Bmw E46 320d Exhaust Flexi Joint

Posted on 20-04-2021 by admin

In this article you can find 13 of the most common problems on BMW E46 models. Like any other vehicle BMW’s also have problems, the only difference is, they’re something more expensive to fix.

If getting ready to buy one, or have one and want to know what might be some of the common problems to expect in the future, this list could be useful.

The guibo was done by a mechanic and I've had it checked by both BMW and the indi to make sure they didn't fk it up. I believe the issue is the U-joint doesn't flex as it should under load which causes the driveshaft to have a kink in it causing the vibration. Mate at BMW has just seen 2 cars come in that has had them go, 730d (116k miles) and a 320d (86k miles). 320d seems to have been lucky and hasn't appeared to have been damaged so it's getting away. E36 / E46 non-M - PFX-7812 (LK=78mm/12mm) This flex disc is the small 78mm with 12mm bolt holes. It is commonly found on SOME non-M E36 and E46 vehicles with a manual transmission. Replaces OEM part # 0 E46 - PFX-9612 (LK=96mm/12mm) This is the large 96mm flex disc with 12mm bolt holes. Bmw 320d e90 2005 flexi pipe repair. A very common problem on these vehicles. The flexi pipe can stretch and brake. This part is actually connected to the dpf, so it will cost a small fortune to replace the complete unit @ about £1500 +!

Burning Oil Smell and Oil drips

Because the valve cover or the valve cover gasket on E46s will go bad around 60k miles, you’ll find this is the #1 repair on these vehicles. The most common repair on these vehicles by all means.

Failed Window Regulator

This is not a quick repair, but it’s not a difficult one. With a couple of searches online you can find some useful forum posts like this one.

Loss of Coolant

In this video you see some of the common problem areas as far as coolant leaks. It’s a quick and dirty video, but it shows you some good places to look for. Common on a leaking expansion tank.

Blower Motor Final Stage Fan Resistor Failure

If you start noticing the heater fan speed varies regardless of the setting, the fan will not turn off when the car is switched off, or the fan will not switch on at all, these are all the symptoms of the Final Stage Resistor failure.

Jolt Feeling in the Steering

This video explains how you can determine if a BMW E30, E36, or E46 3-series is experiencing control arm bushing failure. This is a common symptom of worn out thrust rod bushings in the front suspension.

Power Steering Fluid Loss

There are two commonly replaced P/S hoses on E46s. They are commonly replaced between 50k-200k miles.

Water Pump May Develop Coolant Leak

One of two things usually will happen: either it will become noisy, or it will start leaking coolant. This can cause your drive and timing belts to go bad.

Some of the common threads I found mentioned that they noticed their water pump went bad after one of the following components in their cooling system also failed; thermostat, radiator, or head gasket.

If find the same results be sure to check these items to prevent future repairs.

Noise from Top Front/Rear Doors

This is commonly hear when the windows are completely closed. The problem is caused from worn door seals. Rubber wears out and specially if you have a vehicle that’s 10-15 years old. There are all kinds of hacks out there to repair this issue, but the right thing to do is to get a new set of BMW door seals. Here are the links to the OE parts from realOEM.com:

Front (51728194682) – Back (51728194684)

Coolant Leak from Radiator

It is not uncommon for the to develop a coolant leak. A leaking radiator will require replacement. When a leaking radiator is replaced the entire cooling system should be inspected and if any additional leaks are found they should be repaired also.

Overheating can cause severe engine damage. If the engine begins to overheat it is recommended to stop at the first available location and have your vehicle towed to a repair shop.