BMW 320i E46 — Reliability

E46 Sedan Compact 2000–2006 1 engine

Reliability Summary

Engine M54 — 86/100 BEST
Known Issues 6

Engine in this model

BEST 86

M54

2.2-3.0L NA I6

The last of the simple BMW straight-sixes: smooth, linear and very long-lived (around 330,000 km wit...

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Known Issues Across All Engines

Issue Engine Severity Onset
Cooling system plastics — water pump, thermostat, expansion tank M54 moderate 97,000 km – 161,000 km
DISA valve failure (intake manifold flap) M54 moderate 113,000 km – 161,000 km
Double VANOS — solenoid and seal wear M54 moderate —
Crankcase ventilation (CCV) valve and hoses — oil consumption, false air M54 moderate 120,000 km
Oil leaks — valve cover, oil filter housing and oil pan gaskets M54 minor —
Camshaft / crankshaft position sensor failure — stalling, rpm hunting M54 minor —