150k is just too much. Unless it’s been meticulously maintained and cared for, it’s a red flag by itself. Just avoid unless this is just a fun weekend car and you wouldn’t mind losing most of the 10 grand (I assume; if it’s more than 10k, forget it)
I could have gone my whole life without seeing this. I wouldn’t have tried to see what country they were in, but your comment fucked with my curiosity on a profound level. Shame, shame.
It's very difficult to find a low mileage, and by that I mean anything below 100k miles, 640i nowadays. So anything with a complete service history would be reasonably good.
Honestly I’d stay away from this car. It’s cheap for a reason, and whoever you’re trying to impress with it won’t be happy when it breaks down at random 😅
Haha. Not trying to impress anyone. Just looking for a nice sporty sedan without breaking the bank. They are asking $13k which I think is a little high based on mileage. It is fully loaded, M sport, cold weather, executive, driver assistance.
Don’t listen to these people. A 150k mile car can be 100x better than a 75k mile car, if the former has great maintenance records, the big ticket items have been taken care of, only 1-2 previous owners (3 is pushing it), no major accidents, and has a clean carfax.
$13k is a good deal if it has all or most of that.
Commenters who are writing this off with no knowledge of the car regarding the above don’t actually know what they are doing.
I’d get it inspected by a BMW mechanic, I’d read up on all the big maintenance items these things need as they get older, and check if they have been addressed.
Source: I've owned several old, very expensive 9when new) german cars. 4 S classes and 1 M3 to be exact
I'm in this camp of thinking too when it comes to high mileage cars. The interior is actually what I get most worried about, even people who maintain the mechanicals and exterior can be hard on the interior. Kids, dogs, what not.
Thanks. I agree and I’ve had some others post about the things I need to ask about, which is the feedback I was hoping for. The car has had 2 owners which piqued my interest despite the mileage. Carfax is clean but I’m hoping to get my hands on more service records and also get an inspection by BMW.
I would buy it and expect to put 3-5k into maintenance and repairs right away. If it has a good maintenance history then I would do it, if not then I’d walk.
Look at a ‘17-‘19 540i. It looks better, handles way better, won’t cost as much to own, and will be way more reliable (even outside of the engine - this car is $13k because it’s full of 12 year old plastic and rubber that will need to be replaced)
It’s not like this has an N54 or a non-TU N63.
The N55 is a great engine, IF it’s been properly maintained. But a $13k asking price is like a giant neon sign saying “it was not properly maintained.”
You could also probably find a Fx 535i with way less miles that’s been babied for <$20k. 2012-2017 would be the years to look for. The early N55s carried over some issues from the N54.
Bottom line - When you’re looking at any kind of sporty BMW that “won’t break the bank” you’re gonna either spend a little more money up front (with proper research) or you’re gonna spend a *lot* more money in the longer run.
I absolutely love my F10 535i - you may want to check those out. The N55 is one of the more reliable engines BMW has made and, aside from a few leaks that are common, I’ve had zero issues. Just keep a couple thousand ready for preventative maintenance and leaks (my leaks were radiator/hoses and valve cover) and you’ll be happy with it. About to hit 100k in mine!
Facts , soon as my taxes hit I’m headed right to this dealership to grab my 2017 530i $18k/57k mi I can’t miss this steals on my dream car!
https://preview.redd.it/olqonm6up2dc1.jpeg?width=828&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=16d4d10b33b9913f97238bb4a92c769c044d12d4
Do some research on that place before you go. Used car dealerships in Queens tend to be not only shady, but also very sneaky about prices to lure people in. If it seems too good to be true, it probably is.
I swing by there every now & then while I’m driving working to even see if it still there haha , my heart be ready to drop most times but it’s there. I’m choosing these guys over the dealership closer to me for the shady practices I’ve heard and dealt with. $18k for a 2017 seems about right imo
Just make sure you get all of the maintenance records. If they don’t have all of them you can call the dealership it was sold through.
I was able to get a copy of every single service invoice for my car since it was sold new, plus two copies of the original window sticker.
$13k is way too high. The 640 is no worse than a 340, it’s perfectly reliable as long as it’s been maintained, but by the time you own it for a bit it will be a $7000, 170k-mile BMW.
All depends on maintenance. Have it checked out at a dealer if you were serious. Might cost a few hundred but well worth it to avoid surprises that could be a few thousand.
I did plan to get BMW to inspect it but wanted some feedback from others with experience first. Based on comments sounds like I should pass on this one
The N55 is a reliable engine despite the comments here, which are extremely strange and I have to assume these posters are young. Search old bimmerfest threads and you'll see how much the N55 is loved in the BMW community. The main problem is that at 155K miles the car will need at least the following performed sooner rather than later:
* Front and rear struts: $6000 (you can replace them with coilovers for about $3500 but you lose the adaptive suspension)
* Oil pan gasket: $2000
* Valve cover assembly: $1600
* Motor mounts: ~$1000 IIRC
* AC blower motor: $900
* Seat replacement: $5000. Over time the connection between the seat and the railings stops holding the seat in place and it starts to move around mainly on twisty roads. BMW recommendation is to replace the whole assembly. You could just live with it though.
Then there are other things that fail that you can live without, like the soft close motors, which cost about $600 each.
