If you love fine automobiles, you know just how amazing the BMW E46 3-series is. While it was last manufactured back in 2006, it tends to be a favorite among those who love BMWs. It has garnered recognition as one of the top cars in the country for good reason. However, that doesn't mean it doesn't have its share of problems as well. Any car can have something go wrong with it at any point in time. To help you understand your BMW, here are a few of the common problems that you might encounter with your ride.

Power Steering Pump

When turning the steering wheel, you expect it to move freely from one side to the next, providing you with smooth and effortless turning capabilities. But what happens when the power steering pump starts to go out on you? If you have ever heard a loud, deep growling noise coming from under the hood, you might be dealing with a bad pump. Your steering column should move freely. If you start to feel friction, you need to have a mechanic take a look at it for you. While it could be something as simple as low fluid, it could be that you need to have the pump replaced.

Cooling System

The cooling system within this vehicle is extremely complex. It is filled with countless parts that work together to make sure your engine stays cool and runs smooth. If your temperature gauge starts to fluctuate, you want to take note of it before your engine has the chance to overheat. If it gets to that point, you will end up spending a small fortune having to replace the engine and who knows what other parts along the way.

Overcompensating Steering

Many people own a BMW purely because they love the way the vehicle handles out on the open road. It has steering that is smooth as silk, and it turns on a dime. When the steering starts failing to respond to you and overcompensates, you need to get your vehicle in to have it looked at by the pros. While this was more common in the 2001 model, that doesn't mean it can't happen in any of their other BMWs.

As much as you love your ride, you want to make sure that it is in top shape at all times. If you start noticing something out of the ordinary, it's time you get your vehicle looked at.

To consult a professional auto repair shop, contact a company such as August European.