Mid to Late 90's 3-Series, Worth Buying Used?

Question

I'm considering buying a used mid to late 90's 3-Series BMW (M3 preferred) I was wondering if there are any general problems that those models are known for having. And if they are expensive to repair.

Also any tips or special things to look for when buying a used BMW would be very helpful.

Thank you.

P.S. I live in a good size city, we have a BMW dealer and several Luxury/Import repair shops.

Answer 1

I have a 1997 328i as for problems not sure it depends how the previous owner took car of the car.One problem that I know with all BMW E36 is the door panels will bubble up and if that bothers you you have to replace them I don't know how much they cost @ the dealership but was told around $700 per door, that why I check ebay and craigslist and I paid $300 for both doors and it was leather not vinyl.That's the only problem I can think of right now hope this helps  

Answer 2

go on autotrader to see more bmws.

Answer 3

There are no real known common problems on them,  They were well built and really just matters on how previous owner/s took care of it and maintained oil changes, tune ups and driving style.  If you can find good price M3 I would go for it as the M engines have much more power and just give you a great feeling behind the wheel.  Don't feel you have to depend on the dealership to do repairs either.  LOTS of places work on BMW's just fine.  I am just the average do it yourself-er and do all my own work on my BMW's and really its like working on my Suburban so don't worry that it will be a costly car on repairs in the future.  Good luck and enjoy if you get one!

Answer 4

Yes do this forget the 8 series, M3 yes but pay more for one id good shape like $11-14k

Miles mean nothing, proof of service means everything.  And always get a pre-purchase inspection done at the dealer before you buy.

Don't worry about the cosmetic stuff you can always fix that easier than installing a new engine or suspension.  See this website for things to watch out for.  

http://edgemotorworks.com/index.php?opti...

Enjoy!

Answer 5

they can have problems with the back suspension.

mine was fixed in a morning for less than £200

apart from that, no worse than any other car.