buying an 5 series need some advice
 

what i can do
$30K or less

what i expect
04 or newer
black
low miles

whats are your inputs on this one?
please give me some before i go shopping.

No 04's... thats a nightmare waiting to happen...

I'd probably stay away from SMG equipped cars too (I love SMG, but your not going to love it when the warranty runs out).

Also you'll probably want one with iDrive so you get the bigger 8" screen (versus the dinky 5.5" on the cars without it).

06's are tricky, because the 05' model year was short because BMW switched engines. Therefore sales of 06's started in March/April versus the regular august/september... The 06's really make a difference your getting either a 525i or 530i. Many felt that the original 525i & 530i's with the M54 engine were underpowered.

and...

Regardless of what I just said, do not buy an 04' 525i without sports package. Shame on BMW for the dinkiest stock wheel combo ever. Bangle designs do not wear small wheels well at all - let alone those that are 15" !

wow, first response really opens my eyes to learning about the 5 series. i didn't know this much about the 5 series before. please keep them coming, that will help me make the right decision.

I have a 2004 545 with 46K on it, no issues.

Take a couple for a test drive. As far as options go, depends on what you're looking for. All E60's have iDrive, NAV is another story. IMO, BMW navigation blows so I don't look for it in the cars I buy. When I got my E60 all I wanted was a manual, V8 and the sport package...(in 2004 the manual could only be had with the sport package).

As far as pricing goes, you'll have to look around:

When I bought my 545 a few months back:

Cost - $39,000 with CPO


http://xoutpost.com/gallery/files/4/9/545_front.JPG

thanks for the inputs. i will be sure checking out your posts before making any purchase.

I dont know if you can find a nice 5-series for under 30k, or can you?

I know you can find plenty of E-class Mercedes (new body style).

My wife drives a 2004 530i, no issues with it...

The comment earlier in this thread regaring the larger screen is incorrect, FYI. All E60 5 series come with the idrive function; the only way you'll have the larger screen is if the car has BMW's navigation system. The NAV system gives the idrive a bigger screen, and force feedback through the round controller on the armrest. Although you're not likely to find an 06 around 30K, 04's and early 05's might be going for around that price range. Make sure the car does have a warranty when you purchase, and if it's a navigation equipped car, make sure it has the latest CIP installed, as well. Good luck.

Well DUH cuz no one wants one.

maybe a 525 but under 50K miles for under 30K is probably near impossible IMO, at least in my area.