Looking to buy an E36, need some advice please...

[Scotty89]

Ok, so I typed up this really long post about what I was going to ask, then the forum cut me off from posting 1 single smiley - wasting about 15 minutes of my time, and losing my entire post at the same time. So I'll be short and to the point (excuse me if my post sounds rude and abrupt, I am kind of angry the forum has pissed me about). Anyway, enough ranting:

I am looking to buy an E36 (320i/325i) as my first car, I live in Australia, and in my area it is a stretch to get such a car for under 10,000aud (roughly 8500usd).

I know this sounds like a rip off to half of you guys who can get E36 M3's for 5000 - 10000 usd, but this is actually quite a stretch to ask for such a deal in my area, and because of this I'm expecting whatever I buy to have some hidden problems (hopefully nothing thats ball-breaking which will send me broke).

What I'd like to ask from you guys is for some honest, unbiased advice on any common E36 problems/faults that I should be on the look out for when inspecting/test-driving an E36.

Any help at all is greatly appreciated, thanks in advance!
- Scott

P.S. Hopefully I'll be able to join you all in the E36 club sometime soon :)

[CrazyCoder]

Man, if the forum already pissed you off... wait until you get responses to this. :(

This is a common thread, there is information you are looking for in several different places, including the "CHECK THIS THREAD BEFORE POSTING: The Ultimate Thread For FAQs (http://forums.bimmerforums.com/forum/showthread.php?t=311638)" Sticky.

That said, check out This Information (http://www.unitedbimmer.com/kb-e36-common-faults-faq.php), it's helpful.

[Scotty89]

I actually read through that thread (the first link) most of it is for upgrading/modding E36's.
I'm after common problems and faults that I should be weary of in particular concering the E36 models.

Sorry if its been posted elsewhere :( Thanks for the 2nd link, that is definately what I'm after.

[CrazyCoder]

Sorry if its been posted elsewhere :( Thanks for the 2nd link, that is definately what I'm after.

It was in the first link. :stickoutt

That pre-purchase inspection link was the single most helpful thing I found when shopping for my car. Gives a great idea what to look for, and what to avoid. But even so, I recommend getting a pre-purchase inspection done by a BMW mechanic.

[c319663]

I would be sure to have the OBDII codes read.
Other common problems are coolant system issues including Radiator, water pump, hoses. If there are records for service history that would be good. If the coolant has not been changed (W/BMW antifreeze0 there could be issues.
Other problems are with dim lights on the radio display--can be fixed or replaced.
The heat / A/C computers tend to go-out, but thisis an easy fix if you can read directions and solder to a circuit board.
I've been told that the automatic tranny fluid should be changed at 100K miles too.

Good Luck,
Mark

[john318is]

Hi Scott. I am in Australia too (Sydney) and have just gone through the process of buying an E36 myself. I looked at 325i, 320i and 318is. I ultimately chose a 318is because I found it difficult to find a 6 cylinder for under/around AU$10k that was in reasonable condition with reasoanble mileage. The 318is is also better on fuel, insurance and maintenance. If you are considering a 320i and don't mind a 2-door then you may wish to consider a 318is too.

Of course, if performance is a priority then you can't go past a 325i. They sound fantastic too!

For good buying used advice for the E36, from an Australian writer see http://www.carpoint.com.au/car-review/2271976.aspx