swap is intriguing and would make for some very entertaining videos

[@jonahcheatham1655]

Bring it back😎

[@JP-Fusion1781]

Good video. I've had better and way worse over the years. That paint on the hood. That hood would drive my OCD crazy. 2 thumbs up

[@MrBellyman128]

I bought a 1997 estoril blue m3 coupe. 5 speed manual with 150k miles for $10,000 in February. Either these cars shot up in value really fast or I just got a killer deal.

[@highmilesgarage9131]

you could get a decent BMW for 2k or less than 3k that is in decent shape than that in marketplace.. I was lucky to get a 2007 e60 for 2k with free fixes..

[@extremistindustries]

Do a turbo conversion. You left hand drivers have more cheap available options for exhaust manifolds.

[@Docs4]

I bought my sedan 320I from 97 with OEM M-packet for 1600 Euro 3 years ago. Compared to this. is in perfect condition :D. I think I made the greatest deals of second hand car deals ever :). Even the automatic aircon is working flawlessly.

[@josephephraim5135]

It will be much more enjoyable knowing you built the car you want. Put your touch to it!!

[@ShopLifeTV]

you know i will! lol

[@crazyg74]

restore it. or not. Just be sure to keep it. It's already a collectors item

[@korn010589]

I would bring it back to OEM specs and make it a show car. Should have this as a multiple-year project or side project since the value of this car will just go up and up. Besides, as many people here have said, it will attract more viewers that share the same passion for this car, myself included.

[@theodoretillman6864]

I would take my time and restore the car. I know it would be worth it in the long run.

[@breakfree1967]

How much did it cost?

[@josephphelps6913]

Did the techno violet M3 have the Highline package?

[@Nico_335i_DCT]

Yep, that's why the neglected once end up on the track or as a drift car, swapped to a 2JZ. It's a pity. I'm glad my '94 e36 325i vert is now in a guy's collection. The downside of that is, it will almost never run on public roads again. Dutch regards, Nico.

[@safwankhan5066]

Wheels actually look nice on this!

[@michaelsingh9663]

Crazy a few years ago I bought a similar version, black, coupe and 5 speed at first for 2000 as well talked him down to $375, sucks that I end up getting conned on a trade gone wrong

[@buurton1]

50sKid is making e90 videos nowadays, when will we see that here? Great content by the way

[@ShopLifeTV]

I have posted some e90 videos but when we come along another one we will create videos. It is the only series I don't own

[@erikwiggers1922]

In Europa, live in Germany, a e36 m3 kost hir arround 30, 40.000 Euro. So i think, for in the Future, you can't go wrong with it😁. Greats from Hollander, The Netherlands( i live and work in Germany) 👊

[@VikasGiri1986]

You need an E36 M3 on this channel. You could easily fix most of this stuff if you just buy a full parts car, rather than buying parts individually. I'm sure you could fix most of those problems with a parts car. Sell the parts off part car that you Don't need, use that money to respray car and I'm sure you could flip the car for a profit.

[@phthedoc]

How much do you want for the Vader’s

[@KeepCalmNCodeOn]

I own an E36 M3 that's OEM+ and my track car. Honestly I'll tell you that these cars are not worth buying to flip as a pristine condition car. I've put in $17k in mine and it's still not where I'd want it. New paint is the last remaining big ticket item on my list. For me, the car is more a fun project, I've learned a ton and it's been a great track car.

[@riccardo8002]

In your case with KZbin it would make sense to build it because you could get revenue from your videos. Also, even if you buy a clean example of an M3 at 21k there will be things you have to fix or annoy you or you don't like such as wheels. When you build it, you are assured you did it right and it fits your bill. You have a clean and straight M with little surface rust, can you really say that about any potential buy? Your choice.

[@joshruiz809]

Def a project build

[@rolandas1215]

In my country you can buy only rusted e36 320i for this money :D (320 is very good, 318 316 is more likely)

[@flippy9133]

find a nice coupe e36 with good paint and transfer all the M3 bits to it, might be cheaper. Then sell al the unused parts from it

[@eesasaafy]

I have a 95 hell rot red , try put an s54 in in the us you never got the s50 or s52 , I think s54 you won’t go wrong

[@JYKDutchYT]

Don't put a S54 in it. It already has an S50 with an M50 intake which can make lots of power.

