Edmunds Answers questions

Car that can last one million miles?

stephenabelson — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 10:25:39 GMT

Hello,

I am curious to get your opinion on a subject. Considering the terrible economy that we are in today at this time, and even if we do get out of it, it still doesn't make sense to buy a new car every 3-5 years, I am considering either keeping my car, a 1995 BMW 525i with 134,000 miles on it, or buying a new car, but keeping it until I reach One Million Miles. I have narrowed down my choices and options to a select few cars based on reliability, fun factor, what cars I like (obviously), and what cars I think might have a shot at getting to that one million mark. All used cars I would consider would have less than 30,000 miles, well documented cars, one owner, no accidents obviously. Some of the others are brand new. I don't consider anything but whether or not I like the car, reliability issues, and whether or not I consider it a viable candidate. Size is not an issue, nor is price at this point. I realize the cars I have listed below are varied prices, sizes and utility. That is the point, to get to find the "perfect" car. The only thing I care about is automatic transmission, and four doors. I won't consider convertibles, SUV's, or coupes. The cars I am considering are:

My current car, 1995 BMW 525i, automatic, 134,000 miles, runs great. problem areas: some rust, could use a new paint job, maybe a tune up soon. I love my car, so it would be something I would enjoy driving that long, I think, but I'm not certain it is a viable candidate. I would also consider a 1995 BMW 525i with less mileage, less issues than mine currently has.

2009-2010 Volvo S80

1998-2000 Lexus LS400

1998-2001 Lexus GS300

1998-2010 Volvo V70 -non turbo wagon

2009-2010 BMW 335i -four door, automatic, with or without all wheel drive, (still up in air)

2010 BMW 525i with our without all wheel drive, (still up in air)

2010 Ford Taurus

2010 Toyota Camry

2010 Toyota Corolla

2006-2008 Acura TL, (don't like the new styling)

2009-2010 Infiniti G35 or G37, with or without all wheel drive (still up in air)

2008 Audi A4 Quattro

Besides my 95 BMW, I am not certain that I would consider anything that old because I don't have any experience with it. Although, I can be convinced if there is a good argument for something that I have not considered, so please feel free to add another option in my mind that you think might have the possibility of reaching this goal.

Any feedback you can give to me would be greatly appreciated.

Thank you for your time,

Steve

OK. New problem with BMW 528i. I know what the sound was....

ronbee1 — Fri, 09 May 2008 00:16:49 GMT

This is Ron. I recently asked you a question about my 99 528i E39. The water pump seems to have failed. The noise was the fan on the side of the cover. I was driving when all of a sudden the noise got much louder and so I pulled over to the nearest place: when I stopped water started gushing from underneath. It looked as though oil may have been in it though, because I saw the film on top of the water but I don"t know if it was from runoff from under the car engine or what. I had it towed from there. It never overheated. How will I know if I have blown a head gasket or if I just need to replace the water pump.? And do I need to replace the timing chain at the same time along with the thermostat and anything else?? thanks a lot for your help. I hope I have given sufficient info

I bought a 1995 BMW 525i model. The transmission program comes on telling me the transmission control module failed. What do I do?

tcmkmg — Mon, 04 Aug 2008 01:36:44 GMT

Just before this happened the car wouldn't shift (automatic) right, very sluggish like it wanted to die. Got it home parked it then restarted it backed it up about 30 yards stepped into the gas and it ran fine. Did this a couple of times then trans program / owners manual came up on the dash below the speedometer and the car won't start. Sprayed starter fluid in air in take and it would start but then die.

I own a 2001 BMW 540i stick. I get only 10mpg around the city. Any way I can get better mileage? Thanks

knashid — Sun, 20 Sep 2009 13:48:30 GMT

The car runs OK and not rough.

I need an engine for a 1999 BMW 540i.

ra_bmw540i — Sun, 18 Oct 2009 09:40:38 GMT

I took my car to a mechanic whom told me that i need a new water pump. He replaced the water pump, but i noticed white spoke coming from the tail pipe. I brought the car back to mechanic. I believe that he put something called blue devil in radiator. Well now my engine has seized, it seems has if it is not getting any compression. Engine will no start.

