BMW M3 2006

[Goparlen]

Hi all,
Just bought a BMW E46 M3, it's has not done many miles 64,000. However I find the clutch heavy, it given me clutch hip lol. is this a sign of the clutch wearing and or the springs weakening? Apart from changing the clutch is there anything else can be done?

[Smuler]

Goparlen said:

Hi all,
Just bought a BMW E46 M3, it's has not done many miles 64,000. However I find the clutch heavy, it given me clutch hip lol. is this a sign of the clutch wearing and or the springs weakening? Apart from changing the clutch is there anything else can be done?

Have same car, Dec 04 but same mileage; at last Inspection I , specialist felt my clutch was heavy (can't say I have any problems tho) and thus his expectations were that it will need changing.

So I think your hunch could be correct.

[andyman_2006]

Goparlen said:

Hi all,
Just bought a BMW E46 M3, it's has not done many miles 64,000. However I find the clutch heavy, it given me clutch hip lol. is this a sign of the clutch wearing and or the springs weakening? Apart from changing the clutch is there anything else can be done?

I used to think mine was heavy (compared to other cars) done 89K miles 52 plate. however....

2 years ago bought a Porsche boxster 981 and its now done 18K and its always been heavier than M3...so I've realised this may not indicate my M3 clutch is on its way out, it does not slip or judder. After having a lot of issues with clutches+flywheels on my brand new M coupe diesel - ( know issues with diesel clutches and flywheels) I've learned my M3 one is actually excellent! cant speak for the actual feel or weight or yours, but it might be totally fine, and if its not slipping and juddering you might just change it to find its not much lighter....could end up being a bit of a gamble....potentially expensive one at that..

I would get a few opinions from reputable specialists or ideally better still other owners, drive another car see how that is. Let another owner drive yours, or Could find one at a dealer go for a 'test drive'

Andy

Edited by andyman_2006 on Wednesday 7th February 12:39

[SebringMan]

At that age the fingers can work harden as well as use ; some people I know ride the clutch like mental and are M Owners which will of course produce heat etc. . Either through age or heat cycles.

If it's bearable I'd live with it. As said you won't know what to expect unless you go in one with a fresh clutch as a comparison.

FWIW here's an example but with different cars:

Me and a few mates had Clio 172s and a 182. 2 were 2003 and the 182 was an '05. My '03 had 70k, the other 95k and the 182 110k

Out of the lot mine was the heaviest. The high miler was lighter than all of them despite all cars seeming to be on their original clutches.

[Goparlen]

Guys, thanks for the feedback. There are no judders or slippage. I guess I will have to build the muscle in my left leg lol. I spoke to guy who works on BMW and he sated a while ago, there was a hose/pipe change around the master cylinder/slave.. not sure if this is correct!