Should I get this 525i?

[unhygenix]

Hi,
I am a graduate student and want to buy a decent car to drive around and also enjoy driving.
I recently got this deal to get a 95 525 i for some $7000. It has a new radiator, water pump and a 137000 miles on it.

The owner has not changed any other original part (including clutch) on the car. Is it a good car to get?
Want to hold on the car for some years and also travel a lot using the same. Would I be shelling out a lot of maintenance?

Should I go for it guys?
Let me know what you think, thanks!

- Praveen

[525iT_Feen]

Are you planning on tuning it?

My father purchased his 95 525i for 7500 with 95k on it.

Get us some pictures.

What shape is the exterior in?
What shape is the interior in?
Where did he have it serviced/maintained?

those are just some of the questions you need to ask. It is a great car, that is good for just about anything, and which has a pretty much bulletproof motor.

But you still don't want to buy a lemon.
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Get some more info, and post it up.

[525iT_Feen]

Also are the parts OEM BMW parts or are they aftermarket?

I tried to help out for now, but wait for Rob(s) and the others to get here, they'll really be able to help you out.

[unhygenix]

Yeah the exterior (black) and the interior (biege) looks in good shape. I am a little worried about the transmission coz its got a lot of miles on it without any change. How long do these machines usually go without much to worry about?


I do plan to get it diagnosed and make suggested tune-ups. Guess I am excited coz this will be the first BMW i will own, but dont want to regret the decision later because i might have to shell out a lot to maintain it.

Give me your input folks...

Thanks

[5mall5nail5]

You already have new water pump, so check the fan clutch, the coil packs (firing), the clutch should be fine. Check the brakes good, see if there's much play (master cylinder tends to go), check all hoses, check idle temps, oh and check the AC and Heater... if you turn the heater on and smell an overly strong scent of "maple syrup" or coolant, you know you've got a heater core needing replacement. The AC should simply work, if it doesn't, it needs recharging... if it needs recharging, it may need R134a conversion.

[shragon]

my suggestion is to have it checked out by a mechanic before purchasing.

this may also help you: http://www.bmwe34.net/e34main/trouble/what_will_break.htm