Used BMW 3 Series Gearbox Mount

No — the E46 (1998–2005) and E90 (2005–2013) are completely different generations with different subframes, engine bay layouts and mounting points, so the gearbox mounts are not interchangeable. Even where engine codes overlap between generations, the surrounding structure changed enough that parts from one generation will not suit the other. Always quote both your registration and engine code to the breaker so they can pull the right unit.

Both years fall within the E90 generation (2005–2013), which received a facelift in 2008, but the gearbox mount is a mechanical mounting component that follows the engine code and drivetrain rather than the facelift styling changes. If the engine codes match, fitment is likely, but mid-production mounting changes can occur, so confirm against your specific registration with the breaker before buying.

Yes — all BMW 3 Series variants have a gearbox mount (sometimes called a transmission mount or gearbox rubber), as the 3 Series has always been rear-wheel drive or xDrive four-wheel drive, never front-wheel drive, so the gearbox sits in a conventional longitudinal drivetrain that requires a dedicated mount to support it. The exact mount design varies by engine code, gearbox type (manual or automatic), and generation, so these details are essential when sourcing a used one from a breaker.

Yes, this matters — manual and automatic gearboxes have different housings and different weight and torque characteristics, so the mounts designed for each are typically different parts and are not interchangeable. Always tell the breaker which gearbox type you have as well as your engine code, as both details are needed to identify the correct mount.

Trim level does not affect the gearbox mount — SE, Sport, M Sport and other 3 Series trim grades share the same mechanical drivetrain components when the engine code and gearbox type are identical, so the mount is the same part regardless of badge. The only thing to watch is that M Sport models sometimes came with different engine options, so confirm your engine code rather than relying on the trim name when speaking to a breaker.

Almost certainly not — the 320d and 318i use different engine codes (the 320d used N47 or M47 diesels while the 318i used petrol units), and these engines have different gearboxes and mounting configurations even within the same E90 generation. The engine code is the most reliable guide here, so check your V5 or run a VIN check to confirm your exact code before asking breakers for a match.