Newbie: questions on 1999 540i

[R Salesman]

Hey guys, newbie here -- I'd appreciate all the help/advice you can provide.

My question is about whether or not you all think a 1999 540i M Technic 6-speed with 112K would be a good car for me.

Here's a little background:
I'm actually a Volvo salesman, and was also a Volvo Certified Technician. I currently own a 2005 S60 R. While I absolutely love my R, my wife and I just recently found out we're pregnant (yay!, but VERY unexpected). So, needless to say, I've got to make some adjustments to be a little more prepared financially for a kid on the way.

Coincidentally, I just traded in the aforementioned vehicle and can purchase it for a pretty good price. I drove it and was quite impressed with the performance and handling -- pretty much on par with what I'm used to in the R (but the feel of the BMW was REALLY nice ). So the good news is that if I sell the R and get this 540i, I won't be sacrificing anything in the performance/space arena, and my payments will drop by about 60-75%.

Here are my concerns that I hope you all will be able to address:

1. Should I be concerned about this high mileage, and what is the general life expectancy of these engines (provided proper maintenance is performed)?
2. The vehicle is in exceptional condition, and well maintained. Are there any upcoming major services that would be expensive (read: greater than $500)?
3. Having been a tech, I can handle most of the routine maintenance and repairs. With Volvo we have a computerized communications system to read fault codes and do proper fault-tracing. Is the BMW similar, as in, would I need to have access to one of these computers in order to fault-trace problems?
4. Are there any recurring problems and/or maintenance issues with these vehicles that I should be aware of?
5. Do you think I should get this car?

Much thanks in advance for any advice you all can provide.

Lee

 

[Big Daddy]

Welcome to the board Lee!

The 540i M tech with the six speed is a wonderful car and like you mentioned, properly maintained will give lasting service well beyond the 200k mark. I had a 84 733i that I put over 260k on with no major problems. There should have been a service just peformed at the 100k mark and assuming it was done, which you can check with the service history, you are good for quite a while. I believe the 99 540 is an OBDII system and should be the same as your Volvo. A fault code reader is needed. Depending on the price and service history I would love to own a 99 540i! Best of luck and again, welcome!

 

[Montana]

It's an Awesome car. The V8 engines are said to be pretty bullet-proof. Mine is 109k and strong! I autocross too. Mileage should not be an issue. You will have OBDII access like any other. Piece of cake.

Definitely get repair records. Major things to look for?

1) Catalytic converter failure (2 of them). They're about $900 EACH... part ONLY. They are under warranty until 80k miles so see if they have been replaced yet. Most tend to go bad from 70k on from what I've heard and from my own (90k). Be very careful about aftermarket ones...it's highly debated that they do not last long/perform. Oxygen sensors (4) are about $75 each. Obviously do not buy from dealer unless you have $$$$$ to burn.
2) Radiators tend to fail. If that one was not already replaced, get ready to along with water pump.
3) Make sure all electrical, windows, auto AC, cruise, Sunroof, etc. work. BMWs have many electrical issues.
4) clutch wear. I assume you can figure that one out. Having the CDV removed/modded is a good way to go if not done already...Ask owner. See link on my signature.


Other

1) not pricey but odd...check headlight adjustment knobs under hood. 2 on each side. one for each axis. The plastic parts holding it together usually dry rot and break leaving the bulbs sagging pointing down and bouncing like old lady boobs. PAIN to replace but cheap.

2) depending on the prev owner records, most people recommend changing the man. tranny fluid even though it's BMW "lifetime" fluid.

3)be prepared for broken rear cupholders all the time.

Everything else is relatively minor in comparison. DO get this car. You will LOVE it.

 

[CosmosBlack]

Go for it... if it's in good condition!

 

[epj3]

The V8's are awesome engines, though I sure hope you're taking it to a mechanic instead of doing repairs yourself - you have to move mountains to get to anything in the engine compartment.