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Coupes & Convertibles BMW M/M3/M6 BMW M3 Maintenance and Repair
228 messages, Last post on Nov 05, 2009 at 9:24 PM
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I'm not sure if this topic has been posted yet but this seems like a pretty knowledgable audience. Basically, I'm in the market for a real car after spending way too many years with a Honda. The 4 cars I am currently interested in from most to least are: E46, E36, Audi S4, Audi A4. Since this is a BMW post, my main questions pertain to the 36 and 46, but if anyone has any insight into the Audis I'd be interested as well. Since I'm finishing up grad school, my main concern is RELIABLE speed. I've heard some bad things about the reliability of Audis... Most likely, I'd like to purchase a black, manual coupe (36/46) for around $25,000 or less. I know I'm pushing it with the E46, but I have found some E46 coupes hovering around 60k miles. Right now there is an E36 with 35K for under $23,000 in my area. I know the differences in speed/power between the two models, but how about reliability and maintenance? Since I don't know as much about M3s, what is a reasonable amount of mileage I should consider? My plan is to wait it out until until I find a deal, then have the car inspected by a BMW mechanic. Obviously, that mechanic will know what to look for, but I would like to have an idea also. What are some common problems with the two models that I should consider? I know I want to look at maintenance records (ie- how often brake fluid etc.) My last question...what is to be expected each year for maintenance? I understand that BMW parts are very expensive, as is service at a BMW dealership. Is it unsafe to use non-BMW parts? Does anyone use a non-BMW mechanic? I have a very good mechanic, but working on a Honda is like fixing a simple lawn mower! Thanks a lot for any help. I'm sure topics like mine have been posted many times before, but I have a 14 credit graduate school summer ahead and not much time. If anyone has any comprehensive M3 websites to suggest that would be helpful too. Given my financial situation, which of the 4 cars would you buy?
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Replying to: drummer02 (May 28, 2008 8:44 am) I had been modifying honda/acura for over 10 years. I've owned a total of 8 of them from OBDO and OBD1 and I'm still not done playing with the 4 that I still have  But back to the M3. I got my 2001, 6 speed, with 74K for $18,100 I took it to the dealer for a complete check with compression test added to make sure engine is still strong before I purchased it. I've found out a couple of things that needs to be changed which is pretty much maintenance stuff when the car gets to ~ 80K All the stuff that needs to be changed cause me about ~$ 4,000 from the dealer. I'm slowly changing it myself with the help of advice from guys here and Save about $1000 so far. Thanks.Guys!!! You can also check BMWforum.com is what I've been told Where are you located BTW? |
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Replying to: drummer02 (May 28, 2008 8:44 am) I'd set aside $50-$75 per month for maintenance of an E36 M3(including tires). The cars are pretty simple to keep running. Oil changes are a dead easy DIY task-$50 for oil and filter. At  60K I'd replace the water pump and thermostat, and the radiator at 100K. Join BMW CCA and find a good independent BMW tech or a reasonable dealer. There are several around, if you know where to look. Me, I'm in the process of dumping a 2007 Mazdaspeed3- I'll replace it with either an E36 or E46 M3. Right now I'm leaning toward an E36 as it is relatively cheap and easy run as well as to add a few more horses(it will be my primary track toy). Plus, I love Dakar Yellow...
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Do any of you know how difficult it would be to repace an AC Blower motor? the dealership is charging me over 700 dollars and was wondering how hard it would be to replace myself?
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Replying to: jman6 (May 31, 2008 10:09 pm) |
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| I have a 98 M3 and need new tires. I have Yokohama AVS ES 100 245/40 ZR17 91W and am looking for something different. Good performance tires but I only got 12K miles out of them. Does anyone have a recommendation? I looking for a good performance tire with a little better wear. | |
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Replying to: rpr (Jun 15, 2008 8:01 am)
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Replying to: roadburner (Jun 15, 2008 5:22 pm)
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Replying to: Mr_Shiftright (Jun 15, 2008 5:25 pm) |
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Replying to: rpr (Jun 15, 2008 8:01 am) |
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