ThereThatGuy

Hello everyone,

TL;DR Skip to 2nd paragraph.

So I'm looking into purchasing my first BMW. I've always been an enthusiasts of bmw ever since I sat in a earley model m5. I would like to give you a little background. Im 20 and have been frugle with my money for the last few years knowing I would love to purchase a bmw. I plan on shoping for the next few months to get the best possible price as I will be paying cash. I've got around $8,000 with this being said most of the 550s or anything in the 500s milage wise is anywhere from 100k to 130k.

Whis this being said I know how reliable the cars are but I also know parts and labour costs an arm and a leg. I'm a college student so I won't have excess funds to do repairs allnthe time if I'm gonna get constent issues.

I've done some reading and have read to stay away from the 535 as it is riddled with issues. What's everyone's opinion on a semi high mileage (100k-130k ish) 07 550i. Any serious issues with this model? Anything known to go kaput after x amount of milage? Would I be better off just not getting one?

Some input of this would be fantastic. Other recomendations would be great. I would obviously have the vehicle inspected pre purchase to have see if there is any issues. I guess what I'm asking is, is it even worth purchasing one or will I be shelling out some serious cash over the years.

I drive an 02 tahoe with 165k never had an issue, just sold my 01 passat 225k no serious issues drove it for around 25k miles. Just saying this as I've litterally never had car issues. Call me lucky. Lol

Thanks again folks. I know this is a long read lol
Much appreciated, Michael

ThereThatGuy

Sorry for spelling mistakes, I'm on my mobile.

DTD

See DTD Post at Any valve guide problem free higher mileage v8 e60s out there Thread.

ETNav382

There's a few things that you said that should factor into your decision. Labor cost are high and you're in college parts are expensive too. I've an 06 550 and have been planning on replacing the water pump, belts, hoses, thermostat and alternator and from what I can tell it's gonna be close to 1k in parts. That's with an aftermarket water pump and alternator. That's just preventative which should be done by 80k or so. There's also the valve cover gasket leak that most need, the transmission fluid flush/solenoid replacement, brake booster vacuum pump which may not be covered under recall, possible other misc oil leaks
All that being said, if you can diy it will save you a lot of money. But your still buying a 75k for 8k. The parts will still be based on the original sticker price. If you can find one that has a well documented service history and has major issues already fixed you should be good to go for awhile.

ETNav382

Also look here this should be helpful for pre purchase.
So You Just Bought an E60 (V1.6).... - Bimmerfest - BMW Forums

wcr3d

Personally any e60 for 8k I would stay away from.

ThereThatGuy

Alright guys,
I've decited to not purchase any if the high mileage vehicles. I've seen a few 3 series in my price range with less than 75k so I'm now doing research on that series.
Thanks for the information fellas

Nickalitis

i understand the concerns but i just got rid of my e46 for an e60 exact car your looking at 07 550i I recently graduated college and yes there were a few problems like a slight leak in my transmission pan, which i fixed and if you read there are possible issues with the coolant pipe oring leaking. Overall it all depends on why you want a 5 series whether it being more practical say you need the extra space or not or if you find the 5 more aesthetically pleasing. With all that being said for me personally as much as i loved the e46 the 5 just has a certain look that i like and honestly once the preventative things like water pump, thermostat etc. are done the car will run like a champ and honestly for me i made a good decision. I got it with 70k and as of now i just saved up for parts and did the work myself to save a little extra money either way bmw is the way to go good luck

DTD

Touche on the E60! Back to my movie the Fast Five!