Pre-Purchase 840Ci Inspection Tips

[razimm]

I am thinking of purchasing a 1997 840Ci with 50,000 miles. It is a one owner, nonsmoker owner and never used in winter. I would appreciate any tips on what I should look for when inspecting the car. What are the weak points of this car? Are there any up coming major maintance items? Any thoughts on the fair value of the car would also be appreciated. Thanks for your input.

[witeshark]

If it's an auto, has the transmission fluid been replaced? Has the cooling system been serviced and does it have complete service records?

[Kai]

Book value for the car is around $20,000, fair $18,000 and excellent $21,000. I would say a reasonable value by the book for the one you are looking at is $19,000 to $20,000. It only came in auto so do like ws said and see about the ATF. For that much money and on a low mileage vehicle complete service records should be included, or almost complete. Best of luck with the purchase. Be sure to get it checked out by a dealership prior to purchasing, or find a good reliable independent with a great reputation.

[razimm]

Originally Posted by witeshark

If it's an auto, has the transmission fluid been replaced? Has the cooling system been serviced and does it have complete service records?

Thanks for your comments. Yes it is an automatic. I will check the fluid history. Thanks. Rudy

[razimm]

Originally Posted by Kai

Book value for the car is around $20,000, fair $18,000 and excellent $21,000. I would say a reasonable value by the book for the one you are looking at is $19,000 to $20,000. It only came in auto so do like ws said and see about the ATF. For that much money and on a low mileage vehicle complete service records should be included, or almost complete. Best of luck with the purchase. Be sure to get it checked out by a dealership prior to purchasing, or find a good reliable independent with a great reputation.

Thanks for your comments and price estimates. Asking price is $22,000 so perhaps there is some room for negoiations. All maintenance records are available so I will look through them too. Thanks again. Rudy

[Kai]

If all records are there and it looks good from the records then you might not get much off of his price, but I would say there is a little room there. Best wishes.