How long does a BMW 3-series typically last?
they last as long as any other car, depends on servicing and how quickly you repair them when they break. but with a used BMW, they are very, very expensive-labor rates are top of the scale and replacement parts are very pricey plus dependability is only so-so, which neans that a high mileage BMW will likely be in the shop for expensive repairs often. They are good (not great) cars and decent handlers, but if you have not owned a BMW before you should understand the cars you are looking at are well beyond 1/2 life of major repairs and costs. When searching out a BMW always look for lowest mileage possible.........and the cars you are looking at are overpriced. I would pay that for a lexus which has high (actually the highest)dependability ratings, but for a BMW, 3 series....no.
2007 BMW X3 150,000 miles for $6k, is it a good deal? Should I worry about the mileage? Trade-in value is only 3k.
First off, any car, regardless of mileage should be checked out by an independent expert to determine (to the best of their ability) the condition. 150,000 does not scare me, however, you must count on having things start to break down during your ownership.If the car was lovingly and professionally maintained, you will be in better shape.As for the price: OUCH! I detest paying more than you should and this is top dollar. Based on that along I would decline. You see, “trade-in” value is basically “wholesale”. That’s the price dealers pay when they buy them to re-sell. Then will then typically sell them for a lot more. I would not pay more than 40% above wholesale and that is for a perfect car of its vintage.Look at it like “tipping” a waiter. If the car is lousy. No tip - pay straight wholesale. If the care is a bit above average, 10% above wholesale or $300. If it a bit better than above average, 20% or $600 above wholesale. If it is a “gem”, then go ahead and pay 30% above wholesale or $900. And if it is a spectacular car in high demand, and you have your heart set on it, pay 40% or 1,200 above wholesale. But I can never, ever see a reason to pay 100% above wholesale (or $6,000 in this case)!Shop will callous disregard to looks, desires and feelings. Analyze the deal for the deal and not for any other reason.FOR MORE USEFUL CONSUMER INFORMATION … LISTEN to my radio show, live on Facebook, YouTube and iHeart Radio (app), weekdays noon to 3pm (EST) and SEE www.troubleshooter.com
Are BMWs a good purchase for a used car? And if so, then which year and models make the best used BMWs to buy?
All reasonably new BMWs are good purchases. Excessive mileage, which means 80000 miles, is when they start to fall apart by crumbling. Now, let me be precise by what I mean here: there are plastic parts that become brittle and crumble. The rest of the car will be fine. Early preventative maintenance will avoid this.BMW relies on plastic parts in its cooling system that become brittle with time and must be replaced. BMW is infamous for failing plastic necks in its radiators that lead to total cooling system failure. There is nothing you can do except replace all these parts before they fail. Their lifecycle is about 80000 miles.Also, don't buy a car that was very expensive when new. The car may have depreciated to a low value, but its parts will be based on its original price. A 7-series thermostat is $130. A 3-series thermostat of same vintage is $10.For me, excessive mileage is actually 150000 miles, but I can fix a BMW.