Looking for a 3 series.

[James]

I am currently looking for a 3-series and I came across this add. I would just like some feedback on if it's a good idea or not. I'd also like a little background information on buying a used 3-series.. and common problems that go on. A friend of mine bought a '95 325is in Mar of 2002 with about 98k. He now has around 136k and has had no problems whatsoever. That is one of the reasons that I am attracted to getting a BMW 3-series.. This is a big risk due to the fact that I will be attending college soon and I need a reliable car.. I have an ad that I found.. if I get good response.. I'll jump right on it.

Description — $6,400, 325i--1993 4dr 5spd 83K, silver, $6400.

should I take a look?

[El Presidente]

I got my car knowing that there would be few problems with it. There is an FAQ in the section on common problems with the e36 that will answer most of your questions and will answer stuff I would undoubtedly forget to post.

As for the car, a 93 with 83k is very low miles, and if the body work is good, 6400 is fair. If the paint or interior are less than perfect though, I'd knock the price down a bit.

I got my 95 with 98k on it and I now have 124 with no major issues, just routine changes or stuff I broke.

[James]

Because I am 17 and currently pay 130 for insurance on a Pontiac Grand Prix.. how much would I expect to spend on this car.. Just an average will help..

[El Presidente]

It depends on how much coverage you want and your record and location, but you can expect to pay around $200 for full coverage and a $0 detuctible. The higher the deductible the lower the payment. Liability only should run around $75.

As for repairs, it helps to ask around and find a good BMW shop. I only paid 300 something for an Inspection 2 service (BMWs tell you when they need certain maintanence and called inspection cycles) when the dealer charges around 550. the more work you do yourself, the more money you will save. DIY and you'll spend $15 or so on an oil change x 3 a year is $45. Brakes are also very easy to do, but any shop can also do them. $45-60 plus parts. The rest is really just basic car stuff: tires, fluids, etc. Assuming the car is in propper shape, you'll only need to change the oil and follow the regular inspection schedule (generally one every year to year and a half).

[James]

Yep.. that is what I was thinking. Thanks so much for your help. I'm calling the seller tomorrow.

[jrhaile]

My insurance was cheaper going to a bmw...

I've had my car nearly a new year and I'd say this about buying a used bmw..

Only get one if you're prepared to shell out for repairs or learn how to do them by yourself.

[James]

Originally posted by jrhaile@Apr 13 2004, 02:01 AM
My insurance was cheaper going to a bmw...

I've had my car nearly a new year and I'd say this about buying a used bmw..

Only get one if you're prepared to shell out for repairs or learn how to do them by yourself.

What kind of repairs are you talking about? By the way, If I don't get this BMW.. what is a used car that I can buy that will probably need minimal repairs. I'm trying to stay away from repairs if possible. I've had many major repairs on my current car and I want to steer away from that. I really need suggestions because my car is for sale now and I need to find another one soon. If I don't get this BMW.. I'll need to find something else quick.

[James]

By the way, like I said.. my friend bought his 95 325is 2 years ago and hasn't had any problems whatsoever. He has put over 36k since he got it and still NO problems.. He currently has around 136k miles.. and it's still running great. Oddly enough.. he hasn't even been changing his oil like he's supposed to or caring for it like it should be.. but it's still going strong. I think that this car I'm thinking about getting will do me some good if I give it a little care..

[Andrewsd1985]

Sounds like a good deal treat it well and it will treat you well

[James]

Turns out the guy lives a lot farther from me than I thought. He said he's willing to meet up.. but he would really like to sell it by the end of the week. I just put my car up for sale today.. so I don't think I'll be able to get it my car sold by the end of the week. Also, the 325i needs about $300 worth of repairs done.. probably a little less.. and that's it. But with my current situation.. the timing is just not right. So, I think I'll pass this one up and wait til I can afford a better one. By the way, I'm not going to be selling my car anymore.. I'll be driving my dad's '02 Ford Explorer Sport Trac until I find a car that suits me. Thanks for the advice though.. I really appreciate it.

James