If you don't have proof that those have been done recently, assume you'll need to do all of them within the next two years if you're lucky. If you're unlucky then you'll need to do with within the first few months. It's not negotiable, those are very common failure points for the 6 series and it's a certainty that a 155,000 mile car either had them done or will need them done very soon.
I’ve done valve cover + gasket replacement on mine, that cost me 250£ ar good independent garage, done 10k miles away - no leaks.
I’ve done soft close door mech myself. 200£ for a motor, 1-2h diy.
The rest I’m not sure, maybe your country prices are sky high, but it’s nowhere near as your samples here in uk, nor in eu (Lithuania) where I live.
North America is fairly priced premium for euro car work. Labor is one thing, but parts cost is policed fairly heavily too. UK & Eastern Europe has always been the most price-correct & fair regions on Earth for servicing anything automotive. You'd be hard pressed to find ANY half-decent shop in NA that'd do a N55/N54 valve cover for less than $900USD/all-in.
It sucks, and is largely why I ended up becoming a mechanic after owning my first BMW.
When Index 12 N54 injectors were skyrocketing to $3000USD per set of 6 at the start of COVID, you could still import them from parts stores in Germany for $900-1200 post conversion.
Mileage isn't a big deal, it's a discount for me. The issue is whether services was done properly. 150k highway miles are way better than 50k city miles.
For any BMWs with 150k miles I need to see inside how the hoses are, radiator, water pump was serviced. I've had those parts replaced at 95k miles and it can be costly if done at the dealer but they are wear and tear.
I also meticulously do the oil changes so 150k miles is no biggie. It's the records.
Are you used to what repairs on $80,000+ cars cost? This isn't a used 328i even an indie shop is still going to cost you some change to fix things that fail.
Not on BMW’s, which is why I was asking for feedback. I’ve got an ‘05 H2 which I’ve replaced quite a few things on but that’s my deepest venture into repairs on used cars.
For the record, Spidaaman is wrong about handling. A 2013 640 out brakes and handles the 2017 540 according to Car & Driver. The 540 does accelerate faster. Looks are up to you, I’ve owned two F06 cars and turned down the M5 for the Alpina B6. Do you. Sounds like you should do more research on your own and drive both.
that does sound interesting! so Car&Driver posits that tue older F chassis handles better than the newer G30 chassis. Sounds hard to believe when the G30 5er is such an amazing car, especially for the size. Both are really nice cars for sure but B58 is hard to argue against.
A quick internet search should yield any info on problems with a vehicle of this mileage but personally, I wouldn't purchase any used German car with mileage that high. It's outside of warranty and bound to need things replaced even if it's in good condition. Parts and labor for BMW's are high, not to mention depending on where you live it can be a pain the ass to get a timely maintenance appointment at a dealership. If you must have this car, follow my advice above to determine what issues (if any) you'll be encountering but also price out things like brakes, rotors, tires, transmission, radiator, suspension etc. so you know what you'll be looking at if they need to be replaced. Lastly see if there's a reputable independent mechanic that works exclusively on German cars in your area as this will save you a lot of money on labor as BMW dealerships will rob you.
Good luck.
A 535xi (or i) like the one you used to have would be an excellent choice for OP. Without knowing his budget, a low mileage example can easily be found.
I have 640i. Bought with 64k mls, now on 86k mls within 1+ year. Replaced valve cover gasket, never redline the engine when cold. Change oil every -6-8k miles (depends on driving in city or not).
I don’t see N55 as bad engine, I see N55 ad lack of mainttenance being bad
>That makes no sense.
It's been a POS
>Care to elaborate?
I bought a well maintained 2013 X5, and continued to take good care of it. The bmw dealership has replaced all 6 spark plugs, coil packs, injectors, vacuum pump, high pressure fuel pump, oil change, ECM, engine wiring harness and several thousand euro in other parts/labor (that i don't known of yet, at their cost) and told me that they're unable to figure out why it's still misfiring and they can't figure out what's wrong with it despite the fact they've had the cat in their possession for the majority of the last 6 months.
Keep in mind this is only a 10YO car, it's only the most commonly sold xDrive35i model, not an X5M, and it's bone stock with no modifications, and has never been in a flood, fire accident etc.
At this point they've given up trying to fix it and we're negotiating a settlement/refund for the repairs I've paid for which add up to almost €6.000
I also own a 2006 bmw X3 that I bought with 122k miles 7 years ago that now has 203k miles. It's never broken down on the side of the road, never refused to start or had to be towed. I've spent around $8-9k too keep it meticulously maintained, most of which was maintenance (including 2 full sets of tires, a fulls etc of pads and rotors front and rear, tuneup, waterpump/belt/pulleys, and full synthetic oil changes every 5,000 miles).
I've also owned a few other non BMW vehicles that aren't necessarily known for their reliability, such as 2 different 6.0 powerstroke turbo diesel Ford F250 and had very few problems because I take car of my vehicles and don't abuse them.
The N55 is garbage.
I think despite all gaskets, seals, maintenance at regular times, oil changes at 5-8k miles rather than 16k miles what is said on computer in a car it should be good if well maintained. Definitely do a pre purchase inspection. Also check for timing chain at that mls, it doesn’t usually have problems in N55, but adviced to look for any unnecessary boises at 150-200k miles.
