Steven: Yes - BMW dragged their feet on the E46 M3 rod bearing issue for about as long. It was only forced to closure by one guy who created a website that listed VIN numbers, build dates etc of failed engines. BMW first claimed there was no problem, then suggested that the wrong oil was being used, and then that the problem was confined to the U.S.. The comprehensive (and very public) listing showed it wasn't just a U.S. problem. The some major car magazines and websites picked up the story (just like in this case) and it "got legs" and BMW was forced to deal with it. Turned out BMW had used out of spec rod bearing shells.
It appears that BMWAG's policy is to deny the problem, then fix it quietly - then wait for the media and Internet to force it out into the open where is becomes a PR problem that can affect new car sales.
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