32 messages,
Last post on Mar 25, 2010 at 7:12 AM
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BMW 3 Series, BMW 5 Series, BMW 7 Series, Automotive News, Coupe, Convertible, Sedan
#28 of 32 Re: Give Bangle a Break [british_rover]
by lovemyclk
Mar 23, 2010 (10:04 am)
I had just purchased my 2003 530SP when I found myself working in Germany for a bit. Had a chance to drive the 2004 e60 prior to USA launch... just didn't appeal or "speak" to me in the manner my '03 did.
End result... I still drive my '03 530 and enjoy it as much now as when I bought it. Just a fabulous sport sedan that I keep well maintained with proactive maintenance performed by my BMW Indy shop. Actually, no major issues to date at 77K miles other than tires, TSB work or other preventative work done under warranty.
A simply terrific car!
#29 of 32 Re: heading downmarket [zigster38]
by fintail
Mar 23, 2010 (10:18 am)
I think the 335d is rated at 23/36. That seems reasonable.
#30 of 32 Re: Give Bangle a Break [lovemyclk]
by 530ir1150r
Mar 24, 2010 (6:53 am)
I have a 2002 530i sp 5 speed with 155k miles that I intend to keep for as long as possible. Some things I have had repaired that you may anticipate are:
75k miles, preventive radiator, expansion tank and hoses replaced
80k, brake light switch replaced
85k, master cylinder replaced
130k, replaced original battery
144k, replaced original rotors and pads
150k, replaced oil separator
152k, replaced fuel pump
153k, replaced catalytic converters and oxygen sensors
The rear wishbone joint cups are split and will be replaced after I get new summer tires; still on the original clutch, struts and shocks. My maintenance records indicate it costs 10 cents per mile to maintain for everything.
#31 of 32 Re: Give Bangle a Break [530ir1150r]
by Mr_Shiftright HOST
Mar 24, 2010 (8:56 am)
All that seems reasonable at the mileages stated, except the radiator---BMW took a long time to square away their cooling systems. 10 cents a mile is pretty darn good overall. Goes to show ya'....ounce of prevention and all that.....
I do wonder though why BMW can't make a 3 series as comfortable inside for larger people as the much smaller MINI.
#32 of 32 Re: Give Bangle a Break [Mr_Shiftright]
by 530ir1150r
Mar 25, 2010 (7:12 am)
I was under the impression that the radiator has plastic necks and they were the problem; and I did not want to cook the engine. The next radiator flush will be this fall and I will replace the water pump. Also, my 530i is a 5 speed and I think an automatic would cost 1 to 2 cents more per mile.