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danewilson77
02-02-2011, 03:59 AM
PURPOSE: Each member provide a list of failures, they have experienced with the above mentioned vehicle. I am only interested in compiling a list of entries for someone doing research on E46. Lets all try to use a similar format, for ease of review.

INCLUDE: In addition to mechanical type failures, please list failures in electronics, trim, bodywork, etc. If you can include the approximate mileage at time of failure, that would be great but is not necessary.

DO NOT: List aftermarket (MOD) type failures.
DO NOT: List 3 Series ///M model vehicles. I am not interested.

Only one post per member...typically

2012 data begins on Page 8.

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I will go first.

1. DISA ~ 98k - Found butterfly valve broken while inspecting ICV. Found upon purchase. Trip wire - CEL
2. Lower Intake Boot ~ 98k - Found during ICV clean and inspect. Found upon purchase. Trip wire - CEL
3. Battery ~ 98k - Found upon purchase.
4. Drivers side, side mirror glass ~ 98k - Found upon purchase.
5. Rear Shock Coil Cracked at lower Spring Perch ~ 100k - Found during coilover install.


***Where I say "Found upon purchase" = This implies I do not have exact mileage of failure as it was that way when vehicle was purchased.***

MasterC17
02-02-2011, 05:32 AM
1. Thermostat ~ 57k - Threw a stuck open code, checked and it was leaking a small amount of coolant. Replaced.
2. Lower & Upper Intake Boots ~ 58k - During CCV Update found both boots were torn. Replaced.
3. VANOS ~ 58k - VANOS Rattle apparent. Did both Seals and Rattle Kit. Rarely rattles now & seems to run better.

That's all for now. Will update. Something in the suspension is tweaked, haven't had time to diagnose.

mimalmo
02-02-2011, 07:16 AM
1. Xenon headlight level sensor - found upon purchase
2. Front Control Arm Bushings - 75k

Mike V
02-02-2011, 11:52 AM
1. Noisy VANOS - 23k - Excessive "rattle can" chatter - fixed with Beisan kit - No CEL, just a lot of noise at around 2300 rpm

If I let the car sit for 5+ days, it will run choppy after startup for a couple minutes. Otherwise, no issues since the vanos rattle (43k now).

Mtnman
02-03-2011, 06:15 AM
Maintenance items and Failure Items List

1. bremi ignition coils replacement 23921
2. inspection 1 26901
3. Hydrolic mount/ front axle control arm bottm leaking 41577
4. hydrolic mount front axle wishbone 41577
5. alternator drive belt. Ac drive belt 56534
6. Injection nozzles replaced. Cyclone separator replaced 72874
7. DISA valvel replaced 76611
8. Valve cover gasket replaced, Front lower control arm bushings replacedpower steering pump replaced, brake fluid
change 87,625

I bought car from brother in law here at 114,000 miles

9. ZKW Lights replaced Burnt Bowl Issue 116,000
10. Upper and lower intake boot replacement with Stett Perforamance silicon boots. Threw lean codes. Hole in upper boot. 118,000
11. washer fluid pump leaking out fluid 122000
12. driver window regulator using zip tie fix 125,000
13. passenger window regulator using zip tie fix 129,000
14. pully/belt tensioner replaced, delflection roller, drive belt tensioner. 129663
15. Thermostat replaced due to sticking open, water pump replaced PM 135,600

danewilson77
02-03-2011, 06:38 AM
Mtn...were any of the above done in a preventative measure...or were they all failures?

Mtnman
02-03-2011, 06:44 AM
Well, the water pump on the last line was PM cause i was doing thermostat so it just made sense, and I notated it there. The belt tensioners needed replacing, but were not catastrophoc failure..so i put them on here cause i replaced them......The others after 114k were all failures. Prior to 100k, PO had the car CPO, so all work was done at the dealer. I am assuming they were all failures, cause CPO dealer doesnt like to pay for PM necessarily..... I removed things like spark plugs at 100k, etc, that was routine. Should i remove some other items, Dane, or did i get the gist of this post?

danewilson77
02-03-2011, 10:51 AM
Well, the water pump on the last line was PM cause i was doing thermostat so it just made sense, and I notated it there. The belt tensioners needed replacing, but were not catastrophoc failure..so i put them on here cause i replaced them......The others after 114k were all failures. Prior to 100k, PO had the car CPO, so all work was done at the dealer. I am assuming they were all failures, cause CPO dealer doesnt like to pay for PM necessarily..... I removed things like spark plugs at 100k, etc, that was routine. Should i remove some other items, Dane, or did i get the gist of this post?

