Hello,
I have been looking to buy my "first car" ( have a 1987 Chevy S10 now) and I have found a nice looking 1995 540i sport 6 speed, and I am very interested. I am just wondering the major pitfalls of the 540i are. I know about the Nikasil block issue and supposedly it checks out,I will have this checked before I try to buy it. Also I am in Virginia (Virginia Beach to be exact) and I would like to know if anyone knows of a good independent BMW shop in Raleigh, NC. Also I am a member of the BMW CCA.
Thanks Ryan
pic for your trouble (hope it works)
Looks like a very nice car, and the miles are pretty low for an e34. I don't think there's any real inherent problems. Check for suspension wear, front and rear and any electrical problems (things like window switches or HVAC.) If the owner has service records that's a big plus. I don't see any rust, but check for it especially in the seams along the bottoms of the doors - that's where e34s start rusting.
one of the last models BMW built like tanks.. if the engine checks out and it has service records.. I would say to go for it.
without service records.. that V8 can get expensive fast
That was an awesome car when new, and you have the right combination, just be prepared to spend more on repairs than the usual Ford or Chebby. Or better yet buy a manual and DIY.
They are pretty DIY-able (probably the last BMW to be that DIY-friendly). If it's got any sort of active suspension, that can get very expensive very quickly if that's broken.
The classic E34 fault is a judder around 60mph through the front wheels which is due to some worn suspension bushes or links IIRC. The parts aren't that expensive and I think it's a DIY job to fix that. Just don't fall for the "they all do that sir" line on this.
