Cannot decide if its time to sell on
Discussion
Following on from a similar post someone posted in the Car Buying subform ( https://www.pistonheads.com/gassing/topic.asp?h=0&... ).
I also am in a similar predicament where im starting to wonder if its worth the hassle and the expense of keeping my car and am wondering if anyone else has faced a similar dilemma.
Some background, I don't have anything quite as exotic as a Boxer -Only an N52 I6 engined 125i SE with some M sport bits added on. I thankfully own my vehicle outright with no finance ect on it however I do use it daily for my work. While its nice to own my car it is not without its headaches...
I have been blessed with some of the common larger and expensive N52 maintenance items creeping their head up. Im getting early codes for the electric water pump, aswell as oil leaking into the ESS plug and have previously had ESS codes which have miraculously disappeared. Alongside that im getting running lean/rich codes with no clue whatsoever what is causing them other than the Eccentric shaft sensor. On top of that I have the valvetronic motor gasket now beginning to leak which I probably won't do because its looking likely that im going to need to replace the whole valve cover. So its looking likely that I will need a new water pump/stat, Valve cover and eccentric shaft sensor in the near future! Not bank breaking stuff but enough to cause some concern!
Whereas I researched this car and engine very much before I bought it - knowing full well what may pop up, I wasnt expecting everything to start falling apart all at once. I look after my car and change oil way before the service intervals and believe in preventative maintenance but im starting to feel the frustration of owning my first BMW (serves me right I suppose).
It wouldn't be so bad if these were just engine related niggles but the suspension is also starting to feel knackered and I daren't look at upgrades and mods yet! Being an SE ive only treated it to some interior upgrades thus far but that's about it.
I really want to start enjoying this car but before I can take the plunge and finally get something sorted, something else pops up. Here's the thing, it has never actually left me stranded, its always started and never thrown a warning light but I know there are things that are going to need doing soon and its starting to feel lousy to drive. Im pondering whether its better to cut my losses before things get expensive and whether the running costs are justified. Sadly im not brave enough to work on my own engine which I know many do with older BMWs. Maybe this isn't the car for me but im not seeing much better with the alternatives.
Unless I go for a shopping trolley, everything else within the price range of what id likely get for my car is going to result in much of the same age and mileage of car given how the used market has gone. I used to be a big fan of Honda but all the desirable models prices have shot up out of reach.
Much like the linked forum post, im also starting to wonder if the stress is worth it in the long run. Its hardly engaging to drive in the south east anymore with the state of the roads and average speed cameras everywhere. Before anyone suggested a motorbike, two seater sports car or second car sadly I am not in position to do this given I need some level of practicality for work. The obvious answer is to go for something newer with less maintenance but that will likely result in going down the PCP route which I really want to avoid.
I also am in a similar predicament where im starting to wonder if its worth the hassle and the expense of keeping my car and am wondering if anyone else has faced a similar dilemma.
Some background, I don't have anything quite as exotic as a Boxer -Only an N52 I6 engined 125i SE with some M sport bits added on. I thankfully own my vehicle outright with no finance ect on it however I do use it daily for my work. While its nice to own my car it is not without its headaches...
I have been blessed with some of the common larger and expensive N52 maintenance items creeping their head up. Im getting early codes for the electric water pump, aswell as oil leaking into the ESS plug and have previously had ESS codes which have miraculously disappeared. Alongside that im getting running lean/rich codes with no clue whatsoever what is causing them other than the Eccentric shaft sensor. On top of that I have the valvetronic motor gasket now beginning to leak which I probably won't do because its looking likely that im going to need to replace the whole valve cover. So its looking likely that I will need a new water pump/stat, Valve cover and eccentric shaft sensor in the near future! Not bank breaking stuff but enough to cause some concern!
Whereas I researched this car and engine very much before I bought it - knowing full well what may pop up, I wasnt expecting everything to start falling apart all at once. I look after my car and change oil way before the service intervals and believe in preventative maintenance but im starting to feel the frustration of owning my first BMW (serves me right I suppose).
It wouldn't be so bad if these were just engine related niggles but the suspension is also starting to feel knackered and I daren't look at upgrades and mods yet! Being an SE ive only treated it to some interior upgrades thus far but that's about it.
I really want to start enjoying this car but before I can take the plunge and finally get something sorted, something else pops up. Here's the thing, it has never actually left me stranded, its always started and never thrown a warning light but I know there are things that are going to need doing soon and its starting to feel lousy to drive. Im pondering whether its better to cut my losses before things get expensive and whether the running costs are justified. Sadly im not brave enough to work on my own engine which I know many do with older BMWs. Maybe this isn't the car for me but im not seeing much better with the alternatives.
Unless I go for a shopping trolley, everything else within the price range of what id likely get for my car is going to result in much of the same age and mileage of car given how the used market has gone. I used to be a big fan of Honda but all the desirable models prices have shot up out of reach.
Much like the linked forum post, im also starting to wonder if the stress is worth it in the long run. Its hardly engaging to drive in the south east anymore with the state of the roads and average speed cameras everywhere. Before anyone suggested a motorbike, two seater sports car or second car sadly I am not in position to do this given I need some level of practicality for work. The obvious answer is to go for something newer with less maintenance but that will likely result in going down the PCP route which I really want to avoid.
Depends on other circumstances and whether you want to be in a PCP or not. I read your other thread and see you had a bad time with a Boxster S after changing from a MX5 and that rings to me "better the devil you know" on the BMW decision right now.
I have similar thoughts myself, had my family hack for a decade since it was a few months old. Needs a steering rack as it's first bill ever and I had thought to get rid but the rest of the car is great and it has plenty of life in it. Personally I don't want to be in a PCP and want to do a loft conversion this year and my mortgage is massive so for me I'd rather keep what I've got. I also have other cars (no finance) though and that keeps the variety.