Naaa...leave it. Its good dtat with the amplifying facts.

ZHP-FTW
02-04-2011, 02:41 AM
Vanos seal failure at 57k
HK speakers buzzing and distorted at 57k.

That's it for actual failures.

I did not have any codes related to these failures. However I did have quite a hesitation and power dip right around 3700-4000k rpms which I was told by the dealership was just "bad gas" and to use some fuel system cleaner. After much research on the forums and talking with Rajaie from Beisan systems,I figured out it was most likely the vanos seals. The seals were worn in spots and very weak and would not hold their shape or form when squished. It was obvious they were degraded. I put the new Viton o-rings in and followed the break in period. After 500 miles or so I did notice quite a difference torque throughout the power band and 1-2 mpg better.

danewilson77
02-04-2011, 04:14 AM
Vanos seal failure at 57k
HK speakers buzzing and distorted at 57k.

That's it for actual failures.

Brutha.....can you do a short writeup in your post above to include....

1. Any codes.
2. Indications.
3. What the seals looked like when they came off the pistons.
4. Anything else.

It's just you're the first guy I have seen that admits "VANOS SEAL FAILURE". Thanks

JohnnyGraphic
02-17-2011, 05:35 PM
Failures/Replaced Items:
DISA Valve replaced (Under Warranty) along with DME Re-flash due to 4k RPM stumble. 14,151 miles
DME Re-Flash (Sent to New Jersey) due to 4k RPM stuble. Under Warranty. 40,913 miles
Replaced Steering Wheel due to Alcantara balling up. Under Warranty. 40,913 miles
Steering Rack retrofit kit (Under Warranty). 46,518 miles
New Sunroof cassette (Under Warranty). 46,518 miles

Maintenance Items (Replaced prior to failure).
Cooling system-Water pump (showed signs of leakage), thermostat, expansion tank, upper hose, Idler pulley (sounded bad), Alt Belt & AC Belt (both showed signs of significant wear). 70,293 miles.
A/C tensioner/pulley replaced (really bad sound!). 79,826 miles.

I also have brake pads & rotors which were changed, but I don't think it would necessarily apply here.

Johnny

danewilson77
02-17-2011, 05:41 PM
Thanks for that Johnny...great data....

When we get more posts...I plan to cypher through and come up with a consolidated list.

JohnnyGraphic
02-17-2011, 05:50 PM
It was one of the other threads on here that got me to compile everything that was done on my car, dates, where, mileage etc. in an excel spreadsheet rather than a bunch of random receipts and papers in my filing cabinet.

BCS_ZHP
02-26-2011, 08:02 PM
'05 coupe (47.5K miles): PO hadn't driven it much in the last 3 months of ownership, 2nd day after I got it the battery warning light came on; checked and smelled an electrical burnt odor in the vicinity of the alternator; was still under CPO warranty, tried to make the 15 mile drive to the dealer, didn't make it; fried the battery, had to be towed, replaced both battery and alternator
(50K miles) serpentine belt is showing cracks, replacing both belts next week

'04 vert (9K miles): battery didn't sound right, put it on a trickle charger overnight, still not cranking quickly enough; replaced the battery, cranking sounded correct but immediately tripped the battery warning light, took it in for service and needed a new alternator

ZHP-FTW
02-28-2011, 02:33 AM
Dane, revised my original post with more details. Hope it helps.

danewilson77
02-28-2011, 03:27 AM
Dane, revised my original post with more details. Hope it helps.

Thanks

Acyd
03-06-2011, 08:35 PM
86k Miles - Starter Died.

Bout it, been good to me so far.

P.S. I forgot the battery ended up dying on me last summer. Lasted 7 years though, the guy in the battery shop down the street couldnt believe it lasted that long.

danewilson77
03-07-2011, 06:09 AM
Thanks for the data Acyd. Again...this data will be compiled eventually into a historical failure document, based upon our discoveries.

johnrando
03-08-2011, 03:02 PM
1) Battery - ~38K miles
2) Coolant Header Tank - ~39K miles
3) Resistor - ~40K miles; turns out a resistor was causing the car not to "shut down" completely and caused the battery to drain
4) HK Radio Head Unit - ~40K miles; known issue, would cause sound to surge in and out

Just as an FYI, all replaced under CPO warranty. John

danewilson77
03-08-2011, 03:04 PM
John...how old in years was the battery?

johnrando
03-14-2011, 10:38 AM
John...how old in years was the battery?

I assume it was the first one, and my car was born March '06.

danewilson77
03-14-2011, 12:26 PM
I assume it was the first one, and my car was born March '06.

