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E36 S50

BMW 3 Series · Sedan · Coupe · Compact · Cabrio · 1990–2000

3.0/3.2L E36 M3 six.

Production run

1990–2000

Engines covered

7

Avg. part price

—

19902026

Interactive systems map

Inspect the E36 S50

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

Engine1

Cooling1

Suspension1

Documented issues per engine

4

M42

4

M44

4

M43

4

M50

4

M52

4

S50

4

S52

Known weak points

What breaks on the E36 S50

VANOS unit rebuildDiagnose →Rod bearings on hard-driven carsDiagnose →Cooling systemDiagnose →Vibration damperDiagnose →

Guides & playbooks

E36 S50 playbooks

Maintenance scheduleGive me a mileage-based maintenance schedule for a BMW 3 Series E36 S50, including the items the factory schedule skips.Buyer's inspectionI'm inspecting a used BMW 3 Series E36 S50. What exactly should I check, test drive and look for underneath?Build planPlan a staged performance build for a BMW 3 Series E36 S50 that stays reliable as a daily driver.Fault code lookupI have a fault code on my BMW 3 Series E36 S50. Walk me through what it means and how to confirm the cause.

Fits your E36 S50

Parts & tools

Full catalog & export

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