Edmunds dealer partner, Bayway Leasing, is now offering transparent lease deals via these forums. Click here to see the latest vehicles!
Options
Popular New Cars
Popular Used Sedans
Popular Used SUVs
Popular Used Pickup Trucks
Popular Used Hatchbacks
Popular Used Minivans
Popular Used Coupes
Popular Used Wagons
Comments
Thanks,
SEL3
The warranty apparently only covers "normal wear and tear," so I wonder if the dealer wouldn't hesitate to replace a future clutch failure under warranty on the grounds that the car had been abused.
Appreciate any advice.
12/01 wife bought her '00 323ia CPO. Dealer's loaner car with 18,000 miles. She now has 43,000 miles on it. A few more problems than mine, but she is highly satisfied. Hard to say if any of the problems are loaner-related ones. At about 35,000 miles the CD player had problems ejecting CDs so they replaced it under warranty. She had intermittent sunroof problems: the manual sliding cover unit wouldn't stay on tracks. They worked on it a couple times. Finally fixed. The passenger seat heater unit worked intermittently, so replaced at about 38,000 miles. About this time the battery stopped holding a charge. Replaced. The brake sensor told her to replace pads and front rotors at about 34,000 miles. Only problem she had within first few thousand miles was the high beam lever's switch stopped working. All above fixed under warranty or handled by free maintenance agreement.
If you can get a low mile CPO unit, you get:
1. Remainder of factory 4/50 b-to-b warranty.
2. Remainder of factory free maintenance.
3. Additional 2/50 CPO warranty (not quite as comprehensive as b-to-b and has a $50 deductible, but still quite good).
A win-win.
I've also read horror stories on this board and elsewhere about people mistreating their 2 or 3-year lease cars. Within past week read something somewhere on Edmunds about a leasee who hadn't changed her oil in the first 24 months. What do they care, they won't own 'em. Esp. if they grew to dislike the car and feel they are stuck with it. Notice how many people can't wait to get out of their leases?
As I said, key is to find a low-mile service car. (And I might be different. When I drive service loaners, I treat them like I do my own car. Maybe a bit better since I want to stay friendly with the dealer.)
As with any used car, you should have it inspected and pull the service, repair, recall, and warranty records.
tuss... Given what Consumer Reports and others have written over the years about Jaguar reliability, including XJ8, maybe your friends are the exception?
Wonder how many cars that come onto a dealer's lot and are then test driven before someone eventually buys them also see a lot of hard use (i.e., in excess of the break-in period recommendations) before someone actually buys it? Might be just as problematic for new cars taken on hard test drives?
Maybe only way to guarantee is to special order the car and take delivery right after it is off-loaded into the dealer's lot?
But leased cars, service loaners, and cars taken for hard test drives while on dealer's lot all could equally suffer in this regard.
Go RAIDERS!
The dealer replaced the part and all has been well since then.
Regarding the break-in and how new cars are treated: Another little plug for Euro delivery. You get your car at the factory with less than a mile on the clock. (Of course, it's torture to follow the break-in rules yourself when you have those wonderful autobahns...)
While a used 740i (or iL) would probably be ideal, I'm a little wary of the extra cost now and potential for added expenses down the road. A new or lo mi CPO 530i would probably be my ideal commute car and fit our budget, so I'm hoping that the back seats would accomodate this need, even if it's a bit snug.
Thanks in advance for the feedback.
Regarding the comparison to the Infinity G35 and Acura TLS, I think the 530ia stands above both. The G35, with it's purported 270 hp, is at most only marginally more powerful. For whatever reasons, Infiniti horsepower is simply not equivalent to BMW horsepower in terms of real world performance. As for the 260 hp Acura TL-S, IMO it's not even in the same league as the BMW. Better compared to an Accord. It's reasonably quick, but it's handling is, at best, average for a FWD sedan. A business associate has a 2001 model and my 1995 Maxima SE (5-speed) is quicker, corners flatter and feels more nimble than his TL-S. The 530i, on the other hand, is IMO the pinnacle of handling in its class.
The 530ia is a fine choice. I suspect the new 5-series will add more power to the "545i" or whatever they call it. But for now, I think the 530i is a prudent choice over the 540i unless you absolutely must drag race at stop lights and can't afford an M5.
ksqrd,
Congratulations on your triplets!
Unfortunately, I think you'll find the 5-series nearly impossible to get three car seats in the back. The 5-series is about 1" narrower than our (1995) Maxima and it can only accomodate two car seats. Any attempt to squeeze a third seat in the middle would cause the outboard ones not to sit flat. I don't know if car seats come in different widths, ours are not particularly "streamlined". But I suspect the best you are going to do is 2 seats in the 5-series.
The good news is that I've noticed very good prices on used 740i's in our area (DC) often less than what a 540i of similar vintage goes for. Also, not to steer you to Mercedes, but the E-class may be just enough wider to accomodate your needs. I think the 1996-2002 generation was about 1" wider than our Maxima in rear seat hip / shoulder width.
It's a nice problem that you have, accomodating triplets.
