I recently purchased E320 and had a similar question. I asked a mechanical specialize in European cars. He told me many MB & BMW owners have oil change done every 5000 miles to keep their engine clean and optimal. The new car warranty only covers the oil change when the light comes on, we will have to pay outside of that coverage. I am willing to spend those money to keep up my car as I intend to keep this car longer than warranty period. Afterall, dealers and the manufacture only care your car for 50,000 miles (36,000/3 year miles for BMW)!
Has anyone had the little red lights go out sporadically on the dash where the time/odometer reads out? My dealer in Omaha wants to replace the entire board, but I am skeptical since sometimes they work OK. Since the dealer treats me like a leper (I made the fatal, unforgivable sin of buying the car at another dealer!)I want to avoid any unnecessary trips. Thanks for any input. Terry Howell
Think a decent manufacturer like BMW or MB is much more worried about reliability and longevity than we might think. Having engines fail or work poorly over long-haul due to inadequate oil service in the first years of life is completely counterproductive for them. A real lose-lose situation, and one they have little incentive to encourage.
First, they want to reduce warranty claims during the original factory bumper-to-bumper period. Second, they want viable CPO programs. A BMW CPO car's warranty, which is different than the new car warranty, covers an additional 2 years or 100,000 total miles. Third, reliability problems impact potential buyer perceptions of a marque and model. Fourth, they can influence lease residual values and harm future resale values. Fifth, not to mention what happens when people see poor Consumer Reports or JD Powers long-term reliability results; total sales can decline.
As CR has pointed out in their long-term studies, exceeding the manufacturer's recommendations might bring you peace of mind, but it is rarely warranted on the science (unless there is something unique about where or how you drive).
A dealer will make money on the work. They are the only ones with a pure personal, selfish financial interest to encourage unnecessary oil service.
Plus, if the recommended oil service is truly inadequate and causes problems, the dealer makes money doing warranty work for which the manufacturer pays them. Rebuilding or replacing engines during warranty periods will make a dealer more money than one oil service at 3K or 5K miles.
tlmmhowell... I've had both my '98 CPO 540i6 and my wife's '00 CPO 323iA worked on at Markel BMW, Omaha, NE. Both cars bought elsewhere. Other than not getting a loaner car, we've been treated very well. I do hate Markel's poor physical layout (way too crowded and hard to get into or out of the service area, with all the used cars, the retaining wall, and little concrete to drive on)and lack of decent waiting room if you wait during the service. Wife's was car at Markel this week. They did a lot of work. Was a pleasant experience. I like the two service techs (Glenn and the other guy).
Are you a member of BMW CCA? We are and we show our cards for all visits so we get the parts discounts. Plus the stickers are on our cars.
I had the dash computer lights replaced on my 540i6 recently. Some of the red lights were burning out. Replaced under CPO warranty. Done by Markel. Now all lights work all time. Have had no issues since.
The newly-opened United BMW in Roswell hosted the Susan G. Komen driving event today, and I paid a visit during my lunch "hour." Overall, it's a great way to test drive some cars without either a salesman or the dramatic performance of feigning to be in the market.
First up, a "new" 745i. It was an '02 model, but already had 23k miles. The interior, in my opinion, seems like a rough draft. The lines aren't clean, the ergonomics aren't terribly intuitive, the seats--while supremely comfortable--are tarnished by the thousands of little ventilation holes in the leather. The steering wheel feels cheap and uncomfortable with the buttons at 10 and 2 o'clock. Overall, it feels cluttered and aloof--no warm cockpit feel like my 530i. I didn't bother fiddling with iDrive too much, but from my little experimentation it seemed like a royal pain, and way too distracting to operate while driving. Speaking of driving, the car was smooth, but not much more so than my 530i. The engine sounds and feels very refined, and the body was well-composed taking turns at speeds most 7-series owners probably never do. Nevertheless, there's no misconception you're driving a heavy car around. Despite its mighty thrust, it didn't feel much quicker than my 530i (manual).
Next was a 330ci (non-sport). In many ways, it's the antithesis of the 745i: 2-door, 6-cylinder, small, sporty, spartan, simple. Settling in after the 7-series, the interior at first feels a little bland and basic, but not cheap. Unfortunately, this was an automatic (the only manual they had was a Z3 2.5). I played with the manual mode, but the second-delay for up- and down-shifts, plus the computer's implicit "trust me, you want to shift now" attitude reminded me of why I bought a stick. It felt great on the road--not as hushed as the big 7, but certainly comfortable. It was noticeably more nimble than the 745 (I should hope so, considering it's more than a half-ton lighter), but not substantially nimbler than my 530i.
