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View Full Version : Thinking of getting a BMW...or WRX



Dumbass17
01-18-2012, 04:15 PM
so my current car is about to crap the bed and I will have to buy a new one within 6 months i think.

I have been thinking of either a 2000ish BMW 3 Series or a mid 2000s WRX (either sedan or wagon)

I know BMWs get a rep for being expensive to repair, so what are some things to consider when well, considering purchasing a used BMW that is 10-12 years old?

What about the WRX? A friend at work has one and says you gotta check out the gearbox in them as they tend to have issues...

jdmXSI
01-18-2012, 05:05 PM
The gear box thing that he was reffering to on the Subaru is up until the 2003MY. It is the same gear box they had used for the GC chassis and without any upgrades to handle the extra power, it was dubbed a glass transmission. Still a good car though!

I cant speak to the older BMW's much just because i dont know.

Good luck!

Scat E46
01-18-2012, 05:47 PM
dont buy a 3 series sedan before 2002. Do not buy a coupe before 03. Serious sub frame tearing issues.

With an old BMW - you have a lot to look at. Entire cooling system. Evap tank. Transmission o rings start to go. Diff seals start to leak. Braking system. The list goes on.

Can't comment on the subie.

jsn
01-18-2012, 07:43 PM
Subarus are fairly reliable, at least in my experience. My 2004 has had no issues next to routine maintenance. My sister owns a newer 2007 2.5rs and has had no issue at all. My WRX does seem to use abit more oil than other cars I've owned but I just check every 2 or 3 weeks and top off if needed. I love having the AWD in winter.

max_boost
01-18-2012, 08:13 PM
The E46 3 series are basically dummy proof for winter handling if you throw a set of winter tires on it. The stability control is that good. It's a tank. Great looking car. A bit underpowered the auto is slow.

Has anyone had to replace anything major on the WRX yet? Just general maintenance in my experience with them. Fun little cars, that older generation has very little leg room between driver and passenger, rear seats don't go down, turbo lag. Definitely not as pretty as the Bimmer.

zipdoa
01-18-2012, 08:18 PM
Originally posted by Scat E46
dont buy a 3 series sedan before 2002. Do not buy a coupe before 03. Serious sub frame tearing issues.



I spent $3300 @ Maranellos getting mine repaired. All E36 coupes have this issues as well.



I didn't see Audi on your list... any reason why? An A4 1.8TQM or a A6 2.7TQM would be a much better choice than a WRX IMO.

Dumbass17
01-18-2012, 08:34 PM
yeah it won't be driven in snow..i'm in australia now but still frequent this forum, haven't found an australia equivalent yet haha.

audi eh? hmmm
i'd be looking for under 20g

SO with the BMWs maybe i should look at something less flash, like a 320ci but newer like 03...

zipdoa
01-18-2012, 08:39 PM
Originally posted by Dumbass17
yeah it won't be driven in snow..i'm in australia now but still frequent this forum, haven't found an australia equivalent yet haha.

audi eh? hmmm
i'd be looking for under 20g

That basically gets you into any Audi 2006 and older, except for A8's and RS6's.

g-m
01-18-2012, 08:39 PM
ew dont get an audi. I'm leaving shortly to pick up a 2002 WRX and am very happy about it

Dumbass17
01-18-2012, 08:57 PM
found something like this

http://www.carsales.com.au/private/details/bmw-320ci-2003-11871814?cr=3&distance=500&vertical=Car&Range=Price:Min,20000~1|Mileage:Min,Max|Year:2003,2005|Seats:Min,Max|EngineSize:Min,Max&sort=~Price&postcode=4218&__N=1216%201246%201247%201252%201282%204294967079%204294729572%2053&silo=Stock&eapi=2

luxor
01-18-2012, 09:30 PM
Originally posted by Scat E46
dont buy a 3 series sedan before 2002. Do not buy a coupe before 03. Serious sub frame tearing issues.

Transmission o rings start to go.

Show me some sources for this information. AFAIK ALL E46s, including the M3s, are susceptible to sub frame cracks. Especially when the vehicle has been abused and/or running stiff aftermarket springs and shocks, slammed to the ground and nothing but bottoming out at every turn.

