Originally Posted by JCL

Calling the family friend a liar sounds a little harsh IMO. Seems like there has been a lack of clarity as the information got relayed, not lying.

The vehicle is priced at half what most other 2002 3.0 models are priced at here. That says something about what you are getting.

If that is the budget, ask the mechanic if the transmission is rebuilt. If it isn't, I would walk away. Even if it has, realize that with those miles it is going to be an ongoing project to maintain it.

The alternative is to spend more up front. High mileage BMWs are not cheap to maintain when you have to go to the shop for every little thing.