Buying a 2nd Hand BMW

**William Tell** · June 7th, 2006 12:46 AM

I have decided to buy a 2nd hand BMW model late 90s to early 00. I'll be starting to shop around for one soon. The thing is, i really do not know much about cars and i have heard horror stories from friends who have bought second hand cars and finding out later about serious repairs to be done. Would anyone know where and how i can hire a good mechanic to go with me to check out my choices? also, im looking for a particular color. Will it be ok if i buy one thats not what i want and just give it a new paint job? How much would u think this will cost me?

**seonadancing** · June 7th, 2006 02:42 PM

A paint job cost around 25k. Search the forums, there's a lot of info about BMW. The maintenance cost depends on the condition of the car you're getting.

**Flagg** · June 8th, 2006 03:28 AM

Hmm, that would make it an E46 or an E39... those shouldn't be in bad condition yet.

Try those sellers with nicer addresses cuz these people would have a lot of other cars and not used the BMW as much. Shy away from 'executive' cars, cuz these are more likely to have been driven and cared for by a driver... meaning cursory care.

I also think it should be ok to try out the Certified used cars sold by BMW casa.

It's easy to fall in love... don't. Test drive more than two choices.

Check out the BMW thread here... pretty good reading.