This document provides tips for buying a pre-owned BMW vehicle. It advises researching models by reading reviews, asking others, and test driving options. When examining vehicles, carefully inspect the service history and test all features like doors, windows, and iDrive system. Ensure any loans on the vehicle are paid by getting appropriate paperwork from the finance company. Certified pre-owned BMWs that include a warranty are recommended for added protection.
3. Introduction
Buying a BMW can be a daunting task, even if it’s a used one.
To help you buy the perfect set of BMW wheels, we’ve listed down
some important things you need to bear in mind.
Keep reading.
4. Pre-Prep
How to research?
Do as much research as possible.
Read consumer reports and auto reviews
Ask friends and colleagues.
5. Pre-Prep
What to look for?
Gather gas consumption
and maintenance data.
Narrow the search to a
couple of models.
6. Check the records
Eliminate vehicles with
potential problems:
Rolled back odometers
Outstanding liens
Severe abuse
Cars involved in serious
accidents
Check complete service history.
7. Examine the Vehicle
Check out the used BMW
car yourself or take a
knowledgeable person
along.
Let a trustworthy
mechanic inspect the car
for you.
8. Where to look?
Door handles and electric
windows:
Key must seat well in the
key holder.
Windows can malfunction
in case water gets into their
switches.
Check under the car for
any power steering leaks.
The ABS pumps.
9. Where to look?
Alloy rims for hairline cracks.
Under the hood for coolant or
oil leaks or burnt oil smell.
During a test drive, watch for
rough shifts.
10. iDrive:
Take it or Leave
it?
In early models, iDrive was
criticized to be too distracting to
use while driving.
Take your time and test iDrive
thoroughly.
See if you are comfortable using
iDrive.
11. The Paperwork
Check the paperwork carefully.
Check with the Vehicle Registration Authorities .
Read the warranty policy closely.
If buying a ‘Certified’ used BMW, check the items it has been
approved for.
12. Your
Checklis
t
• Registration certificate
• Insurance:
Get the insurance
transferred to your name.
• If previous
owner had taken a loan to
purchase the car, get:
Form 32 & 35:
No-objection certificate from the finance
company
• Road tax receipt
• Car purchase invoice
13. Certified Pre-Owned BMW
Recommended: Buy from a CPO BMW Dealer.
You will pay a little more for a CPO BMW, but the extra warranty
and peace of mind is absolutely worth it!