Looking @ buying a 1994 325i w/280,000 miles

lopezdesign4u · 10-14-2007, 12:46 AM

BMW Newbie.
I am looking at buying a used 1994 325i 5 speed manual, with 280,000. Original owner. I test drove it today and smelled oil burning. So I pop the hood and notice that there is an oil leak. Also, the owner says that when the AC is turned on, it works when it wants. Tires in front are about 75%. Back tires need replacing, 20%. The car handled great on the coast hwy. Has power. Alignment is great. No accidents.

So here are my questions:

1. How how much would it be to fix an oil leak?
2. How much would tires be?

The ad says maintance was kept up. The number to the maintance shop was given to me. Should I take it to that shop and have them do an inspection?

Thanks!

Juan

metallic blue exterior, tan leather interior. I am the original owner and have kept up on the maintance. She has lots of miles (280,000mi) on her but she is still in great shape. Manual transmission, power seats/windows, sunroof. MUST SEE. I am moving, so make me an offer!

OKCSuburban · 10-21-2007, 11:39 PM

check with your local bmw club and get some support. We have several active clubs here in Ok.
Do you have a mechanic lined up...again check with your local bmw club and find out who is good in the area.
280k, hmmmmm not knowing anything else I would say cheap is the way to go.
lowball him if you have to have this car. I would suggest you get it checked out first.
BMWCCA.org and find your local members.

GTmike400 · 10-22-2007, 11:29 AM

280,000miles is a lot of miles. You can usually find E36's in the 100-160k range.

asuj_158@msn.com · 10-24-2007, 10:54 PM

yeah GTmike is right that is alot of milage, but if the care has been taken care of and not abused and had religious oil changes and all the other goodies it should be fine. But have a good mechanic lok at it first.

porscheguy9999 · 10-24-2007, 11:14 PM

Dude, you can find an E36 with WAY fewer miles on it. Look around some more. You can find better ones.

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