Purchase of spare parts (BMW 3 Series E46)

Spare parts can be purchased at many places, including branded car dealerships, parts and accessories stores, and stores at regular service stations. To ensure that the parts are suitable, it is sometimes necessary to check the vehicle identification number. If possible, we recommend that you compare new parts with used ones to ensure that they are identical. Items such as starters and alternators can be exchanged for reconditioned ones at service stations. At the same time, the units removed from the car and transferred to the station for exchange must be clean.

When purchasing spare parts, we advise you the following.

Branded stations for car sales and service

This is the best source for parts specific to your vehicle that are not sold in other stores (for example, emblems, interior trim panels, body parts, etc.). This is the only place you should buy parts from if your vehicle is under warranty.

Spare parts stores

Convenient for purchasing materials and parts needed for maintenance

Of your car (oil, air and fuel filters, spark plugs, light bulbs, drive belts, brake fluid, paint, etc.). The parts sold in such a store are usually of the same standard as that used by the manufacturer.

In addition to spare parts, you can buy tools and equipment there. Some of these stores have departments where you can buy or order components needed for almost all types of repair work.

Service stations

Good service stations usually stock the most common components that wear out relatively quickly, and sometimes offer individual components needed to repair large units (for example, brake seals, hydraulic system parts, bearing shells, pistons, valves). They can also perform work such as cylinder block boring, crankshaft grinding, etc.

Workshops specializing in the supply of tires and exhaust system components

These may be stand-alone or part of a local or national service network. They often offer competitive prices compared to a regional or local dealer, but there are a few things to consider before making a decision. Find out what "extras" may be added to the purchase - for example, fitting a new valve stem and wheel balancing are often priced at a similar price to a new tyre.

Other sources of spare parts

Beware of buying spare parts and materials at the market, at car boot sales and other dubious places.

These parts are not necessarily substandard, but if they are found to be non-functional, they are unlikely to be taken back. When purchasing safety-critical parts such as brake pads, there is a risk of not only financial loss, but also an accident that could result in serious injury or even death.

Sometimes it makes sense to buy used components or units offered at places where used cars are dismantled. However, in this case, only an experienced motorist can make the right choice.