USED '98 540i - what now

[The Legend]

Hi Everyone,

I just bought a used BMW and want to know what the wise would do immediately in the way of new fluid/oil change/ etc.

She has been well maintained and purrs even with 170k on her. All advice is welcome!

[Moose]

Hello and welcome! I hope you enjoy your new ride, is it you're first BMW? All of the BMW's I have acquired over the years have been at least 10 years old. Personally I first go through the car and make my list of everything that I can visually see that needs to be addressed. No matter how small, cheap, large, or expensive the parts may be. This way I have a starting point, and a record of things that the car needed when I first purchased it, and those that failed or became worn after I drove it for a while.
Then I always start with the basics...
Plugs, air engine and cabin air filters, fuel filter, fresh BMW fluids everywhere (don't forget the coolant flush! It is very often overlooked), and suspension parts that are badly worn, check all the brakes, change the brake fluid (cheap and easy) inspect all hoses, change all the belts, and so on and so fourth. I recommend doing whatever you can afford to do to keep her running top notch. I start with the "have to" "cheap to do" then move on to the "expensive but too important to ignore". It's amazing how much can be done if you shop smart for parts, and prioritize based on an order of importance. I hope you enjoy the new ride, and welcome to the club :0)

[brettski]

Welcome to the Werkz. The only thing I'd add to Moose's comments are change the ATF because its not part of BMW regular service schedule. Also maybe keep an eye on the radiator and the clutch on the man fan. They have been known to prompt the fan to try and escape from the engine bay