Edmunds dealer partner, Bayway Leasing, is now offering transparent lease deals via these forums. Click here to see the latest vehicles!

Buying a Used 3-Series

13468915

Comments

  • patpat Member Posts: 10,421
    Hah! The hosts don't forget a thing! Nuttin' at all!!! :P
  • randyjstarkrandyjstark Member Posts: 99
    Hey everyone.

    This is one of my first posts in the BMW forum, and am looking at getting either a used 2007 BMW 3 series 335i or a new 2008 infiniti g35x.

    I found a used 335i with 16000 miles on it, but it appears to be a BMW buyback car. When I asked what was wrong with the car, the dealership said that the "check engine light" was coming on, and that they had no more details as to why it was bought back by BMW. Since I live in PA, the carfax would be clean-titled so it would not show up as a buy back when I go to resell the car. However, if I go to a BMW dealer, they will see that it is a "buyback"

    In any event, the car seems almost fully loaded has some great options which are as follows:

    Cold Weather pckg
    Sport pckg
    Automatic Trans
    Brushed Alumninum
    Ambient Light
    Navigation
    Satellite Radio
    Premium Pckg
    Comfort Access pckg
    logic 7 sound
    paddle shifters.

    MSRP of the car was about $50,000 (i saw the original window sticker) and I have the dealer down to $35,000 including tax. I will most likely put ~5000 down to reduce my interest and monthly payments.

    KBB shows this car at 16,000 miles with similar configuration to be about $43,000

    Considering this is a buy-back should I try negotiating even lower than the price the dealer and I have thus far agreed upon? This seems like a tremendous deal to me, with the MFG warranty expiring in Oct of 2010, but I am a bit skeptical with the BMW buyback thing. What has your experience with a BMW buyback been? --Is the dealer trying to not tell me everything and if so, how do I find out what REALLY was wrong with the car?

    Much thanks,
    randy
  • ronaries10ronaries10 Member Posts: 64
    Of course, the price & car are attractive. Things you want to know are:

    1. what has the dealer/service done since they took the car back to remedy problems?
    2. Is the warranty a true warranty and not the service pkg extended.
    3. Will BMW see if previous owner will consent to talk or email you re car history . Or can you otherwise find/contact previous owner?
    4. How much inconvenience will your personal schedule tolerate if the car turns out to have above average trouble?
    5. Do you have any basis to "trust the dealer" more than any other new car dealer - IMHO you could be asking for disappointment here- they are there to sell cars, and some are more honest and knowledgeable than others.
    Good Luck whichever way you go.
    ronaries
    2004 BMW 330ci
    Orient Blue, manual.
  • smurgsmurg Member Posts: 1
    I was wondering if anyone knows why my light for the mileage and outside temp wont go out when i shut the car off in my 2001 325xi, i recently charged the battery and it was hooked up correctly and the problem started then i believe. Mabey it was on before which caused the battery to drain??????any thoughts, thanks Scott
  • sakesake Member Posts: 11
    We found a 1997 M3 with 138,500 miles on it that we are very interested in purchasing. This would be our 3rd car & more of a project car than a daily driver. The seller agreed to take it to a BMW dealership in order to have a pre-purchase inspection performed on the vehicle prior to us purchasing it. Are there any thing that anyone can think of that we should specfically look out for? Thanks so much!
  • bfluegiebfluegie Member Posts: 21
    I'm looking at a 2006 325xi with almost 25k miles. It has premium package, satellite radio, cold weather package, wood trim, manual transmission, split rear seats. Dealer price is almost $31K. The free carfax report (cars.com) showed no problems (although I can no longer view the free report--the link sends me to a page that asks me to pay for the report). The car was returned from a two year lease and is offered by a BMW dealer as certified pre-owned. Does this seem like a good deal? How much negotiation room should I expect on this car?

