Faults:

Nothing major has gone wrong, just a lot of little things.

Alarm does not work, panel gaps, fog light switch stuck, random error codes that go away in the check control box, door trim feel off, air con had to be fixed, and some other minor things.

General Comments:

I was born and raised on General Motors and American cars. They never let me down, and I never had considered a German car. But this one came up for sale and I have never looked back.

Even though a bunch of little things have gone wrong, I love this car to death!!!

The handling is great, it under-steers, but you can get the back out and easily correct it, extremely stable and controllable.

Acceleration is great, there are faster cars, but this can hold its own. 2nd gear from 35-65 is great, the power only begins to fade at 110+.

The seats are very supportive and the car is well finished.

The clutch was a pair at first, very light, and I would stall a lot, not my first stick by the way. But over time I am used to it now and no complaints.

The gearbox is a bit balky when it is moist out, but generally is smooth and direct, 1st-2nd gear is a quick change.

The only real complaint, being a car enthusiast, is that it is a little too quiet. I would like to hear the engine more, and the car is quick, but there is not a lot of torque, so I would like to feel it more.

Faults:

I had the key ignition switch replaced after ignition switch failed (55K). My check engine light frequently illuminates even though I have had my exhaust system checked, and parts replaced several times by my mechanic and dealership.

General Comments:

Overall, I enjoy the car. However the "check engine" light reappearing after the car has been serviced is extremely annoying. I have had the exhaust filter, fuel cap and exhaust pipe changed without fixing the light. Very frustrating. Plus the car is expensive to service. That said, it is still a fun car to drive and it still looks great even though it's 8 years old. With the low mileage and BMW's reputation for luxury cars, I expected a little bit more reliability.

Faults:

I have had a constant problem with the top not retracting correctly. The problem has been repaired 4 to 5 times and now it does not work again.

General Comments:

The back window is made of plastic. I was told a new one would cost one hundred dollars and a new one just zips right in. Mine needs replacing. I was quoted one hundred dollars for the window and two hundred dollars for installation because of the difficulty installing a replacement. I understand the new ones have a glass rear window.

I also have replaced the brakes recently which was expensive because the rotors also have to be replace each time due to the design.

Other than the above problems I have been satisfied.