BMW USED CARS

The BMW E34 is the version of the BMW 5 Series automobile built from mid-1987 to 1996, with the Touring model ending June 1996. It replaced the BMW E28 in 1988 and was replaced by the E39 in 1996.

The E34 succeeded the BMW E28 in 1989 with two models. The 525i used the BMW M20 engine while the 535i used the larger M30. The cars were a blend of BMW tradition and modern technology. BMW's traditional FR layout and straight-6 were used, providing the smooth engine and optimal weight distribution BMW customers had come to expect. The E34 also had a much stiffer body and was more streamlined than its predecessor, looking very much like the BMW E32 7-series.

The E34 was among the most reliable luxury cars on the market, earning the best-in-class reliability rating from Intellichoice in 1991. It is still considered one of the most reliable BMWs made. It was also one of the safest cars on the road during its production,[citation needed] providing airbags, 4-wheel anti-lock brakes, and a very rigid body structure to protect occupants in the event of an accident. The E34's 60-0 mph (97 to 0 km/h) stopping distance of 130 feet (40 m) was the best of any production sedan in 1990.[citation needed] It was also equipped with dynamic stability control (DSC) or skid control in later years on higher-specification variants.

The BMW 5-series is a popular mid-size combination of prestige 7-series styling and V8 mechanicals at the top end while offering the more frugal sixes and agility of the popular 3-series at the entry level

As the last 5-series before the new BMW look, the E39 stands alone with its more traditional BMW styling. Joe Kenwright unravels what can be a confusing model range.

BMW used car e39 Checklist
* Radiator: early models can suffer thermostat and radiator faults. Watch the temperature gauge and listen for the engine fan. If it cuts in soon after start-up, walk away.

* Water pump: these fail in older cars - even those with low annual mileages. Some say it's a design fault, with 'plastic' impellors in the pump being the weakness.

* Engine: the 520i, 523i and 528i models up to September 1998 can suffer premature engine bore wear. BMW replaced many units for free, so check service records.

* Windows: electric window regulators fail. Ensure all operate, including the 'one touch' function - although if this is wayward, it can be reset by holding the button in 'close' position for 30 seconds.

* Wheels: front wheelbearings have been known to wear prematurely on models that are driven hard or those that have been fitted with excessively large alloy wheels.