Everyone is different and if the car no longer works for you on a practical and reliability level then those are reasons that would motivate me to change. Some people change for the sake of it too.
I have similar thoughts myself, had my family hack for a decade since it was a few months old. Needs a steering rack as it's first bill ever and I had thought to get rid but the rest of the car is great and it has plenty of life in it. Personally I don't want to be in a PCP and want to do a loft conversion this year and my mortgage is massive so for me I'd rather keep what I've got. I also have other cars (no finance) though and that keeps the variety.
Everyone is different and if the car no longer works for you on a practical and reliability level then those are reasons that would motivate me to change. Some people change for the sake of it too.
VeeReihenmotor6 said:
Depends on other circumstances and whether you want to be in a PCP or not. I read your other thread and see you had a bad time with a Boxster S after changing from a MX5 and that rings to me "better the devil you know" on the BMW decision right now.
I have similar thoughts myself, had my family hack for a decade since it was a few months old. Needs a steering rack as it's first bill ever and I had thought to get rid but the rest of the car is great and it has plenty of life in it. Personally I don't want to be in a PCP and want to do a loft conversion this year and my mortgage is massive so for me I'd rather keep what I've got. I also have other cars (no finance) though and that keeps the variety.
Everyone is different and if the car no longer works for you on a practical and reliability level then those are reasons that would motivate me to change. Some people change for the sake of it too.
It wasnt myself re the Boxer, was just referring to another post but am in a similar predicament. Id say the cars practical and surprisingly so for a coupe. Unfortunately its the running costs and how its currently driving that isn't doing it for me right now. Im fortunate enough to have nabbed it pre used car price boom so didnt pay over the odds for it. I have similar thoughts myself, had my family hack for a decade since it was a few months old. Needs a steering rack as it's first bill ever and I had thought to get rid but the rest of the car is great and it has plenty of life in it. Personally I don't want to be in a PCP and want to do a loft conversion this year and my mortgage is massive so for me I'd rather keep what I've got. I also have other cars (no finance) though and that keeps the variety.
Everyone is different and if the car no longer works for you on a practical and reliability level then those are reasons that would motivate me to change. Some people change for the sake of it too.
The only things that appeal whilst being 'newer, realistically are in the next price bracket above - so the GT86s', FK2s and Focus ST Mk3s of this world. Practical while being fun. But that's not to say they'd be the best examples....even high mileage GT86s have held their prices surprisingly well.
Going back to a MK7 FST would be a possible option but the market is absolutely littered with Cat D/C examples and with high amount of owners (Some as high as 8!). While it was a good car, since ive been shot of mine they have fallen into 'certain hands!'.....
If I was to stick to my end of the market, without going for a shopping trolley, its made up of high mileage TT's, GTis, Cooper S and the like - which surely is going to be much the same experience as mine. Other than that we have a few more sensible options such as Mondeos, 3 Series, Volvos etc which all look great but would hardly say are new or low mileage examples.
I can't be doing with any of this recent-ish German stuff. And I get exactly where you are coming from. They seem to be 'Christ, what now?' cars.
With regards to your dilemma.........I'd either out it now or get it all done - a set of dampers, electric water pump (who thought they were a good idea?) and fix some oil leaks. The trouble is, after yours you are into even more complex and expensive to fix stuff that will go wrong and cost money to fix......
I'd throw £1000 at it to sort the immediate issues and then just run it into the ground.
A mate bought a 2008 Honda Civic S recently, 58 plate, 100,000 miles, £2500. I'm not a fan of them myself but I have to admit it's really very good. It drives well, everything works and the engine is bone dry. Why can't BMW make an oil tight engine?
With regards to your dilemma.........I'd either out it now or get it all done - a set of dampers, electric water pump (who thought they were a good idea?) and fix some oil leaks. The trouble is, after yours you are into even more complex and expensive to fix stuff that will go wrong and cost money to fix......
I'd throw £1000 at it to sort the immediate issues and then just run it into the ground.
A mate bought a 2008 Honda Civic S recently, 58 plate, 100,000 miles, £2500. I'm not a fan of them myself but I have to admit it's really very good. It drives well, everything works and the engine is bone dry. Why can't BMW make an oil tight engine?
Hi mate, I'm the OP from the other thread.
There seems to be a common theme going on here - German cars! Seriously though, I've owned 3 different BMWs and all of them developed faults of some description, with the latter being a Z4 Coupe with an autobox which started going haywire. I paid £400 to get it serviced hoping it would fix the issue, but it didn't and was told a £2500 gearbox rebuild was the most likely outcome I got rid.
The N52 is supposed to be one of BMWs most reliable and robust engines too.
However, another common theme - these cars are all old.
To be honest, if you don't want to be bent over for the price of a new car, and I don't blame you because the costs are absolutely obscene nowadays, the choice really seems be either buy a nearly new shopping trolley, like an Aygo, take a bit more of a gamble on a slightly older hot hatch / other modern car such as a Fiesta ST or whatever, or stick with the older cars and suck it up.
We've had our Aygo for 6 years now and it's literally NEVER developed a fault in that entire time, and if it does, it will cost pennies to fix in comparison with anything more modern. Maybe if you can't see the point anymore then maybe it's the answer? I don't actually mind driving it either. Laps up abuse and actually sounds half decent considering what it is.
I don't know much about the specific faults other than the water pump which I believe is about £400-500, and I'm not saying this to play down your experience, but, I'm assuming you won't lose £5,600 in 2 months(!) So you can take some consolation in that. To add insult to injury, mine was just a toy that cost me that. I had the money but it's left me with very little left over unless I can recover any (somewhat doubtful).
