Why don't you a student pilot for a spin in your MD-11 and I'll let you test drive my '94 525i? :-)Originally Posted by MD-11 Driver
Seriously, I just bought one not 3 weeks ago. This is what I've found so far:
1) CD player not working. The 6-disc changer is in the trunk. Make sure you pop in a CD and test it out before buying. Replacement units run in the hundreds.
2) Driver's side rear window. The mechanism pops out of the track and the window doesn't go up and down properly. Theoretically this is equally likely on any window. From reading various threads around here (and my own experience today) the design is a bit on the cheap side. Dissapointing for BMW, of course.
3) Flex disc showing cracks. The flex disc is a piece of hardy rubber that connects the drive shaft to the transmission output yoke. The E34 has a differential mounted to the body, so the drive shaft doesn't move as much as in the case of a solid rear axle. I don't think the flex disc itself is a major expense, but it is labor intensive to get to it (you need to drop the exhaust). Ditto for the starter - you have to pop off the intake manifold to get at it.
The M50 engine (the one in the 525i) has a timing chain, as it is equipped with the VANOS, or variable valve timing. This allows for simultaneous opening of both intake and exhaust valves in mid-range RPM's. For that reason I don't think you'll find an EGR valve anywhere on the motor. Not sure about the valve adjustment, I defer to the pros around here. I haven't seen a valve lash procedure posted anywhere for the M50.
Lastly, maintenance, maintenance, maintenace. If the previous owner was slack, you'll have more problems than if he or she was not. Fluids (ALL of them - p/s, coolant, brake, transmission) should have been replaced every 2 years.
Hope this helps you out. Sorry if I'm a bit long-winded.