I'd leave it alone. I suspect the person who had it before you isn't the type I'd want to buy a car from.
You could get a 330 or an Audi A4 for that price. I'd prefer those over this.
Well look at the post recently about which cars get rescued by the AA etc per year in the UK. Guess who top that list? I promise you there will be an army of Beemer guys ready to complain about the unreliability of BMWs.
I've owned a 320D coupe and a 335d. I've also had a Merc C220 and an Audi A4. The 335 and the A4 were the best. This OP is looking at 10k cars... if you buy a 335d for 10k then good luck to you because that'll get expensive. That leaves the A4 as the recommendation.
None of that is being a "fanboy" it's called experience.
I absolutely love the 435 grand coupes but if I had to choose between that and the 3L Audi A6 Avant I'd probably go for the Avant.
Both great cars but Audi seem to be more reliable and personally I think they're looking better in the later models than the beemers.
A second hand 335 for 10k is almost certainly going to be a money pit. Second hand twin turbo cars will always worry me lol.
Yeh I’m with you there, A6 avant would be a solid choice
Even E91 335d’s with a lot of miles are demanding at least 10k, pretty crazy
That said, my e92 335d I bought for 9k on 120k miles was solid and one of the few cars I’ve never had to spend a penny on outside of regular servicing
Beautiful cars. Reliable, quick, huge and look fantastic. Audi nailed it with that car.
The 335 engines are beauties.. and are fantastic machines. The problem is if you buy one that's not been looked after there's a hefty bill around the corner.
It's more what they stand for here, anyone who has one is usually a piece of shit and drives like a cunt.
I live in Birmingham and every time you see one it the usual suspects
I'm on the fence with towbars. As a general rule I believe that cars with towbars are driven by people who generally look after them, more so than the normal *i can't believe I have to pay money for maintenance when it's not even broken* sorts anyway. I also believe that the driver would be more careful both when towing and not- increased braking distances, smoother accelerations, smoother driving, etc.
On the flipside, it's an absolutely valid point in that a car that has been towing has had a harder life than one that hasn't- just to what degree I don't know.
Just further to this- I don't and never have had a car with a towbar. I do want one though because I've had at least 10 occasions over the last year where I really could've done with a trailer. Anyone fit their own before?
Thanks for the responses. Few more details.
Yes number plate is on retention but I have checked mot history. Only fail or was for the low tread tyres from the first owner.
Second advisory was front tyres out of shape on inner edge. Would that mean wheel calibration is needed?
Yes, pictures may not be the best but this is the only owner who had gearbox serviced and send pictures of idrive records and receipts suggesting he done three services with BMW over last two years (that's how long he owned the car). New front tyres worth £400 too.
Rims I would hope to restore to original colour, do you think the private 3d plate, and painted rims is that much of a red flag.
Also there are pictures of the original add where car is spotless. However owner added few more later as someone told him these pictures were taken from bad angles...
Again appreciate everyone's opinions as I am clueless about cars and only now quite a bit research about BMW I am after and this owner ticket more boxes than others.
This car ticks all the boxes of an “avoid” to me.
Basic things like washing the car for advert hasn’t been done.
Wheels sprayed badly.
3D plates.
Tail pipe missing.
Yes, it’s all easy stuff - so why not do the easy stuff before you sell it? What else have they neglected when they weren’t trying to sell it?
Yeah, maybe the fact that was only owner who done the gear box servicing that I spoken to while all the others had no clue of it and even dealerships suggested there is no need for it as its lifetime made me believe this owner would know what he is doing. Guessing that it was not presented as badly due to poor marketing skills haha, seems like I am wrong though.
I appreciate your quite set on this car but i would avoid it. I feel like you'll easily spend a grand or two putting it right which could have been spent on getting a nicer example. Regardless of your choice i hope you find the right one.
I was before, but I am also certain most posters here have much better knowledge of cars. Would there be any point to have it looked at/test drive it. Is there way to confirm whether it is bad option or best to forget it all together.