Next, the 540i sport wagon (with sport package). Ah, nice. Everything was familiar, given the sibling relationship to my car. It, too, was an automatic, but it felt more acceptable for a wagon, and one with the V8, at that. The engine wasn't as smooth and refined as the 3.0 inline, but, man, was that thrust fun. Even with the wagon's extra weight and the power robbery from the torque converter, the V8 pulled strongly at all engine speeds. And the handling was nearly as crisp as my 530i, although the steering had a somewhat vague on-center feel, and feedback wasn't as tactile as the R&P setup on my 530i. Nevertheless, this impression wasn't nearly as obvious as the engine's power, which I think makes a compelling reason for buying this car over the 525 wagon.
Finally, the X5 3.0. First sitting down, it felt awfully similar to my 530i, but everything--the driving position, the stereo and HVAC controls--seems more upright and taller. I quickly got used to it. The sixer works relatively well in this car: It has no trouble getting this heavy car moving, and the automatic smooths over the heavy shifting you put the engine through when driving aggressively. But, when you ask for full throttle, it simply runs out of steam. Passing a semi along a 2-lane road was scarier than I expected; At 4500 pounds or so, I guess it's asking a lot from the 3.0 engine. For an SUV (sorry, an "SAV"), it was amazingly nimble and composed...far less floaty and truckish than my brother-in-law's Explorer. Then again, considering the 5-series sport wagon has more room than the X5 (if memory serves), I really see no reason for its existence other than appealing to the SUV market.
While chewing on a complimentary burger afterwards, I was talking with the young folks who travel around with the cars. I asked about the absence of M cars. The guy said, "We had a few when this program started, but in that first year, we had one M3 flipped, two other accidents, a few speeding tickets, and bunch of destroyed transmissions. Even the 530i manual we started with this year has already gone through FIVE CLUTCHES [they started out in April!], and has been taken out now."
All in all, a fun way to test drive the latest, and, of course, contribute to a good cause as well.
One last note: The dealer also hosted the silver M5 from the BMW Films short movie, "Star" (with Madonna) in the showroom. Very cool.
It's a roof rack that mounts in 4 threaded holes in your roof. Check along the black molding that runs the length of the roof on both sides. There should be 4 little covers that you can pop up to reveal the holes.
I'm feeling pretty good for having picked up a brand new 2002 M5 for under $70k in March! (My dealer kept a 10% deposit from a bozo that special ordered it and then defaulted - and passed part of the savings on to me for having been a previous & loyal customer.)
Seriously, I just advised someone in my office to go through discounted ED for a 530i after they had major transmission problems with a new Acura. They haven't finalized the order yet, but the deal is 2003 530i 5-speed w/ sport, premium, xenon, hi-fi stereo for just under $42k (about $1,500 over ED invoice price). She's estimated trip costs at under $1k for 3-4 days.
I have nothing against the E320 itself, but that price is outrageous, considering you can get a 2003 540i 6-speed or steptronic sport for less through ED. I don't consider myself to be a cheapskate, but I do think that "value" is important whether you are spending $30k or $130k.
I recently moved from hot, muggy Houston to cool Asheville, NC. But I noticed that my auxiliary fan runs for 1-2 minutes after I turn the car off. This happens even when I don't use the A/C during my drive home. The coolant level is fine and a recent oil change did not stop the problem.
The only thing I can think may be the cause is that my driveway here is a very steep and long uphill climb just before I turn off the engine.
Anything else I need to check before I attribute it to the driveway?
P.S. To update my previous post regarding increased tire noise, I found out that my front tires were "cupping". The Michelin dealer in town said the noise was due to lack of rotation and he couldn't understand why BMW recommends not to rotate. The BMW dealer thought it was a defective tire. However when I called Michelin customer service, they stated that it was an alignment problem. This seems to be the most believable problem since I have never had cupping with other BMW's. It shows you how much bad advice is out there from so called "pros".
Very minor changes and the sunroof is now standard. Price increase was nominal.
