Advice needed on 5 series purchase

[Jeff Doty]

Hello Everyone,

Here is my question:

Within the next year, I hope to be able to purchase a 5 series vehichle. I need to stay under $10,000, and this will be my 1st BMW. In my geographic area, Portland Oregon, it appears that I am looking at early to mid 90's vehicles with anywhere from 80,000 - 150,000 miles.

Any suggestions? Anything to stay away from? If you were me, what would you do?

Thanks, I am excited about a possible purchase, but trying to do my homework.

Jeff

[Filehorse 525i]

I just parted with an '89 325i; 174,000 miles in perfect mechanical condition. Never added a drop of oil, engine never hinted of any smoke, transmission still tight and crisp. That said, the car had excellent engineering and design and it was well maintained from day 1. At ~165K I replaced the shocks/struts/bushings/lower control arms -- it was time.

So to your question, if any BMW has been well maintained (most have I believe) and not abused (driving hard is not abuse), if you can find one from an original owner who has good maintenance records and really appreciated the car as I did my 325i, your chances are good that your first BMW experience will be a good one. Based on my experience, 100K+ miles means nothing to a well-maintained BMW. I just bought a 2002 525i Sport and life is good --- really good! I wish you the best in your quest for the Ultimate Driving Machine.:frog: