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E36 M50
BMW 3 Series · Sedan · Coupe · Compact · Cabrio · 1990–2000
2.0–2.5L DOHC inline six, VANOS from 1992. Famously tough.
Production run
1990–2000
Engines covered
7
Avg. part price
—
19902026
Interactive systems map
Inspect the E36 M50
Tap a hotspot to inspect that system
Systems map
Where it goes wrong
Each numbered hotspot counts the documented failure points in that area. Select one to see the specifics for this chassis and engine.
Failure points by system
Engine2
Cooling1
Documented issues per engine
4M42
4M44
4M43
4M50
4M52
4S50
4S52
Known weak points
What breaks on the E36 M50
Guides & playbooks
E36 M50 playbooks
Maintenance scheduleGive me a mileage-based maintenance schedule for a BMW 3 Series E36 M50, including the items the factory schedule skips.Buyer's inspectionI'm inspecting a used BMW 3 Series E36 M50. What exactly should I check, test drive and look for underneath?Build planPlan a staged performance build for a BMW 3 Series E36 M50 that stays reliable as a daily driver.Fault code lookupI have a fault code on my BMW 3 Series E36 M50. Walk me through what it means and how to confirm the cause.
Fits your E36 M50
Parts & tools
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