Getting A Bmw Within The Week - BMW Forum

prynce_qt · 01-24-2005, 03:07 PM

I've posted before about getting a 1995 BMW 318i with 133,000km on it. The car looks like it's in great shape inside and out but other than that I have no clue about the engine, suspension.....

Now what are the rules when buying a used car besides kicking the tire.

1. on the list is to have the car certified at a BMW dealership because those certifications are easily scammed by some small shop.

2. is to drive it.

3. check all electronics like windows and console.

4. look at the wear on the pedals, steering wheel and shifter to see if it matches mileage.

Anything else I should check off the list?

Not in any order of course. Also this car is from a used car dealership.

Thanks.

Cruzin 323is · 01-24-2005, 03:14 PM

u should bring the car to another mechanic.. to check it out.. or to a body shop and see if it was in an accident.. make sure the frame isn't bent... or just get a car fax!!

94BMW325i · 01-24-2005, 03:38 PM

Also at one point turn the wheel straight and when your driving let go of the steering wheel for a few secs to see if it stays straight. Helps with alignment. Do a few semi-hard brake checks. Not when people are behind you tho, don't want to be a

.

Not sure what else my dad did when he test - drove my BMW.

94BMW325i · 01-24-2005, 03:39 PM

Also a carfax, with mine the dealership did it for free!

uber e36 · 01-24-2005, 04:17 PM

go to the trunk, pull up the rubber that protects the trunk when you're loading things. see if there is rust in there... this is a spot that rusts easily.

epheterson · 01-24-2005, 09:33 PM

Definately take it to a mechanic and have them run a full diagnostic on the car. It's worth it!

mrkbik · 01-24-2005, 09:52 PM

How do you go about taking it to a mechanic without having bought the car? Do most dealerships let you take it for a while to do this?

prynce_qt · 01-25-2005, 09:53 AM

of course they are going to let you take it to your mechanic, if they are not willing to do that there is obviously a problem with the car they know the dealer will find out. But I did have to agree to buying the car assuming it was perfect because they don't want some punk fooling around with the car and put a deposit and if the car does not meet safety and stuff than I get my money back.