Inspection checklist

Before you go

• Open recalls. Run the VIN through NHTSA or a BMW dealer and ask for proof every recall was done.
• History report. Check the title, accidents, owners and mileage record.
• Service records. Ask for them in advance, ideally from a BMW dealer or specialist.
• Independent inspection. Book a pre-purchase inspection with a shop that knows this engine.

Known problems on this car

• Carbon buildup about $800 to fix

  Ask about mileage and whether walnut blasting has been performed.

• Rod bearing wear about $5,000 to fix

  Ask whether rod bearings have been replaced, review oil analysis, and factor in tune and driving style.

• Timing chain / VANOS components

  Listen for rattle on cold start and review service history for timing work.

• Coolant and heat management about $2,000 to fix

  Check records for cooling work and monitor temperatures during the test drive. Confirm the turbo coolant line service action (SI B11 08 17) was done.

• Fuel injectors and high-pressure fuel pumps about $2,500 to fix

  Ask for injector and pump history and scan for misfire and fuel pressure faults.

At the viewing

Documented service history and rod bearing status above all, tune clarity, cooling and electronics health, manual gearbox for collectibility and the rare Competition-plus-manual combo, and desirable Individual colors and Merino interiors. Check by VIN that recalls and the turbo coolant line service action are done: the oil pump on early 2013 cars (12V-475), the driveshaft on late-2014-built 2015 cars (16V-540), the side airbag on 2016 cars (16V-914). Ask for injector and high-pressure fuel pump history.