Should I Buy

[MOJO86]

I am looking for a used BMW 3 series that is about 4 to 7 years old with around 80,000 to 100,000 miles on it. My wife and I are both teachers in Texas so buying a brand new one is out of question. I need a good reliable car that will not be hard to maintain. I have read very good reviews about the reliability of the 3 series but have also come across more than one unhappy driver because of the expense to maintain the car. Any thoughts or advice would be helpful. Thnk you in advance.

[Fast Bob]

IMHO, always go for a newer car with a lot of highway miles....9 times out of 10, it`ll give you less problems than that older, low-mileage, "creampuff".

Regards,
Bob

[KrisL]

I am looking for a used BMW 3 series that is about 4 to 7 years old with around 80,000 to 100,000 miles on it. My wife and I are both teachers in Texas so buying a brand new one is out of question. I need a good reliable car that will not be hard to maintain. I have read very good reviews about the reliability of the 3 series but have also come across more than one unhappy driver because of the expense to maintain the car. Any thoughts or advice would be helpful. Thnk you in advance.

There is a cost to owning the 'Ultimate Driving Machine' without a doubt. It's a simple fact that it will be less reliable with a higher cost of parts than a Japanese make. That's not to say BMWs are unreliable - just less so than a Honda. Of course, the cost of maintenance can be offset considerably by purchasing a service manual and a few hundred dollars worth of tools and wrenching on it yourself.

The driving experience isn't the only great thing about owning a BMW - You'll find lots of support for your car here on the web. The BMW Car Club of America holds autocrosses, car control clinics, and track days which are absolute blast.

[BloodRedHog]

I need a good reliable car that will not be hard to maintain.

You only mention this one parameter to your decision. If that is the case, I must vote Honda, Acura or Toyota, Lexus.

If driving experience is at all a priority, then yes, get a 3 series.

Do you change your own oil?
Do you feel comfortable working on cars?

Give us more info.

[MOJO86]

Yes, I can change my own oil and do minor mecahnical things. If you mean working on the engine or transmisson extensivley then no I probably cannot do that. I am simply wanting a good car that can give me a good 6 years or 100,000 miles more.