Looking to buy m5

["G"]

I'm new here & am @ the point of test driving used m5's, 2000~2002. I am an experienced mechanic & do all my own wrenching. The stealership can kiss my a**. I'm not to worried about doing any preventive maintenance, but rather buying an m5 with major problems. I know what to look for when buying used cars. That's why i'm posting this, i need advice on what to look for on m5's. Common problems, easy fixes, expensive problems etc.....:yikes:

any advice will be appreciated. also which market have you seen the best pricing ?

los angeles, az, tx, chicago, carolinas, fl, etc.... ?

[robluvs2xlr8]

Not sure about the best market to buy in,

but here are some common problems:

O2 sensors
MAF sensors
Camshaft Sensors
Rear sway bar links breaking
Carbon buildup(which can be prevented by WOT the engine every now and then to clean it)


And that's all that I can think of off the top of my head

[nicegsxr]

check out m5board.com there has been alot of threads on this topic. Good luck in your search!

["G"]

well what you listed doesn't seem to be to serious. most of those sensors would trip the service or check engine light right ?

[Monizzle]

^^right.

[JackLorent]

I will gladly run a history report for you if you can provide the last 7 of the VIN. Just to make sure regular maint. is done. Also I would strongly recommend buying from an authorized Dealer.

["G"]

BZ96247 If you want to email it, my email is acunda@gmail.com

thanks.

[horatiub]

contact Irv Robinson in Chicago, he always gives the best deals

[wwb4]

In my searches for E39 M5s for sale, I've found that the best prices have been generally been found by myself on the west coat. Oregon, Washington, and California. Good luck, let us know how things turn out! :thumbup:

[mark_m5]

Hey "G" - since you mentioned water pump in the other thread, it reminded me to add these to your list:

- Water pump,
- Radiator
- Radiator overflow
- Thermostat

E39's have plastic stuff (radiator, overflow) that breaks. My previous car was a 540i, and the overflow bottle cracked. No problems so far on the M - knock on wood.

Good news is, there are aftermarket parts made from Aluminum. I plan on switching to those if/when my plastic wears out.

["G"]

So how do i inspect the waterpump ? what am i looking for leaks ?

[mark_m5]

Not sure, never had one go out. Check m5board.com for more.

["G"]

that m5 board is not set up like a forum. Kind of hard to read.

[mark_m5]

the forums are there, just kinda hidden. The navigation when you go in is a little weird, but once you get to the forums, it's just like bimmerfest.

try this:
http://www.m5board.com/vbulletin/index.php

["G"]

nice.

[TMG]

Hi, I have a 2006 m-5 for sale...andres@thegallerydenver.com

[wwb4]

Hi, I have a 2006 m-5 for sale...andres@thegallerydenver.com

Welcome to the 'Fest! :wave: I think that he's looking @ E39s, unless your E60 is priced at a E39 price. ;)

[fast4door]

Carbon buildup(which can be prevented by WOT the engine every now and then to clean it)
That's not the carbon buildup they refer to it has nothing to do with the combustion chamber.. It's in the secondary air flow passage which cannot be cleaned out with WOT , it has to be taken apart and cleaned out. It will not pass emissions due to the SES will not shut off. But Powerchip is making a bypass software to cure this problem.. Also to look for .. Thrust arm bushings , leaking side seals on rear diff., and the clutch.

[Victor CHX]

I'm new here & am @ the point of test driving used m5's, 2000~2002. I am an experienced mechanic & do all my own wrenching. The stealership can kiss my a**. I'm not to worried about doing any preventive maintenance, but rather buying an m5 with major problems. I know what to look for when buying used cars. That's why i'm posting this, i need advice on what to look for on m5's. Common problems, easy fixes, expensive problems etc.....:yikes:

any advice will be appreciated. also which market have you seen the best pricing ?

los angeles, az, tx, chicago, carolinas, fl, etc.... ?

I just bought a 2000 M5 out of AZ. Nice, except for Chicago winter driving and I'm tring to buy snows and wheels now.. You can probably find some M5's to drive at Luxury Motors by O'Hare. Also www.concordmotorsport.com has great cars esp. a red M5 which I almost bought. He's on the east coast.