I looked at getting a 530i sport last year and, in the DC area, would not have bothered with snow tires. However, if you are in area where snow is more frequent, snow tires and steel rims are recommended, especially if you opt for the sport package. As best I can tell from my research, the 3-series and 5-series handle about as well as any RWD cars in the snow, but they are not FWD or AWD. So snow tires will help.
rogerab... Ya gotta do some research. Stop by a decent bookstore or magazine rack. Check out the October 2002 issues of C&D, R&T, and MT. Each has their annual new car issue, charting the changes. Here is what C&D wrote:
"All 5-series models offer a DVD-based nav system, and a sunroof is standard on all six-cylinder models. All 5-series, except the 540i wagon, come standard with rear head airbags, including the M5. The eight-cylinder 5-series get a new Sport package...."
I've never purchased a pre-owned car before and was wondering if it is wise or allowable to take a CPO car and have it checked out by an independent mechanic before purchase. Or does one assume that since it is certified and will be under warranty for awhile that all is OK?
cmr530i... If you can afford it and have the time and know a decent independent mechanic, it is ALWAYS a great idea to have another pair of knowledgeable eyes and ears pore over a used car. CPO program is a good deal. But a thorough inspection by someone representing you ('cause you're paying 'em) is prudent.
There have been some good recent articles in Roundel and Bimmer magazines on BMW CPO program. Both point out that it IS possible for unscrupulous dealers to pass off cars that haven't really undergone full CPO certification. People have gotten problem CPO cars. (But people buy new cars that are problematic.) A couple dealers had their participation in the program suspended, were reevaluated for compliance, and then reinstated. Most dealers are scrupulous.
Thank you for your input. I agree that an outside inspection would be worth every penny for peace of mind. Interesting info on unscrupulous dealers getting suspension from CPO program.
ajrose... You should read the New Car issues of C&D, MT, R&T, etc. None is reporting any significant "technical" changes.
But then again, not exactly sure what you mean by "technical"? Things like new or modified engines or transmissions? Or revised weight, length, or wheelbase?
· Pre-wiring for auxiliary input standard on all radio systems
· Moonroof added as standard feature to all 6-cylinder models
525i sedan
· Rear Head Protection System (HPS) added as a standard feature
· Rain Sensor has been added to Premium package
· Standard alloy wheel has been changed
530i sedan
· Rear Head Protection System (HPS) added as a standard feature
540i sedan
· Rear Head Protection System (HPS) added as a standard feature
· New Sport Package including front and rear spoilers, black side molding, M suspension II, black roof liner, M footrest, 18 inch wheels, titanium rings around gauges in instrument panel, and visible exhaust pipes.
540i six-speed manual transmission
· Rear Head Protection System (HPS) added as a standard feature
· New standard Sport Package including front and rear spoilers, black side molding, M suspension II, black roof liner, M footrest, 18 inch wheels, titanium rings around gauges in instrument panel, and visible exhaust pipes.
540i sport wagon
· New optional Sport Package including front and rear spoilers, black side molding, M suspension II, black roof liner, M footrest, 18 inch wheels, titanium rings around gauges in instrument panel, and visible exhaust pipes.
M5
· Rear Head Protection System (HPS) added as a standard feature
· Navigation upgraded to DVD-based system
· Pre-wiring for auxiliary input standard on all radio systems
Thanks snagiel. You're informed and helpful as usual. I enjoy your posts. Does anyone have pricing experience witht an 03 yet? I'm looking at the 540 6 speed with an early January delivery. I've taken several test drives and always end up with a big silly grin on my face.
I am considering purchasing a 530i and am concerned about its handling in the snow. I presently drive an Audi A6 Quattro and live int the northeast. I's appreciate any input.
This has been discussed a number of times in the past (more or less coinciding with last winter, probably). A RWD car will inherently be less capable traction-wise than an AWD model, so I wouldn't expect Quattro-level adhesion. BUT, tires make a HUGE difference in this regard: I would feel safer driving a 530i with dedicated winter/ice tires than an A6 Quattro with summer/performance tires. So, to best deal with those Noreastah's (I grew up in Boston so I can say it like that), I'd recommend a quality set of 16" steel wheels shod with good winter tires. You can buy a decent set at TireRack.com starting at around $1000, I think, depending on how fancy you want the wheels to be. You can then swap them out yourself every winter, and prolong the life of your summer tires. This setup should keep you rolling through all but the worst of blizzards that may roll through.
