Purchasing a 150 k 1 series vehicle.

[ByteStorm]

Hello everyone, I am a 19-year-old individual interested in purchasing a BMW 1 Series. I have come across a 2008 model with a mileage of 150,000 km. Is it a worthwhile purchase?

[IrvesBMW]

Please include further details such as the specific engine type, automobile specifications, service history, and the desired pricing.

[ByteStorm]

The car in question is a 116i model with a previous owner and partial service history. It is a 2008 model and has recently had maintenance, including an oil change, replacement of spark plugs, and a new rocker cover gasket. The seller is asking for a price of 1500. Given the little information available, purchasing this car may involve a significant risk. Additionally, I examined its MOT history and these are the cautions recorded at its last MOT. The rear sub-frame has experienced corrosion, but its structural integrity has not been significantly compromised (5.3.3 (b) (i)). The nearside rear tyre is significantly worn, close to the legal limit and worn on the edge, which exceeds the allowed limits. The text "(5.2.3 (e))" remains unchanged. The front suspension arm pin or bush on both the near side (n/s) and off side (o/s) is worn, but the wear does not cause excessive movement in the forward direction. 5.3.4 (a) (i)

[ByteStorm]

The vehicle in question is a 3-door manual hatchback with a petrol engine. It has a Euro 4 emission standard and a power output of 122 brake horsepower.

[ChatMaven]

There are both advantages and disadvantages. If the automobile has been well-maintained, it may be an excellent purchase. The price should be lower for a vehicle with less kilometres, but the saved amount should be set aside as a contingency for necessary maintenance tasks. Avoid purchasing it due to its affordability being the only determining factor. In the event of a malfunction, you will be left without any financial resources and means of transportation.

Additionally, it is important to take into account the duration for which you want to retain it. After a period of two years, the value might potentially reach close to 180,000. That will reduce the potential market to a smaller size than it now is.

[ChatMaven]

In conclusion. At the age of 18, my son disregarded my advise and purchased a Fabia VRS that had been adjusted to produce 260 horsepower and had accumulated over 200,000 km. After a period of 6 weeks, the gearbox of the vehicle malfunctioned. Fortunately, the market for modified Fabia components is very profitable, allowing him to recoup his investment by intentionally damaging the vehicle and receiving a refund.

We have all experienced youth and engaged in activities according to our desires, which is an integral aspect of enjoyment. Therefore, it is advisable to enjoy some of it while it is still available, but be cautious of the potential drawbacks.

[TechWhiz]

Purchasing a vehicle priced at £1500 is inherently risky. My vehicle, which cost £1700, has been excellent. However, I have had to replace the radiator, brake calliper, front discs, and a few bushes since I purchased it in March 2020. Despite these repairs, I now consider it a long-term possession. Despite my initial low expectations, I am really amazed by the exceptional condition of the steering, suspension, and overall performance, even after covering a distance of 130,000 kilometres.

Acquire a high-quality item that brings you joy, obtain a substandard item and you haven't suffered a significant financial loss. This implies that the crucial factor to consider is the current level of quality. Does it provide a satisfactory sensation? Is there any urgent action required to address its condition? Which consumables seem to need imminent replacement, such as tyres, brake pads, oil, brake/clutch fluid, and so on.

[Screwdriver_1]

I see an investment of £1500 not as a risky venture, but rather as a promising prospect.

When an item is priced at £1500, you are more inclined to attempt repairing it yourself, so acquiring valuable hands-on expertise with a wrench that will be beneficial throughout your lifetime.

Purchase a Haynes manual for your car, which is often available for a low price of around £4 when bought second-hand from World of Books. Familiarise yourself with the handbook by reading through it and begin by doing tasks that are categorised as having a difficulty level of one spanner. This will help you gain confidence and become proficient in performing maintenance and repairs on your vehicle. By acquiring the necessary skills, you may develop the confidence to independently address any issues that may arise when purchasing a high-mileage motor in the future.

[Screwdriver_1]

However, I would want to provide one additional point. Choosing a BMW as your first automobile, as opposed to a smaller Honda, might be problematic due to the much higher cost of its components.

[ByteStorm]

Thank you for the guidance, I really value it. Fortunately, I will inspect it tomorrow. Fortunately, I am already proficient with a set of tools and I have a knack for quickly acquiring new skills. I will provide an update on the progress.

[Screwdriver_1]

Have you made the purchase?

[MrGreedy]

If you decide to proceed, apply a layer of Waxoyl to the subframes and other relevant components.
Best wishes.