e39 and e46 - What to look for?

[cliffdunedin 8]

Hey guys, i'm looking at buying one of these.

http://www.trademe.co.nz/motors/used-cars/...n-563806072.htm

http://www.trademe.co.nz/motors/used-cars/...n-559573242.htm

I've noticed that e39's tend to have a few things that require maintenance so thought i should ask what to look out for when checking them over?

[tobytoblerone 3]

The e39 & e46 are fairly simple cars which are cheap to maintain & repair so either is a good choice. My first BMW was an e39 and my mother used to have the same e46. But out of those two I'd go for the 5 series, half the price and more Km's but it has the comfort seat options which is pretty rare for an e39! And 318's are so common on our roads! The 5 series rides & feels like a smaller 7 series so it's more luxury orientated.

Edited February 18, 2013 by tobytoblerone

[cliffdunedin 8]

Thanks Toby, I'm trying to convince myself that the V8 is the way to go but can't really justify it as it will eventually become a daily... just trying to suss out any typical faults (or about to faults) before commiting.

[tobytoblerone 3]

Thanks Toby, I'm trying to convince myself that the V8 is the way to go but can't really justify it as it will eventually become a daily... just trying to suss out any typical faults (or about to faults) before commiting.

Google is your friend, there are thousands of forums & guides out there advising this, just google bmw e39 common faults... Then check to see if any work has been carried out on the vehicles you are wanting to purchase. Have a mechanical inspection done too by a BMW specialist too. Oh & definitely get the V8... I daily drive my V8, life is too short to not indulge One drive & you won't think twice about buying it!

[allan 295]

Hi:

You need to sit down and think what is this vehicle going to be used for. If you are doing a lot of highway cruising then the 5r is the one to go for, owned a e39 530i for 5 odd years. If you don't mind spending the extra in fuel then go for the 540 but I would say the 530 is the best of the bunch power to weight ratio and a late model 2003 "M" sport version has all the extras fitted etc etc.

On the other hand if you are a city driver then the 3r would be a better option easier to park slightly lighter on gas model dependent of course etc.

Faults well this item has been flogged to death just have a search on here look up buying a bmw what to look for.

Cooling systems higher K's both.

Steering wobble when braking suspension bush's, wrapped rota's both models

Cam, crank sensors e46

Headlights fogging, discoloured lenses early model e39

Wiring in the boot, body area rubber tube piece e39 to name but a few

Have read reviews on the e46 and one went so far and stated an ordinary motor vehicle reliant on to much electronic gadgetry to make the grade. To be fair the e39 does not come off as clean either.

[Tristan 338]

Thanks Toby, I'm trying to convince myself that the V8 is the way to go but can't really justify it as it will eventually become a daily... just trying to suss out any typical faults (or about to faults) before commiting.

Watch out for water pumps failing, a shimmy at the front end (had this in a couple I tested), ASC light on dash permanent (had this replaced under warranty),

Shameless self promotion but .... Straight 6 3.0 with a transferable warranty available

[antil33t 90]

My dad looked at that top one, it's a sack of sh*t. Really untidy, not very well looked after. That's why it's been for sale for ever.

[qube 3568]

I have a 1999 528i for sale. Silver. Heaps of work done no issues now. My old mans car but could let it go for an upgrade. Had it for a million years. Let me know if u want more details and pics. Car is in Auckland.

[cliffdunedin 8]

My dad looked at that top one, it's a sack of sh*t. Really untidy, not very well looked after. That's why it's been for sale for ever.

I'm gonna have a look tomorrow, if it's rough i'll throw him a number reflecting that... could be a good project at the right price! Did you guys notice anything particular about it?

I have a 1999 528i for sale. Silver. Heaps of work done no issues now. My old mans car but could let it go for an upgrade. Had it for a million years. Let me know if u want more details and pics. Car is in Auckland.

Thanks mate but i'm just looking locally right now

[antil33t 90]

I'm gonna have a look tomorrow, if it's rough i'll throw him a number reflecting that... could be a good project at the right price! Did you guys notice anything particular about it?

I never saw it, but dad said it's just rough in general... blowing smoke and sh*t like that. Just lots of little things nobody can be stuffed with, would probably cost another 2k+ to make it really nice... I mean it's just a Japanese Import 528i...

it use to be like 7k on trademe, dropped and dropped and dropped.