Me? I'm going to see if I can either sell the MX5 and do without, or, if I can't, I'm looking at dropping maybe £10-11k on something like an Abarth 595. These are coming in at that price with fairly sensible miles, and aren't too old, and I would assume, reasonably reliable, and not massively expensive to fix if it goes wrong. Not just that, but probably try and get it from a dealer of some description so if there is any issue I have some comeback rather than probably having to go through the legal route which is what I'm facing with no degree of success.
Good luck!
There seems to be a common theme going on here - German cars! Seriously though, I've owned 3 different BMWs and all of them developed faults of some description, with the latter being a Z4 Coupe with an autobox which started going haywire. I paid £400 to get it serviced hoping it would fix the issue, but it didn't and was told a £2500 gearbox rebuild was the most likely outcome I got rid.
The N52 is supposed to be one of BMWs most reliable and robust engines too.
However, another common theme - these cars are all old.
To be honest, if you don't want to be bent over for the price of a new car, and I don't blame you because the costs are absolutely obscene nowadays, the choice really seems be either buy a nearly new shopping trolley, like an Aygo, take a bit more of a gamble on a slightly older hot hatch / other modern car such as a Fiesta ST or whatever, or stick with the older cars and suck it up.
We've had our Aygo for 6 years now and it's literally NEVER developed a fault in that entire time, and if it does, it will cost pennies to fix in comparison with anything more modern. Maybe if you can't see the point anymore then maybe it's the answer? I don't actually mind driving it either. Laps up abuse and actually sounds half decent considering what it is.
I don't know much about the specific faults other than the water pump which I believe is about £400-500, and I'm not saying this to play down your experience, but, I'm assuming you won't lose £5,600 in 2 months(!) So you can take some consolation in that. To add insult to injury, mine was just a toy that cost me that. I had the money but it's left me with very little left over unless I can recover any (somewhat doubtful).
Me? I'm going to see if I can either sell the MX5 and do without, or, if I can't, I'm looking at dropping maybe £10-11k on something like an Abarth 595. These are coming in at that price with fairly sensible miles, and aren't too old, and I would assume, reasonably reliable, and not massively expensive to fix if it goes wrong. Not just that, but probably try and get it from a dealer of some description so if there is any issue I have some comeback rather than probably having to go through the legal route which is what I'm facing with no degree of success.
Good luck!
Things like the ESS can be expensive depending where you buy them from; BMW wanted £325 for one. Siemens VDO are the manufacturer and I bought one from AUTODOC for £175. The valvetronic gasket is cheap and easy to swap.
Rocker covers are pricey for genuine, I went with a Febi one which was more palatable for my wallet.
The water pump is much cheaper than it used to be especially if you shop around. I think you can pick up a Pierburg one on eBay for less than £300.
Suspension depends on how far you go (just springs and dampers or start doing arms and bushes too).
They’re getting on a bit now so do need some TLC. Only you can decide if it’s worth it versus the cost to swap into something else. Another used car has its own risks and it may be better the devil you know.
Rocker covers are pricey for genuine, I went with a Febi one which was more palatable for my wallet.
The water pump is much cheaper than it used to be especially if you shop around. I think you can pick up a Pierburg one on eBay for less than £300.
Suspension depends on how far you go (just springs and dampers or start doing arms and bushes too).
They’re getting on a bit now so do need some TLC. Only you can decide if it’s worth it versus the cost to swap into something else. Another used car has its own risks and it may be better the devil you know.
On a proper car, the rocker cover is made from aluminium and it lasts the life of the car. £25 for a gasket now and then.
A water pump is £30 from GSF.
As I said though......proper cars.
As an ex mechanic (thankfully retired) I watch the You Tube videos from Car Ninja and The Wizard. They hate German cars but not the large sums of money they earn for fixing the vast swathes of broken/leaking ones. The latest Wizard videos on broken Audi crap are just comedy........and folk are queuing up to buy it!
A water pump is £30 from GSF.
As I said though......proper cars.
As an ex mechanic (thankfully retired) I watch the You Tube videos from Car Ninja and The Wizard. They hate German cars but not the large sums of money they earn for fixing the vast swathes of broken/leaking ones. The latest Wizard videos on broken Audi crap are just comedy........and folk are queuing up to buy it!
I made this mistake a few years ago.
I had an E-Class, 8 years old / 125000 miles. I'd had it from new, so completely known history. It needed about £2.5k - £3k spent to fix a few things that weren't right - suspension airbags, a couple of failing glow plugs, new main & aux batteries, new brakes, etc.
So I WBAC'd it. Then I bought a 4 year old, 40k mile 330i. Oops. The 330i has had over £5k of warranty repairs so far, throws random EMLs that the dealer can't fix, occasionally ignores its speed limiter (dealer can't figure out why), and now has an alarming 'clonk' from the front suspension sometimes - the dealer can't find a fault as it doesn't do it that often. It's all in warranty, but when I add up the cost of changing the car, the cost of paying for extended warranty after the first year, the £100 warranty excess payments - it would have been cheaper and probably less hassle to spend a few £k putting all the faults right on the E-Class and keeping it a few more years.
I had an E-Class, 8 years old / 125000 miles. I'd had it from new, so completely known history. It needed about £2.5k - £3k spent to fix a few things that weren't right - suspension airbags, a couple of failing glow plugs, new main & aux batteries, new brakes, etc.
So I WBAC'd it. Then I bought a 4 year old, 40k mile 330i. Oops. The 330i has had over £5k of warranty repairs so far, throws random EMLs that the dealer can't fix, occasionally ignores its speed limiter (dealer can't figure out why), and now has an alarming 'clonk' from the front suspension sometimes - the dealer can't find a fault as it doesn't do it that often. It's all in warranty, but when I add up the cost of changing the car, the cost of paying for extended warranty after the first year, the £100 warranty excess payments - it would have been cheaper and probably less hassle to spend a few £k putting all the faults right on the E-Class and keeping it a few more years.
