Buying a used BMW

Buying a used BMW   

BMW is one of the world’s most reputable and well-known car manufacturers. With a huge variety of cars in their portfolio, used BMWs include every type of model, from premium SUVs to comfortable saloons and sporty convertibles. Get some SPOTiCAR tips on how to find the best used BMW for your needs.  

Why buy a used BMW?  

Having started manufacturing cars in Germany in the late 1920s, BMW has since built a reputation for creating vehicles that perform well, are reliable and meet a range of driver needs. By combining the quality of German engineering with instantly recognisable designs, the quality, power and premium reputation of BMW cars has made them a popular choice for a number of years, both on the new and used car market.  

This popularity has also led the manufacturer to produce a huge range of cars to meet a variety of driver needs. From comfortable, fuel-efficient hatchbacks to powerful sports cars and large, spacious SUVs that are ideal for families, you’re bound to find a used BMW that will be affordable, reliable and meet your specific requirements.  

Which used BMW model should you buy?  

BMW offers one of the biggest ranges of choices on the used car market. Here are the models that are available on the SPOTiCAR network.  

Numbered series models 

Ranging from Series 1 to Series 8, the even-numbered BMW series cars are sporty and coupe in style, while the odd-numbered cars are saloon style cars. All the series ranges are designed to the same high standards of quality, design and engineering, but each model type offers slightly different features:  

• BMW Series 1: these are a range of five and three-door hatchback models that are designed to be comfortable, reliable family cars.  

• BMW Series 2: this range includes high-performance two-door coupes and convertibles alongside four-door Gran Tourismo and Gran Coupe models.  

• BMW Series 3: one of the oldest and best-selling model ranges, this range includes four-door saloons, five-door estates and station wagons.  

• BMW Series 4: inspired by 90s sports saloons, these are a range of compact two-door coupes and convertibles, alongside a four-door model version.  

• BMW Series 5: this range includes four-door model saloons that provide a rounded driving performance. 

• BMW Series 6: these models are grand tourers that are available as two-door coupes or convertibles and four-door Gran Coupes.  

• BMW Series 7: this set of full-size luxury saloon cars are premium vehicles that offer a quality driving performance.  

• BMW Series 8: designed to be elegant racing cars, this is a range of coupes, convertibles and grand coupes.  

I series models 

The most recent series of car models, BMW Is are a range of electric and hybrid vehicles including the I3. Taking designs from their other series ranges, this set of cars is designed to provide drivers with a more sustainable option. Gran Coupes, SUVs and SAVs, a type of car that’s unique to BMW and otherwise known as Sports Activity Vehicles, are all included in this range.  

M series models 

M, which stands for ‘motorsport’ indicates a range of high-performance versions of other BMW models, including saloons, coupes and SUVs. Built to combine luxury with sports-level performance, they often have a firmer suspension, powerful engines and higher levels of interior and exterior trim. The most popular models are the M2, M3 and M4 

X series models 

Created to combine BMW levels of performance with practical features such as a higher driving position, all-terrain capabilities and fuel-efficient engines. Equipped with xDrive four-wheel-drive systems, these SUVs can run on or off-road and provide safe, premium family cars with plenty of space and advanced safety technologies. The most popular versions are X1, X2, X3, X4, X5 and X6 

Z series models 

With the Z standing for zunkunft or ‘German for future’, this range of roadsters, sports cars and coupes include concept vehicles and is focused on providing the ultimate fun driving experience. Original Z model cars were based on the legendary two-seater, open-top BMW 507 while adding innovative specifications and the latest technologies.  

What should you look out for in a used BMW? 

BMWs are renowned for their quality engineering and reliable performance, however, there are some key elements you need to check to make sure the used car you’re looking at won’t have high repair and maintenance costs further down the line:  

• Check the engine cooling system: this is one of the most common faults on BMWs. This can include coolant leaks and failing water pumps, so it’s worth giving this section of the engine a thorough inspection.  

• Test the electronics: as well as trying out all the equipment on a test drive, getting a thorough test of the electrical systems done will help you identify any potential problems that could cost you further down the line.  

• Open up the engine hood: taking a look under the hood, particularly after a test drive, will help you see if there are any problems with the crankcase ventilation system, vacuum or oil leaks. Looking for smells as well as other signs is key to rooting out these problems.  

• Look into the service history: as with any used vehicle, checking the service history and looking up the registration number to see if the car’s ever been involved in an accident will help you to figure out if the seller is being truthful about its condition. 

To take a look at the used BMW cars currently available at SPOTiCAR, search our online directory or book an appointment at a local retailer and we can help you to find a high-quality vehicle that will perfectly match your needs.