2002 Bmw M3 problems
The BMW M3 is a high-performance version of the BMW 3 Series, developed by BMW's in-house motorsport division, BMW M GmbH. M3 models have been produced for every generation of 3 Series since the E30 M3 was introduced in 1986.
The initial model was available in a coupé body style, with a convertible body style made available soon after. M3 saloons were offered initially during the E36 (1994–1999) and E90 (2008–2012) generations. Since 2014, the coupé and convertible models have been rebranded as the 4 Series range, making the high-performance variant the M4. Variants of the 3 Series since then have seen the M3 produced as a saloon, until 2020, when the M3 was produced as an estate (Touring) for the first time, alongside the saloon variant.
E30 generation (1986–1991)
The first BMW M3 was based on the E30 3 Series and was intended to be a homologation special to satisfy the Deutsche Tourenwagen Meisterschaft and Group A Touring rules, which required a total of 5,000 cars to be built. It was presented to the public at the 1985 Frankfurt Motor Show, and began production from March 1986 to June 1991. The E30 M3 was mainly produced in the coupé body style, but limited volumes of convertibles were also produced.
The front splitter, the rear apron, sill panels, as well as changes to the body in the area of the rear window (C-pillar) and the bootlid improved the aerodynamics. For aerodynamic reasons, the rear window was flattened and the tailgate was made of light, glass-reinforced plastic raised by approximately 40 mm for better air flow. The changes over the rear of the car resulted in lower lift forces and better straight-line stability. In addition, the windscreen was glued in – not, as with the other E30 models, framed with a window rubber and piping. As a result, the M3 achieved a relatively low drag coefficient of Cd=0.33 instead of Cd=0.38 as in the standard 3 Series. The only exterior body panels the regular 3 Series and the M3 shared were the bonnet, roof panel, and sunroof.
The brake calipers, discs and master cylinder were unique to the M3 model.
The transmission was a Getrag 265 5-speed manual. European models were outfitted with a dogleg version with close ratios and a 1:1 ratio for fifth gear. North American models used a traditional shift pattern and had wider gear spacing with an overdriven fifth gear. A clutch-type limited-slip differential was standard equipment.
In 2004, Sports Car International named the E30 M3 number six on the list of Top Sports Cars of the 1980s. In 2007, Automobile Magazine included the E30 M3 in their "5 greatest drivers cars of all time" under their 25 Greatest Cars of All Time.
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Common 2002 Bmw M3 problems
Based on complaints from owners of the BMW M3 2002, common problems with this car include:
- Rear Subframe Mounting Points: The E46 3-Series, including the M3, suffered from a design flaw where the mounting points for the rear subframe could crack or tear over time, potentially causing serious damage to the chassis. It's essential to inspect these mounting points thoroughly to ensure there is no damage or previous repairs to avoid safety concerns while driving.
- SMG Transmission Pump Failure: For M3 models equipped with the SMG automatic gearbox, the pump that actuates gear changes is prone to failure, resulting in costly replacements. Look out for clunky gear changes or unresponsive paddles during a test drive, as these could indicate issues with the transmission pump.
- Worn Bushings, Rubber, and Seals: As the BMW M3 accumulates miles, typical "old car" problems start to emerge, such as worn bushings, cracking rubber components, and failing seals. It's recommended to inspect these components during an inspection to address any potential maintenance needs and ensure the car's longevity.
- Expensive Oil Changes: The BMW M3 2002 uses expensive 10W-60 oil, leading to higher costs for routine oil changes. Owners should be prepared for this additional expense when maintaining the vehicle to keep it in optimal condition.
By being aware of these common issues reported by BMW M3 2002 owners, prospective buyers can make informed decisions and take necessary precautions to address these problems proactively, ensuring a smoother ownership experience without unexpected maintenance surprises.
What is the big 3 issue with the E46 M3?
The BMW E46 M3 with the S54 engine is an incredibly powerful and capable vehicle, but it has some notable points of failure. You will often hear people talk about “The Big 3” when it comes to maintenance on your E46. The Big 3 includes rod bearings, a rebuilt VANOS, and subframe reinforcement.
What are common problems with E46 M3?
We'll go into more detail about what to look out for when buying a used E46 M3 later on in this article, but as a starting point, here are some of the key common problems to be aware of: Rust – especially on the arches. Cracked rear subframe components. SMG auto gearbox pump and software issues.
Is BMW M3 engine reliable?
When it comes to the BMW M3's reliability, the reviews and the ratings vary greatly. Due to a combination of high average annual repair costs, as well as frequency and severity of unscheduled repairs, RepairPal gave the BMW M3 a below-average reliability rating of 2.0 out of 5.0.
Is the E46 M3 reliable?
