Updated buyers check list

[corsaire77]

It's wise to take the electronic paint meter - I used to borrow one from a friend.

Also, examine the engine bay for any moved or unoriginal screws - a tell-tale sign of an impact.

 

[Shamu1982]

In the process of looking at a few cars at the moment. Cracking guide, ta

 

[Paulr]

The links alone have been useful for me in the process of looking at Z4's, then the addition of the extensive guide as well is a real bonus, so thanks for taking the time to put it together for newbies like me, it is much appreciated.

 

[roblightbody]

...
You can find out your exact spec here by putting your reg in to generate your VIN:

https://www.bmw-warranty.co.uk/login/index
...

That doesn't seem to work any more... have they maybe stopped it for security reasons? It does find the car, and show its basic spec, but no more than that. Or am I doing something wrong?

 

[Mr Tidy]

No, it doesn't work any more. They changed it earlier this year - I think it's something to do with GDPR.

Same as when you buy a car your new V5 doesn't show the previous keeper any more.

 

[Matty_Z4]

...
You can find out your exact spec here by putting your reg in to generate your VIN:

https://www.bmw-warranty.co.uk/login/index
...

That doesn't seem to work any more... have they maybe stopped it for security reasons? It does find the car, and show its basic spec, but no more than that. Or am I doing something wrong?

This one works for me and it doesn't even have to be an M car.
https://www.mdecoder.com

 

[Mr Tidy]

This one works for me and it doesn't even have to be an M car.
https://www.mdecoder.com

There are a few VIN decoders, but I think what "roblightbody" is looking for is a way of getting the VIN from the Reg. No.

 

[roblightbody]

There are a few VIN decoders, but I think what "roblightbody" is looking for is a way of getting the VIN from the Reg. No.

Yes exactly, it would be very useful while shopping for a car.

 

[2k35is]

Buying guide superb - the dec 2009 3,5i DCT I bouht last November had a printout from the dealers of work done. Don't think it include anything not on list but for any one interest
06.2011 8313 Replace rear vent
10.2012 13104 Shift quality in “D” downshift double clutch DKG too rough
07.2013 15021 Control unit electronic damper control EDC short circuit note unit replaced
05.2016 37461 Wiring harness roof module,(retractable hardtop) interruption
04.2017 51360 E*x(RHD petrol engine)positive battery terminal line repair cable
04.2017 52365 Both front shock absorbers serious fluid leak -note both replaced (EDC)
07.2017 56790 Drive cylinder, rear module RHT(retractable hardtop). Permanent failure
04.2020 68686 (main)electric coolant pump. Permanent malfunction
06.2020 70272 Cylinder head cover gasket leaking
“ “ Fuel injector. Permanent malfunction- note all replaced
“ “ Rear spring broken

Current Faults
05.2021 Cylinder head cover gasket leaking
Leak from oil filter mounting
Whistle on turbo at low speed
Rear damper leaking
Warranty still in place so above should be sorted soon (Styners had forgot to stamp book or update key readings when they sold as as approve used in Sep 2019)
Edit posted in e85/6 will try to find same for e89 and post in that

 

[Mr_E85Bim]

Totally agree, there is nothing wrong with wanting to make sure everything works!!
Thank you for this guide, it is quite simply amazing for someone like myself. Not all of us buy dozens of cars through our lives and so find sources like this invaluable!!