[@FELIPE8226M]

Damn mines well just buy a well sorted one in the first place 😂

[@Maltinis]

headlights are glass you ain't going to "restore them easily"

[@AldetheGundamGuy]

USDM headlight covers on M3’s and most other bmw’s were plastic. I’ve repaired countless sets. They can be sanded and polished to be restored.

[@sonyncr8779]

buying is for weak, building is for strong

[@alexig1840]

The only e36 m3 ive found cheaper than mine, except mine ran good lol, I paid $2700 for mine

[@getitdonegarage]

You should do a video on parasitic draws on bmw

[@neilpike4358]

Don’t know what E36 m3’s sell for in the States in the U.K. you can by a reasonable example for around £12k😉

[@asansapenov]

More of these vids

[@s.m.whiteII]

My favorite BMW channel now that I’ve sworn off BMW’s after 4 POS(💩) in a row!!! Love it!!!!!❤️

[@ShopLifeTV]

Appreciate it man!! Sorry to hear about your bad luck with previous BMWs. Sometimes it takes a couple more tries to find the right one lol

[@s.m.whiteII]

Never say never!!!!!!!!!

[@LateNightRituals]

Here for e36 content

[@josephanguiano9550]

I bought the white m3 you mentioned that you wished was alpine white 😂

[@93_caddy_boy35]

I think you should restore it and make a lot of content for it

[@themadmanexperiment8910]

Just a wild i idea how about a wagon m3 conversion!

[@nguyenrec9752]

" Mâm xe này mấy inch ạ "How many inches are these wheels?

[@ShopLifeTV]

They are 17 x 8.5

[@beyondrepair8949]

I just my car from Copart but I didn't expect it to be this bad - 90% of their customers.

[@davesnothere8859]

don't upgrade it the money is in the stock form. If your going to swap it by a 328 or 318

[@adrianhinds9200]

No need to replace all of that stuff, repaint, deal with the suspension,put in a set and drive

[@TCKe]

Why?

[@davesnothere8859]

that's a bunch of money, you really should send it to my house.

[@josephphelps6913]

You know 🤔. You could possibly sell your current M3 for 5 or 6 grand, with the was the used car market is right now. That's a pretty good chunk towards a clean version lol. Not saying you should sell, mind you. Cause, nobody could give me enough money to sell my 740il Highline lol. And it's in much worse condition than your M3 lol

[@torreneknutsen161]

Make it a more badass m3:)

[@danielwatts9803]

We'd looooove' to see what the cabin air filter looks like, yikes!!!

[@soplim8632]

The e36 m3 in America is not a e36 m3. You would be better off getting a 330ci e46. I feel for the Americans customers of the e36 m3, you guys got a seriously down powered version of the legend.

[@dxxyooj8081]

Build it back😁

[@andydhillon1977]

Really good video. Many people don't realize how expensive low-priced cars can become. And at the and of the day, it will never be comparable to a liw-nileage example.

[@ShopLifeTV]

Thanks Andy! You are correct, and my estimate is fairly conservative.

[@andydhillon1977]

@@ShopLifeTV Definitely. One thing people interested in project cars need to be aware of is estimated costs are usually never accurate. Projects have a high probability of going over-budget. For a car like yours, it is best to limit the budget to things that are most needed for the safety and reliability of the car. Things like painting the entire car, new trim pieces, etc shouldn't be considered. Look for cheap alternatives to make the car look better. You'll be surprised how much better a car can look if you focus on cheap alternatives. Now if your car was a unique color or a desirable limited production car, then a more thorough restoration might be considered. If it was Daytona Violet (95's were not Techno Violet), it could be argued to restore more thoroughly.

[@Mr_stg]

at that point i’d just use the shell for a track car or something

[@teokastelan2930]

That’s insane price for a paint job.

[@eesasaafy]

Just restore it bro

[@vidgarage7577]

N54 swap track car might be the answer.

[@HarmonyGaming01]

Get a LTW wing

[@herbienbrian2]

You got this thing when prices for them were still in the drain.

[@philartonio202]

save it