[Eurosport]

I have a '97 ti and so far I have had a catalytic converter replaced (~30K miles) and ball joints twice (~30K and ~70K).
Is that common? I am thinking about the new 3 series and am wondering if I will have the same problems?
My service advisor actually said that emission items often go very quickly on BMWs. Is that true also?
Thank you in advance for your replies.