Blind Purchase - E34 (1989 535i)

[casino hairpin]

I have the opportunity to purchase an '89 535i from a private party for $2,200. All I know is the vehicle has 120K miles, just got an inspection sticker, has been actively used for transportation, has clean photos, good reviews from the previous owner, and no issues on CARFAX. However, it has the SRS and Check Engine lights on. I plan to drive it for the first time tomorrow, but don't have the luxury of taking it to my mechanic or a BMW dealer for a thorough review (vehicle is in the sticks of Vermont). Any words of wisdom on my test drive or red flags to look for? I was planning to perform the stomp test for the check engine light, not sure if that works for an '89? All in all, it's short money and may be worth the purchase, feedback welcome.

[bimmer dot info]

Find out about any issues with oil consumption, overheating and other such.

Take a look at bmwe34.net for a list of stuff that will break.

55mph shimmy is a problem with these cars.

[casino hairpin]

Thanks for your helpful hints, I got my first taste of this E34 yesterday.

Good news:

* No oil consumption issues
* No overheating - I ran the vehicle for over 2.5 hrs with long periods of idle and the temp gauge was pinned at halfway.
* No shimmy - bit of steering play and some front braking chatter under heavy breaking.
*Strong engine - rebuilt/replaced transmission in 2002
*No rust/decent exaust system

Bad news:

*Power steering pump leaks badly
*Blower fan does not work
*Guzzled gas (thinking O2 sensor?)
*Check engine light (stomp test didn't work) would come on intermittently at start up and would turn off at speeds over 50mph???
*Interior trim, shifter, door moldings/panels, and seats all in poor shape. Do you know the best internet site for a BMW trim kit, door panels, and interior upgrades?

Cheers

[ross1]

No rust is a big plus. Fresh trans too.
The blower motor is a bit expensive, P/S pump too, are you sure it's the pump? They leak frequently from the return hose at the resevoir. That's a cheap fix.
The owner has probably been presented with a four figure estimate to put thing right.
If you buy it be patient and you are bound to find someone parting out a car with a better interior.

[zocksbimmer]

pelicanparts.com has interiors

[ruf-porsche]

Look for some one who is parting out a E34 for the interior