E46 m3 found

[GT4RS]

I’ve come across a one owner 05 manual e46 m3.

It’s done around 60k to 70k from new, looking at its MOT history it’s done 13k since 2015. From first inspection it looks in average condition, been left out side in the last few years, unsure yet if it’s been serviced regularly.

If someone was going to try and buy it off it’s private owner, what is it realistically worth. I’m assuming it’s going to need some money spending on it mechanically and will need a proper full professional detail inside and out.

Edited by GT4RS on Thursday 16th June 23:01

[Herr Schnell]

Without knowing more about maintenance history and spec it's pretty much impossible to say.

You might find this useful as a comparison:

https://forums.m3cutters.co.uk/threads/2004-bmw-e4...

[darreni]

25k ish dependent on history/ major jobs done.

[AW10]

I'd be having a close look underneath for corrosion. Depending upon the surface the car sat on and the direct sunshine and airflow it can be damp under the car for most of the year which will give any tinworm that started in the first 10-12 years a massive boost.

[thegermancarguy]

If it needs some paintwork but otherwise I’m good Nick should be worth around the £18-20k mark. If it’s had recent subframe work probably couple of £k more. Better to buy a car do that yourself than buy one that had it done several years ago

[e21Keith]

I've heard a lot about subframe mounts cracking but never actually seen a cracked one or met anyone that's suffered the issue. The body shop that have been repainting my e39 M5 also have the same experience.

Strangely I have seen this on multiple e39s but never read about it anywhere!

Just saying!

[Herr Schnell]

e21Keith said:

I've heard a lot about subframe mounts cracking but never actually seen a cracked one or met anyone that's suffered the issue. The body shop that have been repainting my e39 M5 also have the same experience.

Strangely I have seen this on multiple e39s but never read about it anywhere!

Just saying!

Mine were 25mm hairline cracks only visible with a lot of bits removed, that led to BMW conducting their warranty fix.

I know of a fair few others with similar experience but nly a couple where the cracks had become easily visible.

I suspect most cars which are listed as "subframe inspected" are actually cracked but not yet showing without taking half the rear end apart.

[thegermancarguy]

They all need some work. Most Potential buyers are a bit deluded as they’re looking for cars mint uptop and underneath. Any and every car that’s near 20 years old will have corroding underneath.

[daviekiwi]

Rear subframe mounts are a common problem,
You can't tell until you remove subframe.

[thegermancarguy]

If you get one then always budget atleast £2-3k to get some common issues sorted.

[bmwmike]

daviekiwi said:

Rear subframe mounts are a common problem,
You can't tell until you remove subframe.

So common that its best to assume they need doing unless they've already done. Every e46 will go eventually, unless the rust elsewhere kills it first.

[Inspectorclueso]

I had one, all I would say is don't 'overate' it....they are at that age of car that meant there are electrical / electronic complications in addition to the corrosion issues mentioned, hence they can quickly start to cost, just to get on the road and keep going, let alone bring up to mint. I also had an E39 M5 which IMO was far superior....