x5 3.0i from across the country

x5Alpine · #1 11-26-2011, 02:28 AM

Im looking at purchasing a 2002 x5 3.0i from across the country and having it shipped here. LA-NV. What should I do/prepare for before buying and shipping the x5?

Thanks!!

http://autos.yahoo.com/used-cars/bmw...w&distance=any

PersonaNonGrata · #2 11-26-2011, 03:04 AM

I would not buy a car from any distance without some sort of inspection. Whether you have a friend in LA or the seller takes it to a dealer for a pre-purchase inspection (on your dime if necessary), I wouldn't buy it without this due diligence. I almost bought a Porsche from what appeared by all accounts to be a reputable dealer, with a ton of photos, but when I had a friend in go see it, there were numerous issues not shown nor disclosed. Actually, they outright misrepresented certain things.

Personally, I would not buy this one. The distance is a major factor, the area it comes from is prone to floods and other water damage, and you're only in Reno and there are plenty of X5s to choose from in neighboring California where you could go out to see the right one and maybe drive it home.

x5Alpine · #3 11-26-2011, 03:23 AM

thanks..but i cant find this color combo on the west cost and theis car was acually bought at bill pearce bmw here in Reno and has only lived in LA for about 2 months and the carfax is excellent, so would that help it out a little?

Thanks!!

btmed · #4 11-26-2011, 09:06 AM

I found my x on ebay, right here in the same county i live in. I would not buy anything i couldnt put my hands on especially one of these cars, Just too many hidden issues to look for, hidden oil leaks, cv boots, window regulators, vacume leaks that may only cause a slight problem every other startup,sounds from under the engine that might tip you off to a problem just to name a few. From what i know now i would be looking to see what had been replaced cause if it hasnt been you will be and that would factor into my buying price. As for an inspection i would suggest a bmw specific mechanic. I have found regular mechanics that arent used to bmws will miss a lot of the bmw specific problems. Read this forum for a lot of valuable information then go put your hands on an x before making the purchase.

TriX5 · #5 11-26-2011, 09:50 AM

Never, never, never buy a car sight-unseen......

Even an inspection may not give you all the answers as esthetic condiition is in the eye of the beholder.

Good luck.

skeetjunkie · #6 11-26-2011, 10:21 AM

Nice color combo. According to the carfax report, the X has only been in NOLA for several months. Curious why the 3rd owner is selling at after less that a year of ownership? In any event, it is imperative that you get a full top to bottom inspection - cooling system, suspension, fluid leaks, all diag codes, instrument cluster, radio, etc. Peake BMW is a listed dealership (avoid the current owner's shop). Good luck.

PersonaNonGrata · #7 11-26-2011, 05:37 PM

If you're set on this particular example then there are a couple of thing you could do that might help. Since it was purchased from a BMW dealer local to you, perhaps you can get service history from them. Then, have the seller take it to a BMW dealer or qualified independent to do a once over for you at your expense. The couple hundred it would cost you could pay for peace of mind or save you from a nightmare.

I have another idea for you I will PM.