Buying an E46 M3 from OS

[mannyg]

This query is multi-parted, but I'm hoping there will be some good, knowledgeable people in the M Power forum who can provide some answers. I currently live in Germany and am planning on buying a UK M3. I will register and drive it here for the next year or two (or longer) before I go back to Australia. At that time I will look at prices and decide whether to take it with me or sell it. I don't have a car at the moment, so would like to make the purchase in the next month or so. I am aware of the costs´, but I have wanted one for a long time. In Australia they are MIN 25K and in Germany 15k (both in GBP).

I am hoping someone can offer some advice with buying from the UK and the best way to get a car inspected before viewing. I will be looking at 8-10k manual with good service history and less than 100k. I am particular interested in how to know if all recalls have been done and if there are dealers that will inspect for major issues. If anyone has advice regarding importing to Germany, it would also be much appreciated. I know the official steps, but anecdotal information is always welcome

[The Restorer]

Couple of tips...

You can do a HPI check that will let you know wether the car has any outstanding finance or has been registered on the insurance database for any accidents.

After that RAC or AA, the UK breakdown recovery services do inspections. Check their websites for prices and exactly what they will examine.

[mannyg]

Thanks for the advice. Luckily I have another month or so to decide on the right vehicle and prepare everything that needs to be done.

Regarding the RAC/AA, would you recommend them over getting an inspection done at BMW?