What to look for on an E36?
Discussion
Divorce is proceeding nicely, finances aren't in anywhere near as bad a state as I was expecting, so having a look around at some cars.
Checked the insurance on various 3 series, and the 320, 325 and 328 E36 either cost less to insure (320) or about £20 more per year than my 96 Mondeo TD (boring family car that sucks on fuel usage around town).
I've seen a few 320, 325 and 328s, all generally higher mileage (typically 100k an up). Anything to look for on these, services that need to be done, any known faults, etc?
I don't do a lot of miles a year, just picking up my son from his mothers place on Saturdays, and the odd trip back up to family in Blackpool, so figure any of these should fit the bill quite nicely.
Checked the insurance on various 3 series, and the 320, 325 and 328 E36 either cost less to insure (320) or about £20 more per year than my 96 Mondeo TD (boring family car that sucks on fuel usage around town).
I've seen a few 320, 325 and 328s, all generally higher mileage (typically 100k an up). Anything to look for on these, services that need to be done, any known faults, etc?
I don't do a lot of miles a year, just picking up my son from his mothers place on Saturdays, and the odd trip back up to family in Blackpool, so figure any of these should fit the bill quite nicely.
Not wanting to take the proverbial with Ted, but www.e36coupe.com is the font of all E36 knowledge.
Excellent forum, and you'll get a good response to any Qs posed (I'm a moderator)
Excellent forum, and you'll get a good response to any Qs posed (I'm a moderator)
clonmult said:
Divorce is proceeding nicely, finances aren't in anywhere near as bad a state as I was expecting, so having a look around at some cars.
Checked the insurance on various 3 series, and the 320, 325 and 328 E36 either cost less to insure (320) or about £20 more per year than my 96 Mondeo TD (boring family car that sucks on fuel usage around town).
I've seen a few 320, 325 and 328s, all generally higher mileage (typically 100k an up). Anything to look for on these, services that need to be done, any known faults, etc?
I don't do a lot of miles a year, just picking up my son from his mothers place on Saturdays, and the odd trip back up to family in Blackpool, so figure any of these should fit the bill quite nicely.
Checked the insurance on various 3 series, and the 320, 325 and 328 E36 either cost less to insure (320) or about £20 more per year than my 96 Mondeo TD (boring family car that sucks on fuel usage around town).
I've seen a few 320, 325 and 328s, all generally higher mileage (typically 100k an up). Anything to look for on these, services that need to be done, any known faults, etc?
I don't do a lot of miles a year, just picking up my son from his mothers place on Saturdays, and the odd trip back up to family in Blackpool, so figure any of these should fit the bill quite nicely.
Mechanically there isn't too much to worry about, however if you're looking at 328's or 323's you need to be aware of a liner bore liner issue. Basically (I think this is correct), BMW uses a lightweight Nikasil liner on early engines which eventually lead to bore wear and a lack of compression. Any car that suffered this within warranty period had the block replaced FOC. BMW have a register of any work done at dealerships so you can check with them whether the car you're looking at has been sorted. FWIW, I wouldn't touch one, that hasn't had a replacement bottom end. Also Listen for any ticking from the top end of the engine which can indicate VANOS problems which is not a cheap repair.
You also need to listen out/feel for dodgy rear trailing arm bushes. Mine went at 80k, which seems to be about the norm. About £150 - £200 to sort. Front ball joints also go about the same time. This was about £250 to sort on mine as I did the bushes and replaced the wishbones at the same time. If the steering column squeeks, don't worry about it, its very easy to sort.
Bodywork wise, rear arches can rust, bootlid and lower edge of the doors (on Coupes anyway).
Other than that, there's nothing specific beyond the usual checks. FSH is important but specialists are just as good as dealers as a general rule. Check all electrics as they can be expensive to put right.
Other than that, they're really solid and a great choice. Good luck.
Gassing Station | BMW General | Top of Page | What's New | My Stuff