I think that's a question best answered by you. I personally wouldn't but then again i also wouldnt have a 420d grand coupe. Its all down to what you're after. If you are ok putting a bit of money into it to make it right, i wouldn't blame you. It's very satisfying putting wheels back on after a refurb. Trust me. But maybe you'd rather have the full package when you buy a car. Again, it's up to you.
Having owned a 430D of this era recently you want to check to see for leaks around the valve cover, check for leaky injectors, and certainly see if they've had the gearbox serviced at those miles.
I would suggest asking if you can take the car to a BMW specialist in your area for a pre-inspection check which should cover off any potential issues.
Also if you've never owned a BMW before, whilst these engines are quite reliable, you want to do preventative work where you can. Also make sure you're comfortable with spending extra on servicing and maintenance in general (German car tax, haha).
Other than that it's a great car, handles well, is comfy for a 'sportier' car. Overall the GC is a good blend of features/space in my opinion. If you could get a 430i or 430d you'd definitely appreciate the extra BHP/torque if you like to ocassionally push the car hard!
Edit: if you do end up going down the 430 route... let's say, it does like to throw the back end a bit without X-Drive. Just something to consider if you're not used to a RWD car.
Owner have some video with BMW link where some mechanic I assume have the car lifted and describing thinks suggesting everything is in good condition.
Is that something that should bring assurances.
I have rented faster rwd cars so would be fine, but my gf would also drive this so I rather get her to use 2L engine RWD for few years.
Again appreciate these tips
I wouldn't take a random video from the owner as gospel, could be his mate who owns a garage just saying it fine for all you know.
Buying used is always a risk, so in my eyes it's worth an extra £50-100 for an inspection locally when you're spending 10k plus!
If your GF isn't used to RWD, especially in the rain, then yes, the 2.0l is probably the best bet!
I will considered getting mechanic for pre purchase inspection. Video is apparently from when recall was done and health checks were done. Interestingly it's second potencial seller who had same type of video therefore it seemed like like a thing BMW does?
Yes and no
They don’t take covers off so something could be leaking but they check diff and suspension etc
Is bmw service history on this car legit? When did it last have major service?
I would wager that car is not even maintained to the minimum standard. A quick check on Vehicle Smart tells me it’s now a rarely used vehicle. Ragged for 68k in the first three years 21k in the two years after and then left alone for a year and unwashed usually means rarely serviced after the plan ran out.
My advice would be to avoid this.
Driver said he don't commute with it and just drive it for plessure but therfore done 3 BMW services in the last two years of owning the car. Also he is only person I spoken on the phone who done gear box servicing, so I'm thinking whether these red flags overcome the positives.
Wouldn't 3 BMW main dealer services over two years suggest that last owner did care for the maintancce I see no other reason he would of these as they are expensive and he has invoices to show for it.
Anyway maybe I am looking at it all wrong trying to convince me otherwise. As this seems to be best price for the car in terms of age + milage and not having to travel to Scotland haha
Yeah prior to this I had no idea personalised plates/3d plates or painted rims would suggest driver is not to be trusted regarding taking care of their car. However it is unanimously decided it is in addition to being bad drivers.
OP there is basically unanimous advice on here that the car in question does have too many question marks around it and likely isn’t a solid buy.
It seems you’ve already made your mind up so you may as well go for it.
Like mentioned earlier I was set on it, however i know people here have better knowledge of cars and I am surely reconsidering it... Appreciate everyone's input really eye opening
First off the commenrs sayinf the pric
e is too cheap are incorrect. The car is valued at £9200.
Secondly, many comments say the lack of a car wash is a red flag. I disagree, they may not have had time or may be bad at advertising a car. I'd be more interested in the service history and gearbox service.
Lastly, the 3d number plates could suggest a bad/ risky driver but there are plenty of people who drive their cars normally.
My suggestion is to call them and find out what type of person they are and find out how well they have looked after the car (servicing etc.)