I registered online for a test drive in the new 745 for the month of October at a local dealership in SoCal for the Komen driving event that you participated in. I was disappointed that I could only register for one test drive, yet you said you were able to drive many models. (I also wanted to test the 330ci.) I am wondering if I will be able to test other models once I get there. Also,the test drive "appointment" times were listed as one hour apart. I chose a 2pm driving time. Do I get to test drive for the entire hour? I just want to know what to expect. Any info would be appreciated.
As BMW is anxious to display their products,I found the test driving very open in Va last month. I was allowed to drive to my heart's content. It was a little disappointing in that there was only one manual shift,a Z3. But other than that,it was great fun. I was a little surprised that the 540i wagon proved the revelation of the event. I really loved it.
When it was in Des Moines in early Aug, they allowed you to drive as many cars as you wanted. Over and over. But the computer will only allow you to sign up for one test. I was told they do that just in case a ton of people show up that day and want to drive. They want everyone to have a chance to drive something at least once. But on the day of driving, I would just finish one drive and then ask the person assigning cars what was available. Either could ask for next car or put your name on a waiting list for a specific car.
Think I ended up driving about 3.5 hours. Drove a ton of cars. Sedans, X5, roadsters, convertibles, coupes. Our pool had 2 manuals. We also had two roadsters (Z3 2.5 and Z3 3.0). Course is set out. I posted my comments about the drive on this board back in early Aug, think 8/3/02. That post had the time and distance of our course. Each site different.
When it was in Des Moines in early Aug, they allowed you to drive as many cars as you wanted. Over and over. But the computer will only allow you to sign up for one test. I was told they do that just in case a ton of people show up that day and want to drive. They want everyone to have a chance to drive something at least once. But on the day of driving, I would just finish one drive and then ask the person assigning cars what was available. Either could ask for next car or put your name on a waiting list for a specific car.
Think I ended up driving about 3.5 hours. Drove a ton of cars. Sedans, X5, roadsters, convertibles, coupes. Our pool had 2 manuals. We also had two roadsters (Z3 2.5 and Z3 3.0). Course is set out. I posted my comments about the drive on this board back in early Aug, think 8/3/02. That post had the time and distance of our course. Each site different.
merckx and riez are correct. I suggest you attend during a weekday, since it tends to draw far more people on weekends. My "appointment time" wasn't even used, since the car (745i) was available when I arrived. I participated on two sequential days, and both routes were between 8 and 9 miles (about 10 minutes). I don't think your dealer's route will be much longer. Enjoy!
Thank you for your comments on your test drive experiences. I am looking forward to the event and will drive all models that I can. I chose a Sunday, but after snagiel's comments about crowds maybe I'll be tempted to take a "mental health" day off from work! I could get some serious "therapy" in less than an hour! ;-)
Thinking it can be found on BMW NA web site. Should give places and dates. Believe I looked it up once there. Thinking there is also a phone number you can call with. (Might also be found on Susan B Kosman Foundation web site.)
I am thinking of ordering a 530i with the Topaz Blue metalic paint, However, I have never owned a blue car and have seen other cars where the blue almost seems to fade away or wear off leaving a very dull finish. Does anyone have experience with blue on an older BMW and how it has held up?
First of all, Topaz Blue is a relatively new color (only a few years, I think). Second, in general, paints have chemically changed significantly over the years, mainly due to the severe impact the old formulas had on the environment. [I read somewhere that a new Honda Civic running at 55mph emits less harmful emissions and gasses than an early 60's Mustang PARKED IN THE GARAGE, with its unsealed fuel tank and the aforementioned paint.]
I'm not a chemist and can't get into much better details, but many auto enthusiasts have lamented many of the new paint formulas, since they are much softer and more prone to chip and scratch. However, I haven't heard any specific complaints that the paints fade any easier or faster.
Here's my suggestion: If you like the color, buy it. Avoid parking the car in intense sunlight day after day. Either find some shaded/covered parking, or buy a Noah cover from your dealer ($150-200). And be sure to apply wax at least every other month or so, and use a mild car wash solution (i.e. not Dove), to help best protect the paint from UV radiation.
Anyone have experience in financing for European Delivery. My local dealer says that I cannot use an internet lender like Peoples First becuase the car will be out of the country until it arrives here for my local pickup. They are pushing me towards BMW financing at 6.5% vs. the Peoples First rate of 4.75%. Any help would be much appreciated.
