Looking to buy this 328is..

[stefan15]

Hey all,
What do you guys think of this car:
http://www.canadatrader.com/result/detailinfo.aspx?ID=22829357

Looks like a decent deal, I checked out the car, most things appear to be fine.

One thing I'm unfamiliar with is a component under the hood that isn't present in my e36. It is mounted on the passenger side corner near the firewall. It sounds like it has a small motor in it, and howls incredibly loud, mostly when the car is idling just after startup. Also has a rubber tube stretching to the headlights (for air)... It appears to be some sort of intake with a motor to speed things up.. Autodata reports the item in this area as the DLC though that can't be right. Anyone know what this is?

http://img128.imagevenue.com/loc402/th_36974_Image00008_122_402lo.jpg (http://img128.imagevenue.com/img.php?image=36974_Image00008_122_402lo.jpg)

Also, he hasn't been running premium gas for about 2 years; does have negative wear effects on the engine and injectors--other than the performance loss?

Steering seems a bit lacking (possibly the pump) and shocks would have to be replaced (worn). Also the heatshield has been partially torn off under the car, which is odd. Otherwise it seems ok, some rust from Quebec, but not bad.

Any input would be great, thanks.

[FiveFreshFish]

Originally posted by stefan15
One thing I'm unfamiliar with is a component under the hood that isn't present in my e36. It is mounted on the passenger side corner near the firewall. It sounds like it has a small motor in it, and howls incredibly loud, mostly when the car is idling just after startup. Also has a rubber tube stretching to the headlights (for air)... It appears to be some sort of intake with a motor to speed things up.. Autodata reports the item in this area as the DLC though that can't be right. Anyone know what this is?

http://img128.imagevenue.com/loc402/th_36974_Image00008_122_402lo.jpg (http://img128.imagevenue.com/img.php?image=36974_Image00008_122_402lo.jpg)


It's the emission control air pump. Shouldn't be very loud at all.

http://realoem.com/bmw/showparts.do?model=BG13&mospid=47485&btnr=11_1540&hg=11&fg=50


I would also avoid Quebec cars. Pay a bit more for a BC or Alberta car.

[scat19]

It is listed as a V6....

Double check the other items he is telling you....

[Weapon_R]

Doesn't look very clean to be honest. A good 98 328 should cost a few thousand more.

[lint]

price does seem pretty low. I paid a few grand more for my 99 with about the same kms but it was very clean and impressed the guys at Alpine. I'd get it inspected and see what comes of it. It's about the age for common issues to start popping up (thermostat, water pump, strut mounts)

[stefan15]

He originally listed at 18 000, and has no hits since last winter, so he took it down to $13 900. Things that need to be replaced are brake pads, front rotors, fogs, shocks, tires.

The emission control pump, in this case, howls at notably loud volumes directly at startup.

Also his air conditioning is shot, it's not just a matter of freon recharge. Not sure how much this would cost @ Sheni though--it is also not covered by warranty. I'm a little skeptical about this deal, though the car itself runs well. (With the exception of suspension).

Also, he had BMW service records. A while back, he noted a problem with steering, and then SMOKE coming from the engine. BMW replaced the water pump and damaged belts. BMW noted the problem had been completely remedied but that may not be the case in terms of the long run I am assuming.

So is the consensus to avoid this one?

[stefan15]

Sorry double post

[FiveFreshFish]

Yup, too many red flags. Definitely skip this one.

[lint]

Originally posted by stefan15


So is the consensus to avoid this one?

You're buying yourself a bunch of problems which I would guess will end up costing you more than the $4000K that he dropped his price.

If you are still seriously considering it, get it fully inspected by a trust worthy shop (have to give props to Alpine again) and get a full estimate of what the repairs will cost. You'll probbaly find that it's not worth it.

[rc2002]

That car has all the signs of being a lemon. I bet he's had tons of people come and take a look at the car and then pass on it. I find that time and time again whatever is too good to be true usually is.

[qmf]

Buy it, then keep us posted on the repairs you will be doing......