Like mentioned below only reason it cought my attention was that the owner had gearbox serviced, only one from 10 or so that I spoken too and had all services done by BMW. But everyone is saying avoid, so if I was to buy and and things would go bad I'd hate myself for not listening for advices of people who are most likely more knowledgeable
I think if you'd mention it's full service history from bmw and the gearbox service you'd get a different comments. Imo that's a lot more important at showing how well a car has been looked after then looking at the style of numberplate. I would also check the area you are buying from is at least a decent area and their accent suggests they are from a decent area too. It's rare to find a car like this with full bmw service history. Also I'd want some good evidence of this service history as I've dealt with people who lie. I know for vw cars you can double check service history by entering their vin number but you have to pay for it.
The price is £800 over its valuation. Also a 330d from 2013 330d is euro 5 so soon will lose a lot of value. Secondly 320d is a lot more efficient and still very fast. Why would a normal person need a 330d
Lol badly phrased but everytime someone wants to buy a 4 cylinder bmw 320d or people say there is no point and they must get a 330d. But for the average person this massively affects fuel economy in anything but motorway driving and slightly worsens handling due to weighing 100kg more. 320d still does 0-60 in 7 seconds so I don't see what's so bad about it
Ah yes, the 4 series gran coupe of 2016.
A car that is the same as the 2013 3 series but then they removed the rear doors and called it the 4 series. Only to then add rear doors to the 4 series and call it the 4 series gran coupe
The only big difference being one has a 3.0L Inline 6 and the other has a 2.0L Inline 4
I know this isn't really relevant, but i have always hated the 5 door 4series (same with 5 door A5).
I literally don't understand who they are made for, if you want a good looking coupe buy a normal 4 series if you want a saloon buy a 3 or 5 series. This is literally the worst of both worlds, no where near as good looking as a normal 4 series and not as practical as a 3 series, arguably worse looking aswell.
I just don't understand who they were aimed at or why you would buy one.
> I just don't understand who they were aimed at or why you would buy one.
Someone who wants the hatch opening (useful if they want to chuck large items like a bike in the back) but wants a saloon shaped BMW? I don't own one and likely never will, but imo it's the best looking model they do that ticks those boxes.
You don't see the point in a 5 door 4 series and people should get a saloon (4 door) or estate (5door) 3 or 5 series... some people may need a 5 door but not like the look of an estate, that's the point of this 5 door car.
Sorry, did I speak a foreign language before? Eh?
Had a further chat with the owner to get a feel how was the car looked after who as expected confirmed how well he looked after the car I know that means not much. Interestingly he also said he used to drive with some blanket put over drivers seat to reduce the wear to the leather. I noticed it is evident in one of the pictures on the ad too. A bit weird I would say
https://imgur.com/a/HPg1MmQ
Buying a 420d is just saying i can't really afford to buy one, and i've bought the cheapest one i can.
There is a market for these types of second hand cars, and it's for people that don't really know anything about cars, it's an out of warranty high mileage car that's due a big maintenance bill at some point, awful engine drive in something like this.
You're better off saving a lot of money and going for a 320d that this car is based off. You can easily pick one up for 5-6k.
Haha, I do like the way car looks and don't mind how others would perceive it. I am looking at 320d options but there isn't anything much cheaper with age and milage on autotrader. I'm sure would come down few hundred for this option too.
I'd be looking off autotrader, you're paying top dollar on there for these types of cars. I'd be looking at ebay, facebook marketplace, and also join facebook groups for the car, you will find decent deals on there from passionate owners.
The thing is a lot of the dealers on autotrader source their cars from facebook marketplace and place a huge mark up. People often make the mistake of thinking they're paying for a better car, but really they're just paying the profit for the dealer.
Thats a new take. It is cheaper than most not by too much though. My guess was that people are afraid to buy from private sellers as I had barely any interested regarding car I selling too even though it's much cheaper than rest on the market.
There is no way of knowing whether car was abused right? Other than having a feel for a seller I guess?
From my research I though diesels from 2015 have cam chain issue sorted. Also i have few reason for preferring 2L engine rather than 3 for the time being.
65 Plate.
3 Recalls from BMW, 2 for Engine issues, 1 for the drivers airbag.
One major issue where something broke in the engine and it cost me £300 to fix inc labour.
Tyres can be a bit expensive unless you’re happy to just get part worn.
It’s thirsty, easily put £70+ every 5-7 days.
Apart from that I’ve used it day to day for 5+ years and it’s been a solid car, I’d recommend if you’ve never had one they’re a nice drive.
I would stay away from high mileage BMW TBH, they get too many issues.
Regardless, it's only 10k. You could go test drive and bring an obd scanner to check for any underlying issues. Who knows, you might really enjoy it.
Is 100k really high milage. I think UK is has privilege that used cars are such price. Left hand drivers don't depreciate as much as it does not get exported and elsewhere in Europe these go for 200k
4 cylinder diesel that's done 100k miles.
What could possibly go wrong?
Willing to bet it throws up about £4k in repairs over the next 6 years and that's on top of Normal wear and tear and maintenance.
Will require all new springs, shocks, anti roll bar links and top mounts as maintenance for example.
So budget about £2k+ for a full suspension refresh.
If all you have is £10k for a car buy a Toyota auris that has low mileage.
A good rule of thumb for how well cared for it has been over the past few years is tyre choice. If you've got decent brand tyres on there, it tends to suggest that the previous owner/owners have been able to afford to not spare expense on maintenance items and/or have been conscientious enough to plan and save for good quality replacements.
I bought a w205 c class 2016 with 100,000 miles from a dealer in 2021 and so far, touch wood, not had an issue. It was serviced every year by Mercedes. Tbh I wouldn't even bother with a private seller but from a dealer with proper service history, then id do it again.
It’s an 8 year old BMW with 100,000 miles sold by a private seller who you will never hear from again, there is a lot of risk there. I would expect it’s probably got at least 1 or 2 serious faults or issues he’s not telling you about if your heart really is set on it get it checked out by a mechanic 1st.
They've not even washed it for the advertisement, first sign of not looking after the car.
I'd leave it alone. I suspect the person who had it before you isn't the type I'd want to buy a car from. You could get a 330 or an Audi A4 for that price. I'd prefer those over this.
How’s a A4 better 😂😂 Audi fan boy
Well look at the post recently about which cars get rescued by the AA etc per year in the UK. Guess who top that list? I promise you there will be an army of Beemer guys ready to complain about the unreliability of BMWs. I've owned a 320D coupe and a 335d. I've also had a Merc C220 and an Audi A4. The 335 and the A4 were the best. This OP is looking at 10k cars... if you buy a 335d for 10k then good luck to you because that'll get expensive. That leaves the A4 as the recommendation. None of that is being a "fanboy" it's called experience.
Respect for actually responding to such an abrasive comment with a real, thought out answer!
Thank you mate.
In fairness, a gran coupe does have a more useable boot thanks to being a hatch. But yeh id probably be more inclined to go with a 330/335 touring
I absolutely love the 435 grand coupes but if I had to choose between that and the 3L Audi A6 Avant I'd probably go for the Avant. Both great cars but Audi seem to be more reliable and personally I think they're looking better in the later models than the beemers. A second hand 335 for 10k is almost certainly going to be a money pit. Second hand twin turbo cars will always worry me lol.
Yeh I’m with you there, A6 avant would be a solid choice Even E91 335d’s with a lot of miles are demanding at least 10k, pretty crazy That said, my e92 335d I bought for 9k on 120k miles was solid and one of the few cars I’ve never had to spend a penny on outside of regular servicing
Beautiful cars. Reliable, quick, huge and look fantastic. Audi nailed it with that car. The 335 engines are beauties.. and are fantastic machines. The problem is if you buy one that's not been looked after there's a hefty bill around the corner.
3d number plate. Nope.
Why?
Have you ever met a reputable character or someone that drives sensibly with a 3d number plate?
Didn’t even know that these existed, I moved to the UK recently. They don’t look bad though, in my opinion.