How to replace side lAMP for 2003 bmw 530

diver49 — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 13:11:07 GMT

How do you replace the side lamp for a 2003 Bmw 530?

what should I check for in an BME E39 540i oil leak from the bottom of the engine?

boba7 — Mon, 10 Mar 2008 10:28:16 GMT

car leaks oil but cant tell where i checked the top and the oil filter housing and see nothing from there

My BMW 528i idles rough at 300 to 800 rpm and it has this weird clicking noise coming from the front of engine.

ronbee1 — Tue, 06 May 2008 00:21:27 GMT

I recently purchased the car and I noticed that the engine makes a rattling or gurgling noise at the front right of the engine. I checked my oil color and level and they are fine. There is no white film around the filler cap and no smoke from the exhaust. It idles rough and the car shakes when in drive at about 300 to 800 rpm. I don't know what is causing the problem

Thanks a million for your reply about my BMW 528i rough idle. So you think that I can replace the vacuum line or is it too difficult?

ronbee1 — Wed, 07 May 2008 12:01:17 GMT

Hey thnks for responding. The noise is coming from the front of the engine and i really can"t explain it. it kind of sounded like the fan was hitting something at first but i think it is actually something else. do you think that u could change that vacuum hose

Have a BMW 525i.Need to replace part between hose/radiator on left side. Which way turn screw to get radiator out?

charleyj — Tue, 20 May 2008 03:33:48 GMT

2001 BMW 525i. Was overheating. Trying to take radiator out, but not sure which way screw needs to be turned to remove.

How do I deactivate the front seat belt lock tensioner in a 1995 BMW 525? I'm trying to get the seat out. Thanks.

kieranj — Mon, 26 May 2008 12:59:13 GMT

The answer is in the Bentley's book under 720 Seat Belts, but I don't have the book.

How can I find documentation that the tires sold to me (s series) are inadequate and unsafe for my 2004 BMW 3.0i X5?

gpitler — Mon, 14 Jul 2008 12:43:49 GMT

I recently purchased a 2004 x5 3.0--knowing the tires are less than adequate--I want to be able to "show" the mechanic that the s series tires on the car when purchased can actually pose a safety threat--I know the walls are not actually strong enough and have an improper speed rating for the x5, but I have nothing but a good mechanic's word-of-mouth for documention--My owner's manual does not actually state the x5's tire's minimal requirements. Currently, the tires on the car are affecting its performance--they are inexpensive:
Geo Trac P235/65R17 103S steel belted radial tubeless M+S
I can't find any ratings for these tires-just places listed for purchase-can anyone help me locate information 1) on these geotrac tires, 2)tire recommendations for the 3.0 x5,and 3)proof the geotracs could pose a safety threat? thanks

I lease a 2005 BMW X5. I had a problem with rust on brake linings that BMW would not cover in warranty. Any help?

bmw18 — Sun, 20 Jul 2008 18:30:15 GMT

as above. would appreciate any help from anyone with this problem. Repair cost was 695.Miles on the suv are48000.

BMW 520i vibration at idle

jsdebolt12 — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 13:29:33 GMT

my car has a vibration from the engine and gets worse at idle. It only does it when at idle? It a 2 liter v-6 moter, also it a 1992 bmw 520i e-34 series

Where is the window lockout switch on a BMW 528e?

titansfan — Sat, 02 Aug 2008 13:41:24 GMT

This probably sounds like a stupid question but I just bought a 1986 BMW 528e and there is no owners manual so I do not know where this switch is for sure. I have ordered one but thought I could get a jump on troubleshooting my electrical problem with my windows not doing anything ( no go up - no go down). After reading another post here this seemed like a good place to check.

I just bought a 1993 BMW 525i. The owner replaced the battery in it. Now it flickers with no readings.

mike1959 — Sun, 03 Aug 2008 21:01:42 GMT

The dashboard sometimes comes on but when it does there are no readings at all it just flickers like a disco club!. She told me that she replaced the battery in the car and when she did that the dashboard went crazy.. I did ask her before replacing the battery did she have any problems with the dashboard, she stated it was working fine before battery replacement. Do I need to recode it?. or maybe disconnect the battery for a while and see if it resets by itself. Also the obc computer in the car never came on . She stated that she nevers worried about it so she left it alone. So please if any one can help me I highly thank you..