From my research, all E46s manufactured after Feb 2000 may have slight sub frame improvements, but not enough obviously because there are still 2001-2003 E46s with reported subframe issues/cracks. There are less 03-05 reported because majority of those vehicles have lower KMs. Unless of course you can show me solid proof that BMW did indeed make some significant changes to the sub frame between 2002-2003.

http://www.e46subframeclassactionsettlement.com/pdf/bmwn1faq.pdf
Point 11 suggests a reduction in subframe issues after FEB 2000, by BMW NA

http://forum.e46fanatics.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=329524&d=1251506121
This PDF of a TIS also indicates models before FEB 2000 are the ones affected


Yes Scat, that means YOUR E46's can have "serious sub frame tearing issues." Don't buy any E46s with build date before FEB 2000, but also don't expect your post FEB 2000 E46 to have an indestructible sub frame either. Don't abuse your E46 and it won't break on you.

Scat E46
01-18-2012, 09:37 PM
Originally posted by luxor
Yes Scat, that means YOUR E46's can have "serious sub frame tearing issues." Don't buy any E46s with build date before FEB 2000, but also don't expect your post FEB 2000 E46 to have an indestructible sub frame either. Don't abuse your E46 and it won't break on you.

I had a 2000 E46 - Subframe started to go.

After research, post facelift models were much better and there were hardly any reports of subframe issues. I ended up getting a 04 Coupe. And it was perfectly fine.

I also don't drive a bmw, and I haven't for a year. Yes Luxor, that means YOUR post is a dick move.

zipdoa
01-18-2012, 09:43 PM
Originally posted by g-m
ew dont get an audi. I'm leaving shortly to pick up a 2002 WRX and am very happy about it

:dunno:

Pros and cons to both, but really I'd rather get into this everyday:
http://memimage.cardomain.com/ride_images/2/4247/3881/23116940022_large.jpg

Than this:

http://image.motortrend.com/f/8512558+w750/112_0403_08z+2002_subaru_impreza_wrx_sport_wagon+interior_view_steering_wheel.jpg

luxor
01-18-2012, 10:02 PM
Originally posted by Scat E46


I had a 2000 E46 - Subframe started to go.

After research, post facelift models were much better and there were hardly any reports of subframe issues. I ended up getting a 04 Coupe. And it was perfectly fine.

I also don't drive a bmw, and I haven't for a year. Yes Luxor, that means YOUR post is a dick move.

I wasn't trying to be a dick or pull any dick moves. This place just has too much false or anecdotal claims, that it's hard to be nice at times. It's not that hard to post information that are backed up by reputable sources (this isn't directed only towards Scat, but to the majority here). Post claims that you can back up or don't post at all.

Dumbass17
01-19-2012, 02:19 AM
In regards to the whole subframe issue, what's the situation with fixing/remedying that? Does one have to get an expensive fix done at the owners cost or what? I don't even know what a subframe is haha

The last thing I want to happen is buy a $20,000 car and have to fork over another 5000 in repairs just down the road ya know

The BMW Guy
01-19-2012, 10:40 AM
You won't be spending 20,000 for a 2000ish E46.

For that price, you can almost get an e46 M3.
Since you won't be driving the car in snow, I say go for the BMW (no bias).

In my opinion bimmers have superior style, comfort and quality.
Sure maintenance is expensive, if you bring it to the dealership all the time. And I'm not going to lie, higher mileage BMWs have a lot of things start to go.

Seems like I always have an endless list of things to fix, but I don't mind working on the car at all so it doesn't bug me too much. It's a great hobby.
As for the sub frame issue, I'm not sure if mine has it. To remedy it you can buy a re-enforcement kit and have it welded at a shop. Couple thousand from what I remember.

With that said though, Subarus are pretty reliable from what I've seen.
Both are very good choices, just make sure to do some research.
E46fanatics.com is a good place to start for the BMW.

Also, go for a 330. Trust me, you'll want more power soon enough.