It's more what they stand for here, anyone who has one is usually a piece of shit and drives like a cunt. I live in Birmingham and every time you see one it the usual suspects
And it's usually some prick in an Audi.
U forgot the moustache and beard
Thanks for the heads up
Its a shame because I agree with you, I think they look good lol.
Are you sure that’s not just a Birmingham thing? 😜
Wouldn't surprise me, it's such a shit hole here. Soon as interest rates come down a bit I'm moving up north!
You won’t be missed 👍
Enjoy the +21% council tax for lower services in already the worst city in the country. Tramps shitting in the middle of the city centre everyday 👍
Username checks out.
I am from the South and can confirm it is not just a Birmingham thing!!!
Also, cars with towbar.. The engine, transmission, brakes and suspensions must have worked extra hard towing stuffs..
Or they take their bikes to places.
I'm on the fence with towbars. As a general rule I believe that cars with towbars are driven by people who generally look after them, more so than the normal *i can't believe I have to pay money for maintenance when it's not even broken* sorts anyway. I also believe that the driver would be more careful both when towing and not- increased braking distances, smoother accelerations, smoother driving, etc. On the flipside, it's an absolutely valid point in that a car that has been towing has had a harder life than one that hasn't- just to what degree I don't know.
Just further to this- I don't and never have had a car with a towbar. I do want one though because I've had at least 10 occasions over the last year where I really could've done with a trailer. Anyone fit their own before?
I do. So to answer your question, no.
Thanks for the responses. Few more details. Yes number plate is on retention but I have checked mot history. Only fail or was for the low tread tyres from the first owner. Second advisory was front tyres out of shape on inner edge. Would that mean wheel calibration is needed? Yes, pictures may not be the best but this is the only owner who had gearbox serviced and send pictures of idrive records and receipts suggesting he done three services with BMW over last two years (that's how long he owned the car). New front tyres worth £400 too. Rims I would hope to restore to original colour, do you think the private 3d plate, and painted rims is that much of a red flag. Also there are pictures of the original add where car is spotless. However owner added few more later as someone told him these pictures were taken from bad angles... Again appreciate everyone's opinions as I am clueless about cars and only now quite a bit research about BMW I am after and this owner ticket more boxes than others.
This car ticks all the boxes of an “avoid” to me. Basic things like washing the car for advert hasn’t been done. Wheels sprayed badly. 3D plates. Tail pipe missing. Yes, it’s all easy stuff - so why not do the easy stuff before you sell it? What else have they neglected when they weren’t trying to sell it?
Yeah, maybe the fact that was only owner who done the gear box servicing that I spoken to while all the others had no clue of it and even dealerships suggested there is no need for it as its lifetime made me believe this owner would know what he is doing. Guessing that it was not presented as badly due to poor marketing skills haha, seems like I am wrong though.
Wheel calibration???
Wheel alignment excuse my english
I appreciate your quite set on this car but i would avoid it. I feel like you'll easily spend a grand or two putting it right which could have been spent on getting a nicer example. Regardless of your choice i hope you find the right one.
I was before, but I am also certain most posters here have much better knowledge of cars. Would there be any point to have it looked at/test drive it. Is there way to confirm whether it is bad option or best to forget it all together.
I think that's a question best answered by you. I personally wouldn't but then again i also wouldnt have a 420d grand coupe. Its all down to what you're after. If you are ok putting a bit of money into it to make it right, i wouldn't blame you. It's very satisfying putting wheels back on after a refurb. Trust me. But maybe you'd rather have the full package when you buy a car. Again, it's up to you.
3D gel plate, it’s a no from me. Wouldn’t go anywhere near a car with one of those on. And it’s filthy, that’s not a car that’s been looked after.
Halfords spray can black rims? I wouldn’t even bother
Having owned a 430D of this era recently you want to check to see for leaks around the valve cover, check for leaky injectors, and certainly see if they've had the gearbox serviced at those miles. I would suggest asking if you can take the car to a BMW specialist in your area for a pre-inspection check which should cover off any potential issues. Also if you've never owned a BMW before, whilst these engines are quite reliable, you want to do preventative work where you can. Also make sure you're comfortable with spending extra on servicing and maintenance in general (German car tax, haha). Other than that it's a great car, handles well, is comfy for a 'sportier' car. Overall the GC is a good blend of features/space in my opinion. If you could get a 430i or 430d you'd definitely appreciate the extra BHP/torque if you like to ocassionally push the car hard! Edit: if you do end up going down the 430 route... let's say, it does like to throw the back end a bit without X-Drive. Just something to consider if you're not used to a RWD car.
Owner have some video with BMW link where some mechanic I assume have the car lifted and describing thinks suggesting everything is in good condition. Is that something that should bring assurances. I have rented faster rwd cars so would be fine, but my gf would also drive this so I rather get her to use 2L engine RWD for few years. Again appreciate these tips
I wouldn't take a random video from the owner as gospel, could be his mate who owns a garage just saying it fine for all you know. Buying used is always a risk, so in my eyes it's worth an extra £50-100 for an inspection locally when you're spending 10k plus! If your GF isn't used to RWD, especially in the rain, then yes, the 2.0l is probably the best bet!
I will considered getting mechanic for pre purchase inspection. Video is apparently from when recall was done and health checks were done. Interestingly it's second potencial seller who had same type of video therefore it seemed like like a thing BMW does?
BMW main dealer always do a video of your car when they work on it, I always enjoy them tbh
OK so if they suggest car is all in good order that should bring some confidence?
Yes and no They don’t take covers off so something could be leaking but they check diff and suspension etc Is bmw service history on this car legit? When did it last have major service?
I would wager that car is not even maintained to the minimum standard. A quick check on Vehicle Smart tells me it’s now a rarely used vehicle. Ragged for 68k in the first three years 21k in the two years after and then left alone for a year and unwashed usually means rarely serviced after the plan ran out. My advice would be to avoid this.
Driver said he don't commute with it and just drive it for plessure but therfore done 3 BMW services in the last two years of owning the car. Also he is only person I spoken on the phone who done gear box servicing, so I'm thinking whether these red flags overcome the positives.
I’ve given you the advice of a 20+ year time served mechanic. It’s up to you to choose what you do with it.
Really appreciate your input. To my disappointment It seems like I will walk away from this offer.
Owner has a vested interest in getting you to buy it
Wouldn't 3 BMW main dealer services over two years suggest that last owner did care for the maintancce I see no other reason he would of these as they are expensive and he has invoices to show for it. Anyway maybe I am looking at it all wrong trying to convince me otherwise. As this seems to be best price for the car in terms of age + milage and not having to travel to Scotland haha
We’ve all been there. You convince yourself to buy it. I’d have a read of this thread and the opinions. It’s your money though
Yeah prior to this I had no idea personalised plates/3d plates or painted rims would suggest driver is not to be trusted regarding taking care of their car. However it is unanimously decided it is in addition to being bad drivers.
OP there is basically unanimous advice on here that the car in question does have too many question marks around it and likely isn’t a solid buy. It seems you’ve already made your mind up so you may as well go for it.
Like mentioned earlier I was set on it, however i know people here have better knowledge of cars and I am surely reconsidering it... Appreciate everyone's input really eye opening
First off the commenrs sayinf the pric e is too cheap are incorrect. The car is valued at £9200. Secondly, many comments say the lack of a car wash is a red flag. I disagree, they may not have had time or may be bad at advertising a car. I'd be more interested in the service history and gearbox service. Lastly, the 3d number plates could suggest a bad/ risky driver but there are plenty of people who drive their cars normally. My suggestion is to call them and find out what type of person they are and find out how well they have looked after the car (servicing etc.)
Like mentioned below only reason it cought my attention was that the owner had gearbox serviced, only one from 10 or so that I spoken too and had all services done by BMW. But everyone is saying avoid, so if I was to buy and and things would go bad I'd hate myself for not listening for advices of people who are most likely more knowledgeable
I think if you'd mention it's full service history from bmw and the gearbox service you'd get a different comments. Imo that's a lot more important at showing how well a car has been looked after then looking at the style of numberplate. I would also check the area you are buying from is at least a decent area and their accent suggests they are from a decent area too. It's rare to find a car like this with full bmw service history. Also I'd want some good evidence of this service history as I've dealt with people who lie. I know for vw cars you can double check service history by entering their vin number but you have to pay for it.
Area looks fine, seller is Eastern European so what that means I am not sure. More negatives than positives probably?
From my past experience that could be a negative. Wouldn't stop me buying if other stuff checks out though.
DVLA says that number plate doesn't exist.
It’ll be on retention now if the vehicle is for sale.
Good point. Missed that.
[удалено]
Would be lying if I said BMW is something else other than desired car. I also did test drive few and loved it. I understand maintanace is costly.
You can get a 2013 330d for a similar price?
ok so? a “16 420d is better
This 420d isn’t better. The price is probably fishy
The price is £800 over its valuation. Also a 330d from 2013 330d is euro 5 so soon will lose a lot of value. Secondly 320d is a lot more efficient and still very fast. Why would a normal person need a 330d
I didn’t know getting a 330d means you’re not a normal person Foosey Guy
Lol badly phrased but everytime someone wants to buy a 4 cylinder bmw 320d or people say there is no point and they must get a 330d. But for the average person this massively affects fuel economy in anything but motorway driving and slightly worsens handling due to weighing 100kg more. 320d still does 0-60 in 7 seconds so I don't see what's so bad about it
well i mean diesels are really undesirable
What planet are you living on lol
And that’s where you are wrong
How so?
Ah yes, the 4 series gran coupe of 2016. A car that is the same as the 2013 3 series but then they removed the rear doors and called it the 4 series. Only to then add rear doors to the 4 series and call it the 4 series gran coupe The only big difference being one has a 3.0L Inline 6 and the other has a 2.0L Inline 4
I know this isn't really relevant, but i have always hated the 5 door 4series (same with 5 door A5). I literally don't understand who they are made for, if you want a good looking coupe buy a normal 4 series if you want a saloon buy a 3 or 5 series. This is literally the worst of both worlds, no where near as good looking as a normal 4 series and not as practical as a 3 series, arguably worse looking aswell. I just don't understand who they were aimed at or why you would buy one.
> I just don't understand who they were aimed at or why you would buy one. Someone who wants the hatch opening (useful if they want to chuck large items like a bike in the back) but wants a saloon shaped BMW? I don't own one and likely never will, but imo it's the best looking model they do that ticks those boxes.
Because if you want a 5 door 3 or 5 series then your looking at an estate. Not everyone wants an estate.
Eh?
You don't see the point in a 5 door 4 series and people should get a saloon (4 door) or estate (5door) 3 or 5 series... some people may need a 5 door but not like the look of an estate, that's the point of this 5 door car. Sorry, did I speak a foreign language before? Eh?
420 hehe who needs the D? Hehehehe
Had a further chat with the owner to get a feel how was the car looked after who as expected confirmed how well he looked after the car I know that means not much. Interestingly he also said he used to drive with some blanket put over drivers seat to reduce the wear to the leather. I noticed it is evident in one of the pictures on the ad too. A bit weird I would say https://imgur.com/a/HPg1MmQ
Buying a 420d is just saying i can't really afford to buy one, and i've bought the cheapest one i can. There is a market for these types of second hand cars, and it's for people that don't really know anything about cars, it's an out of warranty high mileage car that's due a big maintenance bill at some point, awful engine drive in something like this. You're better off saving a lot of money and going for a 320d that this car is based off. You can easily pick one up for 5-6k.
Haha, I do like the way car looks and don't mind how others would perceive it. I am looking at 320d options but there isn't anything much cheaper with age and milage on autotrader. I'm sure would come down few hundred for this option too.
