Faults:

New camshaft sensor.

Interior electrical drain traced to faulty interior reading bulb fuses/relays, caused many a flat battery, was glad when that was finally sorted out by auto-electrician.

Many suspension and exhaust parts replaced at MOT tests during the last couple of years.

General servicing, oil changes, etc.

General Comments:

A brilliant car which I believe is the last of its kind, the older shape, not the 1998 newer one, but the shape they had through the mid 90s, although this is a 2000 model. Many commented the Compact was not a good car due to very old rear suspension design, however I found the ride quality and handling of this car to be fine and up to BMW standards.

The car was about 5 years old when I bought it, but had a low mileage and history (essential on these cars) showing all green lights on the dash. The couple of irritating faults listed above happened a few years down the line as the miles rose; I find this acceptable as the car did have a good history, but I think the previous owner drove it hard and did not take general care of it much. Dark Blue with updated 17 alloy wheels, this one really stood out, looked like a "stubby" 3 series coupe.

The 1.9 petrol engine updated from the previous 1.6 unit gives adequate performance and economy even when coupled with the auto box. I rarely used sport mode, and found it quick enough and a relaxing cruiser, averaging 32 + MPG. So overall a great little car that was an entry level BMW back in the year 2000, however I think it was worth every penny I spent on running it through the years I had it; only scrapped recently due to needing more work for the MOT test and it wasn't getting any younger or economical to justify. I think maybe an enthusiast could have gotten another couple of years out of it though, there was life left in it; even approaching 200K it was only using a tiny bit of oil between services, and still drove smoothly.

BMW dealers are generally OK, however they can be expensive - your best bet with any older BMW is find a trusted independent that knows these cars well to take care of them at reasonable prices.

Faults:

Head gasket went at 67000 miles. New gasket and head skimmed.

Expansion tank blew.

Very bad oil leak at 80000 miles.

MAF sensor replaced.

Cam sensor replaced.

Odd squeaks from both front doors.

New complete exhaust as the old one rotted from the inside out (too short journeys on my behalf).

General Comments:

I bought this car after owning (a long time ago) a 318 E36 model, which was a great car. I am afraid that this E46 is a different story. As soon as I get one problem fixed, the next one comes along.

Just replaced the exhaust with cat, and now hoping it will run without too many problems, and I'll get a few months of enjoyable driving.

Apart from the issues, it is very comfortable and fun to drive. Only has 118 BHP and is not the fastest on power, but when okay it will cruise all day at the national speed limit, being smooth and not too loud.

I am a BMW fan (God knows why?) and I will be keeping this little car as long as I can.

6 cylinders would have been better (next one!).

Faults:

Where to start!?! This car has been in the garage having repair work more times than I actually drove it!

1. Passenger electric window jammed (year 1).

2. Water pump failed, resulted in head gasket failure, which lead to a crack in the cylinder head. Had to get a newer engine fitted.. (year 1).

3. Moved to Australia for a year. When I got back, the ignition failed (year 2).

4. The bushes in the front suspension failed (year 2 & 3).

5. Airbag light intermittently came on, sensor gone in passenger seat (every year until fixed).

6. This year the water pump failed again, water into engine again. Result is the head gasket is gone (this year). My dealer reckons I need another engine, as the skimming isn't a success, because of the chain driven engine.

7. Interior is still very fresh for a car of this age, and the body is in great condition.

8. Engine faults are too bad to inspire confidence in this marque.

9. I have spent about 5,000 euros on repairs for this car.

General Comments:

Great driving car, lovely handling, and nice instruments. Pity the engine reliability is so poor.