    I've also been looking at the Infiniti G35 which I can get new for about invoice by the VPP. I really like the Audi A3 V-6, but I don't want to pay almost $40K new and used are hard to come by. The 325xi is roomier than the A3 and gets better mileage than the G35. I do want to make sure I am getting a good deal, though. Any suggestions for negotiating?
  • jakestermdjakestermd Member Posts: 1
    I'm comparing two similarly equipped 330 convertibles; 04 330 with only 9500 miles, sport, premium and 18 inch wheels for around $32k versus a 05 330 with with 30k miles, sport, premium pkgs for $29k. The 04 has the std mfg warranty expiring 7/08 while the 05 std mfg warranty goes to 3/09. Both are in excellent condition. Any recommendations?
  • 03cobra03cobra Member Posts: 37
    Anyone know if there is a minimum term, such as 12 or 24 months, where BMW will still make the first 2 payments? Also, does the dealer have to kick in anything? If the dealer has to contribute, then it will effect the final negotiated price.
  • kyfdxkyfdx Moderator Posts: 234,725
    There is no dealer contribution..

    That's an interesting question... I'm guessing there is some sort of payment limit on the financing... but, I don't know..

    2 free payments on a 12-month loan... :)

    Edmunds Price Checker
    Edmunds Lease Calculator
    Did you get a good deal? Be sure to come back and share!

    Edmunds Moderator

  • backybacky Member Posts: 18,949
    I need another car in the family and have been looking for a new one with all the latest safety features. It will be driven only about 7-8k a year, but I might want to keep it in the family for 10 years or so. A new car with ESC will run me at least $15k + TT&L; options include Elantra SE, Sonata GLS, and Optima LX. I've also been considering used cars. For $14k or less I could get something like a 2005 Jetta A5 with relatively low miles and ESC.

    Or... what about a 2003 325i with 73k for under $14k?? I've always wanted a 3-Series, so I started thinking about this after I looked online at what's available around town. I've heard that maintenance costs on a Bimmer will be very high. This one might be in great shape (haven't seen it yet, it's at my local BMW dealer) but it's at least 5 years old with 73k miles on it. FE won't be great, but given how little I drive that won't be a killer. And it does have all the safety features I want. And it's a 3-Series. I know my daughter won't mind getting it in a few years... if I give it up. ;) And I'm not sure I'd want to put a car like that in the hands of a 17-year-old--safety features or not.

    So what do you think... is this a really stupid idea? Should I go with the new low-end car with a long warranty, and likely low maintenance costs, or a "mature" 3-Series?
  • Mr_ShiftrightMr_Shiftright Member Posts: 64,481
    Well 73K is just about at the cusp when a 3-series *might* be needing some things, so I'd certainly have all the usual trouble spots carefully examined.

    Certainly it's a better idea than buying a used Jetta IMO. Jetta reliability ratings are not good.
  • srs_49srs_49 Member Posts: 1,394
    I'm partial to 3 series BMW's (driving an '87 right now). But, if you have to rely on a dealer to do all the repairs and maintenance, they ain't cheap to keep up.

    Have you considered an Acura TL in the same price range?
  • backybacky Member Posts: 18,949
    That's a thought. There's a few 2003 TLs in my area for around $14k with around 70k miles (those seem to be the magic numbers, don't they?). It would likely be more reliable than a 3-Series, but it doesn't have all the safety equipment the 3-Series does, e.g. side curtain airbags and ESC. That is one reason I like the 3-Series. And of course, a TL is not a 3-Series. :) Another one I thought about is the S80; 2002s with about 60k miles start under $13k. Those have curtain airbags, not sure about ESC. But the S80 isn't a 3-Series either. Lots of choices...
  • kyfdxkyfdx Moderator Posts: 234,725
    Our '03 325i averaged about 26 mpg in suburban commuting... We were pretty happy with that. Sold it to friends, who are still driving it with about 60K miles.. Since the free maintenance expired, they've replaced one window regulator ($90 for the part) and had a dealer do the 60K service for $530.

    Edmunds Price Checker
    Edmunds Lease Calculator
    Did you get a good deal? Be sure to come back and share!

    Edmunds Moderator

  • backybacky Member Posts: 18,949
    That is good to hear about the FE--I've heard the 3-Series does pretty well in that area, for a 6-cylinder. And the 60k service wasn't too bad either--that's not much more than what a dealer would charge for the service on an Elantra. :)
  • kyfdxkyfdx Moderator Posts: 234,725
    They shopped it... the other dealer in town was $200 higher..