Thanks Riez. I called the number which is there on the website. Unfortunately, there are no upcoming event in this area now. The representative told that it might have been over for this year here.
9700 miles on my 530i (manual, sp, pp, x's). No problems except had to add one quart of oil at 8900 miles. I absolutely love driving this car. I think the car really shines on country and canyon roads (especially with a radar detector keeping watch). I love down-shifting into sharp turns and then punching it out of the turn. A thrill ride. The car handles excellent! I find my shifting is smoother under harder acceleration, especially the 1-2 shift, than under moderate acceleration.
This weekend I am scheduled for a test drive of the new Mercedes E320 and E500 at a Mercedes sponsored event on a runway course. It should be fun and also a neat comparison to my BMW. However, no matter what, I think my BMW will get my vote, if nothing else because of the manual transmission option. But I could be tempted by the gobs of power of the E500 (until I see the sticker price, that is).
I just checked the 2003 pricing against what I purchased my 2002 for in December, 2001, with same options, the difference in the invoice price is just over $1,000 while the MSRP rose by $700.
Question: The owners manual states that the automatic recirculated-air control (AUC) switches back and forth between outside air supply and recirculated air within the vehicle depending on the air quality (page 110). What constitues bad air quality? If it is smoggy outside? if I am behind a bus? Also, how do others use this feature?
It is easier to re-cool inside,already cooled air,so it is more ecomical to do so. of corse,it is not as fresh as outside,but warmer,air. So if you use the auto re-cool or not depends on what matters most at that time,cooling the car down as quickly and as ecomically as possible,or keeping the car at maximum freshness. I usually recicculate for about the first 20 minutesof trip,then go with outside air.
Yes, the HVAC system incorporates an air filtration element (well, two of them, actually), as well as a sensor that can measure some rudimentary air quality levels. I believe it tests only for carbon monoxide, which is an odorless and invisible, but deadly, gas emitted by exhaust systems.
I prefer fresh outside air during most times (except when it's extremely cold or hot out, and I'm trying to quickly moderate interior temperatures), so I usually keep the "A" (automatic recirculation) setting on. When extremely hot out, I'll roll down all the windows, hit the "max" button (which activates recirculating air), and roll the windows up within a few seconds once the interior has reached outside ambient temperature. I'll also manually activate the recirculation mode when I approach heavy traffic and see a particularly dirty truck or car ahead (i.e. spewing thick smoke out the back).
I believe it depends on the amount of particulates in the air. I forget how BMW measures this. Thing I remember is that smelly air doesn't necessarily have particulates, so the smell of nature or fumes will not trigger the Recirculate feature.
Not sure if I would want to wait that long. I have heard people not checking oil until the oil light came on and adding. I just check once every couple thousand miles or so. I did add around 5,000 miles, I think.
The computer will (should) trigger an alert when the oil level is low, but I agree, I wouldn't wait that long, especially since new BMW engines have a tendency to consume some oil. (A quart or two within the first 15k miles is OK, but more than that would concern me).
After the engine is warmed up, let it cool off for a few minutes, and--on level ground--check the dipstick (wipe first, then read the level). If it's very close to the "min" (top) bar, you can add a quart of Castrol Syntec 5W-30 (virtually the same as the Castrol BMW blend).
I just drove the E500 and, believe me, the "gobs of power" is not worth the sticker price of nearly $63,000 on the model I drove. And if you added a few other options that are standard on my M5, you can get it close to $70k.
As for those "gobs", it still does not feel as quick to me as a 540iA, definitely not as quick as a 540i 6-speed (I used to own one) and maybe only marginally quicker than the 530i 5-speed. The 530i sport still handles better than any MB sedan product, IMHO. As for a comparison with the M5, the only thing the E500 comes close to is its price.
I think the new E is an attractive improvement over the old one, but it still won't win the hearts of a true driving enthusiast.
Just use the BMW 5w30 synthetic. It's $3.80 a quart. BMW's version meets ACEA A3/B3 specifications for high-performance / extended drain. The equivalent weight Syntec doesn't.
Interesting; From what I'd read, there was virtually no difference between the stock Castrol blend and the BMW-specific stuff. Can you point us to any studies or proof that suggests the BMW oil is superior?
