2003 vs 2004

[MARTIN MCGINN]

I am in the market for a M3 convertible with smg transmission. Any issues between the years 2003 and 2004 I should know about??
Marty

[jhm5]

The first couple years of S54 engine production, there were bearing issues. Any E46 M3 through the 03 model year should have been subject to a service campaign that included new rod bearings, in some cases new oil pump. If you look at an '03 be sure it got the latest bearing service campaign - also a software rewrite as I recall.
Seems to me the bearing issue was resolved with '04 model year production, which I think started in June 03.