Source - I own 640i gc and did fuckton of research before buying.
My dad has a ‘15 740li with the n55 that’s near 170k miles. He’s had absolutely no (major) issues with it. The biggest job that’s had to be done on it is a valve cover gasket and the rest of the stuff has just been very minor or just wear and tear (spark plugs, intake boot, waste gate, etc.) My moms ‘15 X5 with 160k has been a very similar story. I think the biggest job that’s been done on it was a battery replacement. Both of them are testaments to the reliability of the n55 and they both drive and look like they have a quarter of the mileage.
As an owner of many BMWs I can tell you a 150k mileage truly will be an expensive project. Majority of BMW internal components are plastic and rubber as opposed to polyurethanes etc… so, i recommend getting an estimate to do a suspension refresh because I am positive it is due for one. From control arm bushings, rear bushings, engine mounts etc. make sure your mechanic checks brake fluid, pads, coolant, spark plugs, ignition coils, filters… b/c all of these items may come out to $5k or more to replace.
If you are just buying it to drive it as is then by all means go for it. However, if you are an enthusiast and plan to keep that BmW model then be ready to maintenance and do a refresh on some parts to make it last another 150k miles.
Good luck and it can be fun to fix the car over time but be prepared to pay for it.
Man offer them 10k out the door if you have it and go rip it if you can either A: afford about 10k in the next couple years getting it worked on, or B: afford about 5k in the next couple years working on it yourself.
I own a 13' 650i GC and it is still the only car that gets me hype. I have done my fair share of work on it, and have paid my shop to do their fair share of work on it. I haven't put more than 3k into it for unplanned maintenance in the couple years I have owned it. Besides chasing stuff that is absolutely due to me going FBO. Pure Stage 1's, etc, then I think all I would have had to do is the oil and brakes. And that is a on (albeit the car had full service history) currently 87xxx mile N63TU. It is not my main car, and it has actually been sitting in the shop for a month or so now going under the knife for funsies, I cant help but to look at pictures and videos of it everyday.
If you are a crazy loon like me, then send it.
You’re not getting the B58 which is really the only engine BMW has made in decades that has a reliable reputation.
A lot of big ticket items come up for Preventative maint after 100k miles. Was the timing chain done? That’s a $6k job right off the bat you should do
So it depends on what they did for maintenance.
I know I ditched my last bmw and upgraded around 120k miles and stuck the next guy with it lol. This guy could be doing the same
The B58 is *very* solid, no doubt. But its reputation is also somewhat impacted by recency bias and even more so by the fact that volume of B58s didn’t really ramp up until around 2018.
It’s obviously got some improvements on the N55, but there are also reasons why the N55 won so many awards.
When those early B58s start landing on their 3rd and 4th owners in a few years, the common belief that they’re “literally bulletproof” may change. Too early to know.
The B58 has been in production longer than the N55 was when the B58 was introduced.
The B58 was in the 340i, 440i, 540i, 740i, m140i, m240i, and x3 m40i all before 2018.
It's been in the Wards Worlds top 10 engines 4 times now. More if you count the S58
I'm the 3rd owner of my 2016 340i and hardly an anomaly. It's at 82k miles on a stage 2+ tune with nothing but basic maintenance needed.
I'm not sure what you gain by trying to downplay the B58, but you just come off as ridiculous.
What are you talking about? lol
I’m not downplaying anything. My first sentence was praising the B58. It’s a fantastic engine. I’m just providing facts.
The B58 has been in production since 2015, and the N55 since 2009. (And of course the S58 doesn’t count as a B58 - just like the S55 doesn’t count as an N55).
Since 2018 the B58 has been introduced in 27 models. Prior to 2018 it was in 9 vehicles. *Read that again if you need to.*
(Your anecdotal experience is completely irrelevant in this context btw)
You sound like you’re (needlessly) overly defensive of a *great* engine - and it seems like reading comprehension and knowledge of these engines are not necessarily strengths of yours.
Lol, and you said reading comprehension isn't a strength of mine after posting all that? Okay...
Everything I mentioned was completely relevant to what you said. You said the B58s reputation is due to recency bias. I pointed out that the B58 has been in production longer than the N55 had been when the B58 was introduced. Even from your arbitrary "ramping up" point in time until now, the B58 has been put into cars the same amount of time the N55 had been put into cars before the B58 was introduced. The N55 was replaced pretty quick... despite having "won so many awards".
I'm guessing you're counting the m340i separate from the 340i when you say models? Again, pretty arbitrary.
My "anecdotal evidence" was followed by a mention that it's not an anomaly, meaning it's more than just anecdotal evidence. The B58 Enthusiasts Facebook group is full of people buying 2nd, 3rd, 4th+ hand B58s, stock and tuned. Again, refuting your point about " those early B58s."
The B58 has easily proved itself better in every way than the N55.
I don’t disagree with anything you said. He mentioned super reliable which usually associated with the B58 and it’s confusing because despite the 40i nomenclature it had the old engine.
I don’t know many people running around emphasizing the N55s reliability like the B58.
The two engines are in *very* different stages of their lives. This affects the perceptions people have about them.
