Looking at a 2008 530i tomorrow any pointers????

[cogsy80]

Looking at a 2008 530i saloon with 49k tomorrow. I am fine with the mileage as i am a low mileage user myself, and according to the advert it seems to have all the extras.. satnav, bluetooth,cruise control with brake, elec seats etc.

Just wondering what to look for on this model and what are the extras that are a must??

Thanks all

[Papyrus]

I believe this engine to be an N53 from my knowledge.

These engines have serious issues regarding things like coils, injectors and some other things.

I have BBMSGD a friend I have who happens to own an N53 engine and is more hands on with his car.

Will let you know what he replies with.

[Gaygle]

OP, will the car have a warranty included in the sale? Is it from a dealer?

A BMW warranty with these kinds of cars is a good idea as pretty much everything needs "coding" to the car, which can cost hundreds as well as injectors (x6) and coils (x6) and HPFP. The internet will have you believe that it is a daily occurence that injectors/HPFP/coils go, but honestly speaking, you'll probably experience a one or two of these issues throughout your ownership of the car (say, 3 years). The only thing is how expensive they are when problems do arise.

Also, the iDrive is something which has been "known" to pack up - but again, it's not all that common.

[cogsy80]

Yeah I just googled it and it is the N53 engine. Also forgot to say it's an auto

[Papyrus]

Gaygle said:

OP, will the car have a warranty included in the sale? Is it from a dealer?

A BMW warranty with these kinds of cars is a good idea as pretty much everything needs "coding" to the car, which can cost hundreds as well as injectors (x6) and coils (x6) and HPFP. The internet will have you believe that it is a daily occurence that injectors/HPFP/coils go, but honestly speaking, you'll probably experience a one or two of these issues throughout your ownership of the car (say, 3 years). The only thing is how expensive they are when problems do arise.

Also, the iDrive is something which has been "known" to pack up - but again, it's not all that common.

Fail to prepare, prepare to fail.

x6 Injectors fitted can be around £800
X6 coils around £400
X1 CIC unit is something like £1500
X1 HPFP I have no idea but a guess to say £500 can't be far off.

From what I have heared chances are you will experience all the problems bar the CIC. Also o2 sensors according to my friend.

[cogsy80]

I will be haggling for a warranty, if not i will be looking into getting a quote for a bmw comprehensive warranty. Heard they are a must have

[Gaygle]

cogsy80 said:

I will be haggling for a warranty, if not i will be looking into getting a quote for a bmw comprehensive warranty. Heard they are a must have

I take it then that it won't be from BMW. If you want to be eligible for the BMW warranty, the car MUST have been serviced in accordance to the BMW schedule. So check all of the service history thoroughly. Obviously do all the standard checks too when buying a second hand car.

I was looking at a couple of 335i's for sale last week and both independent dealers said that instead of providing me with their AA or RAC warranties that they normally give out, they would just give me the money to go towards the BMW warranty.

3rd party warranty companies are a bit hit and miss. You might have a good smooth transaction, or you might be waiting weeks on end, if they feel like being bds. But then of course you still have to liase with both the BMW dealer and the warranty company and it can all take time. The BMW warranty ensures that this is all missed out and there is minimal fuss.