Tips for Buying a e36

[dunhillderek]

Hi Guys,My name is derek and I'm new to KL. Looking to buy an e36, preferably 328, no preference for auto or manual. Year of manufacture 97 or 96 so that I can get the loan from the bankHaving read a couple of the threads in this forum, have realised that some people have been more fortunate in purchasing e36 than others (e.g Anxious).I was hoping that some of the sifus here can give me some tips on how to search for an e36 in good condition.As usual, I have been going through motor trader to see what is available there. Does anyone have any comments on the cars available in the most recent issue?I really don't mind paying a premium for e36 in good condition. I have some minor experience with inspecting old cars from messing around with a nissan 180sx over the last 4 years and what I really learnt from the whole experience is that it is more economical in the long run to pay for a car that is in good condition at the start. Only thing is, I am really clueless as to how to find a good condition e36 in KL.Look forward to hearing your advice and I would love any recommendations for good e36s out there, especially fellow forumers who might be looking to switch to newer models.Thanks guys!

 

[rao328]

thats a tricky question, get the car checked by a bmw machanic before purchasing it, coz if u were to buy it and problem comes up, cost of getting it fixed are pretty costly, i have a e36 328 and so far have found that the aircon does not blow as good as it should, thats a common problem, the dashbord does not close fully, it sags, and most important is your gearbox, make sure its looked into by a machanic coz if that blows....u in big $$$ trouble, other then that... its all good,

im looking at my car and giving u the hints, but all cars vary bepending on milage and condition... come may be A+++++ and some may be f+++++ so bottom line is get it cheked before purchase

 

[Lee36328]

dunhillderek,

here are things to watch out for

1. full modic check at a bmw specialist workshop
2. engine - compression test? rebuilt before?
3. gearbox - rebuilt before? sign of wear and tear?
4. steering rack - leaks?
5. power steering pump - humming when turning while stationary?
6. alternator - humming in the sound system?
7. aircond - cooling coil, compressor, blower motor

Here are a list of wear and tear things you'll likely need to change

1. suspension bushes
2. springs and absorber (probably due already)
3. tires (make sure they are fresh, and the same brand and model ...)

Your best bet would be to buy it from someone you know who takes care of the car like a freak.

Failing that, since freaks don't usually sell, ask for documented maintenance history. Unless you can see a fat stack of receipts, and I do mean a fat stack considering the age, walk away.

It helps to have some car freaks as your friends as well. Their experience can save you plenty of co$tly trial and error$.

Good luck.

 

[dunhillderek]

Hi Lee,

Thanks for the reply, have noticed you have been very helpful to everyone on this forum.

Would you be able to recommend a good bmw specialist workshop?

Also, not sure of the normal practice here, will car dealers allow you to take the car to another workshop for inspection?

Thanks!

 

[vinode]

I have been hunting for an e36 eversince I sold my e39 couple of months back. The most time and effort saving advice I can give you... don't go to the dealers! You wouldn't believe how they lie on the phone. When you go and take a look at the car, you will be dissapointed. The price won't make you feel any better either.
The best option is to wait patiently for an owner to sell his car through Motortrader, BMWClubMalaysia Classifieds or The Star Classifieds. You will get a bargain but the downside is securing a loan yourself or trading in your old ride... can't do that.

As for the specialist workshop, there is a very long list made into a sticky here:
http://www.bmwclubmalaysia.com/forums/forumdisplay.php?f=46

Everyone is helpful here and hopefully you will stay active here after you have found your dream ride. It's probably a good idea to break the ice by posting about yourself at the newbie section as well. Welcome to the club and to the e36 community.

 

[anxious]

I am glad that my unfortunate experience serves as a guide to potential E36 buyers.

Dont be disheartherned by my postings. The E36 is a wonderful car. 3 months into my ownership, I am very happy with my car.

Just save yourself from the heartache of having to virtually rebuild the car as I had to do by buying a car with full service history.

As Lee pointed out, a car this age is bound to have wear and tear and therefore unless you get a car that is well taken care of you may end up with having to go through what I went through.

My mistake is that I got carried away with the car's looks and low mileage. Believe it or not my 1995 car had less than 80000km on the odometer when I got it. The car was absolutely stock.....even had the first aid kit box with all the contents intact.

Although the service booklet clearly showed that the car was poorly serviced, I overlooked it as I was too excited as i thought i found THE CAR.

My mechanic probably shares part of the blame as his pre purchase inspection of my car wasnt through enough.

Well hindsight is always 20:20....Good Luck!

 

[Lee36328]

Hi Lee,

Thanks for the reply, have noticed you have been very helpful to everyone on this forum.

Would you be able to recommend a good bmw specialist workshop?

Also, not sure of the normal practice here, will car dealers allow you to take the car to another workshop for inspection?

Thanks!

If you PM me your mobile, would be happy to link you up with my regular workshop. Are you in KL/PJ?

And yes, a car dealer should allow you to take the car to another workshop for inspection.

But as noted in the above post, do be careful when dealing with car dealers. Unless it is one with a known good reputation, the likelyhood of being taken for a ride is quite high, and I don't mean the test drive.

 

[dunhillderek]

Many many many thanks to Lee, who was kind enough to take me on a test drive and even allow me to have a feel of what it is like to be behind the wheel of an e36 328.

Really appreciate the time and the advice. I hope to be able to join this club officially soon (think i need a ride first though) and I look forward to meeting up with other club members.

In the meantime, I'll be looking for a ride, have seen a few, but there is 1 there is very promising.

Once again, thanks Lee!

 

[Lee36328]

My pleasure. Good to know another potential e36 enthusiast.