BMW Buying Tips

BMWs enjoy a near fanatical following of enthusiasts. Few cars offer such a terrific combination of German engineering, durability and driver involvement. Pay attention to several areas when looking at a BMW. Remember that a pre-purchase inspection by a BMW mechanic is always good insurance.

Which Models

If you're buying a used BMW, it's generally best to stick with cars like the 3 Series, 5 Series or Z Series. These are less complicated than the high-end models like the 7 Series, which are very complicated and can be more costly to maintain and ultimately just aren't as fun to drive.

Engine/Maintenance

A car that has service records is far better than a car that has an unknown history. BMWs can be reliable, but also tend to fall apart if not maintained properly. One of the great aspects of BMWs is the engines in them can last well into the 200,000-mile range if they are properly taken care of. Whether it's a vintage BMW or a newer model from the 1990s or 2000s, pay special attention to the cooling system. Despite the BMW's overall terrific engineering, some models -- particularly those from the past 10 or 15 years -- came with substandard water pumps and cooling systems, which can lead to overheating engines and warped heads. When you start the car, check to see if white smoke comes from the exhaust pipe and continues after the car is warm.

Interior/Exterior

Like any used car, most old BMWs probably will have some issues with the electrical system. There are frequently problems with the factory stereos that can difficult to resolve. Also, keep in mind that higher-end models like the 735i were extremely complicated and as such can suffer from expensive electrical problems. It's one of the reasons these cars are so cheap used.

Unless you are looking at a vintage BMW, most models probably won't be riddled with rust. If it is a vintage BMW, look closely at the rocker panels (the area at the bottom of the car between the wheel arches), in the trunk, and around the windshield and battery area. Newer models likely are rust-free unless they were stored outside in a wet climate.

Look for signs of collision damage by inspecting the tops of the fenders in the engine bay. If there is crinkled and bent metal that doesn't look stock, the car probably has been in an accident. Likewise, check the insides of the trunk for the same.