I'd look into buying from an aftermarket source. Places like Tire Rack, etc. You'll likely get cheaper and you can keep what is already on it as winter tires or just for spares for when you sell.
You might consider getting whatever combination came with the '98 528i Sport Package. Stick with the size and type from that specific Sport Package. Forget if that is staggered as is with my '98 540i6.
There is always a trade off when it comes to using different and bigger tires/wheels. What you might gain in handling might be offset in ride quality or steering response. That is why I say stick with sizes and tires used by BMW. They tend to be "right" for the platform. But that doesn't mean there aren't a ton of other sizes and tires that might be equally "right".
So, from what I gather, the end of ordering 2003 5 series will probably be March or April, correct?
My wife and I just had a baby so I would like to avoid paying in excess of $45,000. Therefore, I am deciding between the 525 and 530.
But here is the real reason I am posting. Is it stupid/wrong/irrational to want to buy the 525 sport package just because of the way the wheels look? Please don't laugh, but I just can't get over the looks of the standard 525 or 530 wheels, they look ugly to me. And with the 530 sport, I don't like the blackout or shadow effect around the windows, I prefer the chrome.
My choice, then, is between the 525 sport and the 530 non-sport (with different wheels). Both would be in 5 speed, no automatic for me. I know the 530 has significantly more power (from what I have read) so it sure would be nice if I could put the 525 sport wheels on the 530 non-sport, but from what I understand BMW frowns on this?
I looked at a site someone referenced (pacificbmw.com) to look at different wheel options, but none of those appealed to me either.
I know, it sounds weird but I guess I just have my little peculiarities that I prefer.
Anyone have any suggestions? Or recommendations on a shrink?
The chrome/matte finish around the windows is noticeable only if you look at it, otherwise it just blends away, IMO. In other words, it makes almost no difference.
As for wheels, visit the wheel & tire forum on roadfly.com and you'll realize you're not the only one concerned about how wheels look. It's a subjective call. But, I suggest you drive both the sport and non-sport models to see the handling and peripheral (e.g. better steering wheel and seats) benefits. You can worry about the wheels last.
I'm sure many dealers would be willing (perhaps for a small charge) to swap out a 525's wheels with a 530's. Or, you could probably arrange the swap through the classifieds. I don't think BMW really frowns on the practice; only true BMW enthusiasts would notice the anachronistic wheels.
Personally, I like the sport package's shadowline trim more than chrome. IMO it looks cleaner and sportier and doesn't clash the way chrome does with some of my color preferences. But I would still never make a decision between the 530i sport or non-sport based upon window trim. You are already fortunate enough to have married right (i.e. wife who drives a stick). Don't give up the opportunity to have a world class handling sedan, because of a chrome fetish. Sorry, that was harsh, but the 530i sport package is not just "looks" it's serious substance.
I respectfully suggest you drive a 530i sport and non-sport back to back through some curves before you make up your mind. Remember, you wont see the shadowline trim from the inside of the car, but if you are like me, you'll definitely feel the handling difference.
P.S. For the record, I have not driven the 525i. I had previously planned on getting a 540i 6-speed. But with the added power of the 530i over the previous 528i, I convinced myself the 530i was sufficient. I don't think I could drop down to the 525i and feel the same way, but that's just me.
Good luck and congrats on the baby.
snagiel, thank you for the advice on the wheels, I will definitely research roadfly.com.
habitat, I am lucky to have my wife for more reasons that that! LOL But you are correct, she encourages getting the manual because it's more fun to drive (her words!). But to the 525/530 comparison, is the upgrade in power that noticeable? Obviously I will need to test drive both, but it always helps to hear others' experiences. (And for some reason - I know, it's stupid and it shouldn't control my decision- but I really prefer the chrome finish. Perhaps when I get behind the wheel I could be easily swayed.)
riez, the premium package is a definite must and I have already factored that into the decision. One question, does "MY" stand for mid-year? I am guessing that means anything I order will definitely be MY at this stage of the game. Also, it sounds like you think I would not be disappointed in getting the 525 sport, is that a personal choice for you as well?
Thanks again everyone!
As for the power, it's a hotly-contested debate, but it too is a subjective one. If you're used to driving a Civic, you'll love the 525. But if you've got a supercharged Grand Am or something you'll probably love the luxury and handling but find the 525's power disappointing. Indeed, with a stick, all of the models--even the 540--really seem much more eager and capable. So while a 525iA may be modest, its manual counterpart is certainly entertaining. The 530i has an added jolt of thrust, and the 540 in turn a slightly bigger step above the 530.
Alas, drive them and decide for yourself. Good luck.
I drive a Ford Explorer I bought brand new in '93, so anything at this point will feel MUCH better. I'm looking forward to getting out of the SUV and into a 5'er.
My local dealer has brand new black on black 525i Sport manual. Believe it also has PP (Premium Pkg) and CWP (Cold Weather Pkg). I've been half tempted to trade my 540i6 in on it.
