seeking e46 info

[peterz]

Hi Everyone,

I'm getting very interested in acquiring an M3 (e46). As this will be a major upgrade for me, I want to do some due diligence and research the car as much as possible before laying out the green.

Ideally my car would be a coupe, dark grey metallic, black leather, SMG, 18" wheels, bi-xenon lights, heated seats, ski bag, sunroof, no aluminum interior trim, no nav.

I plan to keep the car pretty stock, no major mods. No racing, street only.

I know there were engine issues with some early (01) models due to faulty con rods. And that BMW repaired most of those and provided an enhanced 6 year drive train warranty.

As I'm interested in 03-05 models, that may not be an issue for me but some questions I have off the top of my head are things like:

1. Any recurring problems with 03-05 e46's?

2. Are there any web sites that detail what to look for when buying a late model M3? (ie. a buyer's guide or something like it).

3. Are repair manuals available?

4. What is the little shark fin thing on the roof of some later cars - the nav system antenna?

I've been into cars and bikes for a while and tend to do most my own maintenenance, although this would be the most modern car I would have. But I'm definitely not scared of turning a wrench.

Any insights greatly appreciated.

-Peter

[peterz]

Oh yeah, I'd also love to drop the A/C but I suspect in North America that would be impossible. Unless someone knows different?

-Peter