I-am-the-reverend said:
I can't be doing with any of this recent-ish German stuff. And I get exactly where you are coming from. They seem to be 'Christ, what now?' cars.
With regards to your dilemma.........I'd either out it now or get it all done - a set of dampers, electric water pump (who thought they were a good idea?) and fix some oil leaks. The trouble is, after yours you are into even more complex and expensive to fix stuff that will go wrong and cost money to fix......
I'd throw £1000 at it to sort the immediate issues and then just run it into the ground.
A mate bought a 2008 Honda Civic S recently, 58 plate, 100,000 miles, £2500. I'm not a fan of them myself but I have to admit it's really very good. It drives well, everything works and the engine is bone dry. Why can't BMW make an oil tight engine?
Funnily enough I had one of those before this. After coming from a Golf Gti it was a way back into 'cheap motoring'. It was somewhat but really didnt float my boat in the long run. Wayward handling, awful build quality and suspension, I discovered it was almost alarmingly rusty. In hindsight I probably should have kept the Gti which led me back down the something interesting path - and here we are!!With regards to your dilemma.........I'd either out it now or get it all done - a set of dampers, electric water pump (who thought they were a good idea?) and fix some oil leaks. The trouble is, after yours you are into even more complex and expensive to fix stuff that will go wrong and cost money to fix......
I'd throw £1000 at it to sort the immediate issues and then just run it into the ground.
A mate bought a 2008 Honda Civic S recently, 58 plate, 100,000 miles, £2500. I'm not a fan of them myself but I have to admit it's really very good. It drives well, everything works and the engine is bone dry. Why can't BMW make an oil tight engine?
I think if i was to change itd be a proper downgrade really and sense this may be the last what youd call a desirable car i own for some time.
TameRacingDriver said:
Hi mate, I'm the OP from the other thread.
There seems to be a common theme going on here - German cars! Seriously though, I've owned 3 different BMWs and all of them developed faults of some description, with the latter being a Z4 Coupe with an autobox which started going haywire. I paid £400 to get it serviced hoping it would fix the issue, but it didn't and was told a £2500 gearbox rebuild was the most likely outcome I got rid.
The N52 is supposed to be one of BMWs most reliable and robust engines too.
However, another common theme - these cars are all old.
To be honest, if you don't want to be bent over for the price of a new car, and I don't blame you because the costs are absolutely obscene nowadays, the choice really seems be either buy a nearly new shopping trolley, like an Aygo, take a bit more of a gamble on a slightly older hot hatch / other modern car such as a Fiesta ST or whatever, or stick with the older cars and suck it up.
We've had our Aygo for 6 years now and it's literally NEVER developed a fault in that entire time, and if it does, it will cost pennies to fix in comparison with anything more modern. Maybe if you can't see the point anymore then maybe it's the answer? I don't actually mind driving it either. Laps up abuse and actually sounds half decent considering what it is.
I don't know much about the specific faults other than the water pump which I believe is about £400-500, and I'm not saying this to play down your experience, but, I'm assuming you won't lose £5,600 in 2 months(!) So you can take some consolation in that. To add insult to injury, mine was just a toy that cost me that. I had the money but it's left me with very little left over unless I can recover any (somewhat doubtful).
Me? I'm going to see if I can either sell the MX5 and do without, or, if I can't, I'm looking at dropping maybe £10-11k on something like an Abarth 595. These are coming in at that price with fairly sensible miles, and aren't too old, and I would assume, reasonably reliable, and not massively expensive to fix if it goes wrong. Not just that, but probably try and get it from a dealer of some description so if there is any issue I have some comeback rather than probably having to go through the legal route which is what I'm facing with no degree of success.
Good luck!
Thanks for taking time to read..yes a common theme. They're always needlessly complicated! In all fairness I wanted to stay in the region of something Japanese (Honda/Mazda/Toyota) There seems to be a common theme going on here - German cars! Seriously though, I've owned 3 different BMWs and all of them developed faults of some description, with the latter being a Z4 Coupe with an autobox which started going haywire. I paid £400 to get it serviced hoping it would fix the issue, but it didn't and was told a £2500 gearbox rebuild was the most likely outcome I got rid.
The N52 is supposed to be one of BMWs most reliable and robust engines too.
However, another common theme - these cars are all old.
To be honest, if you don't want to be bent over for the price of a new car, and I don't blame you because the costs are absolutely obscene nowadays, the choice really seems be either buy a nearly new shopping trolley, like an Aygo, take a bit more of a gamble on a slightly older hot hatch / other modern car such as a Fiesta ST or whatever, or stick with the older cars and suck it up.
We've had our Aygo for 6 years now and it's literally NEVER developed a fault in that entire time, and if it does, it will cost pennies to fix in comparison with anything more modern. Maybe if you can't see the point anymore then maybe it's the answer? I don't actually mind driving it either. Laps up abuse and actually sounds half decent considering what it is.
I don't know much about the specific faults other than the water pump which I believe is about £400-500, and I'm not saying this to play down your experience, but, I'm assuming you won't lose £5,600 in 2 months(!) So you can take some consolation in that. To add insult to injury, mine was just a toy that cost me that. I had the money but it's left me with very little left over unless I can recover any (somewhat doubtful).
Me? I'm going to see if I can either sell the MX5 and do without, or, if I can't, I'm looking at dropping maybe £10-11k on something like an Abarth 595. These are coming in at that price with fairly sensible miles, and aren't too old, and I would assume, reasonably reliable, and not massively expensive to fix if it goes wrong. Not just that, but probably try and get it from a dealer of some description so if there is any issue I have some comeback rather than probably having to go through the legal route which is what I'm facing with no degree of success.
