1999 Bmw E46 problems
The fourth generation of the BMW 3 Series range of compact executive cars is designated under the model code E46, which was produced by the German automaker BMW from 1997 to 2006, and was the successor to the E36 3 Series which ceased production in 2000. First introduced in November 1997, the E46 was available in sedan, coupé, convertible, station wagon and hatchback body styles. The latter has been marketed as the 3 Series Compact.
The M3 performance model was introduced in June 2000 with a 2-door coupé body style, followed by the convertible counterpart in April 2001. The M3 is powered by the BMW S54 straight-six engine with either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed SMG-II automated manual transmission.
The E46 line-up was phased out starting from late 2004, following the introduction of the E90 3 Series sedans. However, the E46 coupé and convertible body styles remained in production until August 2006.
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Common 1999 Bmw E46 problems
Based on the information provided in the sources, here are some common problems with the BMW E46 1999 model based on complaints from owners:
- Rear Subframe Mounting Points: The E46 chassis is known to have issues with the rear subframe mounting points. This problem arises due to snow, salt, and moisture exposure, leading to cracked or torn subframe mounts. This issue can cause the car to shift unpredictably while in motion, posing safety risks. Repairs for this problem can be complex and costly.
- PCV (Positive Crankcase Ventilation) Failure: The M54 and M52 6-cylinder engines in the E46 are prone to PCV failure and clogging. A clogged crankcase vent valve can result in leaky oil seals, leading to oil weeping from various engine components. If left unaddressed, this issue can escalate to more severe engine problems.
- Vanos System Issues: The double Vanos engines in certain E46 models, such as the 320i, 325i, and 330i, are known for Vanos system problems. Malfunctions in the Vanos system can cause performance issues and affect the engine's overall operation. Addressing Vanos issues can be crucial to maintaining the engine's efficiency and longevity.
- Cooling System Failures: The E46 cooling system is prone to failures and leaks from plastic components. Common issues include cracked fittings, clips, and reservoirs, leading to coolant leaks and de-pressurization. It is recommended to replace key failure points in the cooling system to prevent major cooling-related problems.
- Oil Leaks: The BMW E46 is known to experience oil leaks from various components such as the oil filter housing and valve cover gasket. These leaks can lead to oil seepage onto engine parts, causing burning oil smells and potential engine damage. Addressing oil leaks promptly is essential to prevent further complications.
These common problems with the BMW E46 1999 model highlight the importance of regular maintenance and proactive repairs to ensure the longevity and reliability of the vehicle. Owners should be vigilant in addressing these issues to avoid more significant and costly repairs in the future.
Is a BMW E46 reliable?
Key Takeaways. The BMW E46 3 Series, particularly the 318i, was a reliable and affordable choice with good fuel efficiency and maintenance costs. The E46 was a significant improvement in comfort compared to its predecessor, the E36, offering better suspension, increased comfort, and a better balance.
How many miles will a BMW E46 last?
I've personally seen numerous models surpass the 200,000 mile mark, like my own 236,000-mile E46 ZHP, while online we've seen some odometers surpass the 400,000 and 500,000-mile thresholds. But there hasn't been a time when I've heard of an example with mileage so high that it actually broke the odometer, until now.
Is E46 hard to maintain?
The E46 M3 is honestly not that hard to take care of. There are a few major things you should always keep an eye on and those are outlined in the Mandatory section at the bottom of this article, but otherwise it's easy. Not too expensive either. This is a 20+ year old car now and parts are available or cheap.
Why is BMW E46 so special?
The E46 generation of the M3 brought specific changes to the roof and hood of these cars. The hood was made from aluminum alloy that weighed less, while the roof was made from carbon fiber. Just like the hood, materials in the car's construction were modified in order for the car to have better speed and acceleration.
Is a BMW E46 reliable?
