Faults:

Nothing really at all, but this car was a BMW Approved Used vehicle.

Small rattles were coming from the rear windows, but would disappear if the windows were very slightly down (apparently a common E46 problem).

It is the only thing that spoils the overall quietness and poise of the car.

I changed the original Continental tyres (way too noisy!) for a set of new Michelin Pilot Premacy tyres, which are extremely quiet and don't give off much road noise.

General Comments:

I've just traded this car back to the BMW dealer after 6 months of ownership, and bought myself a 2006 model 3-series; but this was not due to any problem with the car at all, it's just that we had an opportunity to upgrade the car now, rather than a few more years down the track.

I have to say that my six months with this car were totally faultless, and my wife now misses it because it is slightly smaller than the 2006 version, and is a bit easier to manoeuvre.

I did like the fact that BMW's service intervals are generally long and dependant upon the particular usage of the car. Mine wasn't due for a service until November, because we drove it fairly sedately. I'm sure that the cost of the service would have been interesting though.

Faults:

52,000 km A spark plug coil failed and was replaced under warranty by BMW even though the car was imported used from Japan.

General Comments:

This car is an excellent compact car. It handles and accelerates very well for a small engine. In fact it seems quicker than my BMW 2.5L 323i I previously owned. Fantastic Auto transmission. Corners like its on rails on Pirelli tyres. Instruments and ergonomics are perfect. Love the auto wipers and headlights. A beautifully built car and a pleasure to own. Highly recommended.

Faults:

Left hand seat airbag harness faulty and replaced on the third attempt.

General Comments:

Superb handling, sweet engine.

A little underpowered.

Nice finish, sporty feel.

A little cramped in the back.

Faults:

The rear bumper is a bit loose near the wheel arch. However, this is apparently common in some 3 series.

General Comments:

The engine is as smooth as silk.

The cabin is very well screwed together.

Insulation is incredible - you can hardly hear any road noise.