Needed a thermostat 1 week after purchase @ 91000 miles and took the car to a BMW Dealer for Inspection 2. The bill was over £700 and including some other minor works. I have never been back since.
The driver's electric window kept sticking and eventually stopped working @ 110000 miles. Fixed by a BMW Specialist. I don't think I could afford to own a BMW if it was not for them.
The central locking kept making a buzzing noise when operated @ 115000 miles. I worked out the noise was coming from the petrol filler cap housing and disconnected it from the central locking circuit. No more buzzing sound.
There is a knocking noise coming from the fan when operated at low setting. The BMW specialist told me it is probably in need of a new fan which will no cost a lot to put right.
The performance and handling from this car is shocking for an estate car. The 150 horses scream when pushed and really pump up the adrenalin. The steering is spot on. The car goes where you point it. The Z chassis performs well in the wet and I have never lost the tail end. I have taken on newer sports cars and thrashed them at the lights and round bends. Forget about listed performance tables, drive one to know one.
The leather seats are very comfortable and supportive.
Space in the car is a premium. Legroom in the front and the back is compromised, but the boot is reasonable for a small BMW. If you and your family are tall, the 5 Series would be better suited for you.
No rattles except for the sunroof which occasionally rattles, but is put right by pressing it firmly and releasing it.
I advise anyone intending on buying this car to make sure it has a creditable service history and has been well maintained regardless of cost.
The fuel economy may not be as good as newer models, but it still returns 34 mpg combined if driven sensibly.
Hi I have just had an oil change service and the Bmw Specialist in Birmingham also checked the fan. For some reason the fan does not make the clicking noise anymore it was making before. Has anybody else had this happen to their e36 before?
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