Posted: 10-March-2010 at 12:55 | IP Logged

Hi everyone, Just came on to seek some advice on buying my first BMW. An 02 520i msport, manual. 100k on her and a fresh test done.

I got some advice already elsewhere but would be grateful to hear what the people on here reckon I should look out for.

Also is it possible to swap the dial type heater panel for the button type with out to much hassle? Far nicer looking panel imo.

Here is a pic of what I mean in case I dont make sense. (Car has A/C but not climate control I think)

Dial type

button type

Posted: 11-March-2010 at 09:27 | IP Logged

I'm not sure how easy it is to swap the basic heater controls for a digital climate control unit. I asked that question on another forum a while back and didn't get an answer.

As for what to look out for, the usual stuff really. Mayo under the oil filler cap, rust on the boot lid, around the petrol filler cap, back arches and on the bodywork that meats up with the rear bumper. Missing pixels on the dash display, clonks or knocks from the suspension when driving, make sure it when you brake hard the car doesn't try to pull in one direction and that there is no vibration. Check the temperature guage sits in the middle when the car is warm and check under the bonnet for signs of coolant leaks etc.

A 5 series should feel solid, smooth, quiet and refined. If it doesn't then there's something wrong.

Oh and i'd only buy a car with a good service history unless it's very cheap

Posted: 11-March-2010 at 13:45 | IP Logged

By 100k you should be taking a good look at the cat as well.  80k+ is heading in to danger territory one on the e39. 

Also, look at the dipstick level and ask questions about oil consumption.  The M54 engines are often fond of a little drink.  Not a big problem in itself unless the previous keepers always waited until the low oil warning light came up.

I just recently passed on my '97 523i to a friend.  It had 146k miles and is still as solid as a rock.  Mate is using it as a temporary motor and is impressed with it on many levels.  This is a fair compliment given that his last car before coming back from downunder was an e46 M3.