I had an 01 330Ci before I got my M3. The only thing I had to replace mechanically was the electronic thermostat under warranty. The CE light came on drving to work one day but the engine never overheated. I did have to have the doorseal trim on both sides replaced since the glue that was used back then was not up to standards; this too was warranty item. It was actually a really bulletproof little car for me. Get the service records or get the VIN and have your local BMW dealer pull the records on it. Cheers..
Here's some of what I've had, and or seen/hear of... Vanos fail- highly likely A few reported ps unit leaks - slim chance, prolly already Replaced Step box may crap out later like an autobox might - average chance, imo Subframe may fail - slim chance Diff bushings on manuals may fail later - depending on driving style Rear shock tower - u know the deal Toss the mech fan for an electic one - must do. Also more power. Thermostat failure - I will happen eventually. Expansion tank failure - it will happen Radiator failure - also highly likely Happy motoring, buy a E46 and be a happy person. E46fanatics.com FTW.
Oh yeah, I forgot the most annoying and embarassing one. Vapor barrier failuer - average chance, imo.
How can you spot/hear a VANOS problem? I'm a couple thousand miles away from warranty expiration and want to make sure nothing slips under the radard. Thanks.
dont waorry about the warranty and vanos, all BMW does is put a brand new one in, with the same POS seals. http://www.beisansystems.com/faq.html
Yes window regulaters are crap, apparently within bmw parts system, the new regulators share the same part #, if u get an older type regulator it will fail again. I got 3 going bad. Only one functions perfectly. Lubing the sunroof every 15k miles supposedly goes a long way in making then last. Bmws solution is to replace the entire cassette system. So pm is your best bet for off warranty sunroofs.
