E34 Preventative maintenence

[uberscruff]

Bit of advice needed from the BMW experts here

I've just bought me a mint E34 525i, 1996 with 83k miles and a good service history (BMWSH until 60k, good indie for the rest). This car will be the daily driver and I intend to keep it for a while, so I want to make sure it keeps running faultlessly.

What sort of preventative maintenence work should I be looking at doing on a car of this age and mileage (other than the usual service items)? I intend to regas the air con and get the auto trans serviced ASAP, but what else is likely to need attention?

Thanks

[Mustard]

Regular coolant changes every 2 yrs, check your rear axle bushed for condition

Just carry out the routine servicing and you'll be fine

[SJobson]

Keep it clean and free from build-up of mud, and salt spray in winter. They don't rot much but can do where drain holes clog.

[Gazzab]

White grease on the door stays. They can go and pop off if dried out.

[BMGM3]

Thrust arm bushes are wear quickly leading to a 50-60mph shimmy and generally sloppy steering. Upgrage to 750 bushes if worn. Clean all the drain holes in the doors and sills, door bottoms rot out is quite common.Check this site for details of usuall faults and how to fix. www.bmwe34.net

Edited by BMGM3 on Wednesday 18th July 16:54

[paddy27]

I would say the water pump as well. Had mine go on mine. If i got another e34 i would replace as a just in case.

[uberscruff]

Excellent stuff - thanks

How long do the dampers typically last for on these?

[Gazzab]

Mine have done well over 100K and 13 yrs as has clutch, battery, water pump, alternator, exhaust etc
Changed only discs, pads, suspension rubbers (?), tyres and slave cyl,