How to Look for a Used BMW SUV

While BMW has focused primarily on the production of cars and motorcycles, two products people most commonly associate with the German automotive company, in recent years the Bavarian brand has begun offering sport utility vehicles (SUVs) as well. The first model that the company introduced was the X5, which was followed by the smaller X3. These were followed by the X6, though that model has been coined a sports activity vehicle (SAV) by its maker. Used BMW SUVs can be a great second-hand buy.

Instructions

1

Visit the local BMW dealer. Most large metropolitan areas have a dealer that specializes in BMWs. These dealers always have a used section where they sell used models that have been traded in on new models. Check their inventory frequently, or even tell one of the salesman that you are looking for a used BMW X3, X5 or X6. Though used BMWs sold through the dealership may carry a premium over other dealers, a BMW dealer will usually be more picky about the vehicles that they sell, so the vehicle will be more likely to have been well maintained. BMW also offers certified, pre-owned vehicles, which can add some peace of mind to your purchase.

2

Visit used car dealerships. When searching for high-end used vehicle like a BMW, it's best to visit dealerships that specialize in pre-owned luxury cars. These dealers will often specialize in a couple of makes, so find one that sells BMWs. Keep in mind that many of these vehicles will have been bought at auction and may not come with service records, which can be very important with an expensive, complex vehicle like a BMW.

3

Read the paper and publications such as the Auto Trader. Though free Internet advertising has made it easier to sell vehicles online, the local newspaper is also still a great place to look for a pre-owned vehicle. There is usually an area dedicated to trucks and SUVs as well, so the search can be narrowed down.

4

Use online resources. The Internet has become a great source when it comes to finding the vehicle of your dreams. Auto Trader has a website that features all of the vehicles that are featured in their print publication. eBay can be a potentially good sources for finding a used BMW SUV, but any purchases here should be made cautiously. If the vehicle is in another city or state, it is extremely important that you have the vehicle inspected by a third party to ensure it is worth buying. Craigslist has become a very popular place to advertise used cars and trucks, with private individuals as well as dealers taking advantage of the free site. There is a good search function under the Cars and Truck For Sale area. Other potential online sources are the forums and websites that cater to BMW enthusiasts, such as Bimmerfest.com and Bimmerforums.com.

5

Check with local BMW mechanics. Pay a visit to (or call) local BMW shops. Often they may have customers who are selling their used BMWs. An added bonus of locating a BMW through a reputable technician is that they can potentially vouch for the mechanical condition of the vehicle and perform a pre-purchase inspection (PPI) on it to determine if there are any problems with it.

6

Have the vehicle inspected by a mechanic. Wherever you end up finding your used BMW X3, X5 or X6 it is important to have the vehicle inspected by a mechanic familiar with these complex German vehicles. He'll make sure there are no major problems or issues that could potentially cost you a lot of money after the purchase.