    It was a really nice car.. still is.. Our friends love it!

    Edmunds Price Checker
    Edmunds Lease Calculator
    Did you get a good deal? Be sure to come back and share!

    Edmunds Moderator

  • roadburnerroadburner Member Posts: 17,288
    The E46 has proven to be durable and reliable. The six cylinders need a water pump at @60K intervals but other than that there really aren't any major problems. I also recommend that you have the car inspected by a good BMW tech. The E46 3er is a great car, and there are enough of them around that you can afford to be selective. As for maintenance and repair, here's a brief overview:

    On an E46 some services are determined by time, some by mileage, and some by the on-board Service Interval(SI) system(which calculates service based on driving conditions).
    The time based services are: Brake Fluid(every 2 years) and Coolant(every 3 years)
    The mileage based services are: Spark Plugs, ATF, and Oxygen Sensors(every 100K miles for all three).
    The SI system has 3 levels of service: Oil Service, Inspection I, and Inspection II. An Oil Service is called for at 15K intervals(or every year, whichever comes first). It is just an oil change.
    The Inspection I rolls up at 30K; it is an oil change, a cabin air filter change, and a comprehensive inspection of the car.
    Inspection II occurs around 60K and is essentially an Inspection I + an engine air filter change.

    If you are planning on flipping the car in a couple of years I'd just follow the BMW schedule. However if you're going to hang on to it for a while I'd advise changing the transmission fluid(slushbox OR manual) every 60K at least. Ditto for the final drive oil. If you take your 3er to the track I'd reduce those mileage intervals by 50%. I change the engine oil on mt 3er at 7.5K intervals due to the fact that it sees the track every so often and my wife's X3 chews up its oil in less than 9K miles(based on used oil analysis). Some people go 15K without any problem but I'm not one of them.

    Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport; 2020 C43; 2021 Sahara 4xe 1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica Wife's: 2015 X1 xDrive28i Son's: 2009 328i; 2018 330i xDrive

  • backybacky Member Posts: 18,949
    Thanks for the very informative post! I was wondering about those "Inspections" and their intervals.
  • ashleymarieashleymarie Member Posts: 5
    Hello,

    I am currently looking to buy a used car....I have found 2 cars that I love...a 02 audi a4 and a 01 BMW 330i. Both have alomst 100,000 miles on them....should I buy and what should I ask the dealer? Thanks!
  • roadburnerroadburner Member Posts: 17,288
    My only experience is with BMWs. If you are serious about the 330i you need to have it thoroughly inspected by a tech who knows BMWs. I'd set aside @$75 per month for repairs and maintenance. Maintenance costs will be reasonable if you find a good dealer or independent BMW tech. Whatever you do, don't scrimp on maintenance.

    Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport; 2020 C43; 2021 Sahara 4xe 1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica Wife's: 2015 X1 xDrive28i Son's: 2009 328i; 2018 330i xDrive

  • ashleymarieashleymarie Member Posts: 5
    Thanks for replying! I can definately do the 75 a month....I just heard problems with transmissions and such especially with the high mileage....I am in love with the car...but I don't want to be screwed you know.
  • roadburnerroadburner Member Posts: 17,288
    I just heard problems with transmissions and such especially with the high mileage

    Some BMW automatic transmissions have failed at 100,000 miles, others have gone over 200,000 miles without problems. The key to a BMW's long term reliability is to keep it maintained by the book. If you buy the car, don't hesitate to ask any questions. I'll be happy to help.

    Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport; 2020 C43; 2021 Sahara 4xe 1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica Wife's: 2015 X1 xDrive28i Son's: 2009 328i; 2018 330i xDrive

  • ashleymarieashleymarie Member Posts: 5
    Thanks roadburner....I decided not to buy.
  • backybacky Member Posts: 18,949
    Went for a 2000 328Ci coupe with Premium Package--leather, moonroof, xenons, etc. etc., 68k miles, grey/grey. Original MSRP $39k (window sticker was in the glove box). My price, $12,400 +T&L. Or about the same as a two-year-old base Elantra. :P Oh, it's a stick. :) One owner trade on a new Bimmer, bought and serviced where I got it. Dealer had the complete service records, including recent new brakes, tires, battery, major servicing, etc. Having some minor bodywork done to take out some scratches and dents (part of the deal), then it will be all miiiiiiiine. Except for a tiny hole on the passenger side door interior trim and a little dig on the rear bumper, it looks new (or it will after it leaves the body shop). It drives great, very smooth and rattle-free, great linear tracking and handling (of course).

    Time for my second childhood. :shades:
  • roadburnerroadburner Member Posts: 17,288
    Sounds like a great car. Just stay on top of the maintenance. I'd change the oil every 7.5K and I'd also replace the transmission and diff oils if they havent been done already. Keep the coolant changed-BMW coolant only-every three years and the brake fluid(DOT 4) every two and the car should run well for a long time to come.

    Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport; 2020 C43; 2021 Sahara 4xe 1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica Wife's: 2015 X1 xDrive28i Son's: 2009 328i; 2018 330i xDrive

  • backybacky Member Posts: 18,949
    Thanks. Those things have been done recently (oil was just changed today) and I put about 7500 miles a year on my car, so I should be good to go (knock on wood) for awhile. It will be fun driving a stick again--especially one with 193 hp. :) I told my son and daughter who are still at home I'd teach them how to drive it. I told them, if they can play video games, they can drive a stick. Eventually it will be my daughter's car... if she is a real good girl the next few years.
  • nh07fannh07fan Member Posts: 5
    We agree to our 1st BMW-have wanted 1 for a long time. It's a 3rd car for when my wife doesn't need to drive her all-wheel drive Sienna minivan and I'm not using my Accord for work (outside sales).

    Anyway I think we did well to find

    a 2006 325ci Black with 10,500 miles for $23,500 CPO Only 2 options are heated seats and Steptronic Automatic

    The search really evolved..........we had serious negotiations on a 2000 325i with 68k for $11500 and a 2005 325ci with 48k miles-$19,800 CPO with the same options as the one we bought. We worried too much about out of warranty issues (and it drove a little sluggish) with the 2000. We like the 2005 but the grey color was a little bland-we drive 2 grey colored cars now and were attracted to the low miles and extra year of original warranty and certified warranty with the 2006. This will be kept in the garage-we'll drive in winter when roads are clear and put on about 5-7k miles per year.

    Any thoughts or advice-we take delivery on Tuesday.
  • docgarydocgary Member Posts: 17
    Sounds like a great deal! What part of the country do you live?

    Out here in the northeast (New Jersey), a 2006 325i CPO with under 20k mileage
    will never sell south of 25K - trust me - i've been searching for 6 weeks!!

    I've owned 2 BMWs -1994 325i and 1997 540i -
    at 10,000 miles, the car hasnt even been broken in!!

    I have found a 06 325i (would have preferred a 330)
    27K mileage, silver with black interior (the only interior worth having IMO)
    cold weather/premium package, maintenance package,

    This car stood out from the previous six I test rode.
    I'm not in need of a fast off-the-line speedster -
    Been there done that - and I have a motorcycle for that rush.
    This 57 yo ex porche owner is simply looking for that great handling,
    fun car that only BMW has.

    The prior six all had a degree of a "ridden out" feel -
    too much dampening in suspension ,body roll, generally a tired feel.

    This puppy woke up the second I stepped on the pedal. Very clean in and out.
    Garaged, well cared for.

    I will seal the deal this weekend -
    $25,000 OTD incl tax. (no $ down 60 months, 3.9%)

    If you get your deal and the car has no negative surprises,
    You have gotten a SWEET DEAL!!

    GOOD LUCK
    DOCGARY
  • nh07fannh07fan Member Posts: 5
    Live in NH, bought in Peabody Mass. The sticker said 26900, internet price was 25,500. No surprises and we are very happy. We put 500 miles this week to go over 11k. I think the economy and a rear wheel drive car this time of year up North gave us great leverage. It's truly in better shape than my 07 accord and my wife's 08 Sienna. Love the look of the black coupe.