Good luck!
And after trying many cars nothing took my fancy in my price range (Lexus seens to be the obvious answer but none of them are particularly engaging to drive). As for the n52 and its 'reliable' reputation, that's what drew me to it but even though that may be the case - it still has many irritating things that can go south. There's no way I could cope with an N54/N55. (Plastic rocker cover is a joke I wish id known more on that beforehand)
Im very sorry to hear about your Porsche. You think you've made an informed decision then something like that bites you, I know the feeling!. Thankfully you've got the MX-5 to fall back on! Great car and id have another if I could, I used to own an NC. However I do seem to echo a lot of thoughts in your post regarding not feeling the joy of owning a nice or interesting car anymore.
If I had it my way id spend more next time around and increase my budget to a GT86/BRZ but I can't justify further loan or financing. If not that retiring my 1 Series and using an Aygo type car for work...Id actually love one! Unfortunately I always seem to try and go for a 'Do everything' car and put my eggs into one basket - I don't have the money nor space to do anything else annoyingly.
Ive had a look at used cars that would be priced around what id get for mine (if I was very optimistic!). Needless to say im really not finding anything that I like the look of. Ok with you're after a 1.6 Astra or Fiat 500, markets littered with them it seems!
Only alternative is to run mine into the ground and wait for mine to cop-out but it never seems to. It just plods along not knowing if its got any faults or not
Edited by E82_125i on Saturday 27th May 00:40
Edited by E82_125i on Saturday 27th May 00:42
Court_S said:
Things like the ESS can be expensive depending where you buy them from; BMW wanted £325 for one. Siemens VDO are the manufacturer and I bought one from AUTODOC for £175. The valvetronic gasket is cheap and easy to swap.
Rocker covers are pricey for genuine, I went with a Febi one which was more palatable for my wallet.
The water pump is much cheaper than it used to be especially if you shop around. I think you can pick up a Pierburg one on eBay for less than £300.
Suspension depends on how far you go (just springs and dampers or start doing arms and bushes too).
They’re getting on a bit now so do need some TLC. Only you can decide if it’s worth it versus the cost to swap into something else. Another used car has its own risks and it may be better the devil you know.
I understand that you can acquire the parts at a much cheaper rate however these cars do seem to be labour heavy and one problem always seems to lead to another. Everyone says that things are easy to replace on these but only on the assumption that you are pretty mechanically capable and dont screw it up, especially with all the ageing brittle plastic on various parts. Because i use my car daily i also dont have the luxury for things to go wrong.Rocker covers are pricey for genuine, I went with a Febi one which was more palatable for my wallet.
The water pump is much cheaper than it used to be especially if you shop around. I think you can pick up a Pierburg one on eBay for less than £300.
Suspension depends on how far you go (just springs and dampers or start doing arms and bushes too).
They’re getting on a bit now so do need some TLC. Only you can decide if it’s worth it versus the cost to swap into something else. Another used car has its own risks and it may be better the devil you know.
The valvetronic motor gasket being a good example, if the motor isnt reseated properly it can damage the worm gear on the valvetronic shaft. If you also bodge the valvecover you can end up breaking the brittle breather hoses. Im not even going to attempt to try a water pump replacement as it’s notorious for being a sod to change.
For reasons like this im really hesitant to do any of the bigger jobs on the N52, so unfortunately im in the hands of the garages.
Getting them to diagnose anything is hard enough and thats through so called specialists. If the software isn’t specifically picking up a fault at that time then they usually just advise to come back when theres a glaring warning or code showing, but it never comes.
So were relegated to throwing parts at it. Ive had 1 waterpump and oil sensor code appear and disappear never to be seen again in the space of a month, aswell as ESS code’s that have also mysteriously disappeared? Yet i know the car doesnt ‘feel’ right to drive. Pretty frustrating when youre caught in an inbetween place where you just want to fix the car but knowing what to fix isnt quite clear.
Edited by E82_125i on Saturday 27th May 00:31
E82_125i said:
I understand that you can acquire the parts at a much cheaper rate however these cars do seem to be labour heavy and one problem always seems to lead to another. Everyone says that things are easy to replace on these but only on the assumption that you are pretty mechanically capable and dont screw it up, especially with all the ageing brittle plastic on various parts. Because i use my car daily i also dont have the luxury for things to go wrong.
The valvetronic motor gasket being a good example, if the motor isnt reseated properly it can damage the worm gear on the valvetronic shaft. If you also bodge the valvecover you can end up breaking the brittle breather hoses. Im not even going to attempt to try a water pump replacement as it’s notorious for being a sod to change.
For reasons like this im really hesitant to do any of the bigger jobs on the N52, so unfortunately im in the hands of the garages.
Getting them to diagnose anything is hard enough and thats through so called specialists. If the software isn’t specifically picking up a fault at that time then they usually just advise to come back when theres a glaring warning or code showing, but it never comes.
So were relegated to throwing parts at it. Ive had 1 waterpump and oil sensor code appear and disappear never to be seen again in the space of a month, aswell as ESS code’s that have also mysteriously disappeared? Yet i know the car doesnt ‘feel’ right to drive. Pretty frustrating when youre caught in an inbetween place where you just want to fix the car but knowing what to fix isnt quite clear.
The valvetronic gasket is easy to do, just be careful putting the motor into the service position. It takes minutes to do and an OE gasket isn’t expensive. I’m far from a mechanic but have learned a lot getting stuck in myself and both of our cars are daily drivers. There has been the odd hiccup, but there’s always a solution.The valvetronic motor gasket being a good example, if the motor isnt reseated properly it can damage the worm gear on the valvetronic shaft. If you also bodge the valvecover you can end up breaking the brittle breather hoses. Im not even going to attempt to try a water pump replacement as it’s notorious for being a sod to change.
