going to buy an (e46) m3: couple of questions!

[phatmanace]

Hi folks,

So I was thinking of getting an M3 (E46) - test drove one on thurs - now I'm definatley getting an M3!.

The one I'm looking at is a 2004 smg convertible with the SatNav/comms pack (£26k)

I actually test drove a manual ( as this was all they had in the local dealership) - but I think I want the smg ( pending a test drive)

I had a long chat to the BMW dealer - couple of questions. I hoped people might be able to help with

- they offered me tyre insurance ( that didn't cover wear and tear!) And scotchgaurding - the total cost was about 800 quid - but it sounded like a bit of a rip off to me - any thoughts/comments here welcome!
-i think that I'd probably do the PCP deal with them - over and above what I've read on PH in general about PCP - any gotchas specifically on BMW PCP t's and c's?
- warranty; they said that the car came with 12 months BMW warranty - which I could extend after 12 months - I asked him if this was a 'basic' warranty or an 'extended' one - he said there was only one type. This covered everything apart from basic consumables
- IPOD connector - they said this was about 300 quid, am I better off getting one from EBay?

Many thanks

-ace

[arryb]

Re the tyre insurance - I'd hazard a guess at that being for things like punctures if the tyres are run-flats - punctures cannot be repaired like conventional tyres so you end up buying a whole new tyre for one puncture.

Prepared to be told differently though.

[Neil.D]

These things are all aditional extras that get them more commission.
they will get a company in to to the scotchgarding and split the profit.
Personally I wouldnt bother but its your car.

[Egbert Nobacon]

Avoid the tyre insurance and the Scotchguarding - they are just expensive add ons you can sort yourself, much cheaper, if you really want too.

If its a BMW dealer then the warranty should be a BMW AUC(approved used car)WARRANTY and they are very comprehensive.

They changed many parts without quibble on my E46 M3 (including box, prop and diff) and various E39's I have owned.

Be aware when you come to extend it that the terms change - they become dependant on mileage of the vehicle, excesses start to apply and exclusions increase.

You may feel it's not worth extending but you need to factor in the fact that these M3's can chuck up an occasional big bill ! - so some form of warranty is worth considering.

As to manual or SMG, its a personal choice - drive both and see. Mine was a manual and I preferred it, also IMHO I prefer a straightforward mechanical setup, especially if you plan to keep it long term.

Whatever you decide, they are great cars ......

Edited by Egbert Nobacon on Sunday 17th February 13:47

Edited by Egbert Nobacon on Monday 18th February 19:24

[phatmanace]

Thanks folks, after spending a few days thinking about the PCP thing - I actually quite like the concept. Especially the bit about not having to sell the car at the end. It seems like a lot of money going out every month,but when I totted up the amount of money depreciation has cost me on lesser cars over the years, its less than it would cost for the PCP payments on the M3

I'm not averse to the manual, but will have a go in an SMG to see what I think!

Thanks all, ace

[GordonL]

As for the iPod connector, the only decent way to go is with the Intravee, you'll lose the CD multichanger, but who cares!


--
Gordon