e39 Wagon Advice

Steve E28is · 08-15-2006, 04:06 PM

Looking at one for the wife. 99 528i Wagon, Auto, 114kms, 1 owner with service records. Anything I should look out for? I am an avid e28 owner but have little experience with the newer more sophisticated BMW's.

Thanks
Steve 88is

BMVV · 08-15-2006, 08:11 PM

Check the records to see what parts have been replaced. Radiator and water pump a a common problem. Make sure all the windows work as the regulators are a weak point. All the warning lights on the dash should be off as any one can be $$$ repair.Drive it on the HWY to make sure there is no shimmy at speed and no brake pulsing. It should be smooth as glass.
I have a manual trans but you should pay attention to how the auto shifts. Make sure all fluids were changed regularly.
Turn on the AC and make sure the electric fan visible through the kidneys is working. These fans fail and are needed for AC to work when not driving fast. Also $$$.

europrince · 08-16-2006, 10:01 AM

According to another post, engine gaskets are known for failing, resulting in spark plugs covered in oil.

Here is a similar recent post:
http://www.maxbimmer.com/forums/showthread.php?t=75859

The touring is a sweet ride. I'd take a 5 series touring over an SUV any day.

europrince · 08-20-2006, 07:46 PM

MSN article: Today's station wagons
http://autos.msn.com/advice/article.aspx?contentid=2898

X5HogTown · 08-20-2006, 08:05 PM

I had one of these with a 5 speed, same year. Good car but I handed it in at lease end.

Look out for water damage in the fuse box and on the passenger side from a faulty a/c. One thing that drove me crazy... the back end of the car was never level (from side to side). The dealer replaced the springs but it never sat right.

Best thing... it burned 7l/100 fully loaded at 100kl. It also had more baggage room than a X5!

europrince · 08-20-2006, 08:32 PM

National Post article on the e39: Driving its way to perfection.
http://www.canada.com/nationalpost/n...1-310cad922897