Should I buy this 02 330i 185k miles for a project (3rd car)

[RobGeeLau]

Hey guys, new member to the forum hopefully will be on here frequently from here on out!

I've been this combo for a little while now, and this seems like a clean prospect. It has 185k miles with no known problems at the moment. I currently have a daily driver (Lyft driver) 2016 Honda Civic EX-T and a 2009 BMW 528i (Lyft premiere car). I'm looking for a 3rd car that I can have as a project and maybe down the light completely replace the engine.

https://orangecounty.craigslist.org/...627663388.html

Question is: What kind of maintenance would I be looking at or common problems at this mileage? Bushings? Vacuum hoses?

Would you recommend this buy? If so, how much would you pay?

Thanks so much!

[MarcoZandrini]

Let’s make a list:
- cooling system
- lower control arms and bushings
- tie rods and links
- shocks
- struts
- rear trailing arm bushings
- rear rollbar links
- springs
- all vacuum hoses
- plastic coolant tubes (under the intake!)
- rear subframe bushings

Havr the car undergo a pre-purchase inspection performed by a reputable indie shop that specializes in bimmers. Try www.bimrs.org.

[MIKYZZ4]

If the engine has been as well maintained as the rest of the vehicle, I don't see why you would bother with an engine swap.
Now what does deteriorate over time and mileage? > all the rubber and plastic components,
included in the cooling and suspension systems, besides rubber and plastic cosmetic components (interior/exterior).

Marco has kindly provided a list of probably worn items at your mileage,
unless of course they have been replaced by previous owner as part of preventive maintenance.

[All2kool]

"I need this gone' is always a red flag to me. I have a Town Car that I no longer really need but 'I need this gone' is not part of the ad for it.

[MIKYZZ4]

It could just indicate a motivated seller,
but I understand how it could be a negative.

Advice to OP: if you are not a DIY, or not mechanically inclined or familiar with BMWs,
definitely have a friend who is, or hire a shop, to perform a PPO.