Pre-Purchase Inspection
Pre-Purchase Inspection
Section titled “Pre-Purchase Inspection”A thorough pre-purchase inspection can save you thousands. Either inspect yourself or pay for a professional PPI ($150-$300 at a BMW specialist).
Engine Bay
Section titled “Engine Bay”- Check for oil leaks (valve cover, oil filter housing, oil pan)
- Inspect coolant level and condition (should be blue, not brown)
- Check expansion tank for cracks or white residue
- Squeeze coolant hoses — should be firm, not soft or swollen
- Inspect intake boot for cracks (pull apart to check underside)
- Listen for VANOS rattle on cold start
- Check for white smoke on startup (head gasket concern)
Underneath
Section titled “Underneath”- Check for rust on subframe, floor pans, jack points
- Inspect rear subframe mounting points for cracks
- Check control arm bushings for play
- Inspect CV boots for tears
- Look for power steering rack leaks
- Check exhaust for rust-through
Interior
Section titled “Interior”- Test all power windows (regulator failure is common)
- Check instrument cluster for pixel fade
- Test HVAC on all settings (blower motor FSR)
- Check for airbag light (could be expensive fix)
- Test all locks with key fob
Test Drive
Section titled “Test Drive”- Cold start: VANOS rattle? Rough idle?
- Shifting: Smooth engagement? Grinding? (manual)
- Highway: Steering vibration? (control arms, wheel balance)
- Braking: Pulsation? Pulling? (warped rotors, caliper issue)
- Listen for suspension clunks over bumps