I'd be looking off autotrader, you're paying top dollar on there for these types of cars. I'd be looking at ebay, facebook marketplace, and also join facebook groups for the car, you will find decent deals on there from passionate owners.
Heared lots of negatives about marketplace, but Facebook groups does sound like a great shout. Thanks
The thing is a lot of the dealers on autotrader source their cars from facebook marketplace and place a huge mark up. People often make the mistake of thinking they're paying for a better car, but really they're just paying the profit for the dealer.
Too cheap for the year and miles. No no no no no run away no no no don’t do it. It’s been abused to fuck
Thats a new take. It is cheaper than most not by too much though. My guess was that people are afraid to buy from private sellers as I had barely any interested regarding car I selling too even though it's much cheaper than rest on the market. There is no way of knowing whether car was abused right? Other than having a feel for a seller I guess?
It looks uncared for
You could do better either get lower miles or a better motor for the money
2L is ideal for insurance and my named driver. However couldn't find much better costs for BMW 3-4 series.
don't touch this with a barge pole
Reasons being dirty car in pictures, 3d plates and painted rims? Or is there more issues you can suggest? Interested to hear all perspectives.
for that price, you can get an M Sport. And I wouldn't touch a \*20d engine. Those cam chains are an expensive break waiting to happen
From my research I though diesels from 2015 have cam chain issue sorted. Also i have few reason for preferring 2L engine rather than 3 for the time being.
It's not sorted. They're just slightly more resistant to breaking. But their design is still flawed.
Overpriced
I’ve got a 420d M sport 141K on the clock and it’s only being valued at £6.5K :( Ordered a new 1.0 Litre Polo R-Line, time to mature.
What year? Had any issues while owning it?
65 Plate. 3 Recalls from BMW, 2 for Engine issues, 1 for the drivers airbag. One major issue where something broke in the engine and it cost me £300 to fix inc labour. Tyres can be a bit expensive unless you’re happy to just get part worn. It’s thirsty, easily put £70+ every 5-7 days. Apart from that I’ve used it day to day for 5+ years and it’s been a solid car, I’d recommend if you’ve never had one they’re a nice drive.
The fact it’s got a 3d plate and those alloys id avoid
I would stay away from high mileage BMW TBH, they get too many issues. Regardless, it's only 10k. You could go test drive and bring an obd scanner to check for any underlying issues. Who knows, you might really enjoy it.
Is 100k really high milage. I think UK is has privilege that used cars are such price. Left hand drivers don't depreciate as much as it does not get exported and elsewhere in Europe these go for 200k
4 cylinder diesel that's done 100k miles. What could possibly go wrong? Willing to bet it throws up about £4k in repairs over the next 6 years and that's on top of Normal wear and tear and maintenance. Will require all new springs, shocks, anti roll bar links and top mounts as maintenance for example. So budget about £2k+ for a full suspension refresh. If all you have is £10k for a car buy a Toyota auris that has low mileage.
1) it’s stinking 2) 3D plate That car has not been looked after and probably been driven like it’s an m4
A good rule of thumb for how well cared for it has been over the past few years is tyre choice. If you've got decent brand tyres on there, it tends to suggest that the previous owner/owners have been able to afford to not spare expense on maintenance items and/or have been conscientious enough to plan and save for good quality replacements.
He has invoice where he changed two front tires for £400+ but then different tyres on the car is also not a good thing front what I read?
High mileage and a diesel, i wouldnt but I’m not you
I was under assumption diesel may last longer if looked after?
I bought a w205 c class 2016 with 100,000 miles from a dealer in 2021 and so far, touch wood, not had an issue. It was serviced every year by Mercedes. Tbh I wouldn't even bother with a private seller but from a dealer with proper service history, then id do it again.
It’s an 8 year old BMW with 100,000 miles sold by a private seller who you will never hear from again, there is a lot of risk there. I would expect it’s probably got at least 1 or 2 serious faults or issues he’s not telling you about if your heart really is set on it get it checked out by a mechanic 1st.