First time buyer

kbenjamin827

I'm looking into buying a 2003 bmw 330i, it has about 127000 mileage, mostly highway miles, and it is a basic model with a v6 engine. I think it uses premium unleaded. It's listed at 2700 so I really want to make an offer asap. I'm still young so I don't make a lot of money, so I am wondering how much it costs to maintain it, like oil changes and how much would it cost to get things replaced. Basic things like brakes, tires, and rods.

Thank you

Mr_Shiftright

That would be a straight-6 engine. Anyway, it sounds too cheap to be a very nice car, and repairs and maintenance are extremely expensive, so given your statement about money, I would definitely pass on this one.

karhill1

Not wise to buy a used BMW. Historically, the repairs will be frequent and expensive. Might be better to buy a brand with a solid reliability record. Say Honda or Toyota.

qbrozen

As other have said, they are not cheap to maintain. You can also count on some expensive replacements that are inherent in that engine, such as complete coolant system, which it may be due for its 2nd very soon since the first was likely needed at 70k-80k miles. If money is tight, you should pretty much be avoiding luxo cars.

graphicguy

Agree with everyone here....if it needs "rods" as you say (assuming tie rod ends, or worse, connecting rods), you're looking at a HUGE bill. The repairs could easily exceed the price of the car.

rhinestonefuse

Drive it. if it runs smooth, quiet and everything works and it stops in a straight line, buy it. Expect to spend $750 for new radiator, $600 for brakes and $1500 for other expenses n the first 20,000 miles. Enjoy.