Good luck!

zipdoa
01-19-2012, 10:57 AM
Originally posted by Dumbass17
In regards to the whole subframe issue, what's the situation with fixing/remedying that? Does one have to get an expensive fix done at the owners cost or what? I don't even know what a subframe is haha

The last thing I want to happen is buy a $20,000 car and have to fork over another 5000 in repairs just down the road ya know


Originally posted by zipdoa


I spent $3300 @ Maranellos getting mine repaired. All E36 coupes have this issues as well.

DeeK
01-19-2012, 04:30 PM
Or just get both. Get a BMX.

Toyota Racing
01-19-2012, 09:33 PM
Originally posted by DeeK
Or just get both. Get a BMX.
A BMW with a WRX swap?

DeeK
01-20-2012, 01:52 AM
Originally posted by Toyota Racing

A BMW with a WRX swap?

Not sure if serious..........

J-hop
01-20-2012, 07:21 AM
Originally posted by Scat E46
dont buy a 3 series sedan before 2002. Do not buy a coupe before 03. Serious sub frame tearing issues.


So everything back even to e30s are plagued with subframe issues??? I always thought the old bimmers were built pretty damn solid.

Dumbass17
01-20-2012, 05:07 PM
What's considered a high mileage for a BMW?
I really like them but I'd hate myself if I got somethingthat constantly needs work and repairs.

Dumbass17
01-22-2012, 02:37 AM
I'm also open to suggestions of other cars. I havent seen a nice Audi that does it for me, besides a S5 but I'll never afford that haha.
I'm thinking if I am going to spend 20k or so on a car maybe I should consider something newer than an early-mid 2000s Beamer.
With that being said, what else it out there that I'm not thinking of...?

msommers
01-22-2012, 11:11 AM
What is your criteria for a new vehicle? Fuck if I was down in Oz and needed a vehicle, it'd be a diesel land cruiser. That thing will never die ha. Or an R34 Skyrine

Dumbass17
01-22-2012, 04:59 PM
Originally posted by msommers
What is your criteria for a new vehicle? Fuck if I was down in Oz and needed a vehicle, it'd be a diesel land cruiser. That thing will never die ha. Or an R34 Skyrine
well i live along the beach so i don't really have the use for a landcruiser haha.
i want something i can toss the surfboard in the back of but also has style and comfort. i don't need 4x4 though, most surf spots i frequent are accessable by cars.

Scat E46
01-22-2012, 05:09 PM
Originally posted by J-hop


So everything back even to e30s are plagued with subframe issues??? I always thought the old bimmers were built pretty damn solid.

this was regarding e46 chassis. 99-06.

the e36 chassis, as mentioned by zipdoa, has the same issue. 92-98

e30's are sexy.

Dumbass17
01-24-2012, 05:13 AM
Alright also looks like I could throw a mid 2000's Infiniti G35 into the mix. They go for around 18-25 here.

Hmmm so
2003ish Subaru WRX for 12ish g
2003ish BMW 320ci for 20ish
2003ish Infiniti G35 for 20ish g (called a Nissan Skyline here lol)

shakalaka
01-24-2012, 05:24 AM
You can prolly get a little newer than 2003 G35 or 350Z for around 20K. But of course that depends on many things.

realazy
01-24-2012, 10:39 AM
If you don't mind a smaller engine, you can probably get a 2006 E90 323i or 320i whatever they offer there for less than $20gs.

You can buy relatively low milage ones of said cars for around $16-20gs here. I would assume it's around the same over there.

msommers
01-24-2012, 11:26 AM
Kind of offtopic, but how much is petrol there?

Dumbass17
01-24-2012, 03:13 PM
Petrol is ridiculous here. Right now its around 1.39-1.43/L

Dumbass17
01-28-2012, 04:28 PM
Bump

Ya I don't know what to do. Found that 323cis are a fair bit cheaper than 325/330s so that's cool but they also have less power, think 168hp. I'm not too fussed over having lots of power though as it's mainly city driving and rarely over 70km/hr haha. BMW maintenance costs just scare the hell out of me...

