Cheap BMW 3 Series Wheel Hub

No — the E46 (1998–2005) and E90 (2005–2013) are completely different generations with different suspension geometry, bolt patterns, and hub designs, so parts do not cross between them. These are a named generation boundary and the hub is a structural running-gear component, meaning the differences are fundamental rather than cosmetic. Always quote your registration to the breaker so they can confirm the exact E-code generation they're supplying from.

Both years fall within the E90 generation (2005–2013), so there is a reasonable chance of compatibility, but the E90 received a facelift in 2008 and some running-gear components were revised around that time. Confirm with the breaker whether the hub you're being quoted is from the pre- or post-facelift build, and give them your full registration to cross-reference.

Trim level — SE, ES, Sport, or M Sport — does not affect wheel hub fitment on the E90 3 Series; the hub itself is determined by the generation and, where applicable, the brake package fitted to the car rather than the trim name. That said, an M Sport may have been specified with larger brakes, so confirm with the breaker that the hub carrier and bearing dimensions match your specific car using your registration. You might receive a hub in plain unpainted steel that looks different cosmetically to your original, but that has no effect on function.

It can, because larger or higher-output engines in the same generation are sometimes paired with bigger brake packages, and the hub must match the brake assembly fitted to your car. For example, a 330d or 335i may carry a different front hub to a 316i within the same E90 generation. Give the breaker your engine size and registration so they can confirm the correct hub rather than assuming all E90 hubs are the same.

Yes — wheel hubs are side-specific on the BMW 3 Series because the bearing and ABS sensor orientation differ between the nearside (NS, kerb side) and offside (OS, driver's side). Always tell the breaker which corner you need, using NS or OS, to avoid being sent the wrong part. Fitting the incorrect side is not a safe workaround, so be precise when requesting your quote.

No — the E36 (1990–2000) and E46 (1998–2005) are separate generations, and although their production years briefly overlap, the suspension design and hub specifications are different. The E36-to-E46 boundary is a firm fitment break, so do not assume interchangeability even if the physical appearance looks similar. Confirm the exact generation with your breaker and provide your registration to ensure the correct part is sourced.