E39 M5 - advice on what to check / look for

E39 M5 - advice on what to check / look for

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BenB91

Original Poster:

273 posts

72 months

Thursday 11th April
quotequote all
Hi all

I'm viewing a 2000 E39 M5 this weekend and would appreicate your advice on what to check / look for.

It has circa 101k miles with a full service history.

It has a clean MOT, with no advisories.

My only concern so far is it's only done a few hundred miles each year for the past few weeks. Only 2k miles since 2018, and only 7k miles since 2013! I prefer cars that have been used, rather than sat around for a long time.

Owner seems a nice guy, with a interesting collection of performance cars.

BenB91

Original Poster:

273 posts

72 months

Thursday 11th April
quotequote all
TheAngryDog said:
Rust!

Check the jacking points and sills, fuel filler cap, bonnet leading edges, boot lid, especially between the number plate lights, rear quarters too.

Timing chain slap when cold - could be guides or tensioners.

Brake judder.

Engine oil burning.

Usual other car stuff.
Thank you

BenB91

Original Poster:

273 posts

72 months

Friday 12th April
quotequote all
Seller has decided to keep the car. Was fully expecting to buy the car tomorrow so quite annoyed.

The search continues.