Looking at 528's . . advice? - United Bimmer Community

**Dudesky** · 04-04-2006, 09:48 AM

So I've been kinda half serious thus far about getting an E39. But I'm not in a rush; I'm thinking somewhere towards end of summer or early fall this year. My budget will be around 12-13k, so I think that'll put me in a '97-'01 528i or 530i with around 85k miles, right? Any advice? Things to look out for? Any problematic issues with these cars? Any thoughts appreciated, thanks!

**nightdevils** · 04-04-2006, 11:17 AM

get the 98-99 if you are staying around 12-13K. E39s are might fine cars as far as engine is concerned. No electrical/and other random problems yet on my car. Are you looking into manual/auto+steptronic?

**Dudesky** · 04-04-2006, 12:45 PM

^^^Probably an auto/step; Manual is loads of fun, but I'm getting tired of it on my 3'er. More important would be the color . . looking for Avus Blue . . . hopefully that's available for non-M5's?

**nightdevils** · 04-04-2006, 01:41 PM

Hrmm...not sure if that blue is available, but I saw a 540i once in that color. and also, dont worry about getting an auto, the newer auto transmissions are pretty darn good and tons of folks track their auto-step cars. Also, may want to check this site out for fun stuff you can do to it: http://www.dinan5.com/

**xsperf** · 04-04-2006, 07:24 PM

dude, dump like 2 more K, you can get a 540.. remember, rooz's mom was selling her 540 for 15K i think?

**BMWLotAttendant** · 04-04-2006, 09:46 PM

I think you should get an 01 if you can find the right one for the right price (low mileage)

Buuuut.

You can get a nice used 98-00 540i for a little more like xsperf said.

I think he has a good idea that you should at least consider.

**doughboyea** · 04-04-2006, 11:22 PM

Just wanted to add this though... A friend of mine has an E39 528i. The engine kept overheating... dealer had NO idea wtf was going on and kept charging him an arm and a leg to replace that and this... (including the head assembly). I forgot what it was in the end, may of been something with the belts not working correctly or something... either way, no used car is immune to problems. Just be wary.

Dough

**Dudesky** · 04-05-2006, 08:10 AM

Thanks guys. I definitely want a 540i instead, but I was just being more realistic about affording it. I keep seeing 540's in the higher teens, but if I see one around with decent mileage for a good price, I'd definitely jump on it.

**c1apton** · 04-05-2006, 08:43 AM

With the rising prices of gas, you should be able to score one pretty easily later this year. Alot of people are getting out of upper end rides to save on the payments & insurance.