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I'm thinking about buying a ti. Ask all your questions about the possible purchase of a ti. Keep in mind, we are biased.

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Old 10-26-2007, 08:24 PM   #1
thesk8nmidget
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Default common problems

im looking at a 1998 318ti

and it has 167,000 miles on it

i have a few concerns because that seems to be the area where yo start to come across problems and things go wrong


i am new to bmws so i was coming here to see if you guys could help me by letting me know what usually goes wrong with these and abut what mileage average it happens.

the engine has never had work just the basic tune ups and oil changes

thanks in advance josh!
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Old 10-27-2007, 05:11 AM   #2
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the best advice anyone here can give you...

take it to a certified BMW tech.
no matter how much anyone explains the common problems, you will never spot them all... spend the extra $50-$100, it is worth its weight in gold.
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Old 10-27-2007, 05:40 AM   #3
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any type of mounts are prob shot, fuel filter water pump clutch. it all depends on how the person took care of it. maybe he put regular gas in or never got a oil change you never know, but a car that it ten years old needs anything you would think of
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Old 11-25-2007, 11:00 PM   #4
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I got mine with 200k. Lucky I got from a really BMW fan and runs like a champ. So far the only thing is some minor chips in the hood. Rgith now looking to get it paint but dont know where. Anyway after 100k this is what he put:
water pump, radiator, all the filters, head gaskets, ball joints, exahust and CAt checked
I changed the ingnition ( completely) I replace the rear exahust. (mufler)
The oil has to be replace no matter what he says (I just non syntetic high mileage).
I also clean the fuel, injectors system...and still looking what else can do.
OF course I put some 17'' hehe
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Old 11-25-2007, 11:04 PM   #5
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What about timing belts? Those should be done around 90K I belive... speaking of them has any one had them replace and how much does it cost?
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Old 11-26-2007, 02:01 AM   #6
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I second the advice to take it to a mechanic. I will say that mine is 10 years old and the only thing I've had to replace is the thermostat, brakes, and ball joints. I have just over 100k on it. You never have to change the timing belts because it doesn't have any. We have timing chains. AFAIK, there is no recommended interval for the change on the chains.
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Old 11-26-2007, 02:03 AM   #7
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Quote:
Originally Posted by bullmand View Post
I second the advice to take it to a mechanic. I will say that mine is 10 years old and the only thing I've had to replace is the thermostat, brakes, and ball joints. I have just over 100k on it. You never have to change the timing belts because it doesn't have any. We have timing chains. AFAIK, there is no recommended interval for the change on the chains.
Oh wow I thought they did way with that...phew I was dreading the replacement.
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Old 11-26-2007, 05:51 AM   #8
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Quote:
Originally Posted by bobbob1015 View Post
Oh wow I thought they did way with that...phew I was dreading the replacement.
I think only the Japanese are building interference engines these days.

Anyhow, jump on the regional forums and ask for a reputable mechanic in your area to look over any car you're going to buy.

I'd consider myself experienced with cars, but I still have this done if I'm spending over a certain amount.
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Old 11-27-2007, 05:15 AM   #9
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You also have to check the rust!!!
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Old 11-27-2007, 05:16 AM   #10
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How can I know if I need to change the ball joints? Do I need to change the control arm bushing as well?
When I need to replace the shocks?
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Old 01-03-2008, 10:43 PM   #11
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i would be surprised if the windows work lol
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Old 01-03-2008, 10:53 PM   #12
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old thread lol'

i bought a different one.
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