Need your expert opinion - BMW Forum

JLphotography · 12-01-2010, 11:58 AM

Ok I am considering getting a new or newish (no more than 2-3 years old) 5 series. I was looking online at local dealerships (southern California) and noticed that 2008 models while only 3 years old are half the price of a new one. I have heard horror stories about these cars right after warranty expires. Is it wise to get a used BMW? Or should I wait a little longer and save more of a down payment? I would like to add some rims and what not as well so that is why I am considering a slightly used vehicle. Any and all replies and advice would help.
Thanks in advance
JL

witeshark · 12-01-2010, 12:32 PM

Service records are your friend.

JLphotography · 12-01-2010, 12:35 PM

So is that a yes if the car is taken care of or a no?

witeshark · 12-01-2010, 01:00 PM

It's a yes if it was well serviced and clean carfax. Also look for cooling system upgrades.

JLphotography · 12-01-2010, 02:45 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by witeshark

It's a yes if it was well serviced and clean carfax. Also look for cooling system upgrades.

Is there a certain upgrade I want or don't want? Also how long do these cars normally last. And I have been reading here and I have seen that the V8 has issues so stick to the I6 528i? is that correct?

witeshark · 12-01-2010, 02:53 PM

These are subjective ideas, it really comes down to the individual car. About cooling, I'd look for new water pump, radiator and reserve tank at least.

JLphotography · 12-01-2010, 06:05 PM

So I want the upgraded water pump and resivoir or is that a sign of issues?

witeshark · 12-01-2010, 06:34 PM

It's not a sign of issues necessarily, those just are not strong points in the cars. There's no such thing as too much Google on the subject.

1LOBOSS · 12-04-2010, 12:41 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by witeshark

These are subjective ideas, it really comes down to the individual car. About cooling, I'd look for new water pump, radiator and reserve tank at least.

That kind of surprises me as he is looking at a 2-3 year old car.

witeshark · 12-04-2010, 10:35 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by 1LOBOSS

That kind of surprises me as he is looking at a 2-3 year old car.

Yeah, maybe a bit over cautious, but from what I've seen, it's worth at least a good careful look.

theluis · 12-05-2010, 05:15 PM

wish i could aford a 2-3 year old car jajajaja any ways... good choice if u do get one