    My only 3 comments not complaints are that

    1. There is a ton of brake dust-although it just came off easily
    2. Maybe I've been driving it too enthusiastically but we are getting 21 mpg according to computer
    3. The speedo reads 3 mph higher than GPS.

    Anyway we are very pleased. Good luck with your car and thanks for responding.
  • shiposhipo Member Posts: 9,148
    Comments on your comments:

    1) Keep after the brake dust, if you don't it will become almost permanently adhered to your wheels. If you have no intention of tracking your car you might want to consider low dust pads. I've used PBR/Axxis pads on my BMWs and have had exceptional results (i.e. braking power similar to the OEM pads and virtually no dust).

    2) The beauty of your car is that if you keep your foot out of it, you can actually get over 30 mpg on the highway and more like 25 around town.

    3) All BMWs (and virtually all German cars) will read a couple three MPHs high at 70 MPH. I read a good explanation a couple of years ago on why that is (something to do with laws regarding speedometer error), however, I don't remember the details. That said, I suspect that you'll find that your odometer is pretty much "dead-on-balls-accurate".

    Enjoy your new ride. ;)

    Best regards,
    Shipo
  • docgarydocgary Member Posts: 17
    "There is a ton of brake dust-although it just came off easily"

    I'm surprised the following product is not known by all...

    There is an aluminum plate set that simply fits inside each wheel.
    Its sold in pairs or in 4's. There are a number of vents in the plates
    allowing for air to pass in a specific direction preventing the brake dust
    to settle on the outside of the wheels! The vents prevent any excess heat
    from occuring since you are blocking alot of the brakes ventilation.

    I've used this product on ALL of my cars including BMWs, MBs and Porsche.
    Honestly, the wheels maintain their bright look and virtually no build up
    of dust - all i do is wipe them off maybe once every 2-3 weeks!

    And thats only because im a bit obsessive.
    Between weekly washes, you dont even need wiping the wheels.
    The only caveat to this is if use older carbon pads - they will get dirty.
    Also, its wise to take them off if at the track.(increses temp)

    The product sells in all mail order car supplies...

    I'll check my mags and re-post with the name...

    PS - the product is priced around $50 - 75 for a set of 4.

    docgary

    Well worth it!
  • shiposhipo Member Posts: 9,148
    The problem with the dust shields is that they inhibit the cooling of the brakes and often lead to warped or hot-spotted rotors. I'll NEVER-EVER even remotely consider those devices for any of my cars.

    Best regards,
    Shipo
  • roadburnerroadburner Member Posts: 17,288
    The problem with the dust shields is that they inhibit the cooling of the brakes and often lead to warped or hot-spotted rotors. I'll NEVER-EVER even remotely consider those devices for any of my cars.


    But it's better to have clean wheels than effective brakes, right?

    Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport; 2020 C43; 2021 Sahara 4xe 1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica Wife's: 2015 X1 xDrive28i Son's: 2009 328i; 2018 330i xDrive

  • prophecy210prophecy210 Member Posts: 2
    hey all, im currently looking at a 95 m3 with 55,000 miles. it has a K&N filter with a dinan carbon fiber intake, a carbon fiber hood from VS racing sport, 3pc SSR rims, full exhaust, H&R springs and struts, Dinan strut bar, different brakes(not sure what they really are she ddnt specify), Dinan carbon fiber head covers,carbon fiber interior, sunroof, as for audio she has an integrated DVD alpine deck, coaxial components, 2 10" JL audio subs in a hidden box mounted to the top of the trunk. Now my problem is how much would something like this cost?
  • shiposhipo Member Posts: 9,148
    Short answer: Less than a 1995 M3 with 55,000 miles on the clock that is bone stock. Much less in fact.

    Best Regards,
    Shipo
  • fedlawmanfedlawman Member Posts: 3,118
    What a shame - 95 is the best year for the E36 M3. Non-staggered wheels and OBD I. Another fine car destroyed by JC Whitney...
  • roadburnerroadburner Member Posts: 17,288
    Now my problem is how much would something like this cost?

