I've heard that there is some transmission or electrical problem with the '01 M3. Is the first year model reliable or should I buy '02?

 

Get the latest model you can afford.

 

Subject: 2001 and 2002 M3 Engine We have received reports of model year 2001 and 2002 M3 engine damage. We are evaluating every situation where engine damage occurs and are currently analyzing failed engines to determine the cause.

Please be assured that we at BMW will stand behind our product and will fairly address all cases of engine damage on an individual basis.

 

are the m roadsters with the E46 engine having this problem too? havent heard much about m roadsters engine failure, only m3s.
-Chris

 

You mean S52?

no.

if you mean the 315HP M roadster/coupe, then yes. that is in reference to all S54 engines.

btw, e46 is a chassis code for the 3-series.

 

Great infos, thanks! Maybe an extended warranty isn't so bad.

 

thats what i was talking about, the S54 engine. i know E46 is in reference to the 3-series, but since i didnt know 's54', i said 'e46'.

that sucks because its a nice motor. id love an S54 M Roadster
-Chris

 

the warranty on the s54 motor is already extended to 6 years/100K miles by bmw. no need to buy extended warranty unless you want to ensure that other parts of the car is covered as well.

 

why not?? as long as the M3 is under 6 years/100K miles, then the motor is still under warranty. i think the percentage of M3s actually affected is on the low side. it's kinda like the e46 rear subframe problem. there are a good number of e46s affected with tearing rear subframes, and it is a big concern to many e46 owners, but the reality is that the percentage of e46s actually affected is very low. i guess what i'm trying to say is that if i can get my hands on a 01-02 m3 for a very good price and the car's motor is still under warranty, i would not hessitate to buy it.

 

Get an 03.5. You get the engine warranty and the updated look.