im looking at purchasing a e39 what are there common faults etc thanks
vtecnet,
Jul 28, 7:21am
Less issues then the one your selling. Not as smooth and refined, but still decent, probably won't use much more fuel either, as those 728i's are totally under powered and need lots of right foot action to make them move. I recommend getting a 2000 model or newer however, as the 1996 etc are getting rather old and had more issues then the facelift model.
edangus,
Jul 28, 7:43am
Pretty much (engine and electrical) the same as here - E38
I have a 740, I would trade it for a 540 in a heartbeat.
Allround they pretty good IMHO, but as suggested - 2000 onwards are better.
hawat,
Jul 28, 7:57am
High petrol consumption. Thats it. Oh and find a good garage, not a dealer. That is for the niggly little things. We have only had one thing major go wrong, blown header tank but a few little things like leaky power steering pump. Was worried about using a lot of water in the radiator and seemingly excessive heat. Berger said "don't worry about those things - all normal".
vtecintegra,
Jul 28, 9:10am
Vague steering compared to the six cylinder model.
I'd look for a 530i (with the 6) or 330i instead
kerr05,
Jul 28, 10:32am
piece of shit. buy a holden
doug207,
Jul 28, 11:25am
Best one I've heard for a while
I'd be looking at a 4.4, they go very well. Still ride and drive better than the latest Aussie options (as expected) They M6x series V8s had a few common problems, rough idle, belching smoke is one reasonably common issue and is a simple fix, replace the PCV valves. Fantastic cars, much better all round than an E38 in my opinion and go very well.
chris_051,
Jul 28, 9:50pm
Hard on gas! My old one could return 8.5 l/100km on the highway. They are an awesome car for the era no other sedan comes close,
budgel,
Jul 29, 10:35pm
Check the transmission out thoroughly.
I recommend getting the car cheked out by an independent BMW specialist who will run diagnostic tests to see if any codes are showing.
He will be able to estimate repair costs for anything that shows up, which can help in price negotiation.
A good one will be a pleasure to own and drive.
sw20,
Jul 29, 10:37pm
They don't look as good as a E38.
edangus,
Jul 29, 10:52pm
I think they are both very sharp looking, I have an E38, just hooked up my mate with a sound E39. I would have both in the driveway if my better half would agree.
hawat,
Jul 30, 1:31am
8.5! Man I must be doing something wrong. Best I have ever got is 10L per 100km and that was because i was really trying. Any secrets you want to share! I have never had it tuned by a dealer but I would back my guy against a dealer.
hawat,
Jul 30, 2:03am
hee hee. You're joking right! I had a Calais of the same era. No comparison.
edangus,
Jul 30, 8:22am
I get 13.1 out of my 740 and I drive it like I stole it.
murray55,
Jul 30, 8:41am
hahah I fully understand why .for their size and weight they are wickedly quick especially in sports mode.
budgel,
Jul 30, 11:09am
I love my 740i, but it is easy to get a ticket in because it is so deceivingly smooth.
My best fuel consumption is 11L/100km, but Northland is hilly and twisty.
disney,
Aug 1, 9:17am
I get 10L/100 k trip travelling at a good pace.Smooth and safe.
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