Comments
2001 Prelude Type SH, 2022 Highlander XLE AWD, 2025 Camry SE AWD
Terry Howell
First, they want to reduce warranty claims during the original factory bumper-to-bumper period. Second, they want viable CPO programs. A BMW CPO car's warranty, which is different than the new car warranty, covers an additional 2 years or 100,000 total miles. Third, reliability problems impact potential buyer perceptions of a marque and model. Fourth, they can influence lease residual values and harm future resale values. Fifth, not to mention what happens when people see poor Consumer Reports or JD Powers long-term reliability results; total sales can decline.
As CR has pointed out in their long-term studies, exceeding the manufacturer's recommendations might bring you peace of mind, but it is rarely warranted on the science (unless there is something unique about where or how you drive).
A dealer will make money on the work. They are the only ones with a pure personal, selfish financial interest to encourage unnecessary oil service.
Plus, if the recommended oil service is truly inadequate and causes problems, the dealer makes money doing warranty work for which the manufacturer pays them. Rebuilding or replacing engines during warranty periods will make a dealer more money than one oil service at 3K or 5K miles.
Are you a member of BMW CCA? We are and we show our cards for all visits so we get the parts discounts. Plus the stickers are on our cars.
I had the dash computer lights replaced on my 540i6 recently. Some of the red lights were burning out. Replaced under CPO warranty. Done by Markel. Now all lights work all time. Have had no issues since.
First up, a "new" 745i. It was an '02 model, but already had 23k miles. The interior, in my opinion, seems like a rough draft. The lines aren't clean, the ergonomics aren't terribly intuitive, the seats--while supremely comfortable--are tarnished by the thousands of little ventilation holes in the leather. The steering wheel feels cheap and uncomfortable with the buttons at 10 and 2 o'clock. Overall, it feels cluttered and aloof--no warm cockpit feel like my 530i. I didn't bother fiddling with iDrive too much, but from my little experimentation it seemed like a royal pain, and way too distracting to operate while driving. Speaking of driving, the car was smooth, but not much more so than my 530i. The engine sounds and feels very refined, and the body was well-composed taking turns at speeds most 7-series owners probably never do. Nevertheless, there's no misconception you're driving a heavy car around. Despite its mighty thrust, it didn't feel much quicker than my 530i (manual).
Next was a 330ci (non-sport). In many ways, it's the antithesis of the 745i: 2-door, 6-cylinder, small, sporty, spartan, simple. Settling in after the 7-series, the interior at first feels a little bland and basic, but not cheap. Unfortunately, this was an automatic (the only manual they had was a Z3 2.5). I played with the manual mode, but the second-delay for up- and down-shifts, plus the computer's implicit "trust me, you want to shift now" attitude reminded me of why I bought a stick. It felt great on the road--not as hushed as the big 7, but certainly comfortable. It was noticeably more nimble than the 745 (I should hope so, considering it's more than a half-ton lighter), but not substantially nimbler than my 530i.
Next, the 540i sport wagon (with sport package). Ah, nice. Everything was familiar, given the sibling relationship to my car. It, too, was an automatic, but it felt more acceptable for a wagon, and one with the V8, at that. The engine wasn't as smooth and refined as the 3.0 inline, but, man, was that thrust fun. Even with the wagon's extra weight and the power robbery from the torque converter, the V8 pulled strongly at all engine speeds. And the handling was nearly as crisp as my 530i, although the steering had a somewhat vague on-center feel, and feedback wasn't as tactile as the R&P setup on my 530i. Nevertheless, this impression wasn't nearly as obvious as the engine's power, which I think makes a compelling reason for buying this car over the 525 wagon.
Finally, the X5 3.0. First sitting down, it felt awfully similar to my 530i, but everything--the driving position, the stereo and HVAC controls--seems more upright and taller. I quickly got used to it. The sixer works relatively well in this car: It has no trouble getting this heavy car moving, and the automatic smooths over the heavy shifting you put the engine through when driving aggressively. But, when you ask for full throttle, it simply runs out of steam. Passing a semi along a 2-lane road was scarier than I expected; At 4500 pounds or so, I guess it's asking a lot from the 3.0 engine. For an SUV (sorry, an "SAV"), it was amazingly nimble and composed...far less floaty and truckish than my brother-in-law's Explorer. Then again, considering the 5-series sport wagon has more room than the X5 (if memory serves), I really see no reason for its existence other than appealing to the SUV market.