For reasons like this im really hesitant to do any of the bigger jobs on the N52, so unfortunately im in the hands of the garages.
Getting them to diagnose anything is hard enough and thats through so called specialists. If the software isn’t specifically picking up a fault at that time then they usually just advise to come back when theres a glaring warning or code showing, but it never comes.
So were relegated to throwing parts at it. Ive had 1 waterpump and oil sensor code appear and disappear never to be seen again in the space of a month, aswell as ESS code’s that have also mysteriously disappeared? Yet i know the car doesnt ‘feel’ right to drive. Pretty frustrating when youre caught in an inbetween place where you just want to fix the car but knowing what to fix isnt quite clear.
Edited by E82_125i on Saturday 27th May 00:31
It sounds to be like you’ve had enough of the car and you’re looking for confirmation from the hive as it were that you should move it on. None of the issues on your car sound terminal, annoying yes but it’s an old car at the end if the day and they can be sods. These engines run very hot which is what kills the gaskets and hoses.
Where are you based? Have you tried asking for suggestions for good garages who know these engines well? Sone might be a bit further than you’d like but it’s better than the part cannon approach.
Im based in south east so there’s specialists around my way but from what ive gotten the impression of speaking to them, its always a matter of plugging in a machine into it and seeing what the computer says.
Hmmm in terms of what id expect im not too sure but i reckon anything from 5-6k but ive not looked in depth into the usual prices for similar mileage/specs etc. I think it wouldn’t be so bad if i knew what id replace it with if push came to shove but i have no idea really, im struggling to find alternatives unless i convince myself to go for something like a povvo spec saloon/family car or a very cheap shopping trolley type car. Especially at this end of the market now which is skirting near to shed territory now.
Hmmm in terms of what id expect im not too sure but i reckon anything from 5-6k but ive not looked in depth into the usual prices for similar mileage/specs etc. I think it wouldn’t be so bad if i knew what id replace it with if push came to shove but i have no idea really, im struggling to find alternatives unless i convince myself to go for something like a povvo spec saloon/family car or a very cheap shopping trolley type car. Especially at this end of the market now which is skirting near to shed territory now.
Edited by E82_125i on Sunday 28th May 00:45
I might turn this into a recommendations thread! Looking into alternatives and there surely must be some half decent (not knackered!) alternatives. Not for the sake of looking because im having troubles but just incase it ever does go bang.
Im pretty staggered at how much used car prices have held up. I guess ULEZ and new car supply is still contributing to this but anything less than about 8 years old really is commanding strong money still.
Im pretty staggered at how much used car prices have held up. I guess ULEZ and new car supply is still contributing to this but anything less than about 8 years old really is commanding strong money still.
Edited by E82_125i on Sunday 28th May 13:57
I-am-the-reverend said:
I can't be doing with any of this recent-ish German stuff. And I get exactly where you are coming from. They seem to be 'Christ, what now?' cars.
With regards to your dilemma.........I'd either out it now or get it all done - a set of dampers, electric water pump (who thought they were a good idea?) and fix some oil leaks. The trouble is, after yours you are into even more complex and expensive to fix stuff that will go wrong and cost money to fix......
I'd throw £1000 at it to sort the immediate issues and then just run it into the ground.
A mate bought a 2008 Honda Civic S recently, 58 plate, 100,000 miles, £2500. I'm not a fan of them myself but I have to admit it's really very good. It drives well, everything works and the engine is bone dry. Why can't BMW make an oil tight engine?
And yet we've got a 2008 Civic 1.8 as a tip run / general runabout and you can tell it was half the price of our similar aged 1 Series when it was new. It's used half a litre of oil since it's last service 4k miles ago, the air con is broken, the suspension rattles like a skeleton wWith regards to your dilemma.........I'd either out it now or get it all done - a set of dampers, electric water pump (who thought they were a good idea?) and fix some oil leaks. The trouble is, after yours you are into even more complex and expensive to fix stuff that will go wrong and cost money to fix......
I'd throw £1000 at it to sort the immediate issues and then just run it into the ground.
A mate bought a 2008 Honda Civic S recently, 58 plate, 100,000 miles, £2500. I'm not a fan of them myself but I have to admit it's really very good. It drives well, everything works and the engine is bone dry. Why can't BMW make an oil tight engine?
king in a biscuit tin and we had to replace the handbrake lever after it snapped. Also most of the underside appears to be made out of rust and I doubt it will get through another MOT. OP I'd agree it sounds like you're falling out of love with the car, which is a shame as when they're on song they are cracking little cars. I've had mine coming up to 9 years now and I'm still struggling to decide what to replace it with - luckily the impending death of the Civic will grant it another year whilst we replace that.
I've had the same water pump code which triggered 2k miles ago but (touching all the wood I can find as it has to get me and the wife back from Heathrow on Tuesday after two weeks in Vietnam) hasn't gone again - but it's due a service next month so I'll likely get it done then. It's just part and parcel of running older cars I guess.
Sad thing is after my first taste of Honda ownership it's replacement will likely have a Blue Propeller on the front....
I know all too well the plight of some of the Civic ownership (spaceship model) It really felt like a slight step back from Honda but apparently they were exercising quite a bit cost saving in this period.
As towards my 1 series, I’m just gauging as to what people would concentrate on fixing first. I think i might just bite the bullet and try and start slowly fixing things up. Just keen to know what would anyone else do in the same situation.
If i fix up the suspension then great, itll be nicer to drive day to day with much better handling, however then i still have the engine niggles looming in the background. I can address the valvetronic gasket however if i end up having to replace the eccentric shaft sensor surely ill need to do the the whole valve cover at this mileage!? Which renders the gasket a bit pointless Albeit an expensive option i know
……
Then theres my water pump code that popped up briefly and a mixture control code that wont go away, so struggling to know where to start! I haven’t heard the cooling fan go off regularly but am a bit conscious of it now l.
