Shifterati

BMW M3 · E46 (2001–2006)

2004 BMW M3

This page is a draft. It has not been approved yet, so read it with care.

What buyers say

Reputation: what owners and the press report

  • Sought after: A coupe with the manual gearbox All years One source so far

    ECS Tuning says enthusiasts tend to prefer the coupe with the manual gearbox.1

  • Avoid: A cheap car without service records All years Less sought after One source so far

    ECS Tuning warns that the cheapest cars are usually mechanical train wrecks, and asks for records of the rod bearings, VANOS, valve adjustment and rear subframe reinforcement.1

Before you pay

Open the buyer's checklist

Every warning and recall for this generation, with a box to tick.

Sources

  1. ECS Tuning E46 M3 buyer's guide