I am looking to purchase an 850i or Ci. Can anyone tell me what the problem areas are to look for? I know the engines are bulletproof, and I would prefer a 6-speed, but those are pretty hard to find. How do the automatic transmissions hold up after 100K mi? How about the electronics? I am looking for a car to drive, so mileage is not a great concern as long as it has been well cared for, right?

Any help would be greatly appreciated!!!
Thanks,
Mark

Since no one has responded yet....
The most important thing to look for is maintenance records! I don't like to think of these cars as unreliable, they just require proper maintenence for a $90K car. The engines are bulletproof and aside from some expensive "wear items" as listed below, the drivetrain is well suited to many many miles. The automatic transmissions seem to last forever and I hear the 5spd auto is nicer than the 4spd. Electronics are not much of a problem except for the occasional window switch or interior light and of course the OBC displays which wear out and is a hot topic right now with BMW replacing them for 850 and other models with the same OBC.

Wear parts that you should look to have been replaced if the car already has 80K or so miles on it-
Intake manifold gaskets
Batteries (2 of em)
DK (throttle body) Motors (2 of em)
Control arms/bushings

- Andy
'91 850i 6spd
Dinan Chips
Dinan Intake Manifolds
Eibachs & Bilsteins
Greg K Monster sways

Where are the 2 batteries? know the reason for 2? that's a little weird:)

They are both in the trunk on either side just behind the rear wheels. Why two? I dunno. Balance? The 8 has a ton of electrical stuff and even with two batteries, many people find that their car will suck them dry if not driven for 3 weeks. Low voltage will give an 8 all sorts of check lights and impossible to trace problems that go away with a fresh set. "Set" being the operative word because if one goes south, it'll kill the other one too so both need to be replaced when problems arise. I had a hard time even jumping my car since the starter is such a beast. Ever hear an 8 starter? It sounds like something sourced from Boeing rather than Bosch. Right now I'm running two huge aftermarket interstate batteries, 850cca each versus the stock 600cca bmw batteries.

It could be worse... the older sevens used to have two batteries as well.... under the rear seat! Try servicing those...

I have found a 1993 850Ci for sale, but needs some body work done. It needs a new hood, headlights, front bumper, and RF fender. does anyone know where to locate these parts? the engine runs well and the car can still drive. there is no appearant damage to the frame, but I would deffinately have it checked.

MTP 93 interstate batteries, just put 2 new ones in last week. Cooling system replace all hoses, aux water pump, heater valve . These are DIY real easy. Just did all mine on 1990 G spec. Find a mechanic who knows the 8 "s . I will keep mine for life. These cars do require some money for maint.
Good luck