OK....so in the 5-7 year window. Got it.

grpatter
03-25-2011, 03:35 PM
Passenger window motor: 36k (Time of purchase)
VANOS rattle: 60.5k
HK Pass Door Sub Rattle/Death: 62k (Need to investigate)

2006 Vert born August

danewilson77
03-25-2011, 04:24 PM
Thanks patter. Welcome to the site. Those are perfectly normal "abnormal" items.

Droid! Srs Legitness!

Marcus-SanDiego
03-25-2011, 06:06 PM
Passenger window motor: 36k (Time of purchase)
VANOS rattle: 60.5k
HK Pass Door Sub Rattle/Death: 62k (Need to investigate)

2006 Vert born August

Yours was one of the last ZHPs to roll off the assembly line.

Welcome to the site.

johnnyrad
03-29-2011, 04:49 PM
Born Oct 2004

FCAB: Passenger side FCAB was rotten to the core and ugly to boot and drive side was just plain sloppy at 47,000 miles

danewilson77
03-29-2011, 06:01 PM
Born Oct 2004

FCAB: Passenger side FCAB was rotten to the core and ugly to boot and drive side was just plain sloppy at 47,000 miles

Can you speak to weather or not driving conditions were normal, rough, any track time, etc? Thanks.

Droid! Srs Legitness!

johnnyrad
03-30-2011, 02:24 AM
Can you speak to weather or not driving conditions were normal, rough, any track time, etc? Thanks.

Droid! Srs Legitness!

Driving conditions very normal. Not rough, no track, simply suburban jungle.

danewilson77
03-30-2011, 05:06 AM
OK...thanks

ZHP-FTW
05-15-2011, 07:46 AM
Born Oct 2004

FCAB: Passenger side FCAB was rotten to the core and ugly to boot and drive side was just plain sloppy at 47,000 miles

I'm left wondering if you East coast guys in general have more wear and tear issues with rubber and bushing parts than most because of the harsher winters and salty roads? Cause a rotten FCAB and boot at 47k seems a little abnormal.

az3579
05-15-2011, 07:53 AM
I'm left wondering if you East coast guys in general have more wear and tear issues with rubber and bushing parts than most because of the harsher winters and salty roads? Cause a rotten FCAB and boot at 47k seems a little abnormal.

Some of the roads over here are absolutely atrocious. Think of the worse cobble stone road you've ever driven on, and multiply that by 2. Some parts are just that bad.

In my E30, I've driven through a pothole so bad, it destroyed my rear shock mount. Once that was replaced, it destroyed it AGAIN. Even with a bad quality part (*cough*URO*cough*), it shouldn't be that easy to destroy a shock mount.


When I was in Florida, there wasn't a single pothole in sight - ANYWHERE! It was heaven... too bad I was in a rental car and not mine.

danewilson77
05-15-2011, 08:02 AM
Some of the roads over here are absolutely atrocious. Think of the worse cobble stone road you've ever driven on, and multiply that by 2. Some parts are just that bad.

In my E30, I've driven through a pothole so bad, it destroyed my rear shock mount. Once that was replaced, it destroyed it AGAIN. Even with a bad quality part (*cough*URO*cough*), it shouldn't be that easy to destroy a shock mount.


When I was in Florida, there wasn't a single pothole in sight - ANYWHERE! It was heaven... too bad I was in a rental car and not mine.

Then drive 70mph on it....for 50 miles.....every day...lol.

Droid + Tapatalk = FTW!

kayger12
05-15-2011, 09:04 AM
My FCABs were totally shot at 50k. I don't think it's so much the salt as it is the rough roads. PA in particular is terrible. Some of the worst highways I've ever driven on.

Jesse M
05-21-2011, 09:25 AM
VANOS seals and rattle repair kit - 95k
CEL for lean mixture - lower intake boot. 96k
Failed rear LED tail light. Water got inside. Haven't replaced it yet though.

Acyd
05-24-2011, 03:46 AM
Another one to add.

105k miles - Fuel pump died.

Easy swap out for new one. Love how easy these cars are to work on. With the help of great forums of course =)

danewilson77
05-24-2011, 04:11 AM
Good deal. Thanks for the data.

Au2bahn
05-30-2011, 06:37 PM
I guess mine is a rare occurrence. Driver side Mirror actuator failure which affects passenger controls as well due to memory seats.

Marcus-SanDiego
05-30-2011, 06:41 PM
Washer fluid pump leak -- about 59,000 miles. Replaced.

norman@southbayBMW
05-30-2011, 07:54 PM
Both front window regulator @ 53k miles
Fuel level sensor @53k ( thinking of changing the other side too with the pump) it seems like the fuel gauge is still not right.
Control arm bushings @ 53k just because it's free lol

danewilson77
05-31-2011, 04:15 AM
Thanks for the issues guys. Keep em coming.

LouT
06-14-2011, 08:22 PM
'04 330i - -
1. Light control module replaced under warranty - 4066 miles
2. Steering wheel replaced - hole in material - under warranty - 21547 miles
3. Replaced front wishbone bushings - warranty - 43433
4. Oil separator cleaned and replaced - 78192
5. Valve cover gasket leaking, replaced - 89487

That's all other than PM.

danewilson77
06-15-2011, 03:23 AM
Thanks for the data Lou...

Hobbes
08-07-2011, 09:24 PM
1. Control arms (~60k, prior to me purchasing), driver's side was in bad shape apparently.
2. Radiator hose, coolant sensor, seals. Was leaking (66k, at the time of purchase).

All other records on the car were preventive maintenance.

Have some minor wear in the belts, and a little diff fluid showing at the seal but the mechanic said he was reaching calling those problems. Will do the diff when the brakes get replaced next and probably the belts at 75k unless they show considerable wear faster.

...Knock on wood ;)

danewilson77
08-08-2011, 04:54 AM
Thanks Hobbes

HTC Thunderbolt+TT

danewilson77
09-18-2011, 12:06 PM
BMW E46 330i ZHP Rear passenger window regulator failure: 135,400.

S85FTW
10-22-2011, 07:10 PM
1. Battery replaced prior to CPO purchase (28k miles, nearly 4 years old)
2. Front control arms and bushings replaced weeks after purchase (29k miles - CPO warranty, no charge, knocking sound from dead stop to initial movement)
3. DISA valve broken and replaced (82k miles, after CPO warranty expired, symptoms were extremely rough chattery idle)
4. Passenger rear spring broken (93k miles, noticed upon installation of coilovers, had squeak symptom for a few months)

danewilson77
10-22-2011, 07:11 PM
1. Battery replaced prior to CPO purchase (28k miles, nearly 4 years old)
2. Front control arms and bushings replaced weeks after purchase (29k miles - CPO warranty, no charge, knocking sound from dead stop to initial movement)
3. DISA valve broken and replaced (82k miles, after CPO warranty expired, symptoms were extremely rough chattery idle)
4. Passenger rear spring broken (93k miles, noticed upon installation of coilovers, had squeak symptom for a few months)

Nice addition. Thanks.

HTC Thunderbolt+TT

podkaz
10-23-2011, 11:40 PM
battery replaced at 15500 miles, approx 3yrs and 8 months post in service date of vehicle

danewilson77
10-24-2011, 02:33 AM
battery replaced at 15500 miles, approx 3yrs and 8 months post in service date of vehicle

Podkaz....fifteen thousand five hundred?

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Au2bahn
01-05-2012, 09:26 AM
1. Both A Pillar replaced via warranty
2. Starter replaced via warranty
3. Driver side mirror actuator not working therefore passenger side mirror is not functional.

danewilson77
01-05-2012, 09:35 AM
1. Both A Pillar replaced via warranty
2. Starter replaced via warranty
3. Driver side mirror actuator not working therefore passenger side mirror is not functional.

Mileage/age?

HTC Thunderbolt+TT

S85FTW
01-05-2012, 02:46 PM
at 97k miles, I now have crunching noise from the sunroof on opening, and A pillar on driver side wrinkling. My baby is getting old :(

Au2bahn
01-05-2012, 02:55 PM
Mileage/age?

HTC Thunderbolt+TT

I have an 05 with 41k miles

kayger12
01-05-2012, 02:57 PM
at 97k miles, I now have crunching noise from the sunroof on opening

Get on that pronto.

It's only going to get worse until catastrophic failure.

Droid X. Tapatalk. Use it.

S85FTW
01-05-2012, 02:58 PM
Get on that pronto.

It's only going to get worse until catastrophic failure.

Droid X. Tapatalk. Use it.

Once it fails, I will delete the sunroof and go cf roof ;)

danewilson77
01-05-2012, 02:59 PM
Get on that pronto.

It's only going to get worse until catastrophic failure.

Droid X. Tapatalk. Use it.

Yeah... Def don't use it until fixed.

HTC Thunderbolt+TT

Stu
01-05-2012, 03:11 PM
'04 Coupe. From 96k miles to 102k, here are the issues I have encountered:

1. Peeling cloth pillars

2. Broken headlight washer pump

3. Bad LEDs in one rear brake lamp

4. Broken sunroof shade

5. FCABs

6. Leaking rear shocks

7. Worn intake boot

8. Bent wheels (original owner's fault, went to a shitty tire shop, tire shop never reported the damage and just added a crapton of weights to balance them out...sneaky assholes)

That's about it so far.

kayger12
01-05-2012, 05:13 PM
Once it fails, I will delete the sunroof and go cf roof ;)

Well in that case, open it 20 times a day until failure, lol. :)

S85FTW
01-26-2012, 10:13 AM
97800 miles, new crankshaft position sensor.

danewilson77
01-26-2012, 11:19 AM
97800 miles, new crankshaft position sensor.

Thanks. I swear at some point, I will compile this data.

edlvrt
01-30-2012, 08:26 AM
Car built March 2004, entered service 6/17/2004, first sold 9/29/2004.

8/8/06: Bremi coil replacement with Bosch, SIB #12-13-05, 34,387 miles, warranty repair-PO noted misfires
2/12/08: Left front window regulator, throw out bearing, 48,518 miles, warranty repair
6/30/08: Fuel pump failed, 51,860 miles, warranty repair
2/6/09: Exterior temperature sensor, 56,891 miles, warranty repair
6/18/09: Front control arm bushings, 59,321 miles, warranty repair
4/8/10: Evaporator, final stage resistor, 64,443 miles, warranty repair
6/18/11 : Right rear window regulator, 70,575 miles
6/19/11: I Purchased vehicle
7/13/11: Front control arm bushings, 71,315 miles
1/23/12: Replaced evaporator, expansion valve, receiver drier, 77,600 miles

These are the bigger repairs that I have records for. This list obviously does not include fluid and filter changes, spark plugs, cooling system overhaul, tires, and other regular maintenance.

danewilson77
01-30-2012, 09:23 AM
Are the above replaced parts, that failed?

Mainly focusing on failed items in this thread. Just whittle it down to failed parts.

HTC Thunderbolt+TT

edlvrt
01-30-2012, 09:44 AM
Gotcha boss. I have deleted a couple of things.

danewilson77
01-30-2012, 09:47 AM
Gotcha boss. I have deleted a couple of things.

Sweet. Thanks.

HTC Thunderbolt+TT

S85FTW
01-31-2012, 06:00 PM
My passenger side control arm is on its way out again :(

danewilson77
01-31-2012, 06:37 PM
My passenger side control arm is on its way out again :(

What do you mean... Again?

HTC Thunderbolt+TT

S85FTW
02-01-2012, 04:12 PM
They were replaced at 30k when I bought the car cpo. Symptom was a knock from a dead stop. I am just under 98k miles now and the passenger side is moveable by hand while on a lift. I think the added stress of the coilovers may have played a factor.

danewilson77
02-01-2012, 05:57 PM
They were replaced at 30k when I bought the car cpo. Symptom was a knock from a dead stop. I am just under 98k miles now and the passenger side is moveable by hand while on a lift. I think the added stress of the coilovers may have played a factor.

Know off hand what brand C/A's?

HTC Thunderbolt+TT

S85FTW
02-01-2012, 06:17 PM
Oem, replaced by BMW for free the the first time. I definitely will go with something stronger this time around.

danewilson77
02-01-2012, 06:25 PM
Oem, replaced by BMW for free the the first time. I definitely will go with something stronger this time around.

Meyle HD is great. FCPGroton has a great video on YouTube comparing the HD, to their own C/A's..?


HTC Thunderbolt+TT

RVAzhp
02-06-2012, 12:35 PM
driver window guide clip- around 100k
driver window motor- 125k
Hot film MAF- 85k (my own fault)
Secondary Air Pump- 115Kish.

S85FTW
02-29-2012, 05:10 PM
97500 miles or nearly 8 years from production date (04/04) my oem BMW battery died today listening to the radio roughly 15 minutes into my console swap. Replaced with a MAXX 94R battery from walmart $95.

BRGcoopahS
03-16-2012, 03:29 PM
97500 miles or nearly 8 years from production date (04/04) my oem BMW battery died today listening to the radio roughly 15 minutes into my console swap. Replaced with a MAXX 94R battery from walmart $95.

Damn thats impressive! I still got an original battery in my MINI from 2006 at 57k miles. I guess it wont die any time real soon, good to know.

derbo
03-16-2012, 08:37 PM
in the course of the 3years i've owned it.


Failed all 4 window regulators, FCAB, driver mirror motor failed, driverside fuel level sensor intermittet faults (bad fuel level readings), final stage resistor, intake elbow torn, HVAC Sensor failed, oil level sender unit is going out..

but beyond that, its not that bad of a car. I expected all these common problems on the bmw. :)

danewilson77
03-17-2012, 04:09 AM
Thanks!

HTC Thunderbolt+TT

danewilson77
04-16-2012, 05:07 AM
ZHPMafia E46 ZHP and NON ZHP Logged Failures and Average Mileages of Failures as of 4.16.12 (14 Months Cumulative)

Component Failed - AVG Mileage at Reported Failure - Number of Times Failure Reported

1. Window Regulator/Motor (5 times) failure – 83k AVG – Reported 16 times.
2. FCAB’s / Control Arms – 61k AVG – Reported 11 times.
3. Lower/Upper Intake boot cracks – 92k AVG – Reported 6 times.
4. Battery – 69k AVG – Reported 5 times (AVG 5-7 years).
4. Fuel Pump / Level sender – 83 k AVG – Reported 5 times.
5. VANOS Rattle – 59k AVG – Reported 4 times.
5. Sunroof Cassette – 92k AVG – Reported 4 times.
6. DISA – 65k AVG – Reported 3 times.
6. HK Buzz / Issues – 53k AVG – Reported 3 times.
6. Pillar Felt – 89k AVG – Reported 3 times.
6. Washer Fluid Pump Leak / Failure – 94k AVG – Reported 3 times.
6. Side Mirror Glass – 98k – Reported 3 times.
7. Rear Coil Broken – 97k AVG – Reported 2 times.
7. Starter – 70k AVG – Reported 2 times.
7. Exp Tank / Coolant Issues – 53k AVG – Reported 2 times.
7. FSR – 73k AVG – Reported 2 times.
7. T-Stat – 96k AVG – Reported 2 times.
8. Sec Air Pump – 115k AVG – Reported 1 time.
8. VANOS Seals – 57k AVG – Reported 1 time.
8. Alternator – 9k AVG – Reported 1 time.
8. VCG – 90k AVG – Reported 1 time.
8. CPS – 98k AVG – Reported 1 time.
8. Pulley Failures – 130k AVG – Reported 1 time.
8. Xenon Level Sensor – AVG Not reported – 1 time.

NOTES:

A. With the above said….some of the data above is skewed due to low data reported. Additionally, E46 owners are becoming very educated and diligent in preventative maintenance, so many items, that “would have” failed, are being replaced prior to failure. These items include Pulleys, T-STAT, Cooling Issues, DISA.

B. VANOS seal failure (above) being reported only one time, I attribute to failure not of seals really doesn’t disable vehicle.

C. Additionally, cosmetic items (Pillar felt), may not be reported as some people may live with the issue vice fix, and it is definitely not a factor in vehicle operation.

D. One last thing > Our data will only become better as you guys report it. This will serve as a reset point, and I will compile all data received within the next year….then average with the Stats above. If you feel I have missed something….please let me know.

~DW

danewilson77
04-20-2012, 09:12 AM
PURPOSE: Each member provide a list of failures, they have experienced with the above mentioned vehicle. I am only interested in compiling a list of entries for someone doing research on E46. Lets all try to use a similar format, for ease of review.

INCLUDE: In addition to mechanical type failures, please list failures in electronics, trim, bodywork, etc. If you can include the approximate mileage at time of failure, that would be great but is not necessary.

DO NOT: List aftermarket (MOD) type failures.
DO NOT: List 3 Series ///M model vehicles. I am not interested.

Only one post per member...typically

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
I will go first.

1. DISA ~ 98k - Found butterfly valve broken while inspecting ICV. Found upon purchase. Trip wire - CEL
2. Lower Intake Boot ~ 98k - Found during ICV clean and inspect. Found upon purchase. Trip wire - CEL
3. Battery ~ 98k - Found upon purchase.
4. Drivers side, side mirror glass ~ 98k - Found upon purchase.
5. Rear Shock Coil Cracked at lower Spring Perch ~ 100k - Found during coilover install.


***Where I say "Found upon purchase" = This implies I do not have exact mileage of failure as it was that way when vehicle was purchased.***

Bump

WOLFN8TR
04-20-2012, 09:38 AM
2005 ZHP 330CI

97,000- OFHG

103,000- VCG


Sent from my 1982 Commodore 64.

Johnmadd
04-20-2012, 01:48 PM
Fuel pump-110,500

danewilson77
04-20-2012, 02:39 PM
Thanks fellas. Sorry for the misfortune.

Sent from SIGFest 2012, via TTv1.5.4

carsontl
04-20-2012, 02:52 PM
CCV failure at 80k

danewilson77
04-20-2012, 04:25 PM
CCV failure at 80k

Thanks Carson.

Sent from SIGFest 2012, via TTv1.5.4

echo46
04-20-2012, 04:52 PM
68,500 - Control Arm Bushings
69,000 - Vanos Rebuild including anti rattle kit
69,000 - Valve Cover Gasket
69,350 - Upper and lower intake boots
69,500 - CCV and hoses - had oil everywhere
69,750 - Starter
70,175 - Sway Bar End Links
72,250 - leaking fuel injector

danewilson77
04-20-2012, 06:23 PM
68,500 - Control Arm Bushings
69,000 - Vanos Rebuild including anti rattle kit
69,350 - Upper and lower intake boots
69,500 - CCV and hoses - had oil everywhere
69,750 - Starter
70,175 - Sway Bar End Links
72,250 - leaking fuel injector

Thank you sir. Good data.

Sent from SIGFest 2012, via TTv1.5.4

WOLFN8TR
04-20-2012, 08:18 PM
I forgot...

105,000 - Oil level sensor bad.
(need to change)


Sent from my 1982 Commodore 64.

danewilson77
04-21-2012, 04:48 AM
Thanks Wolfy

pfr
04-21-2012, 05:57 AM
2006 330Ci
At purchase (62,000 m)
Control Arm Bushings
Fan clutch
Tensioner
Passenger side A and C pillars recovered
Rear quarter windows' rubber gaskets about to disintegrate
======
Water pump - preventive at 64,300
Windshield cover - 66,400
Coolant expansion tank - at 67,950

- Peter

danewilson77
04-21-2012, 06:17 AM
Thanks Peter.

Sent from SIGFest 2012, via TTv1.5.4

Jon D
04-29-2012, 05:30 AM
2004 vert

Service Engine Light Soon - code P1447/27CD per my local indy which is an evaporative emissions leak detection system code. Turned out the Leak Diagnostic pump was bad [vacuum pump]. Did a leak test.. old pump leaked thru electrical connector[internal failure].

While car was in for service and I was traveling also did:

1] Auto Transmission service [new fluid/filter etc] at 42,000 - car now seems to shift smoother
2] Differential Service - new fluids just cause
3] new battery - replaced original was very weak.

Oli77
04-29-2012, 05:48 AM
2005 325i ZSP

42k battery
62 k Control Arm
65 K water pump/ T stat
76k OFHG

danewilson77
04-29-2012, 06:44 AM
2005 325i ZSP

42k battery
62 k Control Arm
65 K water pump/ T stat
76k OFHG

Thanks Oli.

Sent from SIGFest 2012

S85FTW
06-04-2012, 09:44 AM
now @ 104k miles.

Water pump is chattering, sounds like a fractured or busted impellar. (getting replaced wednesday with metal impellars)
OEM belts being replaced and tensioners @ 104k. Cracking, no tears.

Second OEM lower front control arm is failing (getting replaced wednesday) Initial control arms failed @ 40k, replaced by BMW with CPO warranty. Lifespan of these control arms 64k miles (40k highway).

danewilson77
06-04-2012, 09:58 AM
Thank you sir!

S85FTW
06-04-2012, 11:20 AM
Thank you sir!
NP!

Pip
06-12-2012, 07:05 PM
Expansion tank - 63,005
Temp sensor o-ring - 68,869


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

ryrules1
06-12-2012, 09:14 PM
Thermostat @ 77,800
--------------------------
Coolant system overhaul @ 78,111

danewilson77
06-13-2012, 03:35 AM
Thansk fella's.

pfr
04-23-2013, 06:11 AM
Is this thread alive? in any case, I have a quite painful addition:
DME replaced at 76,500 miles

danewilson77
04-23-2013, 06:15 AM
Damn. Thanks Peter.

Avetiso
04-23-2013, 07:09 AM
Holy...LCAs fail that fast?

Torxuvin
04-23-2013, 07:15 AM
Is this thread alive? in any case, I have a quite painful addition:
DME replaced at 76,500 miles

I need to go check to see when mine was replaced. I think it was 80-85k.

danewilson77
04-23-2013, 01:29 PM
Holy...LCAs fail that fast?

I think this depends a lot on what brand you get.

LCA = Lower Control Arm.

