Thinkin bout 2003 530i

jcc911 · 02-18-2010, 07:42 AM

Just happened to come across an 03 530i with reasonably low miles (~60K) two owner car and seems to be well taken care of.
The bonus is the owner is looking for a truck and is considering trading (partial or outright) for my 2000 Escalade.

Any thing I should look for in these 5-series cars?

Thanks. J

tmalaret · 02-18-2010, 11:54 AM

The cooling systems usually need repair when they push 100k and the gaskets for the valve cover and oil hsg get brittle and will develop nasty leaks. Not very difficult repairs. If and when needed spend the $80 or so to get the tools for pulling the fan, which BTW is reverse thread!

M758 · 02-22-2010, 11:40 AM

I have a 2002 530i and love it. I got it 36k and it now has 104k. It is my daily driver.

catso · 02-25-2010, 01:05 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by tmalaret

The cooling systems usually need repair when they push 100k and the gaskets for the valve cover and oil hsg get brittle and will develop nasty leaks. Not very difficult repairs. If and when needed spend the $80 or so to get the tools for pulling the fan, which BTW is reverse thread!

The fan can easily be removed without any special tools. You just need the correct size wrench and remeber it's a reverse thread. A whack with a rubber mallet will usually dislodge it. Don't remove the fan belt until it's loose.

jcc911 · 02-25-2010, 01:11 PM

Thansk for input guys.
Although I really wanted the car, he wanted an additonal 6K plus my Escalade, so I decided to pass.

At the moment I am glad I did as I loved having 4x4 last night while going through the snow.

Mulepick · 03-03-2010, 08:13 AM

Picking up an 03 530i this weekend. Around 70k, two owner, grey/grey.

Bob