by Reed on December 13, 2009
hello,
I am planning to buy a used BMW. Not very old but three to four years old.I heard that maintenance would be high for BMW as its parts are all imported. also not all mechanics can fix it so you have to go to dealer every time.
but I do see old BMWs on road. So it might not be as bad after all
What are my options..
Should I buy certified one with warranty up to 100,000 miles etc?
is it really that expensive?
Please advice,
I have owned two used BMW’s (still have one to this day). I restored my 92 735 almost completely with the new drivetrain and other things.
After I got it into top working condition which was very very expensive, i have been doing proper maintenance over the last 4 years and I can tell you how it could cost. First of all it is extremely rare to see a properly maintained used BMW on the road unless it belonged to an adult car enthusiast or a pro mechanic.
First thing is older auto transmissions. It will most likely need to be replaced. They require special maintenance that dealers do not provide unless you pay them for it as a repair on a hourly basis. This replacement will run you around 5K unless you can do it yourself.
Annual tuneup will run around $800 in parts only if original good parts are used. Every 2nd or third year it will require a more extensive tuneup that will run about $1800 in parts (this one will include valve adjustments, brake replacements and some bushing replacements).
Besides general tuneups you will need to spend another $1000 or so a year on regular care like coolant flushes, detailing, miscellaneous replacements that will be required with a used BMW. Due to its high performance suspension built on a subframe it also requires maintenance if you want it to ride like any BMW should. On average you will spend 2K a year to maintain it, sometimes more.
If you are planning on using it for performance driving (not on the street) – the amount will go up dramaticaly (up to 10K per year a minimum).
In any case – if the used BMW is more than 5-7 years old you have to prepare to spend no less than 5K to get it into a proper shape so have it allocated.
by Reed on December 13, 2009
I’m after parts,art work,models,used parts,rebuild projects,books,T shirt printer to print my logo/designs,tools ect, ANYTHING Mini !!!. Must be Direct to the Manufacture/Wholesaler.
I’ll find you what I can, you will have to check each supplier out by clicking on the websites:
http://www.absolutemini.com/index.php?classic_mini=1
http://www.minispares.com/SaleItems.aspx?sa=new&gclid=CPnLy7j6lZ4CFUpK2godLHaymQ
https://www.mossmini.com/CatalogRequest/RequestForm.aspx?gclid=CJvan876lZ4CFZla2god-BFwlg
http://www.allminiparts.com/productSearch.aspx?partner=googleMiniGeneral&gclid=CIuE3eH6lZ4CFRSdnAodAlprlg
http://www.minimania.com/
The first site has I think five suppliers, some want you to request a catalog, some want to know the year model.
You have some work to do, but it’s worth it.
by Reed on December 13, 2009
I’m specifically after used or refurbished parts for a 325 and 328.
For used/refurb parts: Bavarian Auto Recycling: http://www.bmrparts.com/
For new parts: Tischer BMW usually has the lowest prices: http://www.getbmwparts.com/
BavAuto is also a good source as mentioned above but Tischer prices on OEM parts are usually lower.
by Reed on December 13, 2009
Anyone know of some online bmw parts suppliers they like? I use bluaparts for my Audi. Someone like them?
For performance parts, try companies like bimmerworld.com and turnermotorsport.com. Both are run by respected BMW racing teams.
For maintenance parts, try bimmerparts.com and rmeuropean.com.
Bavauto.com (and to a lesser extent, bmpdesign.com) are both dealer-alternatives, but their product selection, while broad, is not at the sharpest prices.
by Reed on December 13, 2009
I’m 19, making pretty good money and want to buy a nice car. Will the car break down a lot? What would typically break down and how expensive is it because I know BMW parts are pricey. I want to go luxury, you think its a good idea?
how much CJ? Also, I forgot to ask, how many miles you think it would last? Something in the 100-140k mileage range at $4000-$8000.
I take it you mean 100 to 140 thousand miles. It has been a long time since BMW stopped making cars that were good to own after they went off warranty. I would recommend something else. If you don’t like my advice, can I interest you in a 325is automatic with 93K miles, red with black leather, sunroof, traction control, trip computer, and dual zone climate control?
