BMW Virgin: Interested in buying an E36 - BMW Forum

mhardy85 · 04-07-2009, 03:35 PM

Sorry if this has been asked before, if it has, point me in the right direction.

I'm looking at buying a 97 328is, 5 speed with 215,000 KMs. The asking price is 5600 CDN. I don't know anything about BMWs and would just like to know if there are any issues I should be looking for. I've always had Hondas and Acuras, so I know what to look for with them, but when it comes to any BMW, I'm lost. With a car of this age and mileage, what do you guys suggest I check out? Is there any specific maintenance I should check on? I'll be asking about timing belt, water pump, but that's about all I know to ask.

If I get the car for 5000, is that a decent deal?

Thanks for the help, it will be greatly appreciated.

witeshark · 04-07-2009, 04:02 PM

There's a lot of info to help you right in this section.

johnnyBgood · 04-07-2009, 04:35 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by mhardy85

Sorry if this has been asked before, if it has, point me in the right direction.

I'm looking at buying a 97 328is, 5 speed with 215,000 KMs. The asking price is 5600 CDN. I don't know anything about BMWs and would just like to know if there are any issues I should be looking for. I've always had Hondas and Acuras, so I know what to look for with them, but when it comes to any BMW, I'm lost. With a car of this age and mileage, what do you guys suggest I check out? Is there any specific maintenance I should check on? I'll be asking about timing belt, water pump, but that's about all I know to ask.

If I get the car for 5000, is that a decent deal?

Thanks for the help, it will be greatly appreciated.

Found this link for you.......the coolant system is prone to fail, things to look for are listed in the link.....I have had some experience with all listed on the coolant issuses...ended up replacing water pump, thermostat housing...1st & then eventually the upper
radiator neck failed.....parts are fairly cheap & I consider the e36 one the easiest cars to service.......

United Bimmer - BMW Enthusiast Community and Forums : Bimmer Technical Help

link for E36 DIY's
BMW E36 DIY (Do It Yourself)

p.s. no timing belt on the 2.8 DOHC 24 Valve Inline 6......timing chain

mhardy85 · 04-07-2009, 04:41 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by johnnybayonne

Found this link for you.......the coolant system is prone to fail, things to look for are listed in the link.....I have had some experience with all listed on the coolant issuses...ended up replacing water pump, thermostat housing...1st & then eventually the upper
radiator neck failed.....parts are fairly cheap & I consider the e36 one the easiest cars to service.......

United Bimmer - BMW Enthusiast Community and Forums : Bimmer Technical Help

link for E36 DIY's
BMW E36 DIY (Do It Yourself)

That's exactly what I was looking for, thank you. This will be a great help

johnnyBgood · 04-07-2009, 04:52 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by mhardy85

That's exactly what I was looking for, thank you. This will be a great help

You will not be disappointed, The E36 inline 6 is a great car!

johnny,

mhardy85 · 04-07-2009, 05:03 PM

I'm leaning towards it, I'm just weary about maintenance costs. I don't mind doing most regular maintenance myself, I just don't want to have to pay too much for the parts. I'm sure I can find lots of info on that throughout this forum though.

johnnyBgood · 04-07-2009, 05:42 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by mhardy85

I'm leaning towards it, I'm just weary about maintenance costs. I don't mind doing most regular maintenance myself, I just don't want to have to pay too much for the parts. I'm sure I can find lots of info on that throughout this forum though.

Parts prices are not bad at all......example: water pump about $67.00, radiator $166.00 link below:

Select Your Model