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Both of our Convertibles were 2001 models, mine was the 330 and his was the M3.
My 330:
Power windows would not 'raise' to their index position, allowing water and wind to enter the car. Failed three times.
Power top synchronization system failed, allowing the top to push up against the metal 'boot' that was supposed to open to let the top out of its folded position. Because of this problem it would also stop mid-cycle and freeze there. It had to be towed in, and the top bows bent slightly because of the 'air-brake' effect. The top never closed right after that.
Blew a rear main seal at 32K miles. Ruined clutch with oil. New clutch never felt right, had it adjusted twice.
Rear differential became noisy at 40K. Warranted entire new diff assembly
Power seat had problems
Xenon headlights had intermittent problems. Four times in shop. Never fixed completely.
My friends M3:
29 days in shop in last 12 months he owned it . Sold it on eBay last March while it was still under warranty for the next owner.
Needed all new main and rod bearings
Had regular but intermittent starting problems. Was towed in several times. New starter and alternator never fixed the problem.
Many pieces in convertible system broke or had problems.
Had same problem with indexing power windows.
All told, my 3 series experiences were much better than my 5 and 7 series ownerships. My 750 was a real nightmare, my 740 was better but still very bad.
Some of the problems I faced were related to coupes or converts.
I have heard of some catastrophic failures with 2004-2005's VANOS variable valve timing systems.
If you are comfortable with your dealership (some of them are VERY good), and have a good warranty, don't worry too much. But if living with a loaner while your car is in the shop poses a problem for you, think twice. You don't spend $40-50K on a convert to drive a 325 sedan loaner, for example.
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