Just bought an '00 BMW 323i...

I have a few questions about my first Bimmer...

- Is the 323i reliable? (kinda late to ask this question)
- Any common problems I should know? i.e.: Electrical, computers, mechanical, etc?
- Anyone know of a good non-authorized BMW service center in Toronto?
- How often do you change the engine oil? I was told 15,000Km.
- Dropping in a K&N replacement air filter void warranty?
- Changing to larger 18" aftermarket wheels void warranty? (I assume not)
- Why was it dropped by BMW? Was it a marketing decision because of the 325i was brought back to market in an E46 form from an E36?
- Anyone know of the torque rating of the 323i? I hear the horsepower is 170bhp.
- If I install an upper strut tie bar for the front, would it void warranty?

Thanks in advance.

Questioning whether a BMW is reliable is kinda like asking if the Sun will come up tommorrow.

With an 00, I don't see anything to concern yourself with at this point. Wait till about 100,000 mis and then keep an eye on the electronics if anything. Make sure you understand fully these BMW innovations such as VANOS, Double VANOS, and Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), etc, as these things seem to be the problem areas later on down the line if you keep the car for a long time, as well as stupid things like sunroofs or dash lights. Here's a good place to learn about these things plus all the usual BMW acronyms:

http://www.bmwworld.com/technology/

As to oil changes, 15,000 is the most I would go if you plan on driving her to 250,000+ mis, as many of us plan on. 5-10,000 mis is probably a safer bet, and synthetic oil though more expensive is more than worth it.

The 232i is really a 325i the reson it is called 323i is becuse the marketing group for BMW thought that the having the 325 model and the 328 were to close together and would confuse customers. at least this is what i heard. makes since.