    About $5000 is all I'd pay- tops.

    Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport; 2020 C43; 2021 Sahara 4xe 1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica Wife's: 2015 X1 xDrive28i Son's: 2009 328i; 2018 330i xDrive

  • prophecy210prophecy210 Member Posts: 2
    hey jus outta curiosity....y so little?? nd if the car was stock...how much would it b worth?
  • docgarydocgary Member Posts: 17
    Well, in all the cars I've installed dust shields in,
    not one proved to be a problem re; warped or hot spotted rotors.

    That's not to say it couldnt or wouldnt happen -
    it just never happened to me in 5-6 cars over the last 10-12 years.

    Now, I NEVER have taken my cars to the track nor drive them in an
    exceedlingly aggressive way;.(unless the're true race cars -ie my 98 carrera..)
    The few times i've had brake service on them there was no issue of rotor defect - only the pads to be replaced.

    I believe the dust shields could .indeed, cause problems
    if hard braking (racing/motocross) were common.
    Or, in VERY hot environments...

    But in New Jersey driving moderate conditions - ill take my chances.

    Docgary
  • fedlawmanfedlawman Member Posts: 3,118
    I agree the dust shields are fine for a grocery getter.
  • fedlawmanfedlawman Member Posts: 3,118
    It's hard to say without seeing the car, Depending on condition, complete maintenance records, personally knowing the owner, etc., a bone stock 95 M3 with 55K miles should fetch between $10K and $15K.

    BTW, some of those upgrades don't necessarily decrease the value of the car - but they don't increase the value either. The Dinan parts and suspension are likely OK, but all the cosmetic do-dads will scare away a BMW enthusiast because the quality is questionable and it brings images of an immature owner with a high likelihood that the car has been abused and not properly maintained.
  • roadburnerroadburner Member Posts: 17,288
    The Dinan parts and suspension are likely OK, but all the cosmetic do-dads will scare away a BMW enthusiast because the quality is questionable and it brings images of an immature owner with a high likelihood that the car has been abused and not properly maintained.

    My thoughts exactly. I'd bet the farm that the owner is a typical "bling it and brag" poseur.

    Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport; 2020 C43; 2021 Sahara 4xe 1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica Wife's: 2015 X1 xDrive28i Son's: 2009 328i; 2018 330i xDrive

  • jdicksonjdickson Member Posts: 1
    hello and thanks in advance.
    i found an '03 325xi with 73K miles for a reduced price of $13K. Carfax reports a lease and then 1 personal owner. this would be my first bmw, assuming it checks out would it be a good deal or something to stay away from due to the mileage?

    thanks, jbd
  • roadburnerroadburner Member Posts: 17,288
    assuming it checks out would it be a good deal or something to stay away from due to the mileage?

    First off, if you haven't purchased the car yet, I would strongly advise you to have it inspected by a qualified BMW tech. Not much goes wrong on the newer 3 Series, but you still want to buy a good one. The mileage wouldn't worry me one bit- assuming that the car has been maintained by the book. In my experience, the common problems for 3 Series cars of that vintage are not that numerous. The water pump and radiator can be expected to need replacement at 60K-100K intervals. The power window regulators can be failure prone, but replacement is fairly simple- a DIY if you have a few tools. Otherwise, the E46(1999-2005) 3 Series cars have proven to be very durable. So much for the internet myth of unreliable BMWs. I have a 1995 318ti with over 112,000 miles on it and the only electrical items I've replaced are a couple of tail light bulbs and a brake light switch.