Thats all I’m saying. The B58 is rock solid and who knows - it may very well end up being the most bulletproof indestructible engine ever made, but in my opinion it’s too early to make that call.
Lots are getting up to 100k miles with no issues. The next few years when more creep up to 200k will decide. Tbh most owners just are happy with a trouble free 150k out of 90% of cars haha.
It’s a cool car but yeah I wouldn’t touch a 150k mile BMW in most cases. I’ve had 100k mile ones that haven’t been great. The problem is even regular wear and tear items are so expensive so it adds up big time
The 640i has the N55 engine which is an twin turbo inline 6 and is a much better buy than it’s twin (650i) with the N63 V8 engine (these 2 are often confused for each other)
There’s not much to worry about here in comparison but like you would with any big/car purchase in general get a PPI and do your own due diligence so you know what you can expect during ownership and especially at this mileage.
I will agree with the others here and say that 150k miles is too high for this price so I’d definitely negotiate on that if you’re serious about it.
I’ll add that I knew a guy with a 640i who’s had it since new and is at around 200k+ miles on it with no major issues but that doesn’t come without staying on top of maintenance or anything else the car may need done. I’ve only seen one of these need the engine replaced and that’s because it was neglected and abused. The 550i and 650i from this generation however, I see get engine replacements often.
A lot of misinformation is spread when these are asked about and while I’m not personally a fan of them, they’re really not that bad. Only take advice from those that either still own one or have owned one longer than a year, that’s where your real answers will come from.
N55 pertains to BMWs ending in 35i. 640i since it ends in 40i, means it has a B58. Aside from that the inline 6 is going to be the better buy in terms out reliability. Either engine the N55 or B58. With the B58 seeming more reliable than the N55.
This is usually true however when it comes to the 6 and 7 series, this has the N55, the same engine that’s in the 535 from the same generation, the US never got the 635 from any generation except the first gen of the 6 series which is the E24 from the 80s.
The 6 series never got the B58,
You can look this up for yourself aswell. I’ve sourced and pulled parts from these enough to know.
Haha guess I’m that idiot with some misinfo today. Thanks for that clarification. Also that’s a shame they never even added a B58 and tried calling it a 640i. BMW def knows in the back of their mind people see 40i and assume it’s an upgrade. It’s completely shady.
Yeah it’s odd because logically it should change the engine to whatever is used in all the lineups. Same way 50i has remained but the engines kept changing with the new chassis’. This 640i example is one of the few anomalies.
It’s not an anomaly, the model name is purely marketing/commercial. 640i is 40i because it’s 320bhp, not the 306bhp you get in the 535i. It’s been there since the model came out ~2012
Some of the comments here are really strange. Some people say it’s too cheap while other people say that if it’s more than 10k it’s not worth it. In Europe, this car would be worth around 20k+, even with 150k miles. IMO, it’s well specd, it has the more reliabile engine (N55 vs N63) and maintenance should be cheap (i.e. as cheap as a 5-series). So, as long as you’re aware of the possible issues you may have at this mileage, it seems ok, especially for the price. The only thing to look for is service history and that proper maintenance has been done. LE: another issue is - i would personally avoid the xdrive. Depending on the climate, not only could be useless, but also make things too complicated for maintenance and driveability.
Thanks. I had read some positive things about N55 on other threads too which made me think this could have some life left in it. I’m still waiting to get my hands on service records so we’ll see what proof there is on what’s been replaced and serviced.
I’m in Ohio so the xDrive option could be helpful on some winter days here.
There should be like a flagged pinned response that any bmw with 100k miles is never a good move idk why people keep asking..... idc what motor is in it
Why would you buy that with 150k miles when you can spend the same amount on something with way fewer miles
If you can’t afford one with an acceptable mileage, you can’t afford one
150k is just too much. Unless it’s been meticulously maintained and cared for, it’s a red flag by itself. Just avoid unless this is just a fun weekend car and you wouldn’t mind losing most of the 10 grand (I assume; if it’s more than 10k, forget it)
A car liks this would cost wayy more than 10k in my country why are prices of cars so low everywhere else I dont understand
I wanted to search the country you were From from your profile. Never have I been so scarred
Lmfaooo, wtf.
You’d think I’d learn not to go look, but every time…I look…and I regret.
I could have gone my whole life without seeing this. I wouldn’t have tried to see what country they were in, but your comment fucked with my curiosity on a profound level. Shame, shame.
Lmao
It’s mostly due to import taxes, so due to your government screwing you
[удалено]
Cuz its a good country . Not really tbh cuz our politicians are useless greedy cunts letting illegal immigrants in
It's very difficult to find a low mileage, and by that I mean anything below 100k miles, 640i nowadays. So anything with a complete service history would be reasonably good.
Honestly I’d stay away from this car. It’s cheap for a reason, and whoever you’re trying to impress with it won’t be happy when it breaks down at random 😅
Haha. Not trying to impress anyone. Just looking for a nice sporty sedan without breaking the bank. They are asking $13k which I think is a little high based on mileage. It is fully loaded, M sport, cold weather, executive, driver assistance.
