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Used Car Buying Guide: BMW 3-Series Coupe

By: James Ruppert

19 Oct 06

BMW 3-Series Coupe

There aren't many things to give you much worry, but those sexy frameless doors are the cause of some issues. The handles are unique and on early models would refuse to open the door, leading to some embarrassing clambering for either driver or passenger. If the door catch is not properly adjusted, it causes the handle to pull to the end of its travel without opening. Later cars have handles that move up. Also, because the windows drop when the door is opened, if there is a problem with the handle there is a risk of shattering the glass - so when in doubt get it adjusted.

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Inside, heater fans can go on the blink and faulty wiring can lead to the airbag light staying on.

Under the bonnet, the six-cylinder models have a plastic inlet manifold that may crack, signalled by rough running at idle. Jammed thermostats cause the water temperature gauge to not move much and many were changed under warranty. Other cooling issues are faulty engine fans and air conditioning that is poor because of a seized fan.

Front suspension track control arms wear prematurely, but most will have been changed under warranty by now. Clutch judder can be traced to worn gearbox or engine mounts.

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