Looking at buyin a 545i
10-20-2004 | 07:42 AM
#1
Thread Starter
Senior Members
Joined: Oct 2004
Posts: 262
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From: Australia
Hi there,
I'm considering buying a demo model 545i and will be test driving one in a few days. I currently drive a Mercedes E320 (W211 or current model). My main reason for looking at the 545i is because of the attractive price that's been offered to me. I still prefer the exterior and interior looks of the MB but the big engine in the 545i is alluring as well
I am hoping some of you will be able to assist me by providing some forewarning on things to look out for when I'm test driving the 545i. Things that i'd like to know are like:
- What are the known problems? ie rattling, whistling sound etc etc
- What software version of iDrive should it have
- Are there any upgrades that I should be asking for
- Any gripes that you may have that I should be aware of?
Thanks in advance for your help
I'm considering buying a demo model 545i and will be test driving one in a few days. I currently drive a Mercedes E320 (W211 or current model). My main reason for looking at the 545i is because of the attractive price that's been offered to me. I still prefer the exterior and interior looks of the MB but the big engine in the 545i is alluring as well
I am hoping some of you will be able to assist me by providing some forewarning on things to look out for when I'm test driving the 545i. Things that i'd like to know are like:
- What are the known problems? ie rattling, whistling sound etc etc
- What software version of iDrive should it have
- Are there any upgrades that I should be asking for
- Any gripes that you may have that I should be aware of?
Thanks in advance for your help
!
10-20-2004 | 09:00 AM
#5
Contributors
Joined: Mar 2004
Posts: 2,097
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From: So Cal
What kind of price are you getting? Those demo models are known to take some abuse.
There have been issues with rattling, but not in all cars. Try a search for more info.
For software, I wouldn't worry about having the latest version, just make sure everything that you need is in working condition.
There have been issues with rattling, but not in all cars. Try a search for more info.
For software, I wouldn't worry about having the latest version, just make sure everything that you need is in working condition.
10-20-2004 | 09:11 AM
#6
Contributors
Joined: Jun 2004
Posts: 434
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From: California
Leburpor:
Welcome to the forum. enjoy. I have a 2004 545i w/11,000 miles. There are no rattles, everything works like it was designed. I would make sure you get Logic7 sound system. All of the sport package and tranny stuff is a personal issue. I have 11.2 version software, everything seems to work. Good luck, if you have any specific questions let us know.
Welcome to the forum. enjoy. I have a 2004 545i w/11,000 miles. There are no rattles, everything works like it was designed. I would make sure you get Logic7 sound system. All of the sport package and tranny stuff is a personal issue. I have 11.2 version software, everything seems to work. Good luck, if you have any specific questions let us know.
10-20-2004 | 12:44 PM
#8
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Joined: May 2004
Posts: 1,809
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From: Not here
Ask the dealer what's the build date, what's been done to update it and/or repair any problems. Ask for any repair/maint. orders for work done on the car.
Some common problems: cupholder, wheel noise, trans. delay/noise, front end ticking noise, doors/seats squeaking, CD changer, Search for posts by Suebmw for an extreme situation. Ask them what software version is installed. 13.2 is the latest as far as I know.
Ask for the full warranty, not prorated. Ask for a full written inspection. Also have them repair any chips/scratches. The one thing you don't know is how well the break-in limits were adhered to. The one thing you might ask for is a written statement that the break-in limits were followed so that later on if you have a problem that is blamed on the break-in period, you can have the dealer fix it.
About 85% of the members are happy with their car (by poll). Probably the other 15% actually like/love the car when it's working properly.
What are the full specs on your car?
Some common problems: cupholder, wheel noise, trans. delay/noise, front end ticking noise, doors/seats squeaking, CD changer, Search for posts by Suebmw for an extreme situation. Ask them what software version is installed. 13.2 is the latest as far as I know.
Ask for the full warranty, not prorated. Ask for a full written inspection. Also have them repair any chips/scratches. The one thing you don't know is how well the break-in limits were adhered to. The one thing you might ask for is a written statement that the break-in limits were followed so that later on if you have a problem that is blamed on the break-in period, you can have the dealer fix it.
About 85% of the members are happy with their car (by poll). Probably the other 15% actually like/love the car when it's working properly.
What are the full specs on your car?
10-20-2004 | 04:01 PM
#9
Senior Members
Joined: Jun 2004
Posts: 9,135
Likes: 0
From: USA
Originally Posted by heezy545i' date='Oct 20 2004, 06:00 AM
What kind of price are you getting?? Those demo models are known to take some abuse.
There have been issues with rattling, but not in all cars.? Try a search for more info.
For software, I wouldn't worry about having the latest version, just make sure everything that you need is in working condition.
There have been issues with rattling, but not in all cars.? Try a search for more info.
For software, I wouldn't worry about having the latest version, just make sure everything that you need is in working condition.
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! agree w/heezy545i. i'd rather get a brand new '04 than a '05 demo. brand new '04 also has a big discount now.