MIke

How do you remove the electric seat assembly if you don't have power to move it back and forth to access the bolts? BMW 528e.

ttitansfan — Mon, 11 Aug 2008 18:21:22 GMT

Found an electric seat that will work for my car (1987 528e) in a junk yard. I need the assembly off of it. ( Motors and rails ) I can't get to the 2 front mounting bolts because the assembly is all the way forward. Is there an easy way to move the seat with no power?

Is it normal for a BMW 525i front control arm bushings to need to be replaced?

vinodrb — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 16:18:44 GMT

Dealer says the front control arm bushings need to be replaced. It's a 2002 525i with 39k miles on it. Do I beleive this? How do I verify. He says the front tires are wearing unevenly. I can't tell.

My BMW 528 shakes while braking. Is this control arms, bearings, brake rotors or a combination?

steak2 — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 21:02:02 GMT

has +/- 120M miles.

Flickering screen on 2008 BMW 535i.

leewalk — Mon, 10 Nov 2008 01:45:44 GMT

When I started my 08 535i the screen was flicking, and so I turned the car off and restarted it. What could be the problem?

I am very disappointed with my brand new 2008 BMW 535i with only 2,300 miles. One of the turbos is gone! Anyone else?

bege — Wed, 19 Nov 2008 15:37:59 GMT

After 6 weeks and 2,300 miles I lost engine power due to one of the turbos that went out. The message on the screen said "Engine malfunction- reduced power". When I accelerate there is no power coming, it feels like I am driving a Chevy Cobalt. The service dept. inform me that is due to the failure of one of the turbos!!!!! Is this the deffinition of "THe Ultimate driving machine"??? I don't think so. I am strating to regret that I replace my 2007 Infiniti M35 Sport for the 535i.
Anyone heard of this problem?????

I just bought a 1994 BMW 525i. I love driving the car but for some odd reason I can't get the key out of the ignition.

cwp1970 — Fri, 21 Nov 2008 18:27:42 GMT

When I turn the car off I'm only able to turn the key to position 1 not all the way to position zero so that I can remove it. If anyone has any suggestions that can save me from bringing it to the shop I would appreciate it. Thank you.

94 BMW 530i vibration in automatic transmission shifter.

delzd3d — Tue, 25 Nov 2008 17:49:27 GMT

I am debating on a purchase of a 1994 530i, A/T, 140k miles. Overall good shape, no accidents, runs well, quiet engine, but there is a vibration coming from the shifter area. Any opinions on what to look for? Any websites I can use for repair info and references? Any issues with this particular model I should be aware of? Thanks in advance. delzd3d

Considering having Cilajet put on my 2006 black BMW 530xi. The product gets a lot of hype, is it worth it?

LPMN — Sat, 03 Jan 2009 02:22:58 GMT

Never heard of Cilajet before I purchased the car. They say the stuff is put on aircraft to protect the paint. Jay Leno endorses it (for what that's worth)..
Does anyone know the product well? does it work? is it worth the 700 dollar price tag?

How do you perform a software reset on a 05 BMW 545i?

bmw545i — Tue, 03 Feb 2009 16:38:56 GMT

i read this in another answer you provided, i had an increased emissions message the dealer replaced the thermostat in it came on again. the car runs fine its just annoying

Reliable Mechanic for a BMW in Southern CT?

12bob23 — Mon, 27 Apr 2009 11:55:40 GMT

I own a 2001 BMW 540i (standard). Have had a few mechanical issues recently (coolant consumption very high). The dealers are not very reliable and way too expensive. Was wondering if anyone had had any experience with a reliable mechanic in the southern Connecticut area.

93 BMW 525i power steering has a quarter turn of play before wheels turn while driving. Also steering wheel has a choppy feel.

corkel — Fri, 15 May 2009 21:47:50 GMT

Car sat for 5 years. just replaced front suspension components, all but coil springs. When turning, while driving, the wheels fail to respond until at least a quarter turn of wheel. Steering wheel seems to rotate in a stop-go style like the second hand of a watch. What needs fixing to remedy ?

