The ‘Ultimate Driving Machine’ can become the ultimate value when you choose a pre-owned BMW. But which used BMW is right for you?
BMWs come in all shapes and sizes, but underneath, they are closely related. You can typically choose from a turbocharged 4-, 6-, or 8-cylinder engine, an 8-speed automatic transmission, and rear or all-wheel drive (called xDrive). A few more modern BMWs like the X1 share a platform with some MINI models and are front-wheel drive-based.
This means that whichever BMW you choose, you’ll be getting the same driving experience. Sporty, refined, and luxurious, in SAV or sedan form.
It’s possible to find a manual transmission on a BMW, but after 2010, they became much rarer to find. Expect to pay a premium if you’re looking to row your own gears.
The Depreciation Curve
The biggest difference between a new and used BMW is the cost. While owners of new BMWs must deal with a hit in depreciation that happens as soon as they drive off the lot, a used BMW has reached the bottom of its depreciation curve. A typical new BMW 5 Series can lose over 50% of its value over the first year of ownership.
Know Before You CPO
If the BMW you’re looking for is only a few years old, with less than 60,000 miles, then it might be enrolled in BMW’s Certified Pre-Owned program. These BMWs are taken in by a dealer, reconditioned to “like-new” status, and given an additional one-year warranty on top of whatever remains from the original factory warranty. Be aware that CPO cars can cost more than their non-certified counterparts, and a pre-purchase inspection is still recommended.
Vehicle History is a great place to start your search. It’s updated with inventory daily and can show you many local options.
Which Used BMW is Right for You?
Not all BMWs are created equal, and there are many options and equipment levels available. BMWs typically have groups of options, or packages, that add upgrades to the car, such as Xenon or LED headlights, heated seats, and larger wheels and tires. This can increase the value, so make sure to compare cars that have similar packages when shopping.
There are also a few groups within BMW that should be carefully considered:
BMW Hybrid-powered Cars
Available on many of BMW’s most popular models like the 3 Series and X5 is a hybrid powertrain. These cars feature a small battery to get you around town (around 15 miles), on pure electric power, and have a conventional engine for longer trips. They offer superior gas milage compared to regular BMWs but come with a higher price.
The BMW i3
The only electric car BMW currently makes, the i3 features a battery that allows a range of up to 150 miles. Used i3s offer a great used car value, with some well below original sticker MSRP on cars with low mileage. You could also receive tax breaks for purchasing an electric vehicle, so check what rebates are available before you make a decision.
BMW M Cars
Sitting at the top of each model range are BMW’s powerful M cars, and have higher operating costs compared to the regular Series cars.
It’s possible that previous owners have taken their M car to a track for driving events, and this can cause additional wear on the engine, tires, brakes, and transmission. Look for uneven tire wear, oil leaks, and warped brakes on your pre-purchase inspection. Certain model year M3 and M5s also suffer from worn rod bearings, and that can mean an entirely new engine is needed.
However, if you’re looking for a car that can do it all, even used, a BMW M car fits the bill as one of the best. Car and Driver called the M3 “the world’s all-around best car for the money, the finest car on the market, period.”
Trouble Spots
Like any other maker, BMWs have some common areas that should be looked at closely before purchase. Among them are the following.
Coolant Systems
Check for cracked head gaskets, coolant tanks, and rubber piping. Water pumps are also prone to failure, especially in higher mileage cars.
Oil Leaks
Certain BMW engines suffer from oil leaks from locations like the oil filter housing and crankcase hub. Look for the smell of burning oil, or leaks under the car.
High-Pressure Fuel Pump
Turbocharged engines with high compression, like those in a BMW, require fuel pumps and injectors that are able to withstand very high pressures. Early BMW turbocharged engines, like the N54, suffered from fuel pump failure often.
Batteries
BMWs have a lot of electronics inside, and that can cause the battery to drain faster. Look for door locks that won’t open on command, or a warning on the iDrive system.
Electronics
Modern BMWs come equipped with iDrive, which is a computer that controls many features of the car, and a driver’s main interface with it. If the iDrive interface malfunctions, a number of systems could be affected.Convertibles with a hardtop
The 3 Series, 4 Series, and Z4 convertible come with a power-folding hardtop. It’s a great feature for keeping out the elements while still enjoying the benefits of a convertible, but it requires more upkeep than a soft top. Make sure the seals don’t leak, and the motor that controls the top is in good working order.
Additional Things to Consider
When looking for your next used BMW and comparing models, consider some other factors like paint condition, interior wear, exterior and interior colors (rare colors fetch more), and transmission choice.
As always, consider a pre-purchase inspection on any used car, along with a VIN check to show any prior accidents or major damage. The BMW community is a large one, and clubs like the BMW CCA can be e a great resource during ownership.
Overall, a used BMW is a great value, offering the looks, performance, and refinement of the brand at a significant discount.
Photos: BMW
