BMW E46 model 3-series have a known subframe weakness causing the rear axle to separate from the vehicle. A class action lawsuit supposedly resolved this, but the terms of the suit ended in 2010 leaving anyone that experiences the problem after the term of the suite to fix the BMW admitted engineering failure themselves. This leaves thousands of 1999-2006 BMW 3 series as potential hazards on the road.

- Madison, WI, USA

2001 - 330xi - 50000 miles, rear subframe torn out on left side, right side cracked!

- Needham, MA, USA

1. you start hearing metallic rubbing noise at the rear driver side. 2. 2001 BMW 330I left rear subframe mount damaged/ripped. Accidents may happen and may not be apparent due to accident. 3.a lot of complains from this website: forum.E46fanatics.com/showthread.php?T=195602&page=1&pp=20 BMW claims it to be wear and tear so it is not covered for repair.

- Ft Meade, MD, USA

1. normal driving. 2. sub-frame failure causing major clanking in and large undue stress on drive train. The drivetrain is likely to fail. Dealership not helping. Pervasive problem with this make and model. Well documented in BMW forums. 3. the dealer does not admit the problem. May cost many owners thousands to repair. There was a european recall for this issue.

- St. Louis, MO, USA

Subframe failure in 2001 E46 330ci, rear subframe tearing near spare tire storage and mounts. Nothing was done to correct the problem and I was basiclly told to go screw myself by bmwna.

- Lawrenceville, NJ, USA