    In most cases, the best way to keep maintenance costs reasonable is to find a GOOD dealer independent BMW tech; you will likely save 25%-50% on service. I also advise joining the BMW Car Club of America, since many independents and dealers offer 10%-20% discounts on parts and/or labor. All modern BMWs use a Service Interval Indicator to inform the driver when routine maintenance is required. On a 2003 325xi an oil change will be called for at 15,000 mile intervals. A minor service(Inspection I) will come up at 30,000 miles and a major (Inspection II) service at 60,000 miles. I perform an "extra" oil change at 7,500 miles in my driveway. An oil change using synthetic oil will cost $60-$100, an Inspection I $150-$250, and an Inspection II $350-$550. Coolant should be changed every three years-using BMW Coolant ONLY, while the DOT4 brake fluid gets flushed every two years. I assume the car has an automatic? If so, in the newer cars I change the so-called "Lifetime" ATF fluid, transfer case oil, and final drive oil every 50,000 miles. Note that my mileage and cost numbers are approximate. For example, if you change the oil yourself using a BMW filter and Mobil 1 0W-40 or BMW 5W-30 synthetic the cost will be @$50. On the other hand, my local BMW dealer charges very reasonable rates for some of the services that I don't have the time and/or desire to perform. My dealer only charged me $208 to change the ATF transfer case oil on my wife's X3, and they changed the coolant and the brake fluid on my 1995 3 Series for just $143.

    Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport; 2020 C43; 2021 Sahara 4xe 1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica Wife's: 2015 X1 xDrive28i Son's: 2009 328i; 2018 330i xDrive

  • spygamespygame Member Posts: 6
    I guess this is the right place to ask this question. Please forgive me if this is not the right place. I was previously considering a g35x, but recently came across a 06 330xi that i found online.
    details- 46 k miles on it, carfax report is clean with one owner and personal use.
    asking price is around $24k, it has premuim, nav, cold weather package, logic7, everything i would want in my BMW and in the color i want...
    First off, i need to get the car inspected, how would i go about doing that?. The car is at a non-BMW dealership, so how would i go about getting someone to check it out? how much would it cost me to get it inspected?
    Also should i be worried about the miles on it, a little under 3 years on the vehicle, with 46k miles, also factory warranty expires in 4k miles and is this a fair price for the car. The question about extended maintenance and warranty packages? how much? are they worth it? I know this question has been asked millions of times here, and i've gone through most of the threads, but just can't come to a decision about them.
    Thanks in advance.
  • roadburnerroadburner Member Posts: 17,288
    It sounds like a good price. As for the inspection, you need to find a good BMW dealer or independent tech. Start your search for independent BMW techs here. The cost should be less than $200. If the dealer won't let you take the car to a BMW dealer or tech then simply move on.

    Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport; 2020 C43; 2021 Sahara 4xe 1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica Wife's: 2015 X1 xDrive28i Son's: 2009 328i; 2018 330i xDrive

  • cardude_2009cardude_2009 Member Posts: 11
    I have found a 1985-1987 BMW E30 325e and was wondering if you guys had an opinion on the car. It is 1000 dollars and has 195k miles. It is a 5 speed manual and has brand new tires. The condition is pretty good (the paint is worn along with the interior, but its not too bad). The car has been taken care of (routine oil changes and such). I do most all my repairs myself but I have noticed that prices of BMW parts can be a little more expensive (correct me if I'm wrong). I do want to keep costs down including repairs. If you could help me with a decision that would be great.
  • Mr_ShiftrightMr_Shiftright Member Posts: 64,481
    Good model, price is right, but you should have it checked out by a BMW shop regardless to make sure there's nothing expensive in your future.

    Here's your list of potential problem with this early 3 series:

    Checklist for 3 Series
  • cardude_2009cardude_2009 Member Posts: 11
    How long do you think this car can last?
    Obviously you can't know how this individual car will last but do you have a rough estimate on a well maintained E30 325e?
  • roadburnerroadburner Member Posts: 17,288
    Lots of E30s make it to 250000-300000 miles with little drama. If you do buy the car, join the BMW Car club. You'll get access to great technical support and many dealers and independent shops offer significant discounts to members. I think you will be surprised at reasonable cost of most all E30 parts. If you do plan to work on the car yourself you should pick up the Bentley E30 repair manual.

    Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport; 2020 C43; 2021 Sahara 4xe 1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica Wife's: 2015 X1 xDrive28i Son's: 2009 328i; 2018 330i xDrive

Sign In or Register to comment.