I'm looking at a 2000 323i with 126k on it. All BMW service with records including head gaskets and all other suspect items replaced (by dealer) and ready to roll. The price is (what I would call) unbeleivable at just under $14k. It's for my wife.

I'm new to this forum and to BMWs. Though, I have spent about 3-hours combing through the forum's thread on "things to look out for" when purchasing a pre-owned E46.

I'm a major grease-monkey and have always avoided the stealership whenever my own mechanical ability allows (replaced my own head gasket, valve-stem seals, p.s. pump, alternator, rotors, callipers, etc., etc., etc., on previous cars) So I'm really not too worried about trouble items that I can fix myself.

But with that said, I really need some good feedback (and reletively quick - because this car could be snatched up fast). I've read everywhere on this forum and other places that the window and moonroof regulators are notorious replacement items. Has anyone here ever replaced them yourselves? If so, how labor-intensive of a job is it?

Control arms are usually pretty easy to swap out. But what other commonly replaced items might require a skilled technician (besides wheel bearings, which have to be machine pressed)?

My wife has her heart set on a BMW, But if it's going to have me spending more time under IT than under...

Well...anyway, you get my drift.

Thanks enormously.

window regulators are easy to replace. moonroof requires a little more work but can be done no matter what. $14k seems a little high for that car with that many miles, its worth about $9-$10k. For $14k you can easily find a newer 325/330 with same amount of miles. If its an auto, make sure to buy a warranty, at least a powertrain warranty because you will need it for transmission.

$14k = high.

Mine was an 03 with 55K and rims for $18K.

$14k = high.

Mine was an 03 with 55K and rims for $18K.


Really?!? I've seen a few '02s & '03s on AutoTrader & EbayMotors under $18k (my exact budget). But not a great number. And given the nature of these beasties, I've found myself not really wanting to touch anything not coming off a BMW dealer lot.

I'll keep scouring though.

Thanks much for the pricing and repair advice, both you guys.

Well...it does also depend on where you live...on the east coast bimmers are just more expensive...don't know why.

I guess you know this...but if you buy a used bimmer (CPO or not) from a BMW dealer, you can expect to pay a few grand more than what that exact same car would have cost from a private party or other dealer.

I would not hesitate to buy used from a non BMW dealer (in fact that is what I did) if you get it inspected by someone good.

I just got my '00 110k 323 wagon w/sport package and 5 speed for $9100. I think retail is $12,500 so I would pay that at the MOST. E46 prices are dropping a lot lately.

Well...it does also depend on where you live...on the east coast bimmers are just more expensive...don't know why.

I guess you know this...but if you buy a used bimmer (CPO or not) from a BMW dealer, you can expect to pay a few grand more than what that exact same car would have cost from a private party or other dealer.

I would not hesitate to buy used from a non BMW dealer (in fact that is what I did) if you get it inspected by someone good.


Yeah, I figured the dealer markup thing would tack-on a bit. But you make a good point about having it inspected pre-purchase if it's from a non-dealer lot or private seller.

I didn't know that BMWs ran higher here on the East coast (Detroit). Sucks for me. But I think for sure I'll be taking your advice on going non-dealer. I bought my SC400 off a private party.

LOL...I dunno if Detroit counts the east coast...I only mentioned it because its an example of regional pricing. Someone on this board was saying that in MD and NY there is a large markup on bimmers...go figure?

Last time I had a car inspected, I tipped the guy $20 and talked to him a bit...it really made the difference between the guy going through the motions and really digging around...turns out the car was mint...but all the same...it was $20 well spent.

That car can be found for 10-12k easily.

i jsut bought a '99 323i...manual..its awesome...it has 52,000 miles and runs great...bought it for 12...maybe a lil high but car is amazing...would post it but site wont let me

i bought a 01 325i w/ 114k for 9500 manual, sport and prem pkgs. all that needs to be replaced is 2 window regulators, and the sunroof shade because its clips are messed up, brake job and oil change(which anyone would have to do). i bought it from a doctor who wanted a 330i and wanted to get rid of the 325i, he had all of his records and babied his car, so i jumped on it

trust me u could probably get somethin cheaper......

paid 13,xxx for mine back in november with 66k
it is also a 00 323i with manual...

i just bought a 00 323i for 8375 runs like a charm with 109k :)

00 323i w/32k for $1599.00

Can you get down to Chicago to pick one up? I have heard the prices are better there.

I would definately do some pricing on nada, edmunds and kelly blue book, then look around on auto trader. Like those before me, I agree the price seems 3-4K or so high for that many miles, even in pristine condition. Good luck.

Going to make my first post here.
Last Friday I bought a 00 323i with 94K. It has all dealer service records including brake pads, rotors, rear control arm, & water pump at 88K.
Cosmetically the car is mint. Not a door ding, rock chip, scratch, or anything inside or outside. The people that have seen it it are amazed at the condition.

I bought it for $9200.