But I've grown to love having 6 speeds. (Ever see the movie "This Is Spinal Tap"? But it goes to eleven!) I like having an overdrive 6th gear along with the direct drive 5th. Thinking the 525i and 530i manuals are non-overdrive with direct drive 5ths. (But I may be mistaken.) My 540i6 gets 26 mpg at 74 mph cruising. She turns over only about 2,100 rpms at that speed in 6th. I do a lot of highway crusing.
Sorry to hear that it's unlikely that three seats will fit in back of a 5-series. We will haul them in and check, to be sure, and will also look at CPO 7s. Regarding the latter, I'm just wary that once the car is past the CPO warranty period, we might have to drop $1K here and there, and I'm nervous about that prospect (vs. other obvious financial needs).
If anyone else can relate their experiences with trying to put 3 car seats in the back of a BMW (or any other sedan), I'd be pleased to hear your suggestions. They do fit nicely in the back seat of our MDX, but our second car is an old Integra GS-R that handles beatifully, but is completely impractical given our new situation.
Has anyone seen the black sapphire metallic versus the jet black? Or how about the titanium gray versus the sterling gray?
You always hear "don't get black because it looks dirty." I don't know if that's true or not, maybe someone has an opinion.
From my perspective, it would be difficult to call the 525i quick, even with a 5-speed. It seems slightly slower than the old 528i. On the positive side it felt very tight and seemed to handle better than the 528i. There is no doubt that a 525i 5-speed sport will run circles around a FWD Volvo S60 in the handling department.
The 530i 5-speed sport is my favorite recommendation for those who can afford it. It just seems like a great engine / chassis combination for someone who likes great handling and good, if not exceptional, power. It's only a few pounds heavier than the 525i, so the increase in horsepower and torque is immediately evident. In terms of it's position in the 5-series line-up, I believe it offers the most bang for the buck.
I also suggest you test drive all of the cars. If lack of chrome is a deal killer for the 530i sport, you have a very tough decision between the 525i sport and 530i non-sport. The 540i 6-speed and M5 only come with shadowline trim, so you better not plan on trading up!
P.S. riez: I managed 25.2 at an average speed of 80 mph on a recent 280 mile highway trip. So far, I've averaged 20.5 mpg over 15k miles, which is only 1 mpg less than my former 540i and about 6 mpg more than our SUV (which actually does get driven off road, for the record). I'm tempted to petition the EPA for a refund of my $2,100 gas guzzler tax.
What, you don't like the dirty look of jet black? 8-) I have got used to it and would still buy another jet black car. If an individual is addicted to washing their car, jet black is the colour.
mumike
A consideration that you might want to consider is that the 525 and 530 are close in price unlike the 325 and 330. The 530 makes more sense. I figure that your dealer would do a wheel swap. I actually believe that the chrome trim can be purchased, but I would have to check that. If you go with black, the chrome would be a nice contrast especially with the chrome on the grill.
My current color is the grey-green metallic with the tan interior. The only dirt it really shows is road salt. Yuch! While in the summer any car gets hot after sitting in the sun all day baking. I now work at a location, where I can leave the windows cracked open without worrying.
While getting into the car in the summer is never fun after it's been in the sun for a while, it was never like my former black exterior with black interior. Black interiors take forever to cool off even with the A/C on turbo intercooled siricco mode.
Anyone else against a black interior, or for?
Having said that, we have been tempted to find a car with a grey interior. Not as dark as black but darker than beige/tan/light brown. Been a while since we had one. Thinking that might be the best of both worlds. Looks clean and stays cooler in summer.
Happy Hunting,
Jack
Arctic Silver
Arctic Silver
Royal Red
Royal Red
The black interior shows my 2 year olds' scuff marks from his shoes on the back of the front seat and also his spilled milk from his sipper cup. Reminds me to clean it up right away.
The car now has 13K miles on it. It has been averaging about 24 mpg in combined city/highway driving in LA traffic and has seen as high as 30 mpg on a long trip to San Diego. But these numbers are not too much better than the M5 mpg as epn2 reports, yet the M5 has almost double the horsepower. However, the official M5 mpg rating is 13/21, while the 530i is 21/30. I guess some of us drive with more of a lead foot than others.
Infiniti G35 vs. BMW 530i - READ ONLY
post #302, link below
kdshapiro "Infiniti G35 vs. BMW 530i" Aug 29, 2002 7:13am
and post #306, link below
kdshapiro "Infiniti G35 vs. BMW 530i" Sep 26, 2002 9:24pm
It was a good experience.
I now have the car 13 months and you know what, I have yet to see the dealer for anything, other than a quart of oil I bought a few months back (knock on wood). That is good, no great. I can say, therefore, that I have had the best service experience with this car than with any other car that I have owned over the past 25 years. No unnecessary interaction with the dealer is a good thing. The service indicator still has one lamp left before its first oil change. So my first visit is coming up. I expect it to be painless.
I've driven several 5- and 3-series models, and both are fantastic cars. However, the 3 felt a little small and cramped to me, and didn't feel as substantial and refined as the 5. As far as performance, the 3 is more tossable and nimble, but the 5 rides better and offers nearly the same handling prowess.
Yes, I've heard of folks moving from a 5 to a 3, but it's not nearly as common as a 3 to a 5.