Discussion
Evening guys,
I've been on the look out for an e92 335i (previously wanted a 330i but changed my mind). My budget is around 10-12k and would like a good spec with idrive. My question is, are the older plates e.g 08/58 still going strong, mechanically speaking? I've seen a few of these with about 70-80k miles, some look like dogs and some look clean but as they'd now be 11 years old, are they going to be worthwhile buying? Or am I better off finding something newer? Owners of cars of this age, what are your cars like? I don't mind compromising and getting CCC idrive if these 08/58 plate cars are still reliable. hope this makes sense.
Thanks all
I've been on the look out for an e92 335i (previously wanted a 330i but changed my mind). My budget is around 10-12k and would like a good spec with idrive. My question is, are the older plates e.g 08/58 still going strong, mechanically speaking? I've seen a few of these with about 70-80k miles, some look like dogs and some look clean but as they'd now be 11 years old, are they going to be worthwhile buying? Or am I better off finding something newer? Owners of cars of this age, what are your cars like? I don't mind compromising and getting CCC idrive if these 08/58 plate cars are still reliable. hope this makes sense.
Thanks all
My 2009/59 so a N54 and pre LCI with CIC was faultless to 85k (but for injectors) debunking inmho the myth they all went wrong. I sold in 2016 and AFAIK it was mint for another 10k miles and still going strong when sold to someone on here actually.
When I bought mine , I did feel 2009 was a sweeter spot than 2008 for reliability. But that’s a microcosm based on the service /maintenance histories of cars I considered. My approach was to ensure full SH and a perfect , to date, maintenance record. I believe with your budget you can get a good one.
And with your budget , not sure what newer coupe you could have unless the F generation 435 / 235 have really dropped. But inmho they have less steering feel and the 4 is way too big , so they would never be my choice.
335i even bone stock is a fast and yet stealthy daily and the last generation to have hydraulic steering. When it was in dealership and they gave me F generation loaners , boy did it feel great getting mine back
When I bought mine , I did feel 2009 was a sweeter spot than 2008 for reliability. But that’s a microcosm based on the service /maintenance histories of cars I considered. My approach was to ensure full SH and a perfect , to date, maintenance record. I believe with your budget you can get a good one.
And with your budget , not sure what newer coupe you could have unless the F generation 435 / 235 have really dropped. But inmho they have less steering feel and the 4 is way too big , so they would never be my choice.
335i even bone stock is a fast and yet stealthy daily and the last generation to have hydraulic steering. When it was in dealership and they gave me F generation loaners , boy did it feel great getting mine back
Biggest decision at this price point is whether to go for a N54 or N55 engine. Broadly speaking the LCI (facelift) uses the N55 but there was a brief crossover period where you could get a LCI N54.
IMHO the N54 has more character and is more tuneable, but the N55 is more reliable and still easy to tune to close to 400 bhp. Also, the Pre-LCI has the older iDrive which is slow and rubbish.
Not sure which gearbox you’re after, but the LCI coupe had the option of a double clutch gearbox which is a more sporty option than the auto.
I’m currently running a pre-LCI 335i estate and it’s generally been fine. At this age you need to consider a suspension refresh and a gearbox service if it’s an auto.
IMHO the N54 has more character and is more tuneable, but the N55 is more reliable and still easy to tune to close to 400 bhp. Also, the Pre-LCI has the older iDrive which is slow and rubbish.
Not sure which gearbox you’re after, but the LCI coupe had the option of a double clutch gearbox which is a more sporty option than the auto.
I’m currently running a pre-LCI 335i estate and it’s generally been fine. At this age you need to consider a suspension refresh and a gearbox service if it’s an auto.
Thanks for the responses guys.
I've just seen this. My assumption is that it's a bit expensive given the mileage, irrespective of the mods?
http://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/2019...
I've just seen this. My assumption is that it's a bit expensive given the mileage, irrespective of the mods?
http://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/2019...
My '59 LCI N54 one has been expensive to run, with the Water pump, injectors and rocker cover gasket all needing doing over the last 40k miles / 2.5 years.
But in all honesty, it is a great car and the engine is a peach.
CIC iDrive is surprisingly good despite being 10 years old. Very useable still and leagues better then the touchscreen guff in most modern cars simply for having a proper controller.
But in all honesty, it is a great car and the engine is a peach.
CIC iDrive is surprisingly good despite being 10 years old. Very useable still and leagues better then the touchscreen guff in most modern cars simply for having a proper controller.
Jospot01 said:
Thanks for the responses guys.
I've just seen this. My assumption is that it's a bit expensive given the mileage, irrespective of the mods?
http://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/2019...
That’s one of very early facelift / LCI cars I mentioned. It’s got the newer iDrive, DCT gearbox but still the N54 engine, separate heated seat buttons (instead of on the climate control panel) and old style paddles. The newer ones had seperate up/down shifters, this has the push/pull ones from the auto.I've just seen this. My assumption is that it's a bit expensive given the mileage, irrespective of the mods?
http://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/2019...
Prices are all over the place, as spec options can be very different and the car market is prettt slow at the moment. Only thing (apart from price) that would put me off that one would be the standard stereo - compared to any of the upgrade options it’s rubbish.
