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

• Coolant loss / expansion tank about $900 to fix

  Inspect the expansion tank seams, ask owner about coolant top-ups.

• Oil filter housing and valve cover gasket leaks about $1,500 to fix

  Look for oil or coolant residue at the oil filter housing and the valve cover, and ask about coolant top-ups.

• PCV diaphragm wear

  Ask whether the valve was replaced under SI B01 14 23; within 15 years and 150,000 miles a BMW dealer fixes it free.

• Carbon buildup about $600 to fix

  Ask whether walnut blasting has been done, budget for it on higher mileage cars.

• High pressure fuel pump about $1,100 to fix

  Ask about tune history and fueling upgrades, listen for HPFP whine at idle.

At the viewing

Same engine and cooling checks as the F22 plus the soft top mechanism, headliner, drains, and any moisture damage in the trunk or rear seat area. Look for wear holes in the headliner above the rear window (BMW bulletin SI B54 01 18); on cars built by August 2016, confirm the top's tensioning strap service action (SI B54 04 16) was done. Check by VIN that recalls are done and ask about the crankcase valve covered by BMW's 15-year warranty (SI B01 14 23). BMW covers the EVAP purge valve for 15 years or 150,000 miles if it fails (SI B01 02 24); a dealer confirms the cover by VIN.