Key Takeaways. The BMW E46 3 Series, particularly the 318i, was a reliable and affordable choice with good fuel efficiency and maintenance costs. The E46 was a significant improvement in comfort compared to its predecessor, the E36, offering better suspension, increased comfort, and a better balance.
Is E46 hard to maintain?
The E46 M3 is honestly not that hard to take care of. There are a few major things you should always keep an eye on and those are outlined in the Mandatory section at the bottom of this article, but otherwise it's easy. Not too expensive either. This is a 20+ year old car now and parts are available or cheap.
Why is BMW E46 so special?
The E46 generation of the M3 brought specific changes to the roof and hood of these cars. The hood was made from aluminum alloy that weighed less, while the roof was made from carbon fiber. Just like the hood, materials in the car's construction were modified in order for the car to have better speed and acceleration.
How many miles will a BMW E46 last?
I've personally seen numerous models surpass the 200,000 mile mark, like my own 236,000-mile E46 ZHP, while online we've seen some odometers surpass the 400,000 and 500,000-mile thresholds. But there hasn't been a time when I've heard of an example with mileage so high that it actually broke the odometer, until now.
1999 Bmw E46 car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Bmw E46 problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Exterior lighting problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1999 Bmw E46 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1999 Bmw E46 complaints
The NHTSA has received 1 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1999 Bmw E46.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-10-19
- VIN: WBAAM5337XF
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1999 BMW E46. WHILE PARKED, THE CONTACT NOTICED BOTH REAR TAIL LIGHTS FAILED INTERMITTENTLY. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHO ADVISED THE CONTACT THAT THE TAIL LIGHT WIRES NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 140,000. THE CONSUMER STATED A RECALL WAS ISSUED FOR THE PROBLEM. HOWEVER, IT WAS ONLY FOR MODEL YEARS 2001-2003. UPDATED 02/08/12
1999 Bmw E46 recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 4 recalls for different components of the 1999 Bmw E46.
- Manufacturer: DOPE, INC.
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS
- Summary: DOPE, INC. IS RECALLING 42,540 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.
- Consequence: DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: DOPE, INC. WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 28, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT DOPE, INC. AT 1-626-272-1798.
- Manufacturer: CK MOTORSPORT, INC.
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: CERTAIN CK MOTORSPORTS COMBINATION HEADLIGHTS, CLEAR CORNER, BUMPER, AND SIDE MARKER LIGHTS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON THE PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS THAT ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.
- Consequence: WITHOUT THE AMBER REFLECTORS, THE VEHICLE WILL BE POORLY ILLUMINATED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.
- Remedy: CK MOTORSPORT WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE NONCOMPLIANT LAMPS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 1, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT CK MOTORSPORT AT 1-909-610-7211.
- Manufacturer: E SPEED RACING
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: CERTAIN E SPEED RACING COMBINATION LAMPS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT EQUIPMENT FOR USE ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS THAT ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.
- Consequence: WITHOUT THE AMBER REFLECTORS, THE VEHICLE WILL BE POORLY ILLUMINATED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.
- Remedy: E SPEED RACING WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER TO REPURCHASE THE LAMPS. THE RECALL BEGAN MAY 10, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT E SPEED RACING 909-923-3636.
- Manufacturer: PRO-A MOTORS, INC.
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: CERTAIN PRO-A MOTORS CORNER LAMPS, TURN SIGNALS, AND HEADLIGHTS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS THAT ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.
- Consequence: WITHOUT THE AMBER REFLECTORS, THE VEHICLE WILL BE POORLY ILLUMINATED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.
- Remedy: PRO-A MOTORS WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER TO REPURCHASE THE LAMPS. THE RECALL BEGAN ON APRIL 3, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT PRO-A MOTORS AT 323-838-2988.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1999 Bmw E46 problems:
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Jul 27, 2023 ... Cooling System · Subframe Issues (Cracked Subframes) · Oil Consumption (Mainly M54 Engines) · Vacuum Leaks (Disa Valve etc.) · Rust.
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