In terms of the mods, it’s all the usual stuff people do on the N54 - google N54 FBO or full bolt on and you’ll get loads of info. Like any mod it usually puts the vast majority of buyers off, many people on E90 Post return theirs to standard before selling and sell off the mods separately.
IMHO you need to decide if you want the N54 or N55. If you’re not planning on doing much/any tuning it’s probably a safer option and means an LCI car (which I would definitely want for £12k).
There’s a 2011 grey coupe with 54k miles for similar money from a dealer. Interior is pretty marmite though.
Facelift or LCI for coupes was April 2010.
Meant a slight different bumper design, different lights and changing paddle shift plus the stop start (I think) ; oh yeah some awful wheels.
It’s bigger changes were the N55 and standardising the DCT as the only automatic choice.
Before the LCI , the CIC had already come in (September 2008 builds on) and so had DCT (I think very late 2008) as a sportier option.
Therefore if you want the N54 there is this sweet spot with the DCT and CIC.
I preferred responsiveness and sound of N54 based on those I tested plus the pre LCI looks.
Car in the ad is in sweet spot but does seem a little expensive ; although maybe lower supply is now pushing prices up.
Meant a slight different bumper design, different lights and changing paddle shift plus the stop start (I think) ; oh yeah some awful wheels.
It’s bigger changes were the N55 and standardising the DCT as the only automatic choice.
Before the LCI , the CIC had already come in (September 2008 builds on) and so had DCT (I think very late 2008) as a sportier option.
Therefore if you want the N54 there is this sweet spot with the DCT and CIC.
I preferred responsiveness and sound of N54 based on those I tested plus the pre LCI looks.
Car in the ad is in sweet spot but does seem a little expensive ; although maybe lower supply is now pushing prices up.
56 plate 335i SE auto here. Owned for 3 years or so. Currently around 50k miles.
Under my ownership had HPFP and DSC hydro pump replaced under warranty. Original turbos and injectors. It’s mechanically tip top.
DMS stage 1 (370bhp/400lbft). Birds B series springs and dampers.
It’s a seriously fast car now. Cracking motor. Nothing comes close for the paltry amount it’s worth (maybe 7k).
Under my ownership had HPFP and DSC hydro pump replaced under warranty. Original turbos and injectors. It’s mechanically tip top.
DMS stage 1 (370bhp/400lbft). Birds B series springs and dampers.
It’s a seriously fast car now. Cracking motor. Nothing comes close for the paltry amount it’s worth (maybe 7k).
Smuler said:
Facelift or LCI for coupes was April 2010.
Meant a slight different bumper design, different lights and changing paddle shift plus the stop start (I think) ; oh yeah some awful wheels.
It’s bigger changes were the N55 and standardising the DCT as the only automatic choice.
Before the LCI , the CIC had already come in (September 2008 builds on) and so had DCT (I think very late 2008) as a sportier option.
Therefore if you want the N54 there is this sweet spot with the DCT and CIC.
I preferred responsiveness and sound of N54 based on those I tested plus the pre LCI looks.
Car in the ad is in sweet spot but does seem a little expensive ; although maybe lower supply is now pushing prices up.
Didn’t know the coupe had a different facelift date to the saloon. So I guess you can’t get an LCI N54 then, I stand corrected. I also prefer the pre-facelift look though.Meant a slight different bumper design, different lights and changing paddle shift plus the stop start (I think) ; oh yeah some awful wheels.
It’s bigger changes were the N55 and standardising the DCT as the only automatic choice.
Before the LCI , the CIC had already come in (September 2008 builds on) and so had DCT (I think very late 2008) as a sportier option.
Therefore if you want the N54 there is this sweet spot with the DCT and CIC.
I preferred responsiveness and sound of N54 based on those I tested plus the pre LCI looks.
Car in the ad is in sweet spot but does seem a little expensive ; although maybe lower supply is now pushing prices up.
jotpilot said:
56 plate 335i SE auto here. Owned for 3 years or so. Currently around 50k miles.
Under my ownership had HPFP and DSC hydro pump replaced under warranty. Original turbos and injectors. It’s mechanically tip top.
DMS stage 1 (370bhp/400lbft). Birds B series springs and dampers.
It’s a seriously fast car now. Cracking motor. Nothing comes close for the paltry amount it’s worth (maybe 7k).
How do you find the birds suspension compared to stock? I’ve got a 130i with their kit on and it’s firm but very well damped. Is the E92 the same? Asking because I’m toying with putting it on my E91 335i, but it’s a family car so don’t want to go too extreme.Under my ownership had HPFP and DSC hydro pump replaced under warranty. Original turbos and injectors. It’s mechanically tip top.
DMS stage 1 (370bhp/400lbft). Birds B series springs and dampers.
It’s a seriously fast car now. Cracking motor. Nothing comes close for the paltry amount it’s worth (maybe 7k).
Cheers
survivalist said:
Smuler said:
Facelift or LCI for coupes was April 2010.
Meant a slight different bumper design, different lights and changing paddle shift plus the stop start (I think) ; oh yeah some awful wheels.
