Please advise, looking to purchase a 2001 330i

[clazzic]

Hi All,

I'm new to bimmers and have been perusing the various forums for known issues with the 2001 330i. The only problem is there aren't that many out there with 100K on the odometer. I'm looking to get one (mainly cos it's a single owner, well maintained dealer serviced car), and would like your opinion on whether I should get it. It's got the following:
5-speed
Sport package
Xenon Headlights
BMW Factory Alarm system
M3 Steering wheel
M3 Steering Retrofit
Dinan Carbon Fiber Cold Air Intake
Dinan Stage II Software
Split foldown seats with skibag
Burled Walnut Wood interior
Custom car cover

Owner has changed oil every 7500 miles. The mileage is currently just under 100k. A/C and 2 window regulators have been replaced. Brakes are original still.

Firstly, is there anyone here with a high mileage 330i? If so, what problems have you experienced, and what problems should I expect to occur if I acquire this car? And secondly, I'd appreciate any feedback from the knowledgeable bimmer enthusiasts on this board.

TIA!

 

[mark49]

not one to talk shit, but i work in the auto industry(independant) and i have found time and time again that the so called 'full dealership maintanance' is not as full as they would like you to believe. if i were you i would take the car to an independant shop for a full inspection, it should only run you about 80-120 bucks, and if the shop is competent they will be able to give a good idea of the condition of the car.
ps if you are located in the bay area, i can recommend some good shops.

 

[Section_8]

Sounds like an enthuesist-owned car with the Dinan mods, and M3 upgrades. That's a plus - but on the downside it could mean it's been 'driven like it's stolen'..


Original brakes at 100k.. My azz?. Unless the previous owner did the fred flintstone to stop the car.. If they are saying that - I would immediately consider getting an indy shop to take a peek at it, or at least queue on that and ask them if this is true.. If it somehow is(the rotors must be paper thin right now..) - get them to CHANGE pads and rotors. Bimmers eat pads every 30-40k at best, and rotors almost to a T around 55-60k. (3 series experience here at least) Considering it has some mods - I'm sure it's been braking decently from accelleration in the past.


Other then that, sounds fairly typical with the window regulators, A/C and such (The A/C I bet was the sensor that they have problems with in 3's - the temp and level of air goes haywire on it's own). Take it to an indy shop for that piece of mind if you can.

 

[Zchild]

I like the sound of the bimmer overall, however, I must agree with Section 8's quote concerning the brakes... I too own a 3 series bimmer I've got almost 190,000 miles and I have done three brake jobs, each including pads, sensors and rotors. I would add that my clutch and transmission needed to be replaced at 150,000. Lastly, you need heed Mark49's advice and take it to an Independent service provider and get a detailed report on it's past, present and future. Just my two and a half cents. Happy Motoring...
[driving2]