96integra
01-28-2012, 06:13 PM
If you're mechanically inclined, theres nothing to worry about with maintenance. There is tons of information on the BMW forums that will show you how to DIY tons of things. It took me a while to find a mint condition 03 330i with M package and as long as the car and engine is good, you should be good to go. These cars don't break as often but when they do, they are definitely more costly. I would be more concerned about maintaining a turbo'd WRX than an inline 6 bimmer. Granted, the turbo and AWD may be way more fun!

I had the same dilemma when buying a car and I also considered WRXs, G35s, S2Ks, e46 330i. It came down to looks (not to mention all the options), fuel consumption (I get almost 700km to a tank in the summer), and price (15k MAX for a 330). e46s can look really good with few exterior mods and the interior is a lot nicer than the older WRXs. I may have changed my mind if my car didnt have the M package. The stock 330i dont look nearly as good and I would have chose the WRX in a heartbeat.

The 323i has no power or options... You might as well get a civic instead :poosie:. Maybe consider the Impreza if you dont care about power.

Scat E46
01-28-2012, 06:15 PM
Originally posted by 96integra
If you're mechanically inclined, theres nothing to worry about with maintenance. There is tons of information on the BMW forums that will show you how to DIY tons of things. It took me a while to find a mint condition 03 330i with M package and as long as the car and engine is good, you should be good to go. These cars don't break as often but when they do, they are definitely more costly. I would be more concerned about maintaining a turbo'd WRX than an inline 6 bimmer. Granted, the turbo and AWD may be way more fun!

I had the same dilemma when buying a car and I also considered WRXs, G35s, S2Ks, e46 330i. It came down to looks (not to mention all the options), fuel consumption (I get almost 700km to a tank in the summer), and price (15k MAX for a 330). e46s can look really good with few exterior mods and the interior is a lot nicer than the older WRXs. I may have changed my mind if my car didnt have the M package. The stock 330i dont look nearly as good and I would have chose the WRX in a heartbeat.


How many k does your BMW have?

I've owned the e46 platform for 6 years - tones of maintenance - just you wait.

96integra
01-28-2012, 06:21 PM
Originally posted by Scat E46



How many k does your BMW have?

I've owned the e46 platform for 6 years - tones of maintenance - just you wait.

115k. My brother has the e46 too and we do all the maintenance ourselves. Nothing too crazy and everything is doable up to this point. Its all part of owning a car.

Scat E46
01-28-2012, 07:20 PM
Originally posted by 96integra


115k. My brother has the e46 too and we do all the maintenance ourselves. Nothing too crazy and everything is doable up to this point. Its all part of owning a car.

Never said it wasn't bro. I did all my maint myself as well.

Getting the parts from dealer are expensive - online OEM doesn't ship to Canada (due to canadian BMW compaints), oem parts were hard to get a hold of.

Window regulators are retarded expensive. The coupe saggy door jamb gaskets, the saggy airbag pillars, headlight levelers, headlight sensors, entire cooling system - expansion tank, hoses blowing, leaky valve cover gaskets, suspension bushings always going (upgrade the the expensive eurethane), list goes on....

Plastic fan in the water pump, the secondary air pump failing, 02 sensors...

zipdoa
01-28-2012, 07:46 PM
Originally posted by Scat E46


Never said it wasn't bro. I did all my maint myself as well.

Getting the parts from dealer are expensive - online OEM doesn't ship to Canada (due to canadian BMW compaints), oem parts were hard to get a hold of.

Window regulators are retarded expensive. The coupe saggy door jamb gaskets, the saggy airbag pillars, headlight levelers, headlight sensors, entire cooling system - expansion tank, hoses blowing, leaky valve cover gaskets, suspension bushings always going (upgrade the the expensive eurethane), list goes on....

Plastic fan in the water pump, the secondary air pump failing, 02 sensors...

Doesn't pelican parts do OEM? That's where I got all the bits for my E36..

Scat E46
01-28-2012, 07:56 PM
Originally posted by zipdoa


Doesn't pelican parts do OEM? That's where I got all the bits for my E36..

You are correct sir. Not as cheap as the states tho! I ended up shipping everything to my dad's hotel room and he brought them up haha. (works down there)

I'm not going to lie - I love BMW's, my favorite car, owned 2 of them - but I would never buy an E46 again.