Hi, all, I am a student in college, and have found a pretty good deal on a BMW 3 series, e46 generation. However, I have only driven new cars before, and I have 0 experience in fixing anything car related. I would like to know what maintaining costs would go into owning an old BMW, as well as its durability, the chances of it actually breaking down, if it is durable enough to be driven in the winter. All in all I am just concerned about how durable it is, not really trying to have it die on me on the freeway :/. Thank you all!
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[–] thereddaikon ago
This is probably the wrong subverse. You are better off finding a sub that focuses on cars and has a lot of gearheads. Having said that, all modern cars are reliable if well maintained. I've never had a BMW but I'm on my second used Mercedes and they have a similar reputation. If you stay on top of maintenance and get a car that was loved before hand you will be fine. A lot of the cost of owning a German car comes from paying German car shop prices. Avoid getting screwed and learn how to use a wrench. The vast majority of problems on any car are easy to fix with a few tools, a Haynes manual and a six pack of beer on your day off. You will save a lot of money and feel pretty manly having fixed it yourself. For the harder stuff that requires special tools or lifts you will want to find a reputable independent mechanic. The stealership will charge outrageous rates to work on the car. I've had the same independent mechanic for several years now and he has never done me wrong.
But most important of all if making sure you get a solid car to start with. Not all used cars are equal. Some were babied by their owners and have 0 issues, some were driven to hell and are falling apart and others were wrecked and had the damaged covered up and seem ok at first look. Have an independent mechanic perform a PPI (pre-purchase inspection) to check the car out. You will also want to see the carfax to check for accident history. Not all accidents get reported though so the PPI is essential. A good mechanic can spot repair work instantly and let you know if its anything to worry about.