It’s bigger changes were the N55 and standardising the DCT as the only automatic choice.
Before the LCI , the CIC had already come in (September 2008 builds on) and so had DCT (I think very late 2008) as a sportier option.
Therefore if you want the N54 there is this sweet spot with the DCT and CIC.
I preferred responsiveness and sound of N54 based on those I tested plus the pre LCI looks.
Car in the ad is in sweet spot but does seem a little expensive ; although maybe lower supply is now pushing prices up.
Didn’t know the coupe had a different facelift date to the saloon. So I guess you can’t get an LCI N54 then, I stand corrected. I also prefer the pre-facelift look though.Meant a slight different bumper design, different lights and changing paddle shift plus the stop start (I think) ; oh yeah some awful wheels.
It’s bigger changes were the N55 and standardising the DCT as the only automatic choice.
Before the LCI , the CIC had already come in (September 2008 builds on) and so had DCT (I think very late 2008) as a sportier option.
Therefore if you want the N54 there is this sweet spot with the DCT and CIC.
I preferred responsiveness and sound of N54 based on those I tested plus the pre LCI looks.
Car in the ad is in sweet spot but does seem a little expensive ; although maybe lower supply is now pushing prices up.
![](https://thumbsnap.com/sc/te3ysNDe.jpg[/img]</a> <a href="https://thumbsnap.com/lHeeM7Ab" Target="_blank" rel="nofollow">[img]https://thumbsnap.com/sc/lHeeM7Ab.jpg)
survivalist said:
How do you find the birds suspension compared to stock? I’ve got a 130i with their kit on and it’s firm but very well damped. Is the E92 the same? Asking because I’m toying with putting it on my E91 335i, but it’s a family car so don’t want to go too extreme.
Cheers
I’d say E92 is the same yes. Springs firmer than M Sport stock but damper rates much less. Eliminates pot hole explosions but primary ride is pretty firm. IMHO it’s fine for a daily. Cheers
I would say the age matters less than what work has been done to them. The 335i comes with either the N54 or the N55 engine, judging by the fact you are looking at older models means it will probably be the n54. The main difference is the n54 is a twin turbo setup. Personally when I was looking to buy mine, I had these issues in the back of my mind at all times: https://www.bmwn54tuners.com/8-most-common-bmw-n54... .
But basically, If you find one that has had it's turbos replaced under warranty and the injectors done at some point, those are the worst issues you could get so if they have been replaced already then the other issues shouldn't be too difficult to sort if they do crop up. When I was buying mine the number one thing I was looking for was that the turbos had been replaced.
But basically, If you find one that has had it's turbos replaced under warranty and the injectors done at some point, those are the worst issues you could get so if they have been replaced already then the other issues shouldn't be too difficult to sort if they do crop up. When I was buying mine the number one thing I was looking for was that the turbos had been replaced.
my e91 6MT 07MY is going great guns still on 143k. It's well looked after but I'll have had it 10 years this summer. Lovely cars, offer a bit of everything. I'm loathed to sell it in case I miss it as getting back into another like it will be pretty difficult. Don't let high miles put you off one, mine is as tight as new 3 series hire cars I get through work.
Many thanks for all the responses.
I test drove a 58 plate e93 step today which had 41k miles. It's the first I've driven but performance was strong. It's priced near to 11k though..any thoughts on the price?
For those of you running warranties and had repairs under warranty, are they BMW or alternative companies? My intention is to run the car on a warranty but as they don't always have full bmwsh, my understanding is that I can't be covered by BMW? Any experiences with the likes of warranty wise or warranty direct?
Thanks again
I test drove a 58 plate e93 step today which had 41k miles. It's the first I've driven but performance was strong. It's priced near to 11k though..any thoughts on the price?
For those of you running warranties and had repairs under warranty, are they BMW or alternative companies? My intention is to run the car on a warranty but as they don't always have full bmwsh, my understanding is that I can't be covered by BMW? Any experiences with the likes of warranty wise or warranty direct?
Thanks again
Jospot01 said:
Many thanks for all the responses.
I test drove a 58 plate e93 step today which had 41k miles. It's the first I've driven but performance was strong. It's priced near to 11k though..any thoughts on the price?
For those of you running warranties and had repairs under warranty, are they BMW or alternative companies? My intention is to run the car on a warranty but as they don't always have full bmwsh, my understanding is that I can't be covered by BMW? Any experiences with the likes of warranty wise or warranty direct?
Thanks again
Mine is official BMW. You don’t need BMWSH. But I think if you are taking out a new warranty there will be a period without or limited cover. So good to find one with as then you can take out one yourself with continuous cover. Mine is only £330/year as under 60k miles. No problems getting HPFP and DSC sorted as mentioned above. I test drove a 58 plate e93 step today which had 41k miles. It's the first I've driven but performance was strong. It's priced near to 11k though..any thoughts on the price?
For those of you running warranties and had repairs under warranty, are they BMW or alternative companies? My intention is to run the car on a warranty but as they don't always have full bmwsh, my understanding is that I can't be covered by BMW? Any experiences with the likes of warranty wise or warranty direct?
Thanks again
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