Thinking of buying a used (2011) BMW 535 Grand Turismo

[Anonymous]

I found one of these at a good price, great mileage, and am thinking about buying it and handing off my Toyota SUV to my daughter.

For reference, here's what one looks like:



When they came out, people seemed to really not like the look of it, and especially hated the hatchback. But honestly, for me, I like it. And I like the idea of having the storage.

I realize it's a 2011, which is old, but we buy used and keep them forever. And prefer to avoid higher VA taxes. My main use is short commute and around town. I might drive it on trips up to 4 hours, but we have a large SUV that we usually use for that.

Anyone know of any major issues with this vehicle or BMW issues that would give you pause.

[Anonymous]

There is a saying about BMWs, that you buy them twice. Once initially and again over time as the cost of repairs and maintenance adds up to what your original purchase price. In other words, they are expensive to maintain.

They are fun to drive, relatively reliable, but parts and service are costly. So it might be wise to pay for a thorough pre-purchase inspection by a knowledgeable and experienced BMW mechanic, to make sure you understand what service the car needs now and may need in the not-too-distant future, and what those might cost. Then you can make an informed decision.

[Anonymous]

Americans tend to be contemptuous of car hatchbacks. But SUVs are just hatchbacks on steroids.

Repair costs would be my biggest concern. Also figure out what safety sensors it has. Does it have Side Blind Zone Alert in the mirrors?

[Anonymous]

14 year old car = questions about parts availability.

[Anonymous]

You’re better off spending a good deal more and buying something newer. This car will cost you A LOT to maintain and repair. I would never buy any car this old, let alone a BMW.

[Anonymous]

Get a certified pre-owned BMW with an extended lease. I paid $4,200 to get the warranty up to 75,000 miles. Yes it is more expensive than a Chevrolet, but love that it rides in rails.

[Anonymous]

That is a very old car.

[Anonymous]

They used to be called station wagons back in the day.

[Anonymous]

Don’t do it.

[Anonymous]

That's a really old BMW at this point. You'll be spending thousands yearly on it for maintenance. But if that'a fun for you sure why not?