2000 528i - BMW newbie

[tristate1]

My wife's sister would sell us the car for $18k - about trade-in value. She needs an suv w/tow capacity. The 528 has 41k miles, recent clutch (mostly city driving), new brakes and tires. Car is loaded and in excellent condition with no problem history. She bought it new, no kids.

Questions:
1.My research comparing to private seller and dealer asking prices indicates too good a deal to pass up. Do you agree?

2. What does the i mean?

3. It has the "premium package", a $3,100 adder. It includes 16 inch cross spoke alloy wheels, auto dim mirror, rain sense wipers, Vavona wood and premium leather. What is benifit of 16 in wheels and the premium leather? $3,100 seems a lot for these options.

4. Cup holders - every auto site w/owner reviews says these are very poor design. I read somewhere BMW will keep fixing/replacing for free. Is this true or only during the warranty period? Anyone buy the better aftermarket ones I read about?

5. What exactly is DSC Dynamic Stability Control?

6. Are daytime running lights standard? Not shown on window sticker but I read it in a review that they are.

Any other comments welcomed.

Thanks.

 

[Big Daddy]

Welcome to bmwboard, a wonderful place for freinds to meet! The car sounds nice and the deal is very sweet. "i" means fuel injected, no big deal just a BMW thing. I am not sure what the premium package cost new but that sounds right. I have no kknowledge about the cup holder issue. DSC is just like traction control only better. Helps you maintain control of the car under adverse conditions. I believe the daytime running lights are standard on that car. Hope this helps, others with more knowledge and information will also chime in.

 

[Tom]

Welcome aboard, it seems Dan answered most of your question. I believe the 2000 model was the first year they offered Daytime Running Lights(DRL), if yours do not come on automatically you may need to have the dealer activate it.

The 16" wheels offer slightly better handling over the stock 15". The Montana leather is an upgrade up from leatherette and is a bit thicker/courser in texture than Nappa leather.

Premium Package
Includes wheels: 16" cross-spoke alloy, auto dimming interior mirror, rain sensing wipers, Vavona wood high gloss trim and Montana leather upholstery. NOT AVAILABLE with 269, 270, 481.