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Thread: Optimal mileage for used 335?

  1. #1
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    Optimal mileage for used 335?

    Hi everybody! At what mileage would you say E9x 335's are at their optimal price-vs-risk point? In other words -- what would you consider the optimal mileage on these cars, after which further depreciation is outweighed by the increasing likelihood of large repair bills? I know they are prone to various expensive "issues", but don't have a great sense of when these most often appear.

    Thanks,
    Rob

  2. #2
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    Quote Originally Posted by robhoy View Post
    Hi everybody! At what mileage would you say E9x 335's are at their optimal price-vs-risk point? In other words -- what would you consider the optimal mileage on these cars, after which further depreciation is outweighed by the increasing likelihood of large repair bills? I know they are prone to various expensive "issues", but don't have a great sense of when these most often appear.

    Thanks,
    Rob
    I've had 2 335i's, and I can tell you that expensive repairs can happen at any time. Realize that the 335i is one of the more expensive cars to maintain at this price range. If you can do DIY repairs, you can save a huge amount of money. Just know what you are getting into. The 335i is an awesome car to drive.
    I would look for a clean, unmodified private-party car between 60k and 85k. The price is super steep for cars under 60k miles, I would try to avoid anything over 100k.
    Also realize that real world prices are far lower than the insane asking prices that you tend to see.
    I recently bought my 2009 335i m-sport coupe with 60k miles for under $10k. Take your time to find a good deal. Avoid cars with mods since they tend to be thrashed. Also avoid dealers since they tend to get shady trade-ins or auction cars, and you'll overpay.
    The expensive issues can include: water pump, injectors, hpfp, camshaft bearing ledges, and turbos. The water pumps last between 60k-100k and fail without notice, $400 parts/$600 labor. Injectors tend to leak fuel without any codes, and they can cause engine damage by diluting engine oil. Problems are common on injectors under index 11, and they cost $120 each. HPFP is under warranty 10y/120k miles, $400 part if out of warranty. Camshaft bearing ledges throw VANOS codes and can effect any n54 car. Not all cars will have a problem, but it can happen at any time. Bearing ledges are $1000 parts, $1200 labor. Turbos can last 150k or more if driven modestly, or they can die in under 30k from tunes and abuse. Both turbos can be rebuilt with a $400 set of CHRAs, or replaced for $1000 parts and $1000 labor. Valve cover gasket leaks are common, $40 gasket/$600+ labor.
    Just trying to give you an idea of problems, life spans, and costs. Obviously you can save a fortune if you do your own work.
    My wish list would include:
    -clean title
    -mileage between 60k-100k, under 90k preferred.
    -zero mods on car
    -private party
    -at or below book value
    -no warning lights, codes, stories, noises, etc.
    -maintenance records

  3. #3
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    Thanks for the very-detailed reply! I had a 335xi before, so I know they're great to drive. Only had it about a year; long enough to learn how expensive BMW maintenance is, but (fortunately) not long enough for any issues to crop up. I can do simple repairs -- stuff like replacing injectors isn't a problem for me -- but I'm no mechanic. Anyway, I remember my old 335 very fondly as the best all-around car I ever owned, and am considering getting another, so your info was very helpful .

  4. #4
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    I'd also keep maintenance in mind. I'd much rather buy a car with 80k on it with excellent records as opposed to a car with 60k and a spotty maintenance record.

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