What to look for when buying an E36 ?

got_beamer? · 03-08-2011, 04:31 PM

Ive been looking at a few E36's, and am new to the BMW. I have found out about the sub frame ripping issue. What else is that that should really be looked over closely ?...

THANKS

1BADBMR · 03-08-2011, 09:45 PM

Chances are if you are looking for a used E36 with lots of kms, you should look at the Rear shock mounts, thermostat, radiator. I think there are more, but these are the few I know off the top of my head.

///M-TRD3 · 03-08-2011, 09:52 PM

It's been a while since I saw this video, but for the most part the general idea will help you quite a bit if you have no idea where to start. This video does pertain to the E36 M3, but again for the most part a fair deal of the information is transferable knowledge. There are 3 parts to the video which you can navigate through if you have the time.

Goodluck

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k4Z7WrN-tSE

Dysantic · 03-08-2011, 09:54 PM

Check for rust in the wheel wells. ALOT of e36's have been absolutely destroyed in the wheel wells for some odd reason. I know all cars get it there, but e36's seem to get it the worst from what I have seen. lol

Also, once you find one you like, take it to a good shop and get them to give it a once over. There is only so much you can see by the naked eye and taking it for a test drive. I'd suggest take it to Rocco at RMP because hes really the only one that touches my car now, I see you are in Niagara though but it would still be worth the drive in the long run.

Good luck in your search! They are great cars.

Steve30 · 03-08-2011, 10:04 PM

Common places for the e36 are the jacking points, underneath the rubber trunk seals, and the rear arches. the video posted above is very good too. I watched it before purchasing my car and it was really helpful.

blk3 · 03-08-2011, 10:12 PM

rust also on the rockers, fender bottoms and below the battery due to leaky batteries.
broken springs, worn suspension bushings

VSanj · 03-08-2011, 11:04 PM

RUST!!! lol

Jonesin · 03-09-2011, 11:13 AM

The entire cooling system needs to be replaced on these cars every 130-170K kms. Rad, fan, waterpump, hoses, expansion tank, thermostat, thermostat housing.

Also as mentioned above take it to a shop. Independant, NOT THE $TEALER! for a PPI (Pre-purchase inspection)
$100-150 now WILL save you hundreds if not thousands.

Also check under the oil cap for a milky colouring, this is one of the prime indicators of a blown head gasket.