Purchasing 328i Convertible Questions

[lfedje]

I am new to the fourm, but not new to BMW having previously owned an e30 Cabriolet. I purchased that car out of the showroom in 88 and sold it some 12 years later which I wish I had never done. The new purchaser trashed the car within 12 months and it was sad to see. The best car I had ever owned.

Next Wednesday I will be looking at a 1997 328i Convertible (private sale) with less than 100k Km's. Dealer serviced since new, all records, new rear window, all steering linkage just refreshed. M Sport package. Original paint, never involved in any kind of an accident. Interior is stunning.

Upon inspection what should I be looking out for?

Probable price here in Canada will end up around $10,500. Is this price realistic for British Columbia?

Any input would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks

[copcarguyp71]

Not too sure about price for you Canucks....I bought mine with 130K for $6000 US about a year ago.

I would scrutinize the top carefully especially if it is an automatic. If the cooling system is still all original expect to do a revamp pretty soon after purchase as anything over 100K is on borrowed time for the cooling system. This can be used as a bargaining tip though so don't be scared away by it. I totally re-did my cooling system in about 4-5 hours taking my time and did everything from radiator to hoses and water pump...basically anything having to do with cooling was replaced. Obviously check all of your controls to make sure they operate correctly. Other than that if you can get it in the air check the shocks for leaks and the suspension bushings for wear. A PPI (pre-purchase inspection) from a private garage would be best if they will let that happen.

[lfedje]

Thanks for the info. I will do the best I can to get it up on a hoist.

Please note that the car has 100,000km or 62,000 miles so I would think that the Rad wouldn't be an issue yet. I will be looking over all of the service history to see if the shocks, valve cover gasket, and in general what items have been replaced recently.

Great looking car you have there.

Thanks.

[Jack Dabsy]

Also, have a good look around the motor in general... Especially any leaks... open all the caps and smell "burning", coolant or oil !! And the hood motor!!
Check the services etc... I bet there might be some gunk about the block? Clean it off using degreaser and run it to notice any leaks...

[lfedje]

Thanks, Dabsy

That was exactly what my MBZ/BMW Indie suggested I do. Could be valve cover gasket needing replacement and oil filter housing gasket replacement. I will check all of that area.

Also will check oil, trans fluid, rad fluid etc.

Loren

[Jack Dabsy]

...Seals (windows)...
Dashboard info etc...