What model of engine does a 1984 BMW 533i have?

projectm5_33 — Sat, 23 May 2009 21:50:18 GMT

I have recently bought a 1984 BMW 533i and it needs some work. My desire would be to replace as many engine parts as I can with that years M5 model, but I cannot get a definitive answer on exactly what model engine I have or what parts, if any, are switchable with that years BMW M5. From what I can tell it is a natural, gasoline, 3.2L Inline-6. Any insight on this would be much appreciated.

What can I expect to pay for a 2010 BMW 528i base model (no extras)?

acgrafx — Mon, 22 Jun 2009 14:04:05 GMT

I just realized that I got screwed on my 2007 530i lease.
I pay $720 with $2000 due at signing with 15K miles.
The sticker cost was $51,800.

It is over in August and I would like your valued advice on how to get a good deal on my next lease. I would like to get this deal closed by the second week in July.

Do I mention that my lease is ending?

I would also like to get two leases. Do I negotiate both at the same time? Or do I negotiate one deal and then tell them that I need two leases with the same deal?

I just want a base model 2010 528i.

What should I negotiate?
What should I expect to pay per month including taxes?

I remember seeing a RENT CHARGE of about $5000 in my original lease contract? Did I get royally screwed? Keep in mind that this was my first time and I was overanxious. At the time, I calculated the Money Factor to .00175 and the Cap Cost was $48,900 or so.

Thanks for all of your help.

My 1992 BMW 525i isn't on the Cash for Clunkers list but the 1991 and 1993 versions are. Could there be an accidental omission?

lakers6 — Sat, 25 Jul 2009 04:03:58 GMT

1992 BMW 525i 6 cylinder 5 speed manual.

Not listed under fueleconomy.gov.

Not listed as possible car for cash-for-clunkers program
1991, 1993 versions listed.

I have a 2003 BMW 525i and would like to replace the headlight bulbs and angel eye bulbs with whiter bulbs. What are my options?

bdgrs — Tue, 11 Aug 2009 17:56:30 GMT

I have the original bulbs in the headlights of my 2003 525i. I'd like to change them out for whiter lights along with the angel eye bulbs. What are my options without changing the entire headlight assembly?

I have a 2003 BMW 525i with a manual transmission. At low speed only I can hear a high pitched singing sound. Thoughts?

bdgrs — Thu, 27 Aug 2009 12:49:07 GMT

At low speed (1st and 2nd gear) and only when accelerating lightly, I can hear a high pitched singing sound coming from my BMW 525i with a manual transmission. The car has 73,000 miles

How much am I looking at paying to replace a engine timing belt on a 98 528i BMW and can I repair it myself?

aymhighent — Mon, 31 Aug 2009 21:26:53 GMT

I've been told that I may possibly need to change my engine timing belt on my 98 5 series Bmw(528i)

Is there a way to eliminate brake pad rattle? 03 BMW 530.

karmikan — Fri, 11 Sep 2009 20:10:35 GMT

I have an 03 BMW 530 (although I've heard a similar noise on other cars). On the left front wheel I get a metallic rattle when going slowly over bumps. It is definitely pad rattle as the noise is not present when moving above 10mph and goes away with light/moderate brake application.

The noise started with my old brake pads and I assumed that it would be cured when I replaced the pads but no luck. I've replaced the slider pins & bushings and the anti-rattle clip with no improvement. Any ideas?

What are BMW lease rates, money factor and residual for 2010 BMWs?

barnes88 — Sat, 12 Sep 2009 10:17:15 GMT

BMW 2010 x535d 3yr/12000 mile lease 1000 down money factor? Residual?

My BMW 528i Series FM only works sporadically. AM works great. Does anyone know how to get FM radio? Thank you.

caroline002 — Sun, 20 Sep 2009 20:21:20 GMT

2000 528i Series.

Anyone know the October lease factor for BMW 5-Series?

jhoyle — Sun, 01 Nov 2009 12:40:47 GMT

does anyone know the lease factor for October for 2010 528i BMWs...12,000 miles/yr...36 month term?...thanks.

How to replace the washer pump on a 1997 BMW 528i.

bconklin1 — Sat, 07 Nov 2009 16:28:36 GMT

I've removed the 10mm nut holding down the reservoir and attempted to lift out the reservoir but too much resistance and am afraid of damaging tank.

