[E=E46M3]

To summarize it's not a cheap car to maintain. That being said, if you do your research on the car before you one buy (i.e. study the services done, owners, PPI, RECALLs,etc.), you'll be fine.
I've had mine for over 2 years now as a daily driver (can't even drive my second car any more), and haven't had any issues. I stay on top of the regular maintenance stuff, such as oil changes, etc.
Just buy one from an enthusiast, not some kid that just rips it and doesn't have much respect for the car. Lastly, your best protection would be to buy one that is bone STOCK (with the exception of maybe tint and AEs), so if you want to do anything do it, you do it right and not take any short cuts.

[Slickerthan....]

I just did all the fluids front to rear differential replaced all belts and hoses, new set Michelin PSS’s, force balanced, alignment, a rear differential seal, and a rear ZCP wheel, it was about $4000.00 at the dealership.
Sure it’s expensive, but I still get a free loaner three years out of warranty.

[davidayden8100]

Owning a car is one thing but maintaining it is a totally different ball game.As with all the other expenses of daily life, the costs of car repair are increasingly getting higher.
The only feasible way of keeping tabs on car maintenance expenses is by being able to do the repair tasks yourself.
Me also looking forward to repair my Ferrari 458(Italian)in red color.This information will be helpful for me...thanks everyone...

[1TEXM3]

if you can find an indy shop that is experienced in the M, you will save considerably. if you are handy and a DIY'r you will save even more!

INSPCT I and II are the pricey services.... but i know of guys who have gotten them for 1/2 dealer costs.

The vanos is always a worry but hopefully it wont give you issues.

Oil 200 dealer or less if DIY.

IMO ppl who say that it is crazy to maintain should not have the car... it is not that bad and though raw goods / materials are getting more expensive, so is cost of living.... anyway, it is worth every cent to have the e46 imo.... it is a desirable vehicle and much nicer than the e9x!

GL bro!

[2thDoc]

I wouldn't say the maintenance costs are crazy, and with the help of this forum, you can really do a lot of it on your own. Go through tischer bmw or pelicanparts.com for parts to save some $ instead of hitting up your local dealership.