1995 bmw 525i question

[sharkteeth]

Good morning gentlemen, I found 1995 525i with 200000 miles and I would like to consider buying it. Cosmetically the car is good shape, but talking to the owner over the phone he said that the car has a noise due that the timing chain needs to be changed. I have not heard the engine nor seen the car personally but I will this afternoon. I have done some research about this car and all indicates cooling system, bushings, time chain, water pump and shock are the most common problems for a high mileage car like this one. I would like to ask you gurus out there if this is a common problem with this year model since I am not very familiar with this model. Can this be an engine rod knocking and not the chain? What do I need to consider when inspecting the car? Price is set at $1250, is this a good deal? :help

[BoldUlysses]

Timing chain is designed to last the life of the engine. Not a wear item. If it's timing chain or rod noise then run far, far away.

I wonder if the seller knows what the noise is? Could it be the VANOS unit? Example of the noise:

http://forums.bimmerforums.com/forum/showpost.php?p=22427131&postcount=3

If that's what it is, it's not terminal and the fix is a couple hundred, max.

[sharkteeth]

Thank you for your response. I will keep you posted.

Is there an email address I can contact you to send you the threadof this vehicle so you can see it and you can provide me with your imput?

[BoldUlysses]

Is there an email address I can contact you to send you the thread of this vehicle so you can see it and you can provide me with your input?

If you like.

matt (at) spannerhead (dot) com