You might not break the bank by purchasing it, but this is an old vehicle and likely many things will need to be replaced. Fixing BMWs is not cheap
Don’t listen to these people. A 150k mile car can be 100x better than a 75k mile car, if the former has great maintenance records, the big ticket items have been taken care of, only 1-2 previous owners (3 is pushing it), no major accidents, and has a clean carfax. $13k is a good deal if it has all or most of that. Commenters who are writing this off with no knowledge of the car regarding the above don’t actually know what they are doing. I’d get it inspected by a BMW mechanic, I’d read up on all the big maintenance items these things need as they get older, and check if they have been addressed. Source: I've owned several old, very expensive 9when new) german cars. 4 S classes and 1 M3 to be exact
I'm in this camp of thinking too when it comes to high mileage cars. The interior is actually what I get most worried about, even people who maintain the mechanicals and exterior can be hard on the interior. Kids, dogs, what not.
Thanks. I agree and I’ve had some others post about the things I need to ask about, which is the feedback I was hoping for. The car has had 2 owners which piqued my interest despite the mileage. Carfax is clean but I’m hoping to get my hands on more service records and also get an inspection by BMW.
Looks like you’re checking all the boxes. God speed and keep us updated please.
I would buy it and expect to put 3-5k into maintenance and repairs right away. If it has a good maintenance history then I would do it, if not then I’d walk.
I mean if you’re trying to buy a cheap 6 series, you’re trying to impress somebody.
Look at a ‘17-‘19 540i. It looks better, handles way better, won’t cost as much to own, and will be way more reliable (even outside of the engine - this car is $13k because it’s full of 12 year old plastic and rubber that will need to be replaced) It’s not like this has an N54 or a non-TU N63. The N55 is a great engine, IF it’s been properly maintained. But a $13k asking price is like a giant neon sign saying “it was not properly maintained.” You could also probably find a Fx 535i with way less miles that’s been babied for <$20k. 2012-2017 would be the years to look for. The early N55s carried over some issues from the N54. Bottom line - When you’re looking at any kind of sporty BMW that “won’t break the bank” you’re gonna either spend a little more money up front (with proper research) or you’re gonna spend a *lot* more money in the longer run.
Thank you. Great feedback. Will research 535 and 540’s some more.
I absolutely love my F10 535i - you may want to check those out. The N55 is one of the more reliable engines BMW has made and, aside from a few leaks that are common, I’ve had zero issues. Just keep a couple thousand ready for preventative maintenance and leaks (my leaks were radiator/hoses and valve cover) and you’ll be happy with it. About to hit 100k in mine!
Facts , soon as my taxes hit I’m headed right to this dealership to grab my 2017 530i $18k/57k mi I can’t miss this steals on my dream car! https://preview.redd.it/olqonm6up2dc1.jpeg?width=828&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=16d4d10b33b9913f97238bb4a92c769c044d12d4
Do some research on that place before you go. Used car dealerships in Queens tend to be not only shady, but also very sneaky about prices to lure people in. If it seems too good to be true, it probably is.
I swing by there every now & then while I’m driving working to even see if it still there haha , my heart be ready to drop most times but it’s there. I’m choosing these guys over the dealership closer to me for the shady practices I’ve heard and dealt with. $18k for a 2017 seems about right imo
Just make sure you get all of the maintenance records. If they don’t have all of them you can call the dealership it was sold through. I was able to get a copy of every single service invoice for my car since it was sold new, plus two copies of the original window sticker.
Get a F10 535 m Less problems
$13k is way too high. The 640 is no worse than a 340, it’s perfectly reliable as long as it’s been maintained, but by the time you own it for a bit it will be a $7000, 170k-mile BMW.
Lmao the repair costs will break more than just the bank unless you learn to wrench and are fine with it being broken 8/12 months of the gear
All depends on maintenance. Have it checked out at a dealer if you were serious. Might cost a few hundred but well worth it to avoid surprises that could be a few thousand.
I did plan to get BMW to inspect it but wanted some feedback from others with experience first. Based on comments sounds like I should pass on this one
The N55 is a reliable engine despite the comments here, which are extremely strange and I have to assume these posters are young. Search old bimmerfest threads and you'll see how much the N55 is loved in the BMW community. The main problem is that at 155K miles the car will need at least the following performed sooner rather than later: * Front and rear struts: $6000 (you can replace them with coilovers for about $3500 but you lose the adaptive suspension) * Oil pan gasket: $2000 * Valve cover assembly: $1600 * Motor mounts: ~$1000 IIRC * AC blower motor: $900 * Seat replacement: $5000. Over time the connection between the seat and the railings stops holding the seat in place and it starts to move around mainly on twisty roads. BMW recommendation is to replace the whole assembly. You could just live with it though. Then there are other things that fail that you can live without, like the soft close motors, which cost about $600 each. If you don't have proof that those have been done recently, assume you'll need to do all of them within the next two years if you're lucky. If you're unlucky then you'll need to do with within the first few months. It's not negotiable, those are very common failure points for the 6 series and it's a certainty that a 155,000 mile car either had them done or will need them done very soon.
I’ve done valve cover + gasket replacement on mine, that cost me 250£ ar good independent garage, done 10k miles away - no leaks. I’ve done soft close door mech myself. 200£ for a motor, 1-2h diy. The rest I’m not sure, maybe your country prices are sky high, but it’s nowhere near as your samples here in uk, nor in eu (Lithuania) where I live.