While chewing on a complimentary burger afterwards, I was talking with the young folks who travel around with the cars. I asked about the absence of M cars. The guy said, "We had a few when this program started, but in that first year, we had one M3 flipped, two other accidents, a few speeding tickets, and bunch of destroyed transmissions. Even the 530i manual we started with this year has already gone through FIVE CLUTCHES [they started out in April!], and has been taken out now."
All in all, a fun way to test drive the latest, and, of course, contribute to a good cause as well.
One last note: The dealer also hosted the silver M5 from the BMW Films short movie, "Star" (with Madonna) in the showroom. Very cool.
It's a roof rack that mounts in 4 threaded holes in your roof. Check along the black molding that runs the length of the roof on both sides. There should be 4 little covers that you can pop up to reveal the holes.
IMHO, this is the only way to go!
-murray
DL
I'm feeling pretty good for having picked up a brand new 2002 M5 for under $70k in March! (My dealer kept a 10% deposit from a bozo that special ordered it and then defaulted - and passed part of the savings on to me for having been a previous & loyal customer.)
Seriously, I just advised someone in my office to go through discounted ED for a 530i after they had major transmission problems with a new Acura. They haven't finalized the order yet, but the deal is 2003 530i 5-speed w/ sport, premium, xenon, hi-fi stereo for just under $42k (about $1,500 over ED invoice price). She's estimated trip costs at under $1k for 3-4 days.
I have nothing against the E320 itself, but that price is outrageous, considering you can get a 2003 540i 6-speed or steptronic sport for less through ED. I don't consider myself to be a cheapskate, but I do think that "value" is important whether you are spending $30k or $130k.
The only thing I can think may be the cause is that my driveway here is a very steep and long uphill climb just before I turn off the engine.
Anything else I need to check before I attribute it to the driveway?
P.S. To update my previous post regarding increased tire noise, I found out that my front tires were "cupping". The Michelin dealer in town said the noise was due to lack of rotation and he couldn't understand why BMW recommends not to rotate. The BMW dealer thought it was a defective tire. However when I called Michelin customer service, they stated that it was an alignment problem. This seems to be the most believable problem since I have never had cupping with other BMW's.
It shows you how much bad advice is out there from so called "pros".
Does the 530 handle well in snow conditions or are snow tires required.
I looked at getting a 530i sport last year and, in the DC area, would not have bothered with snow tires. However, if you are in area where snow is more frequent, snow tires and steel rims are recommended, especially if you opt for the sport package. As best I can tell from my research, the 3-series and 5-series handle about as well as any RWD cars in the snow, but they are not FWD or AWD. So snow tires will help.
"All 5-series models offer a DVD-based nav system, and a sunroof is standard on all six-cylinder models. All 5-series, except the 540i wagon, come standard with rear head airbags, including the M5. The eight-cylinder 5-series get a new Sport package...."
There have been some good recent articles in Roundel and Bimmer magazines on BMW CPO program. Both point out that it IS possible for unscrupulous dealers to pass off cars that haven't really undergone full CPO certification. People have gotten problem CPO cars. (But people buy new cars that are problematic.) A couple dealers had their participation in the program suspended, were reevaluated for compliance, and then reinstated. Most dealers are scrupulous.
I've got an auto lease expiring mid Nov. 02.
Looking for a "great" lease deal on a 530 (03 or 02). Where can I get my "best deal?"
Thanks,
-Jeff
But then again, not exactly sure what you mean by "technical"? Things like new or modified engines or transmissions? Or revised weight, length, or wheelbase?
All 5 Series Models:
· Navigation upgraded to DVD-based system
· Pre-wiring for auxiliary input standard on all radio systems
· Moonroof added as standard feature to all 6-cylinder models
525i sedan
· Rear Head Protection System (HPS) added as a standard feature
· Rain Sensor has been added to Premium package
· Standard alloy wheel has been changed
530i sedan
· Rear Head Protection System (HPS) added as a standard feature
540i sedan
· Rear Head Protection System (HPS) added as a standard feature
· New Sport Package including front and rear spoilers, black side molding, M suspension II, black roof liner, M footrest, 18 inch wheels, titanium rings around gauges in instrument panel, and visible exhaust pipes.
