Hi All!
Been lurking for the last several weeks and decided to actively start participating. Bought a pre-owned 2013 328i with around 40k miles on it a couple of weeks ago (traded in my GTI Wolfsburg edition, also 2013). Initial impressions about driving experience - the steering on the GTI seemed a lot tighter but the bimmer does have some insane low end torque.
Otherwise, the bimmer is just ahead in pretty much every department. In cabin noise, unfortunately, is just as bad as the GTI, but I kinda knew that going in.
Some questions:
1. Maintenance - What is generally DIY for somebody who is somewhat comfortable with car maintenance? - I just changed the cabin filter in my bimmer cos it stinked (the dirtiest filter I've pulled out ever, but I always change mine on my cars every year). I'm also reasonably comfortable cleaning out MAF sensors and minor TLC items. I did once install an aftermarket NAVI system on my Accord (full dash pull down, lots of cables and stuff like that).
2. Extended Warranty - I bought it at a non-BMW dealership and declined their ****ty third party extended warranty. Is it worth considering the BMW warranty? I've been in touch with a dealer and that is something I could buy. I was told there are three options, wondering which one to consider. Previously, I've never ever purchased the extended warranties (VW, Acura, Honda) as I've always believed it's better to save the same money for a rainy day.
I generally keep my cars for no more than a couple of years (average about 2.5) but I may keep this one for longer. (Can put anywhere between 7k-15k miles per year depending on my work requirements).
3. Auto--Start Stop - I've had this on several rentals I've driven but the one in my bimmer drives me nuts. Also, read the manual and it says that the auto start-stop can cause increased wear and tear. I did search and read that it can be turned off forever by the dealer within warranty. Is this something that can be exercised by the second owner?
I know y'all ask for pics, been reading the forums. Do not have any handy at this moment but my car looks like this - https://youtu.be/lykldY69qvA?t=8s (blue luxury line, premium package, heated seats, driver assist, backup/overhead camera with parking sensors)_a_
Been lurking for the last several weeks and decided to actively start participating. Bought a pre-owned 2013 328i with around 40k miles on it a couple of weeks ago (traded in my GTI Wolfsburg edition, also 2013). Initial impressions about driving experience - the steering on the GTI seemed a lot tighter but the bimmer does have some insane low end torque.
Otherwise, the bimmer is just ahead in pretty much every department. In cabin noise, unfortunately, is just as bad as the GTI, but I kinda knew that going in.
Some questions:
1. Maintenance - What is generally DIY for somebody who is somewhat comfortable with car maintenance? - I just changed the cabin filter in my bimmer cos it stinked (the dirtiest filter I've pulled out ever, but I always change mine on my cars every year). I'm also reasonably comfortable cleaning out MAF sensors and minor TLC items. I did once install an aftermarket NAVI system on my Accord (full dash pull down, lots of cables and stuff like that).
2. Extended Warranty - I bought it at a non-BMW dealership and declined their ****ty third party extended warranty. Is it worth considering the BMW warranty? I've been in touch with a dealer and that is something I could buy. I was told there are three options, wondering which one to consider. Previously, I've never ever purchased the extended warranties (VW, Acura, Honda) as I've always believed it's better to save the same money for a rainy day.
I generally keep my cars for no more than a couple of years (average about 2.5) but I may keep this one for longer. (Can put anywhere between 7k-15k miles per year depending on my work requirements).
3. Auto--Start Stop - I've had this on several rentals I've driven but the one in my bimmer drives me nuts. Also, read the manual and it says that the auto start-stop can cause increased wear and tear. I did search and read that it can be turned off forever by the dealer within warranty. Is this something that can be exercised by the second owner?
I know y'all ask for pics, been reading the forums. Do not have any handy at this moment but my car looks like this - https://youtu.be/lykldY69qvA?t=8s (blue luxury line, premium package, heated seats, driver assist, backup/overhead camera with parking sensors)_a_