5-Series (E12,E28, E34, E39, E60)Chat relating to the BMW 5-Series of all generations. Specific models include: BMW 518, BMW 520, BMW 520i, BMW 530i, BMW 528i, BMW 530i, BMW 518i, BMW 524d, BMW 525i, BMW 525e, BMW 528e, BMW 540i, BMW 535i, BMW 520d, BMW 525td, BMW 525d, BMW 530d, BMW 525i/xi, BMW 530i/xi. (BMW 5-Series Forum)
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i just joined and i just want to introduce myself im Boeuf, how are u guys doing, well i joined this forum cause im about to buy a 97 540 6 speed for 15g's it has 85 thousand miles. ive loved this car since the early 90's but and before i make the plunge i just wanted u guys to give me a heads up let me know what im in for, what should i check for before buying the car, what should i expect if i buy the car, anything to look out for, just general opinoins, ect. your opinions would help me out a lot thanks
97 540s had zillions of GOOFY problems since it was the first year of production for us. Window seals, squeaky parts, etc etc. I wouldnt be too afraid of anything else, just make sure that it had a lot of warranty / recall work done in it's past so you don't have to deal with annoying things such as creaking parts over bumps, water coming in your windows, etc.
I've been a proud 97 540i owner now for 150,600 miles. There are a few problems, but this has probably been my favorite Biimer (of a total of 7 owned) The 540i does have a few electronic gremlins, but they are few and far between. I've never had a problem with my window/weather seals, nor have i done any big repairs. I'd also say that $15,000 is a pretty good price for it.
Good Luck!
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