Thinking of buying a 2002 BMW E39 525i - Need Advise

[bmyotaE36jz]

Dear sifus.

Is it a good idea to commit to an almost 15 years hold BMW E39? Or we are better of with a 2007 E90.

http://www.mudah.my/2002+BMW+E39+525i+2+5+A+Japan+Spec-47104790.htm

Will the repair and first year maintenance cost more than the vehicle itself? What will be the problems that we will have to note for when choosing the perfect E39? Any major issues like gearbox or VANOS seals?

Thanks in advance. Appreciate it very much.

 

[ContinentalGT]

Bring a trusted foreman to inspect that E39. But anyhow, go with E60 or LCI E90 323i for less headache.

 

[valvetronix]

Hi bro,

Personally my take is it's OK to commit to a 15 years old car provided is has been well maintained (with records) by the previous owners.

My 528i is turning 20 years old this year and she has been serving me well thus far. I've spent less than 10k in 2.5 years time in maintenance / repairs. Really solid for it's age, take your time to search for the right E39. The one that you posted looks decent for a 525i but the mileage is quite high. Again it all depends on the service history. The engines used in the E39 are quite robust.

Of course wear & tear is higher compared to E60/E90 but these models are costlier to be maintained. Anyhow if you got yourself a lemon, definitely it will be a horrifying ownership experience regardless of which model you decide to go for.

 

[tweiboon]

If you really want to go for e60 is better to take e60 with M54 engine. e60 with magnesium engine definitely makes your wallet pains. e60 with magnesium engine it has 2 oil coolers with cost you more than rm1k and it must be replaces from time to time. If u not change it then will cause electric water pump, radiator and all the water hoses need to change later which will will cost u around rm10k

 

[ContinentalGT]

tweibon, did u mean N52 2.5?

 

[valvetronix]

I gotta agree with tweiboon, the ones fitted with M54's somehow are more reliable & cheaper to maintain. Most of my encounters with E60 owners mentioned the same thing too, same goes to my regular mechanic. To do preventive maintenance on the LCI models would require deeper pocket.

 

[bmyotaE36jz]

Thanks all sifus for the reply. Appreciate it very much. What are the areas that we will need to pay attention when looking for an E39. If I read correctly, the best specs will be the last 2001 ones with the auto head lamp and auto wipers right? So 2002 will probably have all the latest specs and features that the E39 have to offer? Please correct me if I am wrong. Thanks in advance sifus. Appreciate it very much.

 

[bmyotaE36jz]

Thanks all sifus for the reply. Appreciate it very much. What are the areas that we will need to pay attention when looking for an E39. If I read correctly, the best specs will be the last 2001 ones with the auto head lamp and auto wipers right? So 2002 will probably have all the latest specs and features that the E39 have to offer? Please correct me if I am wrong. Thanks in advance sifus. Appreciate it very much.