How much maintenance/repairs E30 owners?

[RobbinAtlanta]

Hey guys. I think I'm ready for my first BMW. All I've ever owned have been american/asian autos for which parts and service are cheap. I'm a little apprehensive about having to pay so much more for parts and repairs for a German car.

I'm thinking about buying an E30 325is.
How much do you guys spend generally annually for repairs/maint.? how much more does your mechanic charge you for labor?

I can do a lot of stuff myself (Tune ups, brakes, etc) but still, how much more is it for say a timing belt or clutch job for a Beamer v.s. a Honda?

Thanks for your input!

[skoogbw]

Originally Posted by RobbinAtlanta

Hey guys. I think I'm ready for my first BMW. All I've ever owned have been american/asian autos for which parts and service are cheap. I'm a little apprehensive about having to pay so much more for parts and repairs for a German car.

I'm thinking about buying an E30 325is.
How much do you guys spend generally annually for repairs/maint.? how much more does your mechanic charge you for labor?

I can do a lot of stuff myself (Tune ups, brakes, etc) but still, how much more is it for say a timing belt or clutch job for a Beamer v.s. a Honda?

Thanks for your input!

They are expensive! If you do not have the money to maintian it then dont buy one. I paid about 1000 for my clutch 2 yrs. ago. Where a honda clutch would run you 500 - 600.

[ironman502]

I bought a 325e a few months ago with 236,000 miles. All I've had to replace so far are the water pump and timing belt. The water pump was only $45. I'm still running the original engine which doesn't leak anything and smokes very slightly when cold. The car feels much tighter than my 140,000mi. Dodge. Bottom line: You may pay a little more than normal for maintenance/repairs, but show me an American/Asian car that performs this well after 200k. (By the way, the car is not bad for a do-it-yourselfer as long as you have a good repair manual. BMW designed the car so that the driver could do at least the minor repairs, hence the toolbox that comes with the car under the trunklid.) Just don't try to drive the car in the snow and I think you'll be very satisfied.

[alexbmw1987]

i own a 87 325is and i love it. its the best car ive ever owned. i am going to need a timing belt replaced and the dealer wants $300. Parts are expensive, but i havent spent much. The German pride is worth it.