In this section, you can find reviews from owners of BMW E46 cars. If you have experience with BMW E46 models, feel free to share it with others by submitting a review through the comments form. Once moderated, it will be published.
BMW – German luxury in every detail
Vehicles from the Bavarian manufacturer have long been cherished by drivers. For many motorists, BMW sedans and SUVs have become a true dream. The company offers a wide range of models, mostly falling into the upper premium price categories.
Purchasing a BMW will come at a significant cost. However, drivers will receive unparalleled quality for their money. This is evident in the durability of the vehicles, the resistance of parts to wear and tear, and the luxurious interior. Reviews of BMW E46 confirm this thesis.
BMW E46 Review: Nothing Else Compares to the «Bimmer»
In 2008, I bought a BMW 3 Series E46. The car was assembled in Germany in 1998. It's an old-timer, no doubt. Before this, I used Japanese cars and wanted to try something new. I chose a BMW on the advice of a friend who imported and resold cars from Europe. He said, «You'll never drive anything else in your life.» As it turned out, he wasn't mistaken.
In my review of the BMW E46, I want to first highlight the sedan. The key features are:
- automatic transmission;
- 2.8-liter engine producing 193 horsepower;
- climate control;
- 8 airbags.
The car is well-maintained, with only one coat of paint on the body. It has never been in any serious accidents. There were some minor scratches on the bumper, but those were trivial to me.
The comfort is outstanding. The seats can be adjusted in various ways. For my convenience (I'm 185 cm tall), I slid the front seat deep into the cabin. However, there was still about 15 cm left for further adjustments.
The seats impressed me with lumbar support adjustment and seat heating. In winter, I drove with maximum comfort. A couple of months after the purchase, I decided to test the car in harsh conditions. I drove from Moscow to Gelendzhik.
The car didn't disappoint. There were no major or minor accidents throughout the journey. It's not just a car to drive; it's a car to relax in. I even had to spend a night in it once. It was quite comfortable for me, my wife, and son.
The fuel consumption is decent. I mostly drove on highways, but even then, it consumed no less than 10 liters per hundred kilometers. In the city, my average consumption was 12-14 liters.
It's less in winter. Probably due to a change in driving style. In summer, I often push the pedal to the floor and don't pay much attention to the speedometer. In winter, I try to drive more cautiously. On the way to Bryansk on the highway, I used about 8.5-9 liters.
The review of the BMW E46 is exclusively positive. The car captivates with its exterior, interior, and performance. I didn't encounter any problems during my time driving it.
After 5 years of careful use, I sold the car. I mostly replaced consumables, and had to install new injectors a couple of times. That repair cost me 30 thousand rubles. It's fair to mention that the work was done at a not very cheap service center. There were more affordable options available.
And yes, after selling it, I bought another BMW. Just a year newer and a class higher. The cars are perfect, I highly recommend them.
BMW E46 Review: German Boldness
We have a 2003 BMW. We bought the car second-hand but chose it carefully. It didn't go without diagnostics at a trusted center. Although the car is a bit old now, it still impresses. In my review of the BMW E46, I want to highlight its «boldness»:
- Manual transmission.
- 2.5-liter engine.
The performance is incredible. It accelerates instantly, brakes quickly and confidently. The seats, although not fully sporty, provide stable side support. They won't throw you out during turns and sharp corners.
The main plus for me is the feeling. The engine's roar gets the adrenaline pumping. Especially when you engage the sport mode. There are other perks too:
- parking sensors;
- sunroof;
- climate control;
- power steering;
- ABS;
- light and rain sensors.
Overall, I am truly satisfied with the purchase. My wife is also thrilled. This car has become our shared family love.
In the review of the BMW E46, I cannot overlook some drawbacks. Primarily, the downsides are related to the cost of ownership. Here, you will have to spend quite a bit. The car is expensive not only in maintenance but also in insurance and taxes due to its powerful engine. My registration somewhat eases the burden.
I live in a small town, so the insurance premium is low. But if you want the thrill of driving, you have to pay. If you just want to go from point A to point B, buy a Japanese car and don't worry about your wallet. I chose the former.
Also: Reviews of BMW X1 owners
BMW E46 Review: Delight
I want to express my entire BMW E46 review in one word — delight. The car is unbelievably cool. I bought it second-hand and became the 5th owner. I got the «Bimmer» from a friend who owned it for 2 years before me. So, I knew quite well about possible issues and the technical condition. The main technical specifications are:
- Rear-wheel drive;
- Five-speed manual;
- 2.5-liter engine with 192 horsepower;
- 210,000 km mileage.
The car looked impressive, and it was far from being a piece of junk. Right after the purchase, I took it to a service center, changed filters and fluids. I heard from many that BMWs consume oil in liters. But my car didn't lose a drop in 5,000 km. The average consumption of AI-95 fuel in the city is around 13 liters.
Over 5 years of ownership, I only had to change brake pads and oils with filters. I didn't have to invest in anything else. The car still runs as reliably as Swiss watches.
In the BMW E46 review, I want to emphasize another point. I recommend future buyers to approach the secondary market very carefully. There is a lot of junk out there. I got lucky.