2004 BMW 525I 2.5 procedure to set cam timing chain after changing head gasket?

denny990 — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 12:57:22 GMT

2004 BMW 525I 2.5. How do I set the cam timing chain after reinstalling the head?

'07 BMW 335ci with 20k miles vs. a '06 BMW 550 with 40k? If similar in price, which is the better way to go, more fun to drive, etc.?

kevin111 — Fri, 29 Aug 2008 04:29:18 GMT

Just looking at the moment, and might be willing to wait to buy. Was considering a year old 335 coupe and a 2 year old 550i sedan. Which car is more fun to drive? I am a single guy in the Los Angeles area, so the extra size of the 550i is not a big factor for me.

- I have found the two cars to be similiar in price. Is there a reason to go with the 550i over the 335i coupe?

Between a 1995 BMW 325i with 90k or a 1994 525i with 108k; which is a better option for dependability and reliability? Thanks.

stefeni — Sun, 20 Sep 2009 13:38:20 GMT

Both Carfax reports are clean/nothing negative and both original owners.

Considering a 2005 530i CPO with 45000, or a 06 525 with 17000 miles. Both CPO. any advice on which one to choose?

doshe — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 09:43:10 GMT

Also considering if there are any safety issues with the 5 compared to the 3. The 3 saved my life in a side crash. I have read some stuff on the 5 being weak in a side crash. Please help. I go to buy today.

How well would a 1990 BMW 535i hold up?

06stang — Tue, 27 May 2008 22:07:39 GMT

Looking to buy a used car and theres a 1990 535i nearby for sell. It looks to be in great shape and has 113,000 miles on it. Are there any major problems BMWs at this age are known to have? And although there is no way to know for sure, but do you think I could expect this car to run for another 5+ years with minimal problems? I'm not expecting an 18 year old car to be flawless, but just want a better idea before I get myself into anything. Thanks!

Would anyone know if a car leasing company would buy my BMW 530i 2004?

kismet1 — Sat, 14 Jun 2008 22:30:32 GMT

I own a BMW 530 i 2004, Excellent condition, 29,000miles, premium
and sports package plus lots more opts.Selling it for $24,000. I am new
at selling my car and not sure how to do it. Was thinking about starting
with a car leasing company seeing if they would buy it. Thought, maybe
someone would know if they do?

Should I buy the BWW 530xi or Lexus GS 300 AWD?

uniqone — Sat, 19 Jul 2008 05:54:25 GMT

I'm debating whether to buy the bmw 530ix AWD or Lexus Gs 300 AWD. i have been reading that the lexus awd have transmision problem and windshield and dash rattles. Also which one is less expensive to do maintenance

What octane gasoline is best for a 2008 BMW 528i?

martin2648 — Sat, 16 Aug 2008 17:47:57 GMT

Not all stations list "premium" as a gasoline choice. Which octane is best to use in a 2008 BMW 5 series?

3M or Durashield product to protect the front end of my BMW 528xi?

mdzieg — Fri, 29 Aug 2008 15:03:45 GMT

528xi 2008, I want to use a product that will protect the front end of my car, 3M and Durashield are 2 products that I am considering. Are they basically the same material, is one better?

2000 BMW 528i purchase questions.

gmccul — Mon, 17 Nov 2008 14:25:37 GMT

thanks for your response, that helps. The seller says he bought the car from a broker at the wholesale KBB book last month. The carfax report shows the car @ auction just last month. How can he sell it at $7000, $4000 below KBB wholesale($11,500), just bazaar?

Any website info so that I can do some research on BMW's? I am a Ford guy!

delzd3d — Tue, 25 Nov 2008 19:01:41 GMT

Debating a purchase of a 94 530i, (142k miles) and also an 87 L7 (149k miles). Looking to gather info. Any good websites to do research on?

I have a 1994 BMW 525i that needs transmission fluid.

cwp1970 — Wed, 26 Nov 2008 13:40:48 GMT

I have a 1994 525i that needs transmission fluid but I don't know where the fill cap is or what type of fluid is recomnded by the manufacturer. This info isnt in my owners manual.