Been a while since I was on here but figured it would be decent place to post this car. We got a new car and the oldest one is getting rotated out. It's been a good daily commuter for me for the past 5 years and was a replacement to my '88 535is. I have put about 15k on it over 5 years. I would have no issues continuing to use it as a daily but we have an Outback that is 5 years newer, AWD, and has more space for my growing kids.
The main issue on this car as it sits now is the 3rd gear synchro is not so good. I always meant to replace the tranny, but instead just got used to never downshifting into 3rd from 4th, which would grind if I tried it. Going from 2nd to 3rd doesn't grind when I am shifting it but that is because I have adapted the speed at which I shift to let the synchro work, it took me a little practice.
Also, it has a rebuilt title, the guy I bought it from had repaired front bumper, headlight, and fender damage from an accident that the original owner had. That kind of thing doesn't bother me, I've had several BMW's with rebuilt titles, but its definitely an issue for some people.
Highlights of what I did to it during my ownership:
New starter
New water pump, didn't fail just didn't know if it had been done and its a common issue on these over 90k or so.
New power steering pump
New voltage regulator on alternator
New DMTL pump as a failed one was throwing a check engine light
Fairly recent Conti DWS extremes and just got a fresh inspection last month.
As you can see in one of the pics, the radio pixels act up randomly, sometimes they are clear and sometimes they don't show up. I think there may be a blown speaker as well. Also the sunroof motor has an issue, I've never tried to address it.
The car has the sport package with the factory short shift kit and heated seats. It's a nice commuter that's got a strong engine, a tight suspension, and is quite fun to drive. Address the transmission issue if you like or just drive it as is, should serve someone well for many more years.
Cheers,
Dave
GLWS!