Greetings! The site looks great.

I’m new to the forum and new to BMW’s and would like to

waffle a bit about the first few I have looked at.

I have decided I want a BMW probably e39 but have quite a

low budget, maybe £2500.

I Looked at a 51 530i 117k miles first up for £1995 The

dealer said “this is a lovely car no problems what so ever” . I said “it's got

a flat tyre” he said “when it’s cold sometimes the air comes out a bit”. Yup ok

that makes sense. I went to drive it and as soon as I put my foot on the clutch

there was a very loud grinding rumbling noise. I decided to leave that car

alone.

The next was a Y 530i 120k miles up for £1995 again. The

biggest concern I had was an oil leak. It seemed to be coming from the right

side of the engine under the inlet manifold and had covered everything. The

engine management light was on and when we checked it was a “no.1 cylinder

miss-fire”. The garage owner said it was due to an idle control valve

which he was going to replace. It also looked like the previous owner had an

Ocelot because the leather was so scratched. I decided to leave that car alone.

I just got back from looking at a 51 530d auto 105k miles up for

£2800. This one has some scratches on the body but other than that seems in

excellent condition. I drove it and it accelerates smoothly brakes well, with

no knocks or anything. Loads of tread on the tyres. MOT until dec. I said I

would get back to them.

Is my budget a bit too low to get a reliable e39? I’m pretty

sure the first two are to be avoided? As for the last one I don’t know a lot

about diesels so if anyone could give me any pointers on what to look for I

would be grateful.

Cheers

Shrapers

HiPaul You are looking to buy what was a very expensive car, with the common knowledge that when things go wrong they can make you new pride and joy go into negative equity almost over night, it dose not have to be major work either. If your handy around an engine and confident about maintaining brakes, and importantly is not your only means to get to work then go for it and best of luck, other wise save a bit more WONGA and go for something honest, newer, and at a dealer so you will have at least piece of mind. It looks as though you have the will to walk away so carry on there are hundreds of good BMWs awaiting new homes, good luck. Chippy...........