The Vanos system of this S54 engine is famous for its reliability issues, and a complete failure could cost thousands of dollars to fix. Other engine issues such as connecting rod bearing failure and throttle position sensor issues are also common with some of the earlier examples of the E46 M3.
What are common problems with E46 M3?
We'll go into more detail about what to look out for when buying a used E46 M3 later on in this article, but as a starting point, here are some of the key common problems to be aware of: Rust – especially on the arches. Cracked rear subframe components. SMG auto gearbox pump and software issues.
What is the big 3 issue with the E46 M3?
The BMW E46 M3 with the S54 engine is an incredibly powerful and capable vehicle, but it has some notable points of failure. You will often hear people talk about “The Big 3” when it comes to maintenance on your E46. The Big 3 includes rod bearings, a rebuilt VANOS, and subframe reinforcement.
Are old BMW M3 reliable?
As with any vehicle, the BMW M3 can last up to 200,000 miles or more with proper care and maintenance. While it has a reliability rating of just 2.0 out of 5.0, the BMW M3 does have a lot of power and excellent handling.
Is BMW M3 good or bad?
Highs Heroic powertrain, available with a six-speed manual transmission, a performance car that's easy to daily-drive. Lows Too many unnecessary drive modes, Competition and CS model are automatic-only. Verdict For as intensely fast as the M3 is on track, it's surprisingly livable for commuting every place else.
2002 Bmw M3 complaints
The NHTSA has received 0 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2002 Bmw M3.
You can leave your car complaint via the special form below.
2002 Bmw M3 recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 5 recalls for different components of the 2002 Bmw M3.
- Manufacturer: BMW of North America, LLC
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2000-2005 323iT, 325iT, 325xiT, 320i, 323i, 325i, 325xi, 328i, 330i and 330xi and 2000-2006 323Ci, 325Ci, 328Ci, 330Ci, M3 Coupe, 323Cic, 325Cic, 330Cic, and M3 Convertible vehicles equipped with non-desiccated frontal Takata PSAN inflators and PSPI passenger frontal air bag inflators containing phase stabilized ammonium nitrate (PSAN) propellant that were used as interim remedy parts for previous Takata recalls. These inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, high temperatures, and high temperature cycling.
- Consequence: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
- Remedy: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the passenger's front air bag, free of charge. The recall began February 13, 2020. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
- Manufacturer: BMW of North America, LLC
- Park It: 1
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2000-2002 BMW 320i, 323i, 325i, 325xi, 330i, 330xi, 323Ci, 325Ci, 330Ci, M3, 323iT, 325iT and 325xiT vehicles, 2001-2002 525i, 530i, 540i, M5, 525iT and 540iT vehicles, and 2001-2003 X5 3.0i, X5 4.4i, and X5 4.6is vehicles. These vehicles may have had a driver-side air bag module installed as replacement equipment such as after a vehicle crash necessitating replacement of the original air bag, or as a remedy part for a prior recall. These replacement modules contain an air bag inflator that may rupture due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to lower absolute humidity, temperature and temperature cycling.
- Consequence: In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the driver's frontal air bag, the inflator could rupture with metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
- Remedy: Owners are advised not to drive their vehicles until the vehicle has been remedied. BMW will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the driver side air bag module, replacing it as necessary, free of charge. The recall began March 15, 2017. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
- Manufacturer: BMW of North America, LLC
- Park It: 1
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain model year 2002-2005 325i, 325xi, 330i, and 330xi Sedans, and 325xi and 325i Sportswagons, 2002-2006 330Ci, 325Ci, and M3 Convertibles and 325i, 330i, and M3 Coupes, 2002-2003 M5, 540i, 525i Sedan, and 530i Sedans, and 540i and 525i Sportswagons, and 2003 X5 3.0i and 4.4i Sports Activity Vehicles. Please note that the 5-series and X5 vehicles are only included if they are equipped with the optional sports steering wheel. The affected vehicles are equipped with a dual-stage driver frontal air bag that may be susceptible to moisture intrusion which, over time, could cause the inflator to rupture.
- Consequence: In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the driver's frontal air bag, the inflator could rupture with metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
- Remedy: Owners are advised not to drive their vehicles until the vehicle has been remedied. BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the front driver air bag module, free of charge. The recall began Aug 2016. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417. Note: This recall supersedes recall 14V-348 in its entirety. Additionally, vehicles that have had their driver side frontal air bag replaced previously as part of a recall remedy need to have their air bag replaced under this recall as well. Note: On December 17, 2015 BMW removed the model year 2004 X5 3.0i and 4.4i Sports Activity vehicle from this recall. Those vehicles were mistakenly identified as including the air bags that are subject to this recall.
