School Me on E46 IX Tourings

[Todd Black 88]

I had an e46 xit as a daily for 10 years.

A stated, the common e46 cooling issues are the same on the xi cars.
The xi cars EAT cv joint boots with unbelievable regularity. Like every three years.
Autos EAT brakes. You will be doing them every couple years if the car is a daily.
Subframe issues were not an issue with xi cars.
Ccvv issues just like any other e46
Rear springs break
Rear shocks blow, and it's best to replace with e36 m3 bilstiens.
M54 oil leaks are normal

[redsubdivisions]

Cooling is the same as a regular E46; expansion tank, hoses, thermostat, water pump, and use genuine stuff if possible. Don't overheat it otherwise that M54 will be a giant paperweight in no time. I have seen firsthand what an M54 looks like when its overheated and it's no bueno.

Suspension won't be too bad, but on an ix, doing control arm bushings (which is a common occurence) isn't something you would want to do without having a lot of free time or having an indy do it.

Sub frame issues were on early models and had a very small number of cars affected. I think he might be good to go in that department, especially if he is getting a later/face lift model.

I have an E46 and it is a fantastic daily driver but as with all BMWs, they need to be kept up to date with maintenance. Make sure the previous owner has prior service records.

[Polaris15]

So I've got a buddy in the market for an awd wagon. He's got 15-17k to spend and he's interested in the 3 series wagons. He wants something with 80k miles or less.

Curious as to what he will be looking at for maintenance costs.

Cooling systems- How much how often? He is not a mechanic.
Suspension- How much how often?
I know sub frames can be an issue here on the early models but I think with his price range he will be getting a late model so those shouldn't be an issue.

I know I should search but I wanted him to be able to continue to follow this thread and read up. We appreciate the help!

Cheers:drink: