I purchased my 2001 BMW 330i sedan around 2004 with 18,000 miles on it. BMW 3-series has been my dream car, so I jump at the chance at owning one. I haven't had a single regret ever since.

I expect most readers to be future BMW used car buyers, so I will write a review that focus toward those readers. In today's market, you can purchase a good condition 2001 BMW 330i around the price of no option Civic or may be even less around $15 ~$17,000. It would have anywhere around 45K to 70K miles on it.

If you are in the market, go for the 330 (bigger engine). If you want to save money, 325 would be fine, but 225 hp 330i would be much more fun and fuel economy is about the same. Before purchasing 3-Series (E46), all buyers should be aware of some common problems.

Common Problems or Complaints
1. 2001 3-Series has a power steering that BMW enthusiasts hate.

BMW is known for their heavy handling. Just about a month ago, I drove my mother's 97 5-series. Handling was so heavy compared to mine. I even thought something was wrong with it, but in fact, my car has somewhat over boosted power steering. It's really up each driver's preference. It's definitely easier to turn, but it doesn't feel numb or turn with one finger. It has enough feel and driving around town a lot easier. I still recommend 2001 model, but you should try the difference.

2. High maintenance cost

If you buy a brand new model or relative new model with a warranty intact, then it's not a problem, but most readers who would be considering 2001 model, this will be a big issue. Parts are not that expensive,but BMW mechanic labor cost is expensive. They do vary depending on location, but around NYC area, it ranges around $110 ~$130 per hour. So, if you are considering a used BMW, you should bear this in mind especially if you are not mechanically savvy.

Oil change is around $100, but you supposed to do this around 15K miles, so it's no more than any other oil change.

BMW has regular maintenance programs around 30K and 60K miles. They call it Inspect I and Inspection II. Inspection I is around $3-500. Inspection II is around $6~1,000 depending heavily on where you get the service done, so shop around. It's highly recommended getting this service done either by yourself or by the BMW service. BMW is a precision machine, but they are not perfect. So, without proper maintenance, your BMW might not last as long.

Highly recommend ...

Changing engine oil around 7,500 miles even though 15K is suggested on manual. Use proper BMW recommended engine oil.

Flushing Coolant and brake oil every 2 years

Transmission oil and transfer case oil every 2 years. BMW consider them lifetime oil, so they won't recommend changing them, but many other BMW owners recommend changing these if you want to keep your car longer.

3. Lack of bells and whistles

What you would commonly expect in a luxury car will be most likely missing in 2001 330i.

BMW alarm system is an option in all 3-Series. Surprised?! It's true. They come pre-wired, but they are not standard. It's not expensive, but you do have to install it.

Most 330i will have an automatic climate control system and premium packages.
(includes leather seating, wood trim and etc.)

Single CD-player. No changer comes standard. Once again it's an option.
If your car has Harmon Kardon audio, it's definitely worth it if you want to stick with original audio system. If you want to customize, this might make it a bit difficult to change.

Bluetooth is available as a dealer option, but almost 99% of what's on the road won't have this option.

Garage door opener. It's again pre-wired, but a separate option.

Heated Seat, folding rear seat, and ski pass-thru is available only through cold-weather package. I am not 100% sure on folding rear seat.

No cup holders for the rear passengers. There are only two cupholders in the car, but in reality, only one is usable.

As you can see, you won't be able to brag any interior features to your friends. If you like simple and straight forward ultimate driving machine, this is it. You can brag about how well it handles. It's all true.

4. Common problems that you should be aware of before buying a used 330i,

Inspection II.

As I have mentioned before, a major service is around the corner, if you are buying your used 2001 models after 2007. If the previous owner performed Inspection II, then you saved a lot of money, but most likely they didn't. You should be ready to fork over $700. (This service interval varies by how the car was actually driven) You are not required to do Inspection II just because your car has 60K miles. Your car will tell you when you need one.

Water pump

Many 3 series will experience a water pump failure after 60K miles, so beware.

Check these items

Window Regulator
Radiator expansion tank,
Sunroof shade (plastic clip that holds it in place sometimes break)
lower control arm bushings
Battery (located in the trunk) - last around 4-7 years. Mine just died on its 7th year.

5. Suspension setting - Soft

Even though BMW 3-series hailed as one of the best handling car, 330i has rather soft suspension setting. It's definitely harder than many other car, but it's not a race car. It's good for all around the town driving. My last VW 1.8T Jetta with a factory sport coil suspension had a firmer ride than my current 330i.

What's good about BMW

1. Handling

Despite somewhat soft suspension setting, BMW handling is razor sharp. If you point it where you want it to go, it will go exactly. Test drive one. You can tell.

2. Power

225HP may not sound much in today's car market, but back then, that was a lot of horsepower. It's more than enough even today. Power delivery is also smooth and linear. There is no sudden surge in power. You will love it.
2001 330i has VANOS (variable intake system), so it's also fuel efficient. 400 ~425 miles (if you drive on highway a lot), if you drive around heavily congested area, it comes out around 230~300 miles.

3. Reliable.

If you do proper maintenance, 3-series is trouble free. So check prior maintenance record before buying a used one. I haven't had a single major problem since I got this car.

4. DIY dream.

Because BMW has kept this car in the line up for so long, there are many stores dedicated to 3-series accessories and performance enhancing parts. Most can be installed by yourself.

Many problems I pointed out before can be fixed if you are willing to spend some time with your car. There is a good repair manual available. There are also many websites like bimmerforums where you can read about DIY projects.

I am not an experienced mechanic, but I do change my engine oil, air filter, and cabin filter. (it's really easy)

Hope this helps in purchasing your future 3-Series.








Amount Paid (US$): 25,000
Condition: Used
Model Year: 2001
Model and Options: Auto, Premium, Cold weather, Parking Assist, Premium sound