540i six-speed manual transmission
· Rear Head Protection System (HPS) added as a standard feature
· New standard Sport Package including front and rear spoilers, black side molding, M suspension II, black roof liner, M footrest, 18 inch wheels, titanium rings around gauges in instrument panel, and visible exhaust pipes.
540i sport wagon
· New optional Sport Package including front and rear spoilers, black side molding, M suspension II, black roof liner, M footrest, 18 inch wheels, titanium rings around gauges in instrument panel, and visible exhaust pipes.
M5
· Rear Head Protection System (HPS) added as a standard feature
· Navigation upgraded to DVD-based system
· Pre-wiring for auxiliary input standard on all radio systems
Does anyone have pricing experience witht an 03 yet? I'm looking at the 540 6 speed with an early January delivery. I've taken several test drives and always end up with a big silly grin on my face.
I was allowed to drive to my heart's content. It was a little disappointing in that there was only one manual shift,a Z3. But other than that,it was great fun. I was a little surprised that the 540i wagon proved the revelation of the event. I really loved it.
Think I ended up driving about 3.5 hours. Drove a ton of cars. Sedans, X5, roadsters, convertibles, coupes. Our pool had 2 manuals. We also had two roadsters (Z3 2.5 and Z3 3.0). Course is set out. I posted my comments about the drive on this board back in early Aug, think 8/3/02. That post had the time and distance of our course. Each site different.
Think I ended up driving about 3.5 hours. Drove a ton of cars. Sedans, X5, roadsters, convertibles, coupes. Our pool had 2 manuals. We also had two roadsters (Z3 2.5 and Z3 3.0). Course is set out. I posted my comments about the drive on this board back in early Aug, think 8/3/02. That post had the time and distance of our course. Each site different.
Does anyone know about such an event in San
Francisco bay area? I would love to participate!
I'm not a chemist and can't get into much better details, but many auto enthusiasts have lamented many of the new paint formulas, since they are much softer and more prone to chip and scratch. However, I haven't heard any specific complaints that the paints fade any easier or faster.
Here's my suggestion: If you like the color, buy it. Avoid parking the car in intense sunlight day after day. Either find some shaded/covered parking, or buy a Noah cover from your dealer ($150-200). And be sure to apply wax at least every other month or so, and use a mild car wash solution (i.e. not Dove), to help best protect the paint from UV radiation.
Thanks in advance
for this year here.
This weekend I am scheduled for a test drive of the new Mercedes E320 and E500 at a Mercedes sponsored event on a runway course. It should be fun and also a neat comparison to my BMW. However, no matter what, I think my BMW will get my vote, if nothing else because of the manual transmission option. But I could be tempted by the gobs of power of the E500 (until I see the sticker price, that is).
I just checked the 2003 pricing against what I purchased my 2002 for in December, 2001, with same options, the difference in the invoice price is just over $1,000 while the MSRP rose by $700.
Question: The owners manual states that the automatic recirculated-air control (AUC) switches back and forth between outside air supply and recirculated air within the vehicle depending on the air quality (page 110). What constitues bad air quality? If it is smoggy outside? if I am behind a bus? Also, how do others use this feature?
I prefer fresh outside air during most times (except when it's extremely cold or hot out, and I'm trying to quickly moderate interior temperatures), so I usually keep the "A" (automatic recirculation) setting on. When extremely hot out, I'll roll down all the windows, hit the "max" button (which activates recirculating air), and roll the windows up within a few seconds once the interior has reached outside ambient temperature. I'll also manually activate the recirculation mode when I approach heavy traffic and see a particularly dirty truck or car ahead (i.e. spewing thick smoke out the back).
After the engine is warmed up, let it cool off for a few minutes, and--on level ground--check the dipstick (wipe first, then read the level). If it's very close to the "min" (top) bar, you can add a quart of Castrol Syntec 5W-30 (virtually the same as the Castrol BMW blend).
As for those "gobs", it still does not feel as quick to me as a 540iA, definitely not as quick as a 540i 6-speed (I used to own one) and maybe only marginally quicker than the 530i 5-speed. The 530i sport still handles better than any MB sedan product, IMHO. As for a comparison with the M5, the only thing the E500 comes close to is its price.
I think the new E is an attractive improvement over the old one, but it still won't win the hearts of a true driving enthusiast.
Jack
Thanks!