- Manufacturer: BMW of North America, LLC
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain model year 2000 323i sedans, coupes, convertibles, and Sports Wagons; 2000 328i sedans and coupes; 2001-2005 325i sedans, coupes, convertibles, and Sport Wagons; 2001-2005 325xi sedans and Sports Wagons; 2006 325i coupes and convertibles; 2001-2006 330i sedans, coupes, and convertibles; 2001-2005 330xi sedans; and 2001-2006 M3 coupes and convertibles to address a safety defect in the passenger side frontal air bag which may produce excessive internal pressure that could cause the air bag inflator to rupture upon deployment of the air bag.
- Consequence: In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passenger's frontal air bag, excessive internal pressure could cause rupturing of the inflator resulting in metal fragments striking and potentially seriously injuring the passenger seat occupant or other occupants.
- Remedy: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the passenger side frontal air bag, free of charge. An interim notice was mailed to owners in September 2014. A second notice was mailed when an adequate supply of parts became available, on December 1, 2014. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417 or email BMW at [email protected].
- Manufacturer: BMW of North America, LLC
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: BMW is recalling certain model year 2002-2003 325i, 325xi, 330i, 330xi sedans; 325Ci and 330Ci coupes and convertibles; 325iT and 325xiT Sports Wagons; and M3 coupes and convertibles to address a safety defect in the passenger side frontal air bag which may produce excessive internal pressure causing the inflator to rupture upon deployment of the air bag.
- Consequence: In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passenger's frontal air bag, the inflator could rupture with metal fragments striking and potentially seriously injuring the passenger seat occupant or other occupants.
- Remedy: BMW intends to issue initial notifications to owners informing them of the safety defect in June 2013. Once replacement parts are available, estimated for July, BMW will notify owners again to contact their dealers and schedule a replacement of the passenger air bag, free of charge. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417 or email BMW at [email protected].
Negative 2002 Bmw M3 car reviews
Positive 2002 Bmw M3 car reviews
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Don't put off having a ball in life. The Z3 has been the best investment in fun that I have made in a long time. It has a unique character that brings a smile to your face and those around you. Quality is evident in every aspect of the vehicle and the service from the dealer is top-notch.
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After 6 months, I'm still in love with this car. The handling and performance are simply exhilarating. The SMG (Sequential-Manual-Gearbox) option is awesome and it uses the same technology that's used in today's F-1 race cars. I truly believe that the new 02' E-46 M3 lives up to what it's often called... 'the ultimate driving machine.'
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After 4 months of driving my M3 with SMG, I can finally say that I have gotten used to the SMG control. It just takes time to figure out how it works. I think I have found the setting I like best (there are a total of 11 choices). I read about previous comments on SMG problems, but I hope it will not happen to me! :) I was considering the Boxster S, but I am happy I got the M3 instead.
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This car is the fastest in its price range. It's also incredibly smooth, comfortable, and looks amazing!
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I'm the proud owner of a 1965 Ferrari 330 GT 2+2 that unfortunately collided with a tree last March, and a 1985 Chrysler LeBaron Town&Country conv. that had seen better days. I was looking for a car that would provide both excitement and performance for my everyday transportation needs. The BMW M-3 has exceeded all my expectations! The Phoenix yellow exterior, cinnamon leather interior, 6-speed transmission, 333HP engine, HarmonKardon speaker system, and Navigational system all contribute to making this the BEST vehicle I have ever owned.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2002 Bmw M3 problems:
Older M3 Convertible Issues and Problems - BMW E46 M3
Rear subframe was an issue with coupes; window regulators are weak in all E46s; wouldn't buy a high mile SMG car; check the Ti shadow trim on the interior for ...
Known issues with 2000-06 BMW M3... - The 19th Hole - GolfWRX
Oct 18, 2011 ... Affected the 2001, 2002, and most of the 2003 models. Tell dealer what your VIN is and they'll see if the recall was done. My car had the ...
BMW E46 M3 Buyer's Guide - Common Issues, Problems, Pricing
Aug 5, 2020 ... The E46 3-Series suffered from a design flaw in which the mounting points for the rear subframe would crack or tear over time, causing some ...
Most Common BMW E46 M3 Problems – ECS Tuning
Nov 5, 2020 ... Most Common BMW E46 M3 Problems · Rod Bearings · VANOS Camshaft Hubs · Valve Adjustments · Gaskets/Front Main Seal/Rear Main Seal/Clutch · SMG Pump.
What are the common/main problems in an e46 and what should i ...
Jul 27, 2023 ... Cooling System · Subframe Issues (Cracked Subframes) · Oil Consumption (Mainly M54 Engines) · Vacuum Leaks (Disa Valve etc.) · Rust.
Other years of Bmw M3
Are you having problems with your 2002 Bmw M3?
Ernesto Lowe 2025-01-05
Fun car to drive! However, it seems like there were some issues with the transmission and power train as they had to be taken to the shop 5 times.