Getting 96 328is 2moorw. Need Help - United Bimmer Community

**alwySlpy** · 04-13-2007, 09:45 PM

Hi guys. Um i am going to go get my first bimmer 2morrow and was just wondering if it was worth turning it into my first project car. I've never really messed with cars; and this baby has 117k miles on it already. I made a deal with the dealer to buy it for 6k as is. but after thinking about it, I am kind of worried that it was a bad decision because i am sure the breaks have to be fixed (squeaking) And the steering is fairly stiff. (I am use to driving fairly newer cars 02-05, but my car was recently stolen, reason for the downgrade : / ) And lastly the "check engine" light is on.

So what should i get checked first to make it run good, and than what can i do to make it run better?

thanks

**theSMELSINATOR** · 04-13-2007, 11:10 PM

i woulnd't call aa bmw a "downgrade" if i were you.

E36s are fairly good project cars in my opinion. there are planty of parts and providers.

as far as whether or not the buy was a good decision and what you should look for - i can't help you there but i'm sure several others here can. good luck!

**Numark318i** · 04-13-2007, 11:37 PM

what kind of car did you have before.

as far as driving experience goes its hard to top a BMW.

as far as service engine light you can go to an oil change place where they will run the OBD-II codes for free. Prolly a sensor that has gone out.

117k isnt alot of mileage as long as our are wiling to take care of the car.

good luck with the sale and npost some pics once you get her.
also that engine won the engine of the year award back in the 90's...so that tells you something as far as te engine goes.

**Gordon** · 04-14-2007, 02:03 AM

You can't go wrong with bmw. The previous owner of the car problably didn't take care of it that well, but if you are willing to do that, that bmw will last you alot longer than you would expect. My 1995 318i has 200k. on it and she's still imaculate!!!

If you are willing to spend a few bucks, she'll make you proud and the 328i's put out alot more power than you would expect, even the power to weight ratio is absolutely PERFECT!! The motor does't work that hard and would definately last much longer than my 318i.

If you decide to go through with the deal, take your new bimmer to your nearest bmw dealer and have her checked out. Just for safety!!

Enjoy your bimmer, she won't dissapoint you!!

PS: Bmw is the most powerfull engine in F1 today, reving up to 20 000 rpm!! A bimmer is designed to last for ever and to be driven HARD!!!! Send us pics of your ride!!!

Later

**Dudesky** · 04-14-2007, 06:54 AM

That Check Engine light would worry me. Depending on what it is, it could set you back some money. AFAIK in most states, the car has to pass inspection or the dealer has either repair all issues or pay for them, but I don't know how that works with the deal you made. IMO taking a chance with 6 grand is a bad decision.

**alwySlpy** · 04-14-2007, 11:54 AM

Hey guys. thanks for the tips. I am going to go get it now. I'll post some pics asap and go from there.

**alwySlpy** · 04-14-2007, 04:27 PM

It was a no go. I've decided that I don't want the car unless the check engine light, and airbag lights are fixed. The dealer said he would see what he could do on Monday and see how much it will cost for him to fix it. If he can he'll still sell to me for 6k. So we'll see. If not i will have to search for a better deal. Thanks again. I'll post again on Monday after work with the results. ::crosses fingers::

**Dudesky** · 04-14-2007, 05:06 PM

Good decision, take your time. Believe me, there's nothing quite like the feeling of having just been hoodwinked

**alwySlpy** · 04-16-2007, 04:25 PM

Well the dealer said he was going to have everything fixed today and so I called him. He doesn't have it fixed nor did he sound like he had the intention of fixing it. So must have been something more serious than a "tube." so he thought.

I am still determined now more than ever to find a good deal on a bimmer. But I still want a good deal so the search goes on. If anyone knows of one around Oklahoma City please let me know. (One thats around $6000)

O' and sorry about missing the question numark. Um I've owned a 02 Jetta VR6, a 05 Mazda 6, an 03 Civic SI, and the car that was recently stolen was a 02 Accord. And some other cars that .. isn't worth mentioning.

drz · 04-16-2007, 05:00 PM

It's a good thing that you didn't just jump on it. Your patience shall pay off.