E36 M3 convertibles universally suffer aging-related top issues: stretched/lost-elasticity tension straps, failed tonneau gas struts, slow or non-functioning header motors, and tops that strike the tonneau during operation; remedies range from $100 DIY strap replacement to ~$800 strut sets or full manual top conversions.
Convertible top mechanism failures (tension straps, motors, tonneau)
BMW E36 M3 (US-market, 1995-1999) · mechanical