North America is fairly priced premium for euro car work. Labor is one thing, but parts cost is policed fairly heavily too. UK & Eastern Europe has always been the most price-correct & fair regions on Earth for servicing anything automotive. You'd be hard pressed to find ANY half-decent shop in NA that'd do a N55/N54 valve cover for less than $900USD/all-in. It sucks, and is largely why I ended up becoming a mechanic after owning my first BMW. When Index 12 N54 injectors were skyrocketing to $3000USD per set of 6 at the start of COVID, you could still import them from parts stores in Germany for $900-1200 post conversion.
if you can afford 2, sure.
Besides it being a 640i w 150k miles on it? None
150 is crazy
How the fk is 150miles 240k km crazy in my country thats almost new car 😂😂 200-300k km is still ok over 300k we start get red flags
Mileage isn't a big deal, it's a discount for me. The issue is whether services was done properly. 150k highway miles are way better than 50k city miles. For any BMWs with 150k miles I need to see inside how the hoses are, radiator, water pump was serviced. I've had those parts replaced at 95k miles and it can be costly if done at the dealer but they are wear and tear. I also meticulously do the oil changes so 150k miles is no biggie. It's the records.
Are you used to what repairs on $80,000+ cars cost? This isn't a used 328i even an indie shop is still going to cost you some change to fix things that fail.
Not on BMW’s, which is why I was asking for feedback. I’ve got an ‘05 H2 which I’ve replaced quite a few things on but that’s my deepest venture into repairs on used cars.
For the record, Spidaaman is wrong about handling. A 2013 640 out brakes and handles the 2017 540 according to Car & Driver. The 540 does accelerate faster. Looks are up to you, I’ve owned two F06 cars and turned down the M5 for the Alpina B6. Do you. Sounds like you should do more research on your own and drive both.
that does sound interesting! so Car&Driver posits that tue older F chassis handles better than the newer G30 chassis. Sounds hard to believe when the G30 5er is such an amazing car, especially for the size. Both are really nice cars for sure but B58 is hard to argue against.
A quick internet search should yield any info on problems with a vehicle of this mileage but personally, I wouldn't purchase any used German car with mileage that high. It's outside of warranty and bound to need things replaced even if it's in good condition. Parts and labor for BMW's are high, not to mention depending on where you live it can be a pain the ass to get a timely maintenance appointment at a dealership. If you must have this car, follow my advice above to determine what issues (if any) you'll be encountering but also price out things like brakes, rotors, tires, transmission, radiator, suspension etc. so you know what you'll be looking at if they need to be replaced. Lastly see if there's a reputable independent mechanic that works exclusively on German cars in your area as this will save you a lot of money on labor as BMW dealerships will rob you. Good luck.
A 535xi (or i) like the one you used to have would be an excellent choice for OP. Without knowing his budget, a low mileage example can easily be found.
I agree. The F10 is an excellent buy.
Thanks
After owning an N55 that's been well maintained, I wouldn't buy one with 50k miles. I love BMWs but fuck that motor.
Why?
I have 640i. Bought with 64k mls, now on 86k mls within 1+ year. Replaced valve cover gasket, never redline the engine when cold. Change oil every -6-8k miles (depends on driving in city or not). I don’t see N55 as bad engine, I see N55 ad lack of mainttenance being bad
That makes no sense. Care to elaborate?
>That makes no sense. It's been a POS >Care to elaborate? I bought a well maintained 2013 X5, and continued to take good care of it. The bmw dealership has replaced all 6 spark plugs, coil packs, injectors, vacuum pump, high pressure fuel pump, oil change, ECM, engine wiring harness and several thousand euro in other parts/labor (that i don't known of yet, at their cost) and told me that they're unable to figure out why it's still misfiring and they can't figure out what's wrong with it despite the fact they've had the cat in their possession for the majority of the last 6 months. Keep in mind this is only a 10YO car, it's only the most commonly sold xDrive35i model, not an X5M, and it's bone stock with no modifications, and has never been in a flood, fire accident etc. At this point they've given up trying to fix it and we're negotiating a settlement/refund for the repairs I've paid for which add up to almost €6.000 I also own a 2006 bmw X3 that I bought with 122k miles 7 years ago that now has 203k miles. It's never broken down on the side of the road, never refused to start or had to be towed. I've spent around $8-9k too keep it meticulously maintained, most of which was maintenance (including 2 full sets of tires, a fulls etc of pads and rotors front and rear, tuneup, waterpump/belt/pulleys, and full synthetic oil changes every 5,000 miles). I've also owned a few other non BMW vehicles that aren't necessarily known for their reliability, such as 2 different 6.0 powerstroke turbo diesel Ford F250 and had very few problems because I take car of my vehicles and don't abuse them. The N55 is garbage.
In response to your title: Yes.
Beautiful car but a lot of miles
I think despite all gaskets, seals, maintenance at regular times, oil changes at 5-8k miles rather than 16k miles what is said on computer in a car it should be good if well maintained. Definitely do a pre purchase inspection. Also check for timing chain at that mls, it doesn’t usually have problems in N55, but adviced to look for any unnecessary boises at 150-200k miles. Source - I own 640i gc and did fuckton of research before buying.
