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Sedans BMW 5-Series Buying a used 5 Series
179 messages, Last post on Aug 28, 2008 at 1:25 PM
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I have been reading some of the posts in this forum this morning, and there seem to be some very knowledgeable folks who answer these questions, so am hoping to get some help on a couple of questions. My father is the original owner of a 2001 BMW 530 with just under 40,000 miles. He is going to sell it, and I'm interested in buying it. He has purchased 1 year warranties twice now from BMW, which have since expired, and he's been told by BMW that he cannot purchase another. If I purchase this car I will do so only if I can also purchase an extended warranty. I called my local BMW dealer to see if I could purchase a warranty from them, and they said I could only purchase it if the car had originally been purchased from them. That is not the case, so I believe I need to get a 3rd party warranty. I've done some reading on purchasing extended warranties that cover both wear and tear, as well as mechanical breakdowns. Does anyone have any advice on reputable companies that I can get a quote from? Any advice on the length of the warranty I should get? Can I even get coverage for this type of vehicle and, if I can, is it even worth it (ie will I get nickle and dimed in the fine print and not qualify for repairs)? Any advice or experience is most welcome. Thanks!
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Replying to: edbarry12 (Mar 01, 2008 10:14 am) The following suggestions are based on my experience running a 1997 528iA from 2001 to 2005: 1. Forget any non-BMW NA warranty. They are glorified insurance policies. The House almost always wins. 2. Set aside $80-$90 a month for service/repairs 3. Find a good independent BMW tech, which will cut service costs  30%-40%. 4. Join the BMW Car Club. Receive up to a 20% discount on parts and/or labor. 5. Enjoy owning and driving a world class sports sedan. 6. (Optional) Buy the E39 Bentley Service Manual and learn to perform simple maintenance and repairs-oil change, brake pads, plugs, etc.-yourself. And save even more money. |
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I am considering buying a pre owned 2006 BMW 525xi and would love to have some comments/observations, good or bad from current or past owners of this model. I have admired BMW's from a far for years; this will be my first so any advice from BMW pros will be appreciated  Thanks! |
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I have a few general questions regarding the 540: 1. What years to avoid based on major engine problems? I have heard about engine failures, cylinder heads problems, oil leaks etc. 2. What years are best to purchase in the under $15,000 range with under 100k miles? 3. What is the typical routine maintinance cost of ownership for a 540 that is in good condition and has been maintained? 4. How many miles do 540's last for under normal driving conditions and proper maintinance? 5. Is the 530 a more reliable car? |
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Replying to: roadburner (Mar 01, 2008 8:51 am) Also how can I tell from a photo if the sound system is Premium Sound? |
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Replying to: alko1 (Mar 07, 2008 2:18 am) Hope this helps. Best Regards, Shipo
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Replying to: alko1 (Mar 07, 2008 2:18 am) Have you listened to the "Premium Sound" system? To my ears it doesn't sound all that great. Bavarian Soundwerks sells a speaker upgrade package for the E39 that is an easy afternoon DIY project. For $450 that is the route I would take.
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Replying to: roadburner (Mar 07, 2008 6:09 am) My E39 has the premium sound. The best thing about it is that the EQ settings are pretty extensive, and allow some decent customization. Most people don't adjust anything there. I also upgraded the speakers using one of Bav Soundwerk's kits, and now it sounds even better.
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Replying to: ny540i6 (Mar 07, 2008 8:39 am) My wife's E39 had the DSP as well, I finally found a guy on BMWTips.com who had spent some time with a Rat Shack spl meter and a calibration CD. I set the equalizer to his recommendations and the result was a much better sound. Still not that great though. In all honesty, I thought the premium system in my E36/7 sounded much better- though I am planning to fit it with the BSW midranges and tweeters. |
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