E46 M3 pre-purchase checklist
 

So is there a definitive checklist for potential E46 M3 purchases? How do I rule out VANOS failures, subframe cracks, and so on?

(...and wouldn't it just be easier if I bought an 05-06 GTO?)

Have a specialist look it over? :dunno:

I suppose VANOS issues can be felt/heard. Frame cracks are going to be very difficult to see without a lift, or at least removing the wheels.

I'm not sure the GTO is the first thing that comes to mind as an alternative.

Nah, not looking for any particular kind of car. Just looking for something that can deal with tight garages better than a crew can pickup. M3 seems like fun, maintenance headaches notwithstanding. I'm a little scared by the subframe issue and I haven't listened to a car with VANOS issues...other than those big ticket items, I think I can deal with the rest of the upkeep.

135i

There's one of those (non-M) for sale around here too.

All 135s are non-M in the US

What's the consensus on the turbo BMWs and intake valve cleaning? Is this really something that needs to be done every XX,000 miles?

135 seems like a good option, I'm surprised how inexpensive they are used.

I thought I read every 30k for the walnut thing.

Oh yeah? :eeps:

:dunno: