Discussion
Have just purchased a Techno Violet 1995 M3 3.0. Has full BMW dealer history, just had inspection2 service no problems, 2 owners and is in immaculate condition. It has covered 91k miles. I have read the message boards but am confused about this Vanos thing, I was told to be sure it is ok, is it this model that has the problems? Also can I replace the crappy looking air con dials (small knobs with 18..22.. etc round the edge) with a computerised unit, they would appear to fill the same gap, do they have the same stuff that plugs in the back? Have seen them on ebay for about £100. Also the steering wheel is a 4 spoke affair, with airbag but no m badges or coloured centre badge, has the blue and red stitching but looks pants, are these easy to change? Apart from that so far its the best car I have ever owned!
I've just bought a Techno Violet M3 as well.....
I've got the 3.2L Evo version and I believe it is this model that has the Vanos issue.... As you have the 3.0L model I think it's much less of a risk.
If it don't run rough or rattle on startup or do a poor MPG you should be OK.
On the MPG front..... how comes I am getting in excess of 30mpg on average?.... thats more than our Boxter S with same style/size engine, less weight AND LESS BHP!

I've got the 3.2L Evo version and I believe it is this model that has the Vanos issue.... As you have the 3.0L model I think it's much less of a risk.
If it don't run rough or rattle on startup or do a poor MPG you should be OK.
On the MPG front..... how comes I am getting in excess of 30mpg on average?.... thats more than our Boxter S with same style/size engine, less weight AND LESS BHP!

andycanam said:
On the MPG front..... how comes I am getting in excess of 30mpg on average?.... thats more than our Boxter S with same style/size engine, less weight AND LESS BHP!
The fast pedal is the one on the right !!

I hope none of you bought M359 ECS as i wrote it off a few years ago and the company re-built it on the cheap so as not to register on the insurance list as it being written off !!
No Vanos problems with the pre Evo. You can't fit Climate control buttons as far as I know. Click on www.bm3w.co.uk for more help from fellow owners.
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