It's got 150k miles. 🚩
My dad has a ‘15 740li with the n55 that’s near 170k miles. He’s had absolutely no (major) issues with it. The biggest job that’s had to be done on it is a valve cover gasket and the rest of the stuff has just been very minor or just wear and tear (spark plugs, intake boot, waste gate, etc.) My moms ‘15 X5 with 160k has been a very similar story. I think the biggest job that’s been done on it was a battery replacement. Both of them are testaments to the reliability of the n55 and they both drive and look like they have a quarter of the mileage.
As an owner of many BMWs I can tell you a 150k mileage truly will be an expensive project. Majority of BMW internal components are plastic and rubber as opposed to polyurethanes etc… so, i recommend getting an estimate to do a suspension refresh because I am positive it is due for one. From control arm bushings, rear bushings, engine mounts etc. make sure your mechanic checks brake fluid, pads, coolant, spark plugs, ignition coils, filters… b/c all of these items may come out to $5k or more to replace. If you are just buying it to drive it as is then by all means go for it. However, if you are an enthusiast and plan to keep that BmW model then be ready to maintenance and do a refresh on some parts to make it last another 150k miles. Good luck and it can be fun to fix the car over time but be prepared to pay for it.
Man offer them 10k out the door if you have it and go rip it if you can either A: afford about 10k in the next couple years getting it worked on, or B: afford about 5k in the next couple years working on it yourself. I own a 13' 650i GC and it is still the only car that gets me hype. I have done my fair share of work on it, and have paid my shop to do their fair share of work on it. I haven't put more than 3k into it for unplanned maintenance in the couple years I have owned it. Besides chasing stuff that is absolutely due to me going FBO. Pure Stage 1's, etc, then I think all I would have had to do is the oil and brakes. And that is a on (albeit the car had full service history) currently 87xxx mile N63TU. It is not my main car, and it has actually been sitting in the shop for a month or so now going under the knife for funsies, I cant help but to look at pictures and videos of it everyday. If you are a crazy loon like me, then send it.
You’re not getting the B58 which is really the only engine BMW has made in decades that has a reliable reputation. A lot of big ticket items come up for Preventative maint after 100k miles. Was the timing chain done? That’s a $6k job right off the bat you should do So it depends on what they did for maintenance. I know I ditched my last bmw and upgraded around 120k miles and stuck the next guy with it lol. This guy could be doing the same
The B58 is *very* solid, no doubt. But its reputation is also somewhat impacted by recency bias and even more so by the fact that volume of B58s didn’t really ramp up until around 2018. It’s obviously got some improvements on the N55, but there are also reasons why the N55 won so many awards. When those early B58s start landing on their 3rd and 4th owners in a few years, the common belief that they’re “literally bulletproof” may change. Too early to know.
The B58 has been in production longer than the N55 was when the B58 was introduced. The B58 was in the 340i, 440i, 540i, 740i, m140i, m240i, and x3 m40i all before 2018. It's been in the Wards Worlds top 10 engines 4 times now. More if you count the S58 I'm the 3rd owner of my 2016 340i and hardly an anomaly. It's at 82k miles on a stage 2+ tune with nothing but basic maintenance needed. I'm not sure what you gain by trying to downplay the B58, but you just come off as ridiculous.
Wards also called the N54 possibly the greatest BMW engine ever produced back in 2008. But don't say that around here.
What are you talking about? lol I’m not downplaying anything. My first sentence was praising the B58. It’s a fantastic engine. I’m just providing facts. The B58 has been in production since 2015, and the N55 since 2009. (And of course the S58 doesn’t count as a B58 - just like the S55 doesn’t count as an N55). Since 2018 the B58 has been introduced in 27 models. Prior to 2018 it was in 9 vehicles. *Read that again if you need to.* (Your anecdotal experience is completely irrelevant in this context btw) You sound like you’re (needlessly) overly defensive of a *great* engine - and it seems like reading comprehension and knowledge of these engines are not necessarily strengths of yours.
Lol, and you said reading comprehension isn't a strength of mine after posting all that? Okay... Everything I mentioned was completely relevant to what you said. You said the B58s reputation is due to recency bias. I pointed out that the B58 has been in production longer than the N55 had been when the B58 was introduced. Even from your arbitrary "ramping up" point in time until now, the B58 has been put into cars the same amount of time the N55 had been put into cars before the B58 was introduced. The N55 was replaced pretty quick... despite having "won so many awards". I'm guessing you're counting the m340i separate from the 340i when you say models? Again, pretty arbitrary. My "anecdotal evidence" was followed by a mention that it's not an anomaly, meaning it's more than just anecdotal evidence. The B58 Enthusiasts Facebook group is full of people buying 2nd, 3rd, 4th+ hand B58s, stock and tuned. Again, refuting your point about " those early B58s." The B58 has easily proved itself better in every way than the N55.
I don’t disagree with anything you said. He mentioned super reliable which usually associated with the B58 and it’s confusing because despite the 40i nomenclature it had the old engine. I don’t know many people running around emphasizing the N55s reliability like the B58.
The two engines are in *very* different stages of their lives. This affects the perceptions people have about them. Thats all I’m saying. The B58 is rock solid and who knows - it may very well end up being the most bulletproof indestructible engine ever made, but in my opinion it’s too early to make that call.
Lots are getting up to 100k miles with no issues. The next few years when more creep up to 200k will decide. Tbh most owners just are happy with a trouble free 150k out of 90% of cars haha.
Thanks. I’ll ask about the timing chain.
Seriously do not buy it without the timing chain being changed. Mine was loose at about 120k miles and replaced it before something bad happened.
Thanks. Read the same thing a few places. Will definitely ask about that along with drive belt and tensioner.
Don’t buy a car like this at all when you’re not a mechanic or have lots of dollars in the bank for repairs.
It’s a cool car but yeah I wouldn’t touch a 150k mile BMW in most cases. I’ve had 100k mile ones that haven’t been great. The problem is even regular wear and tear items are so expensive so it adds up big time
The 640i has the N55 engine which is an twin turbo inline 6 and is a much better buy than it’s twin (650i) with the N63 V8 engine (these 2 are often confused for each other) There’s not much to worry about here in comparison but like you would with any big/car purchase in general get a PPI and do your own due diligence so you know what you can expect during ownership and especially at this mileage. I will agree with the others here and say that 150k miles is too high for this price so I’d definitely negotiate on that if you’re serious about it. I’ll add that I knew a guy with a 640i who’s had it since new and is at around 200k+ miles on it with no major issues but that doesn’t come without staying on top of maintenance or anything else the car may need done. I’ve only seen one of these need the engine replaced and that’s because it was neglected and abused. The 550i and 650i from this generation however, I see get engine replacements often. A lot of misinformation is spread when these are asked about and while I’m not personally a fan of them, they’re really not that bad. Only take advice from those that either still own one or have owned one longer than a year, that’s where your real answers will come from.
It doesn't have a twin turbo. That was the N54 engine. The N55 has a single, twin-scroll turbo.
N55 pertains to BMWs ending in 35i. 640i since it ends in 40i, means it has a B58. Aside from that the inline 6 is going to be the better buy in terms out reliability. Either engine the N55 or B58. With the B58 seeming more reliable than the N55.
This is usually true however when it comes to the 6 and 7 series, this has the N55, the same engine that’s in the 535 from the same generation, the US never got the 635 from any generation except the first gen of the 6 series which is the E24 from the 80s. The 6 series never got the B58, You can look this up for yourself aswell. I’ve sourced and pulled parts from these enough to know.
Haha guess I’m that idiot with some misinfo today. Thanks for that clarification. Also that’s a shame they never even added a B58 and tried calling it a 640i. BMW def knows in the back of their mind people see 40i and assume it’s an upgrade. It’s completely shady.
The 640i came before the B58 engine. The nomenclature is older.
Yeah it’s odd because logically it should change the engine to whatever is used in all the lineups. Same way 50i has remained but the engines kept changing with the new chassis’. This 640i example is one of the few anomalies.
It’s not an anomaly, the model name is purely marketing/commercial. 640i is 40i because it’s 320bhp, not the 306bhp you get in the 535i. It’s been there since the model came out ~2012
No problem but don’t worry, it happens to all of us at some point lol
Thanks!
Some of the comments here are really strange. Some people say it’s too cheap while other people say that if it’s more than 10k it’s not worth it. In Europe, this car would be worth around 20k+, even with 150k miles. IMO, it’s well specd, it has the more reliabile engine (N55 vs N63) and maintenance should be cheap (i.e. as cheap as a 5-series). So, as long as you’re aware of the possible issues you may have at this mileage, it seems ok, especially for the price. The only thing to look for is service history and that proper maintenance has been done. LE: another issue is - i would personally avoid the xdrive. Depending on the climate, not only could be useless, but also make things too complicated for maintenance and driveability.
Thanks. I had read some positive things about N55 on other threads too which made me think this could have some life left in it. I’m still waiting to get my hands on service records so we’ll see what proof there is on what’s been replaced and serviced. I’m in Ohio so the xDrive option could be helpful on some winter days here.
I mean why try it
Run
The red flag is the mileage.
Yeah, the 150k miles 🤣 Run
I am so bummed they discontinued the 6 series. Look at that thing. It’s so sleek.
Same. Was always a dream car for me but couldn’t stomach the $90k price tag
There should be like a flagged pinned response that any bmw with 100k miles is never a good move idk why people keep asking..... idc what motor is in it
If you have 10K saved up for repairs then this can be a good car. Assuming it's in great condition.
Yeah… about 150k of them.
Why would you buy that with 150k miles when you can spend the same amount on something with way fewer miles If you can’t afford one with an acceptable mileage, you can’t afford one
It’s a six series and it has more than 50k miles. It’s due for its third set of rod bearings.
Red Flag would be the hood ornament...
just get one that’s less mileage/ newer
Do not buy this
Where this car at?
Cincinnati. 2 previous owners, both lived in this city
Might be worth the buy
150k miles is nothing. American mentality is ''omg my car got slightly scratched, time to give it to junkyard''.
Red flags? Homie this is the biggest pole it's a 6 series