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 found few 1997-1999 Bimmer's 5 series with over 80000 miles on them so I'm wondering if its worth it for 15k. How reliable are these cars and how long can I drive them if I maintain them to the T. I suppose this question also applies to 3 series as well.
engine and transmission should last at least another 150k miles if maintained properly: regular oil/ filter changes, air filter changes, belt changes etc... just like all other engines/ trannys
the rest of the car should be fine unless it's extremely abused.
As far as mileage, a 1997 car with 80k miles averages out to about 11.5k miles per year. A 1999 car averages out to about 16k mpy, about 40% more per year. If it's freeway mileage, that's a lot better. It also depends on how well each has been maintained. A '97 well maintained is probably better than a '99 not well maintained. Also, how was each car driven? Smoother and easy or hard and fast? or Smooth and fast, if you like.
Maybe you can't know all this but at least you can ask for maintanance records, get a carfax and have the car checked by a mechanic or dealer before purchase. Some of the cars have warranties to 100k miles.
Also, how fresh are the brakes, tires, battery? etc.,etc. When is the next service due and how much would it cost? Would you be the second owner? Is the current owner younger or older? etc, etc.
I paid $15.5K about a year ago for a 1998 528i with about 73K miles. It has needed several things replaced since then, most covered by the CPO warranty. Climate control has been the most persistent problem. If you go into it (the BMW ownership experience) expecting to spend a couple thousand a year on maintenance, then you won't be dissappointed, and should end up loving your car as much as I love mine. The 5-series was the Motor Trend car of the year in 1997 and the 530i was the highest scoring vehicle of all time in Consumer Reports (they can't be all bad if they agree with MT). Join the club and enjoy the ride!
Wow thanks guys I really appreciate the input. I can see that adults are replying on here, and not just bunch of kids like on those obnoxious WRX forums. Anyways I'm considering my options and I want to pay about 320 a month for a 3-4 year loan. I'm thinking either a new lease on Passat V6 or Altima 3.5SE and now I'm seriously contemplating getting a used Bimmer. Hopefully I won't be an upside down customer. lol
I purchased my 97 528i with a near mint body and interior for 13500 with 96k miles. Like all the above messages say. if the car is taking care of it will last you about another 100k atleast. good luck. PS i didnt shop around much when i bought my car and didnt even know they had a V8! stupid me, yes i know. i was just too exited to buy my first BMW. something to think about
Call various bank and credit unions in your area before you buy. You can get pre-approved.
How is your credit rating? How's your job history? How long have you been on your current job? What's your income? and all the other stuff that goes along with a loan. Can you get someone with good credit to co-sign with you on the loan?
For a used car, the amount loan probably won't be over 50% to 70%. Just ask the credit manager when you call.
It will also help to have the car inspected by a dealer or Automobile club so you can show the lending agency documentation of the condition of the vehicle.
Consumers Reportshas good information on buying used cars and leasing new ones.
Originally posted by Roadster44@May 1 2004, 10:40 AM How much would I have to spend on basic maintanence a year, providing that the car is in excellent condition?
open ended Q. I would guess around $ 2000 for a nicely maintained car. You would still be getting few things due for repairs or replacement with so many miles on it.
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