As towards my 1 series, I’m just gauging as to what people would concentrate on fixing first. I think i might just bite the bullet and try and start slowly fixing things up. Just keen to know what would anyone else do in the same situation.
If i fix up the suspension then great, itll be nicer to drive day to day with much better handling, however then i still have the engine niggles looming in the background. I can address the valvetronic gasket however if i end up having to replace the eccentric shaft sensor surely ill need to do the the whole valve cover at this mileage!? Which renders the gasket a bit pointless Albeit an expensive option i know
……Then theres my water pump code that popped up briefly and a mixture control code that wont go away, so struggling to know where to start! I haven’t heard the cooling fan go off regularly but am a bit conscious of it now l.
Edited by E82_125i on Saturday 3rd June 23:40
To be honest with the price of newer cars now, I'm starting to think fixing what you've got is actually more cost effective, and possibly a better option if you like the car.
Example: I'm running a 2005 NC MX5 Launch Edition with a BBR Super 200 kit (a tuning package basically, takes the car to 200 bhp from 160). Lets say for whatever reason the engine failed, I would have a big bill, lets say £3K or so. It might be worth a couple of grand to sell in that state.
Now, imagine the car is perfect for your needs, so realistically you'd replace it with something similar or even a newer version of the same car. I would have to pay around £20k for a good example of a 2018 model ND with 184 PS, which would essentially be a very similar car to drive to what I have now, perhaps not even as good as it has ePAS instead of hyrdraulic PAS. The newer car is lighter but mine has more power (and still not exactly heavy) so it balances out.
Alternatively, I could pay similar to get my cars engine rebuilt, add a supercharger, rust proofing, nice exhaust, ohlin suspension, update the media, perhaps even replace the seats with recaros. Maybe it would even be cheaper than buying the newer car, and it would essentially be a brand new car, unlike the 5 year old MX5 I could replace it for.
So, perhaps if you like your car, you might just get it fixed rather than buying a newer car?
Of course, if you want a change, then go for it, life's too short. If you've got cars you want to experience then go for it. I've had an average of a car a year for my whole adult life
Example: I'm running a 2005 NC MX5 Launch Edition with a BBR Super 200 kit (a tuning package basically, takes the car to 200 bhp from 160). Lets say for whatever reason the engine failed, I would have a big bill, lets say £3K or so. It might be worth a couple of grand to sell in that state.
Now, imagine the car is perfect for your needs, so realistically you'd replace it with something similar or even a newer version of the same car. I would have to pay around £20k for a good example of a 2018 model ND with 184 PS, which would essentially be a very similar car to drive to what I have now, perhaps not even as good as it has ePAS instead of hyrdraulic PAS. The newer car is lighter but mine has more power (and still not exactly heavy) so it balances out.
Alternatively, I could pay similar to get my cars engine rebuilt, add a supercharger, rust proofing, nice exhaust, ohlin suspension, update the media, perhaps even replace the seats with recaros. Maybe it would even be cheaper than buying the newer car, and it would essentially be a brand new car, unlike the 5 year old MX5 I could replace it for.
So, perhaps if you like your car, you might just get it fixed rather than buying a newer car?
Of course, if you want a change, then go for it, life's too short. If you've got cars you want to experience then go for it. I've had an average of a car a year for my whole adult life
Edited by TameRacingDriver on Saturday 3rd June 23:41
I think you need to decide if you like the car enough to crack on with it. What else floats your boat and is it a more cost effective solution?
Is the valve cover itself actually cracked? If it leave it. My friends old 125i was sold at 250k still in the original cover. They can crack, but unless damaged leave it. I had to replace mine on my 130i because it cracked but used a Febi part because it was more cost effective. It came with all of the gaskets too. I think it was £180 from Parts in Motion. A Siemens VDO ESS from AUTODOC was £175. I was quoted three hours labour by my indy to do the gadgets / ESS.
Not sure wheee you are but BMS in Surrey have a very good reputation.
Is the valve cover itself actually cracked? If it leave it. My friends old 125i was sold at 250k still in the original cover. They can crack, but unless damaged leave it. I had to replace mine on my 130i because it cracked but used a Febi part because it was more cost effective. It came with all of the gaskets too. I think it was £180 from Parts in Motion. A Siemens VDO ESS from AUTODOC was £175. I was quoted three hours labour by my indy to do the gadgets / ESS.
Not sure wheee you are but BMS in Surrey have a very good reputation.
E82_125i said:
I know all too well the plight of some of the Civic ownership (spaceship model) It really felt like a slight step back from Honda but apparently they were exercising quite a bit cost saving in this period.
As towards my 1 series, I’m just gauging as to what people would concentrate on fixing first. I think i might just bite the bullet and try and start slowly fixing things up. Just keen to know what would anyone else do in the same situation.
If i fix up the suspension then great, itll be nicer to drive day to day with much better handling, however then i still have the engine niggles looming in the background. I can address the valvetronic gasket however if i end up having to replace the eccentric shaft sensor surely ill need to do the the whole valve cover at this mileage!? Which renders the gasket a bit pointless Albeit an expensive option i know ……
Then theres my water pump code that popped up briefly and a mixture control code that wont go away, so struggling to know where to start! I haven’t heard the cooling fan go off regularly but am a bit conscious of it now l.
Suspension first - a set of decent dampers won't be much. Boge Sachs are best. Monroe and the ECP - GSF own brands quite good. Avoid KYB. From experience they and E90 ones are getting tired at 100k and finished not long after. They won't leak but will have very limited damping giving a crashy ride. A new set transforms the car and it will be nice to drive again.As towards my 1 series, I’m just gauging as to what people would concentrate on fixing first. I think i might just bite the bullet and try and start slowly fixing things up. Just keen to know what would anyone else do in the same situation.
