Looking at '99-'00 BMW, any suggestions!?

ejames19 · 11-12-2007, 04:32 AM

Looking at a '99 & '00 323i, I have a somewhat idea of what to look for, but knowing the knowledge and large BMW ownership throughout Pelican I thought I would ask you all. Not worried about little things like the window regulators and such, just the 'major' points of interest, if any for this model and year.
Cheers...

KNS · 11-12-2007, 05:13 AM

I think the only major concern would be the rear subframe cracking on *some* cars (99-00 323s and 328s). I wouldn't be too worried, just check the area out before purchase. Factory says oil change every 15,000 miles but many including myself change every 7500mi. I have an 04 325 and it's been perfect.

onewhippedpuppy · 11-12-2007, 06:22 AM

BMW cooling systems like to die around 100k, especially the radiator and water pump. Suspension bushings like to give out around 100k as well. Something to keep in mind. Some models are more/less prone to these issues, I'm not sure where the E46 falls.

imcarthur · imcarthur's Garage

'00 323i here. Now 149K kms.

Mechanically, it's been good - just normal wear stuff. Brakes. Clutch. But, I spent $1000 + on stupid sensor issues. The airbag light was perma on & the mech had to dismantle the passenger seat to replace a mat-type sensor. It's on again . . .

Ian

deathpunk dan · 11-12-2007, 08:42 AM

mechanicals are similar to the E36.

If you get one, set aside about $1000 to do the following:
Rear trailing arm bushings
E46 M3 Rear shock mounts
Bilstein HD shocks
new tie rods
new control arms/bushings
front and rear sway bar links + bushings
rear subframe bushings
water pump
thermostat
motor mounts

Everything but the RTABs and rear subframe bushings are super easy to do. The suspension stuff can easily be done in a day.

David · David's Garage

I just sold my '99 323i to a friend, so I guess that means I think they're a decent car even with some miles.

Some issues:
window regulators
Front a-arm bushings
brake wear
A/C compressor caused an ignition misfire (???) and had to be replaced
rubber driveshaft couplings (Guibos)
rear wheel bearing

I never found any chassis tearing or cracks and the wife and I both drove it pretty hard.

EDIT for more issue items:
Air bag sensor in passenger seatbelt
Cam sensors (my friend replaced them after I sold it at 90K miles)

Drago · Drago's Garage

Quote:

Originally Posted by onewhippedpuppy

BMW cooling systems like to die around 100k, especially the radiator and water pump. Suspension bushings like to give out around 100k as well. Something to keep in mind. Some models are more/less prone to these issues, I'm not sure where the E46 falls.

I knew this going in when I bought a '00 740il recently.

Sadly, both came true...then again I blew the motor in my 911 last week so maybe it's just me.

jtfreels · 11-12-2007, 12:18 PM

I have a 99 328 at 101K miles, the secondary air pump died at about 90K miles, replaced that my self. The heater/air conditioner control system died on me recently, I sent this off to be fixed for about $75 total. Also had the passenger air bag sensor problem as described above.
And I'm guessing the front suspension bushings have gone at least on one side.

Other wise

a great car, but I'm looking to sell it!

Jay