To Buy or not to buy a 2000 BMW 528i, opinions are appreciated

[5series4life]

HI everybody,

I'm new to this forum and I may soon be a new 5 series owner. I am being offered the following car at the following description:

2000 BMW 528i
-Manual
-Premium package
-55,000 miles
-Sun roof
-asking price $24,000

This is being sold by a third party who offers no extended warranty and I do not know how to tell if the car has any real mechanical problems. The only thing he'll let me do is sit in the car while it is turned on. If anyone would be kind enough to point out a few things one should take into consideration before buying this car, I would be grateful. I love the 5 series, but never driven a manual. Thanks guys...

[myred318i]

Generally speaking.... I'd say it's priced a liitle high but you gotta start somewhere. The bigger question is why won't he let you drive it? That's like buying a pair of shoes without trying them on. I'd look around.

[5series4life]

He wont let me drive it because Im buying it from an auction house. These people only let you sit inside the car when its turned on. I was hoping to get a good deal on this car, but I also want to safeguard myself from any major defects/problems.

Has anybody else bought a BMW from an auction house?

[thurst0509]

I would walk away. there are plenty of cars available out there in that price range which you can find more information about. in my opinion, buying a car which you know so little about is just begging for trouble...

[tonyluvsilvia]

hmmm how about my 2000 540i Sport for about the same price? :

[jb325]

In this market, you could probably find a CPO for around that price at a dealership....

[5series4life]

CPO = ?

[jb325]

Certified Pre Owned (CPO)

[abakos]

Auction houses are weird like that...that's just general policy, not something they're doing just to you.

That price feels high...especially when you could knock off a couple years and about a quarter of the price if you look around. Forget how many miles are on it. Look for interior wear and good maintenance.

Also, if they won't let you drive it, make sure you give it a FULL inspection, inside/outside top and bottom. If you're not confident that you would be able to find evidence of prior damage, bring someone who is experienced.

Finally, don't jump on something if you "think" it's a good deal. Just remember that somebody is still turning a profit, and it probably isn't you. I used to get excited when I saw something that might be a good deal...but it was always give and take.

Get a feel for pricing on autotrader, and check out www.bmwtips.com for general E39 info.

Good luck!!

[jb325]

I agree with abakos...The other thing to consider is that the used car market is so bad right now - especially for high end cars. A lot of people seem to be forced to sell them. So, as much as I hate to make out off of someone else's misfortune, you might be able to pick up a steal of a deal elsewhere...

E39s are awesome, and if you pick up a well maintained one, they'll give loads of service, and most of all, fun.

[5series4life]

:

Thanks for the thoughtful responses guys, I appreciate it much. I definitely do not want to fall into a bad car, even if its a 5 series. I think I will look around as suggested. I'll keep you guys posted!!!!

[sirtiger]

yah, be patience... unless it truly unique, its a dime a dozen... good luck