If i fix up the suspension then great, itll be nicer to drive day to day with much better handling, however then i still have the engine niggles looming in the background. I can address the valvetronic gasket however if i end up having to replace the eccentric shaft sensor surely ill need to do the the whole valve cover at this mileage!? Which renders the gasket a bit pointless Albeit an expensive option i know
……Then theres my water pump code that popped up briefly and a mixture control code that wont go away, so struggling to know where to start! I haven’t heard the cooling fan go off regularly but am a bit conscious of it now l.
Edited by E82_125i on Saturday 3rd June 23:40
I'd keep it and get it done. What will you replace it with? More trouble down the line. When on form they are good.
Spaceship Civics weren't as good as the previous model either in build quality or to drive. Some rust underneath, some don't but it's rarely catastrophic - they are cheap bangers after all. The only recurring problems were rear calipers siezing and clutches on the 2.2 diesels. The gears strip in the electric power fold mirrors....but so what?
Compared to a similar aged Golf - an actual unreliable rust bucket - they're fantastically reliable.
So yes - fix your 125i. A grand spent now and it should be fine for another few years.
Ive had the valve cover inspected when i had my gasket changed previously with nothing to report.
The only thing that makes me slightly suspicious is that i occasionally have a tiny pool of oil in one of the spark chambers.
I thought possibly changing it would prevent doubling up on the labour should it develop a crack or warp but ive received no vacuum leaks etc.
it has a slight lumpy idle when warm but the needle doesnt move (just feels like a slight hiccup) but no ones been able to trace it down. The mixture control code is a bit of a head scratcher as ive got nothing else to go by apart from flat performance occasionally. While im getting no ESS codes currently there’s definitely traces of oil around the sensor so am presuming the gasket and sensor are on their way out. The valvetronic gasket is getting a bit desperate and the burning oil smell from it chucking oil on the heat shield is rotten but would rather not go through the process of changing it to then have my valve cover go (wish they’d kept the alumium design tbh!)
BMS are near to me and ideally would like to use them however they do like to price things up and go for bmw parts rather than oe.
The lack of performance is getting a bit grating but would certainly feel better if i least could pinpoint whats causing it as there’s a few things that may be causing it. Hopefully someone like BMS could give me an answer as ive not had much luck with others.
The only one that may potentially become urgent is the water pump but touch literally everything thats wood it’s currently behaving and have arranged break down cover should it let go!
Re the suspension it’s definitely knackered! The previous owner only replaced the o/f strut so itll need a matching set at least. Theres a temptation to out M3 LCAs on when i do get it done but im a bit conscious of the other bits that need doing! Whats the chances the bushes and springs are shot at 107k? Id say the shocks at very least need doing.
In terms of other car options ive had various cars of the same age and the only one id go back to is an MX-5! A bit impractical for me now, or an FN2 type R but in all honesty I think the suspension design on that shape Honda really is not great and really lets the car down, i think the E82 is a much nicer place to be behind the wheel at least. Only other one would be a similar age Mini but i reckon that serve more headaches than my 1er.
Swift Sports are really nice and possibly would be a better option but i always think they look a bit toy car and feel like im sitting on top of it when driving. I actually had a Golf MkV GTi and a nice a car it was and very easy to drive it certainly had some nasty engine problems pop up and really put me off German cars for a long time when i moved it on. In hindsight i should have kept it but i think the fear had set in by then.
The only thing that makes me slightly suspicious is that i occasionally have a tiny pool of oil in one of the spark chambers.
I thought possibly changing it would prevent doubling up on the labour should it develop a crack or warp but ive received no vacuum leaks etc.
it has a slight lumpy idle when warm but the needle doesnt move (just feels like a slight hiccup) but no ones been able to trace it down. The mixture control code is a bit of a head scratcher as ive got nothing else to go by apart from flat performance occasionally. While im getting no ESS codes currently there’s definitely traces of oil around the sensor so am presuming the gasket and sensor are on their way out. The valvetronic gasket is getting a bit desperate and the burning oil smell from it chucking oil on the heat shield is rotten but would rather not go through the process of changing it to then have my valve cover go (wish they’d kept the alumium design tbh!)
BMS are near to me and ideally would like to use them however they do like to price things up and go for bmw parts rather than oe.
The lack of performance is getting a bit grating but would certainly feel better if i least could pinpoint whats causing it as there’s a few things that may be causing it. Hopefully someone like BMS could give me an answer as ive not had much luck with others.
The only one that may potentially become urgent is the water pump but touch literally everything thats wood it’s currently behaving and have arranged break down cover should it let go!
Re the suspension it’s definitely knackered! The previous owner only replaced the o/f strut so itll need a matching set at least. Theres a temptation to out M3 LCAs on when i do get it done but im a bit conscious of the other bits that need doing! Whats the chances the bushes and springs are shot at 107k? Id say the shocks at very least need doing.
In terms of other car options ive had various cars of the same age and the only one id go back to is an MX-5! A bit impractical for me now, or an FN2 type R but in all honesty I think the suspension design on that shape Honda really is not great and really lets the car down, i think the E82 is a much nicer place to be behind the wheel at least. Only other one would be a similar age Mini but i reckon that serve more headaches than my 1er.
Swift Sports are really nice and possibly would be a better option but i always think they look a bit toy car and feel like im sitting on top of it when driving. I actually had a Golf MkV GTi and a nice a car it was and very easy to drive it certainly had some nasty engine problems pop up and really put me off German cars for a long time when i moved it on. In hindsight i should have kept it but i think the fear had set in by then.
Edited by E82_125i on Sunday 4th June 18:55
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