BMW has long been known as a luxurious and expensive car brand. Its reputation is well-deserved, as BMWs are some of the most stylish and technologically advanced cars on the market. Famously known as the “Ultimate Driving Machine,” BMWs are a great choice for luxury car buyers.
As with other luxury car brands, BMWs hold their value well and can be expensive to purchase new. Even its entry-level models start at around $35,000. This is why not everyone can afford to buy a new BMW.
Another option for people who want to own a BMW is to buy a used BMW. Used BMWs are more affordable than their brand-new counterparts and can provide luxury car buyers with the desired features. There are a few things to remember when shopping for a used BMW. This post will share some valuable tips on getting the best deal when buying a BMW.
The History of the BMW Brand
BMW has a long and storied history. It was founded in 1916 as an aircraft engine manufacturer. After World War I, the Treaty of Versailles forbid Germany from manufacturing aircraft engines, so the company shifted its focus to motorcycles. In 1928, BMW released its first car model, the Dixi, based on the Austin Seven.
In the 1930s, BMW began producing larger models, such as the Type 315 and Type 319. These cars were very successful, especially in motor racing. BMW won the coveted Deutsche Tourenwagen Meisterschaft (German Touring Car Championship) nine times between 1936 and 1941.
After World War II, BMW faced many challenges. The company’s factories were destroyed, and its products were no longer in demand. However, BMW made a comeback by producing small engines for other manufacturers and returning to its roots as a motorcycle manufacturer. In 1959, the company released the iconic Isetta microcar, which helped boost BMW’s sales.
The following decades were very successful for BMW. The company released many famous car models, such as 2002 in 1968 and the M Series in 1972. In 1994, BMW bought the British car company Rover Group, which gave it ownership of the Mini brand.
Today, BMW is one of the leading luxury car brands in the world. It is known for its stylish and technologically advanced cars. BMW is also a major player in motorsport, with its products competing in much different racing series.
How Expensive Are BMWs?
As we mentioned earlier, BMWs are some of the most expensive cars on the market. Even its entry-level models start at around $35,000. The most expensive BMW model is the M760Li xDrive, with a base price of $156,700.
BMWs are expensive for several reasons. First, they are luxury cars made with high-quality materials at the highest level of craftsmanship. Second, they are packed with features and cutting-edge technology. For example, many models come with a Heads-Up Display that projects information onto the windshield. This feature is not found in many other cars, even those from other luxury brands. And the technology keeps getting better, with new features and capabilities being added all the time.
Another reason why BMWs are so expensive is that they hold their value well. This means they retain a high percentage of their original value even after being driven for several years. This is good news for people who buy new BMWs and plan to sell them later.
What Are The Common Issues With BMWs?
Even though BMWs are high-quality cars, they are not perfect. Like all cars, they have their share of common issues. For example, many BMW owners have reported problems with the car’s electrical system. With the number of features and technology packed into BMWs, it’s not surprising that there have been issues with the electrical system.
Another common issue with BMWs is engine failure. This is a serious problem that can be very expensive to fix. It is important to keep an eye on your BMW’s engine and take it to a mechanic if you notice any problems.
BMW’s cooling system is also known to have issues. The cooling system is responsible for keeping the engine at the proper temperature. If it fails, the engine can overheat. Many owners have reported issues with the water pump, thermostat, and radiator.
The CCV system helps remove oil and water vapour from the engine. If it fails, it can cause the engine to overheat or stall. Replacing the CCV system can be expensive.
Finally, BMWs are also known for having problems with their transmission. This is a complex system, and it can be very costly to repair when it fails. If you notice any issues with your BMW’s transmission, it is important to take it to a mechanic immediately.
While these listed above are some of the most common issues with BMWs, it is important to remember that every car is different. Some BMWs will have no problems, while others will have multiple issues. Researching and preparing for potential problems before buying a new or used BMW is important.
How Often Do BMWs Need Maintenance?
BMWs need more maintenance than most cars. They require frequent servicing. The oil needs to be changed every 5000 miles. The brakes and tires should be inspected and replaced.
Taking your BMW to a qualified mechanic for all maintenance and repairs is important. Qualified mechanics will have the experience and knowledge to service your BMW properly. They will also be familiar with the common issues that BMWs have and how to fix them.
Is It Worth Spending Money on A Used BMW?
Now that we know how expensive BMWs can be, you might be wondering if it’s worth buying a used one. The answer to this question depends on what you’re looking for in a car.
