Looking to buy 1993 e34

[e36surge]

I found one that has never seen a winter. Sold my e36. Asking price is 6900$ Canadian. 165 000 miles. Very clean. What should I look out for?

Thanks.

[242turbo9]

bumpage...i have the same question.

[shadowpuck]

the '93-95 5 series (e34) shared the engine with the 3 series (e36) of that same vintage - and, perhaps, other parts as well.

basically, the e34 (93-95) often has some of the same issues as the e36. Check for previous engine overheating, water pump replacement, hoses, etc.

i'm fairly certain that all north american '93s received the VANOS system so you'll want to check that area for oil leaks (front of engine, just left of the oil canister).

other than that, thoroughly check out the suspension - the e34 has generally been a bit more needful there than the e36 3 series; partially due to weight, etc...

as with most older german cars, electronics seem to be flaky as the car ages. you might have troubles with the instrument cluster, the LKM (light control module), CCM (check control module) and other assorted sensors. most of these are simple fixes and usually involve either contact cleaner or swap old for new(er).

regardless, whether BMW or otherwise, if you are serious about a used car and want to have no surprises - insist on a PPI (pre-purchase inspection) by a reputable BMW mechanic; it'll pay for itself in the long run....

i can say that our '93 525i has been a great car. we searched long and hard for a 5 series as a daily driver for my wife. we passed on several cars until we found the one. even at 14 years old, the 525 is a fabulous highway cruiser and is often our first pick for long road trips...

[242turbo9]

hey, thanks for the responce it really helps, i have found a 1993 525i 5spd with no 2nd gear. With only 77,000 miles its a bit odd. Any ideas what it coudl be? Shift linkage? The car almost in perfect condtion, what do u think its worth?

[isherdholi]

without a 2nd gear? doesnt that make it a 4spd? lol

[WALSRU]

Haha real helpful.

So how no second gear? Does it act like it's not there or will it not let you in?

With my limited knowledge either synchros or a bad gear aren't real easy. Though the former should be better than the latter.

Lol in my weirdness I would probably not even care if my DD didn't have second. AutoX is a different story.

[242turbo9]

well when put into 2nd gear theres absolutly nothing there. You can hear the shaft (i think) trying to engage or something but nothing happens. How much do you think a car like this is worth? The guy is the original owner, full main dealer history from the most reputable dealership in chicago. He really doesnt want to sell, (cars beautiful) but i want it, but i know hes asking too much.