Looking to buy a second-hand E60 here in the UK. This will probably be the 520 petrol version. Are there any common faults to look out for ? I currently have an E39.

Thanks.

 

Pretty much all the common issues are software glitches that have been remedied over time with updated versions. If the car you buy is still under some sort of warranty, you'll want to get it updated to the latest version as soon as you can to eliminate some of these problems.

There is the Dunlop runflat tire noise issue so if your car has those tires, you might be due for a free replacement from BMW.

Mechanically, I don't know of anything else that you need to worry too much about (hopefully some other members will help out here.)

 

I bought my second hand 04 530d in February this year.

Some good web resources are:

What Car Depreciation Index

AA Online Valuations Based on Glasses Guide

I generally found the BMW dealers offering cars above the AA Valuation, but ended up buying below it.

Don't be afraid to negotiate - although it's quite an upmarket environment they are open to a deal (they are second hand car salesmen in the end).

I also found that BMW have huge scope on financing and in the end I got them to beat a personal loan quote. In hindsight there are better deals out there I think based on final balloon payments, if you intend to get a new car in 2 or 3 years.

You may find that you can actually afford new on this basis - depends how long you intend to keep the car.

In terms of problems - I would suggest you buy with at least one years warranty left in case you have any issues.

Biggest problems seem to be software related as Rudy has said - mainly affecting 03 and 04 cars. Before you buy it would be worth seeing what software version is installed and if it is less than 17 or 18 you might have some niggles - so worth asking them to upgrade before you buy.

Other than that things are generally pretty good IMO.

Make sure that the AC works properly (mine didn't which was partly software and partly no gas).

Transmisson wise - some people have an issue with the steptronic delay / slam - for me it's fine. But I would possible want a manual anyway for a 520i just to get a bit more out of it - depends on what you want.

Or better still try to get a 523 / 525 / 530 for a bit more fun.

Good luck

 

Not happened in the UK AFAIK! :thumbsdown:

I believe a non-optioned 520i would come with 16" non-Runflats anyway

 

Personally I'd avoid the 'base' model but I guess it depends on your parameters... Indeed, the base models tend to depreciate quicker and therefore can be better 2nd-hand buys.

I'm not aware of any major, common faults but tyre-wear is definitely on the high-side! Door-dings are quite likely due to the lack of protection strip!

 

Thanks for all that. The software upgrade is a useful tip ! Now to try and avoid a silver one - has the world gone silver mad ?! Silver paint, silver trim, grey seats :thumbsdown: Black for me....well hopefully

Thanks again.

Ian.

 

Dark colours seemed to be preferred in this sector in the UK...

 

The E60 with "old" M54B22 engine is not a fast car but the 2.2 litre inline six is a good engine.

But soon, actually very soon, you'll want some more power.

If your budjet can adapt, look for a 525i or even an 530i.

The 530dA would be the best choice!

PS. What's wrong with TitSilver?

 

Hi Ian,

Was just talking to a mate who has a 520i. He got one of the first ones and has had no problems with it at all.
His is SliverGrey - good colour actually. Just different enough from normal silver. (of course TiGrey is even better )

@ Ricracing: Problem over here is that every other car you see is silver.

This car is the one my wife was driven in - which persuaded her that the 5er is such a great car. The space and leather did it for her.
So - reluctantly I agreed