BMW 3 Series (E46, 1999-2006): First steps mods
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What are the best first steps mods for the BMW 3 Series (E46, 1999-2006)?
It depends on the car’s condition and how you use it. These are the 1 first steps build entry we have sourced for this car: Check E46 airbag and strut recalls by VIN first (Reported). Each lists caveats, related problems and sources so you can match it to your goal.
Check E46 airbag and strut recalls by VIN first Reported
Run the VIN through NHTSA's recall lookup before anything else. E46s are covered by several Takata airbag inflator recalls (2000-2006, M3 included) and, on some 2002 325i and 330i cars, by a front strut mount recall.
Caveats: Coverage is by VIN; a used car may already have had some remedies done.
Related issues: Recall: Takata airbag inflators can rupture (2000-2006, incl. M3), Recall: front strut upper mount bearing may not be secured (2002)
Sources (4)
- NHTSA recall record 13V-172 (2002-2003 3 Series incl. M3, passenger frontal airbag inflator) — NHTSA recalls API (regulatory; read 2026-10-26; full page read)
- NHTSA recall record 15V-318 (2002-2006 3 Series incl. M3, driver airbag inflator) — NHTSA recalls API (regulatory; read 2026-10-26; full page read)
- NHTSA recall record 20V-018 (2000-2006 3 Series incl. M3, passenger airbag inflator interim-remedy parts) — NHTSA recalls API (regulatory; read 2026-10-26; full page read)
- NHTSA recall record 02V-057 (2002 325i / 330i, front strut upper mount) — NHTSA recalls API (regulatory; read 2026-10-26; full page read)
More for this car
- All BMW 3 Series (E46, 1999-2006) fitment answers · E46 common problems
- Newsletter archive: past issues with every new and corrected entry
Report a correction — spotted an error or have a better source? Email hello@chassisdex.com.