quick question

[FuLL BLown STD]

i have a friend thats about to purchase a 97 328i with 93k..i was hoping maybe some of you ppl could give me a quick rundown on problems that normally occur with these cars at this mileage and also what maintenance would you recommend that shouldve or should be performed at this mileage. thanks

[mike@af]

Check the cooling system, as its the weakest point in the E36. Is the car an early 97, or late 97? The 92-96 came with waterpumps that had plastic impellers that broke down over time usually causing immediate over heating, and a mess in general. Preventive maintence is to fix this before it becomes a problem. Then in mid '97 they switched impellers. Some were cast, some where composite. The composite and the welded or machined metal impellers are the best for flow and cooling.

While you're at it, the thermostat is usually about gone if the waterpump is failing. Its a inexpensive part ($19.99) and is good to replace if you're replacing the waterpump. If its a earlier 97 chances are it came with the plastic thermostat housing, replace it with an aluminum one and new gasket too for the extra $27.99.

A good way to check if your system is failing or needs work is to squeeze the upper radiator hose by the neck of the radiator. If it feels mushy the cooling system is going to need a rebuild, if it feels firm, you're in the clear for now but I'd still jump on the waterpump if its an early production '97.

Bimmer World sells an entire cooling rebuild kit for $299.99 that comes with a new radiator, radiator hoses (upper and lower), thermostat, waterpump, thermostat housing, and accessory belt.

Next thing to check is the rear shock mounts. The RSM's are rubber and usually begin to fail causing a knocking noise over hard bumps. The RSM's can be replaced for $34.99.

Along with suspension bushings and ball joints usually wear, check them out. If you're going to replace the front ball joints, go ahead an order the control arm with both ball joints pressed in. Each control arm is about $99.99. Bushings vary from type, rubber, urethane, derlin.

Also, when you have the car inspected check the status of the rear subframe. The rear subframe mounts are a weak point on the car unfortunately and can tear. Most of the ones I've looked at are in good shape though.

There are a ton of little things here and there to look out for, but these can be spotted in an inspection by a certified BMW technician. Good luck.