Purchasing Guidance

A place for open-ended discussion on any car-related topic.
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dontito
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Joined: Wed Oct 16, 2019 12:35 am

Greetings, everyone. I am considering purchasing a 2010 BMW 3 series Exclusive Edition with 141,000 miles on the odometer. The car has a valid MoT for the next 12 months. According to the current owner, the flywheel has been replaced by the previous owner, and the current owner has had the car for approximately 3 years. The owner has mentioned that the rear pad sensor needs to be replaced, but assures that the necessary part will be included with the car. I would appreciate any advice on potential issues or concerns to be aware of when inspecting this vehicle. He is requesting a sum of £2,200. Is this amount considered reasonable? Thank you everyone.
BMW_Fan2020
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Which specific kind of engine are you referring to?
dontito
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Posts: 124
Joined: Wed Oct 16, 2019 12:35 am

Apologies, the car model is a 320d with a horsepower of 184.
BMW_Fan2020
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In addition to the regular inspections and maintenance, it is important to inquire about the car's service history and thoroughly inspect its condition. Specifically, ask if the timing chain has ever been replaced, since at the current mileage, it is at risk of failing if it has not been replaced.
Attempt to observe a cold start and pay attention to any rattling sounds for a brief period. Additionally, maintain the engine's revolutions per minute at 1500 and listen for any rattling noises coming from the back of the engine.
dontito
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Thank you, friend. The advertisement states that the car has been maintained annually, but there is no indication of its service history. It would be wise to inquire about this matter.
Samantha_Jones83
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Furthermore, in addition to the advice provided by BMW_Fan2020 above. If you possess the vehicle registration, you may also access the MOT history on the government website.

£2200 is a reasonable price for a 14-year-old 3 series provided you have an affinity for the vehicle. Replacing the flywheel together with the clutch might be a costly expense that you can avoid.

If the timing chain has been replaced, there is no apparent reason to refrain from purchasing it. However, if the timing chain has not been replaced, it is advisable to consider the associated cost before making a purchase.
dontito
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Joined: Wed Oct 16, 2019 12:35 am

Thank you. I have reviewed the past MoTs and there have never been any significant problems.

The vendor claims that his father serves as his mechanic. They possess a receipt for the flywheel/clutch, but there is no concrete evidence or documentation to support their statement that the previous owner had the chain replaced upon acquiring the vehicle. I appreciate it, however I have concerns with the timing chain.
BMW_Fan2020
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If there is no evidence of a completed chain, classify it as not having been completed.
Contrary to exaggerated internet horror tales, a lien on a car is not the end of the world. Instead, it may be used as a negotiating weapon, and you should have a strategy to address it if you decide to purchase the vehicle.
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