discussion First time potential BMW E90 325i buyer

[Zee87]

Thanks to all who replied. I appreciate it. Now to start searching for 320d manual.

 

[KarshS]

I had a 325i. It spent 70% of the time at the dealership due to timing issues. Eventually the workshop manager gave up and told me to trade it in for something else. Crank, vanos and oil sludge. Id stay away from it especially if it was driven for so long without a service. Make sure its a manual, auto's in joburg are dog slow.
Id rather take a risk on the 325i than settle for a 320i lol.

Anyway buy a 320d.

 

[ibs.patel]

Search for a 320d AUTO

 

[KPM3_30]

Search for a 320d AUTO

I've driven both a manual and auto 320d (E90) extensively and preferred the manual over the 6 speed auto.

Also a factor to consider is the auto will be a good few years old now and longevity will come into question (adaptation and pressure readings).. An auto rebuild for R60k vs a clutch and flywheel at 30%, I know which route I would go...

 

[Teezoh]

Thanks to all who replied. I appreciate it. Now to start searching for 320d manual.

The main question to be asked for any car buyer here leads back to your very first post. You dropped the E90 325i. Why exactly did you have a look at that car when you saw it? The way it looks? (never dive for dealer appearance, a drop with mags etc etc may seem appealing but don't do it) Or are you actually seeking the E90 or the 325i to be specific?

Price ranges for the said E90 can vary but at around 60 - 80k you can also seek out a e46 330i (Just making an example).

When you do car shopping you wanna look firstly for service history as mentioned by most here, thereafter, if it's a dealer, the more stock it seems the better from what I've learned. If you or anyone ever wanna buy a modded car do it from a community like this where you know it's looked after.

 

[Zee87]

The main question to be asked for any car buyer here leads back to your very first post. You dropped the E90 325i. Why exactly did you have a look at that car when you saw it? The way it looks? (never dive for dealer appearance, a drop with mags etc etc may seem appealing but don't do it) Or are you actually seeking the E90 or the 325i to be specific?

Price ranges for the said E90 can vary but at around 60 - 80k you can also seek out a e46 330i (Just making an example).

When you do car shopping you wanna look firstly for service history as mentioned by most here, thereafter, if it's a dealer, the more stock it seems the better from what I've learned. If you or anyone ever wanna buy a modded car do it from a community like this where you know it's looked after.

So from the advice I received here and some research online, I feel the 320d or 330d is the engine to go for in the e90 platform. At first I only wanted a straight six petrol because of the way it drives but it is difficult to find a lower mileage example.


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[Lvan91]

So from the advice I received here and some research online, I feel the 320d or 330d is the engine to go for in the e90 platform. At first I only wanted a straight six petrol because of the way it drives but it is difficult to find a lower mileage example.


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How is the search going?
I owned a pre lci E90 325i Auto and absolutely loved it, I did a lot of long distance travel with it though. The N52 is just such a smooth motor, yes not the fastest BMW you’ll drive but certainly no slouch either. In my time of ownership only the thermostat failed and the rest was normal wear and tear. The N52 has an electric water pump and it’s not cheap to replace.
My advice, buy what your heart desires but keep a clear mind when looking at cars. Like the gap in service history is a definite red flag.
I am currently also looking for a 320d lci but purely because of our crazy fuel prices. If fuel was cheaper I would definitely be getting another straight 6
Good luck with your search