Buying a used BMW might not be the best option if you’re looking for the latest and greatest features. You’ll likely find better deals on newer models from other brands. However, a used BMW could be a good option if you’re looking for a luxury car with style and prestige.
Another thing you must consider is how long you plan to keep the car. Buying a used BMW might not make sense if you only plan to keep it for a few years. However, if you’re planning on keeping it for longer, buying a used BMW could save you money in the long run.
Of course, other things to consider when buying a car, such as your budget and driving needs. But if you’re considering a used BMW, these are some things to remember.
What To Prepare Before Buying a Used BMW
Before you start shopping for a used BMW, it is important to do your research. You should have a good idea of what you want and what you’re willing to spend. Let’s look at some things you should remember when shopping for a used BMW.
Prepare your budget.
It is important to have a budget in mind before shopping for a used BMW. Knowing how much you’re willing to spend will help narrow down your options. It is also important to remember that you need to prepare a budget for repair and maintenance costs because a used BMW will likely need some work.
Do your research.
Before you start shopping for a used BMW, it is important to do your research. You should have a good idea of what you’re looking for and what prices to expect. Reading reviews of the different models, you’re considering is also a good idea. This will help you learn about any potential problems you might encounter with that certain model.
If you know someone who owns a BMW, ask them about their experience. This can help learn about potential problems and understand what to expect from owning a BMW. You can also get opinions from friends and family who might not own a BMW but have experience with other luxury cars. Use online resources to your advantage.
Inspect the car thoroughly
Knowing exactly what to look for when planning to buy a used BMW is also necessary. Make sure to inspect the vehicle before making a purchase thoroughly. Check the car exterior for any dents, scratches, or rust. Look under the hood and check all of the fluids. The interior should be free of any rips, stains, or damage. Test all the features to ensure they’re working properly; after all, these features are one of the reasons you’re buying a BMW.
You should observe the car keys if the car is a newer model. Newer BMWs have a special chip in the key that allows the car to start. If the key doesn’t work properly or doesn’t fit in the ignition, it is likely a clone key and not the original. This could be a sign that the car has been stolen in the past.
Ask for Service History Records
A well-maintained BMW should have a service history. This is a record of all the work that has been done on the car. Asking for this record will give you an idea of how well the previous owner took care of the car. It will give you some ideas of what needs to be done regarding maintenance and repairs. If you’re looking at a BMW with no service history, budget for more repair and maintenance costs.
Get a Pre-Purchase Inspection.
If you’re serious about buying a used BMW, it is important to get a pre-purchase inspection. The pre-purchase inspection will give you a better idea of the condition of the car and if there are any potential problems. It is also good to have a mechanic that you trust to take a look at the car as well. If you buy the used BMW from a dealership, they should offer a pre-purchase inspection.
Check for recalls.
Before you buy a used BMW, it is important to check for any recalls that have been issued. Model recalls are issued when there is a problem with the car that could be dangerous. Checking for recalls is easy to do and only takes a few minutes. If you find that the car you’re considering has been recalled, you should move on to another option.
Run a Car Check.
Another important step in the process is to run a car check using a service like Just Car Checks. This will give you the car’s history, such as any accidents or damage it has been in. It is important to know the automobile’s history before making a purchase. You can also find information about the previous owner and how they maintained the car. Sometimes, a car check will also tell you if the car has been in an accident or stolen. This is very important to know since, being a luxury brand, many stolen BMWs are running around in the marketplace.
Don’t forget to test drive.
Once you’ve found a few potential options, taking them for a test drive is important. This will help you get a feel for the car and see how it handles. It is also a good opportunity to ask the seller any questions you might have about the car. Check the transmission, brakes, and suspension, and take notes of anything that doesn’t feel right.
Take your time
When buying a used BMW, it is important to take your time. Don’t feel pressure to make a purchase right away. Even though it’s a used car, you will still spend more than buying a non-luxury car. Researching and ensuring you are getting the best deal possible is important. If you find the right car, it will be worth the wait. With these tips in mind, you’re well on finding the perfect used BMW for you.
Buying a used BMW can be a great way to get a high-quality car at a fraction of the price of a new one. However, it is important to do your research and know what to look for when purchasing a used BMW. Running a car check before making a purchase is also a good idea because it will save you a lot of time, money, and headaches in the long run. With these tips in mind, you’re well on finding the perfect used BMW for you.
Happy car hunting!