Bayjatt101
09-03-2013, 10:35 PM
Born Oct 2003

2004 BMW 330i
six speed
Sedan

Failure:

Disa Value-83K
Lower intake boot-83k
Thermostat-89k
On my second driver side regulator
Now my rear one's are going out
Bushings-75k
Rear shocks-85k

Now the car has 115k on it, and i am a student so i commute with it. Still drives like the first day i bought it with 70k on it a little over two years ago now.

dpark
02-12-2017, 12:08 AM
***No mechanical failures from day 1 (06/04) until 12/07
Side mirror motor failure at 41K miles on 12/07 (covered under warranty)
Steering wheel replace with leather due to failed alcantara at 43K miles on 03/08 (covered under warranty)
Vanos replacement at 44K miles on 04/08 (covered under warranty)
Replaced lower control arm bushings at 61K miles on 12/09, $388 at dealership
Subframe inspection at 68K miles on 07/10 (covered under recall, no problem found)
Tail light repair at 82K miles on 01/12 (covered under recall)
Alternator failure at 84K miles on 03/12, $600 at dealership
Fuel pump failure at 87K miles on 7/12, $813 at dealership
Replaced thrust arm bushings and did alignment at 90K miles on 11/12, $450 at indy service center
*** 2012 was a sh*tty year with my e46 with all kinds of problems ***
Takata airbag recall at 107K miles on 06/15 (covered under recall)
Trunk lid wiring harness failure at 107K miles on 06/15, $110 at dealership

dpark
02-21-2017, 10:39 AM
***No mechanical failures from day 1 (06/04) until 12/07
Side mirror motor failure at 41K miles on 12/07 (covered under warranty)
Steering wheel replace with leather due to failed alcantara at 43K miles on 03/08 (covered under warranty)
Vanos replacement at 44K miles on 04/08 (covered under warranty)
Replaced lower control arm bushings at 61K miles on 12/09, $388 at dealership
Subframe inspection at 68K miles on 07/10 (covered under recall, no problem found)
Tail light repair at 82K miles on 01/12 (covered under recall)
Alternator failure at 84K miles on 03/12, $600 at dealership
Fuel pump failure at 87K miles on 7/12, $813 at dealership
Replaced thrust arm bushings and did alignment at 90K miles on 11/12, $450 at indy service center
*** 2012 was a sh*tty year with my e46 with all kinds of problems ***
Takata airbag recall at 107K miles on 06/15 (covered under recall)
Trunk lid wiring harness failure at 107K miles on 06/15, $110 at dealership

Replaced Xenon bowls both sides with remanufactured bowls at 121K miles on 2/19/17 ($270 for parts, labor was me)

dpark
02-26-2017, 08:05 PM
***No mechanical failures from day 1 (06/04) until 12/07
Side mirror motor failure at 41K miles on 12/07 (covered under warranty)
Steering wheel replace with leather due to failed alcantara at 43K miles on 03/08 (covered under warranty)
Vanos replacement at 44K miles on 04/08 (covered under warranty)
Replaced lower control arm bushings at 61K miles on 12/09, $388 at dealership
Subframe inspection at 68K miles on 07/10 (covered under recall, no problem found)
Tail light repair at 82K miles on 01/12 (covered under recall)
Alternator failure at 84K miles on 03/12, $600 at dealership
Fuel pump failure at 87K miles on 7/12, $813 at dealership
Replaced thrust arm bushings and did alignment at 90K miles on 11/12, $450 at indy service center
*** 2012 was a sh*tty year with my e46 with all kinds of problems ***
Takata airbag recall at 107K miles on 06/15 (covered under recall)
Trunk lid wiring harness failure at 107K miles on 06/15, $110 at dealership
Replaced Xenon bowls both sides with remanufactured bowls at 121K miles on 2/19/17 ($270 for parts, labor was me)

Complete PM of cooling system (expansion tank, thermostat, radiator, water pump+pulley plus 2 tensioner pulleys) at 121K miles on 2/24 for $1100

WOLFN8TR
02-27-2017, 08:33 AM
Wow those prices the dealer charges are crazy! DIY as much as you can. [emoji106]

dpark
03-02-2017, 02:12 PM
Wow those prices the dealer charges are crazy! DIY as much as you can. [emoji106]

Lack of time and patience. I did my own ZKW bowl replacement and bluetooth install and there were times I wanted to throw a hammer at something.

I don't mind doing little stuff here and there, but at this point in my life if it means putting my car up on jackstands etc., I'll just write a check instead :)

ELCID86
03-07-2017, 05:21 PM
I joined this site a while back. I get a period email asking for current mileage and any work needed.

http://www.truedelta.com/BMW-3-Series/repair-frequencies-13,2000-2005

Wademco
10-15-2018, 03:27 PM
2005 ZHP Coupe
1. 66,000 miles--Starter and Battery
2. 71,000 Miles--Drivers door lock actuator