The contact owns a 2001 BMW 325I. During scheduled maintenance, the mechanic noticed that the rear coil springs had failed. The contact stated that he previously heard a popping noise. The vehicle has not been repaired. The current and failure mileages were 73,784.

- Shiloh, OH, USA

Both rear springs failed, requiring replacement, at less than 50,000 miles with no excessive driving. My mechanic mentioned that the problem seems endemic to the E46 BMW 3 series. Should the rear suspension have become unloaded on a bump, etc. A serious accident could have resulted. If this problem with the rear springs is common, it could represent a design defect.

- Somerville, MA, USA

Dealer performing 60,000 maintenance check on 2001 BMW 325ix reported that both rear springs were cracked. Also reported that they had seen similar cracked springs on a half dozen 3 series cars of the same vintage (1999-2005) over the last year.

- Traverse City, MI, USA