reliability

[aramin79]

I have recently foung my self with the option to purchase a 1994 325i sedan. I have always loved the design and handling of this car, so I am quite interested. However, the car already has about 150K miles on it. Since I know the owner, I know the owner hasn't had any major problems with it and nothing major has ever been replaced.
My question is... how long does this car usually last before the cost of maintenance shoots through the roof. I won't have too much time or too much money to spend on the car, so I need to know if this is a reasonable indulgence which won't cost me more than say $2,000 per year in expected maintenance.

Thank you.

 

[Kirby]

If it has never had any major maintenance done on it, here is a list of things that should have already failed or will fail. 13 years and 15oK miles takes it toll on certain parts. It can still be a great car ready for another 100K miles, but it probably needs some TLC:

- water pump (if this has never been replaced, it's already on borrowed time)
- radiator (plastic neck gets brittle with age and cracks)
- all radiator hoses and the thermostat

I personally would plan on a doing an immediate cooling system upgrade of all of the above. If something fails and the engine overheats, it will be much more expensive. If you can DIY, this will cost about $350 - $400 in parts from online suppliers. If you cannot DIY, It could approach $1000 at an independent BMW specialist.

Suspension - you might live with this stuff if the car feels OK and is safe, or it may need immediate replacement:

The shocks and struts are worn out at this mileage. $300 - $400 for OEM quality parts.

Front Control Arm bushings are probably cracked & tired. $200 - $300 for parts.

Transmssion:

Is it an auto or a manual? BMW auto trannies of this age seem to have a life of 150K to 200K miles.

The Guibo (engine to transmission flex disc) is almost certainly cracked and dry rotted. $100 for parts.

Most BMW Dealers will do a presale inspection for $100 - $200. They will go over the car visually checking for all this stuff and more, and give you a list of what they see wrong. They do not evaluate the engine or transmission mechanical condition in detail.

You can use this information to make a buying decision and possibly get $$ reduction on buying the car from the current owner.

 

[aramin79]

thank you.

it is a Manual... does that still mean I have to worry about the guibo?

I did have the thermostat changed recently... but will look into having the entire transmission changed.

It's such a beautiful car that I'd hate to see it just fall into disrepair. I just know I don't have the time or the money (and perhaps the knowledge) necessary for major work.

You think with the suggestions you made, and a few other unforeseen repairs, this car would keep in good condition for at least 3-4 years and 50K ? And would you not recommend that I go to an independent mechanic?

 

[Kirby]

thank you.

it is a Manual... does that still mean I have to worry about the guibo?

Yes, the manual transmission uses the guibo.

I did have the thermostat changed recently... but will look into having the entire transmission changed.

Entire transmission, do you mean entire cooling system?

You think with the suggestions you made, and a few other unforeseen repairs, this car would keep in good condition for at least 3-4 years and 50K ? And would you not recommend that I go to an independent mechanic?

The car certainly has the potential to go 3-4 years and 50K miles. I do recommend that you use an independent over a BMW dealer, but an independent that knows BMWs.