buying 1997 BMW 525 TDS; Anyting to look out for?

Frank_Leach

hi folks..
finally, i realised life is just so short, and i always liked the older 5 series BMW, so i am thinking, time to take the plunge. Anyone aware of major common problems or faults recurring in this model? I am fearful of buying into a money pit!
It's a 1997 tds and a basic model by all accounts.
Go Raibh Mhaith Agut..

CharlieCroker

As far as i know that engine is fairly bullet-proof, as long as its had regular oil changes.
It's a fairly old design, having been in the previous E34 model 5-series (1988-1996) too.
Not as refined or economical as the later 530d.
That engine has also been used in cars like the Opel Omega, Range Rover and various volvos.

Personally, i'd stay clear of a basic model. If its something you always wanted, try to get one with leather, cruise, and climate control. Dunno was SE an actual spec around in the mid 90's.
Also, at that age, the price difference between a base model and one with a few toys should only be a few quid and well worth it

bazz26

I'd say judge a car of that age on condition rather than reputation. Old skool diesel so no fancy common rail injectors or DPFs to worry about. Good ones are hard to find these days though so make sure a mechanic checks it out first.

daveharnett

Frank_Leach wrote: »

hi folks..
finally, i realised life is just so short, and i always liked the older 5 series BMW, so i am thinking, time to take the plunge. Anyone aware of major common problems or faults recurring in this model? I am fearful of buying into a money pit!
It's a 1997 tds and a basic model by all accounts.
Go Raibh Mhaith Agut..

Good for you, Frank.
For a start, the seals on the VANOS unit and valve cover will be shot. Not major, a good bmw indie will swap the unit out for a fixed one. €150-250

The cooling system is problematic on some of them, so keep an eye on temps during the test drive.

Other than that, inspect the suspension closely. Worn ball joints or bushings can't be replaced separately - the whole link needs to be replaced, and there are a lot of them.

All that said, it's an excellent car. Have fun!

Frank_Leach

both posts are relevant, and welcome!
charlie, i'd imagine if she was minded(and i think she was) then she should be fairly ok...
always wanted one...tax isnt too bad either i think...you only live once, God knows it's short enough..
thanks lads...any other imput/posts welcome

Frank_Leach

wow..a little more specific...ok, that helps...
yea, a beautiful car, some good alue to be had now

Frank_Leach

daveharnett wrote: »

Good for you, Frank.
For a start, the seals on the VANOS unit and valve cover will be shot. Not major, a good bmw indie will swap the unit out for a fixed one. €150-250

The cooling system is problematic on some of them, so keep an eye on temps during the test drive.

Other than that, inspect the suspension closely. Worn ball joints or bushings can't be replaced separately - the whole link needs to be replaced, and there are a lot of them.

All that said, it's an excellent car. Have fun!

nice one dave, i will be getting a mechanic to have a look...

CharlieCroker

any link to the one your looking at Frank?
Dont be afraid to look in the UK. At that money, they prob wont be any cheaper but there'll be a big choice over there.

Frank_Leach

It's fairly cheap as it is charley, and the guy seems a keen fan of the car..
it has kinda come up a bit sudden, hadn't really planned to change my car, but if this is mechanically sound, then it's close enough in the money side.
I am assuming that any mechanic i bring to see it would be aware of what to look out for? like the stuff you lads pointed out, seals bearing etc?

here's the link..

http://www.adverts.ie/showproduct.php?product=155110&cat=fav