Potential ZHP Purchaser; PPI Question

[zhpnsnv]

Or we can both check it out and also conduct an evaluation of beer quality in the greater Sicklerville area.

Droid X. Tapatalk. Use it.

Never even knew such a place existed, to be honest. So naturally a thorough investigation is in order.

[RERobbins]

Thanks for replying to my message. I just noticed that there's a ZHP coupe in San Diego that may be a better fit for what I'm looking for, so I'm going to hold off on the NJ and MI ZHPs for now. On the other hand, don't let me stop you from a beer run!

[kayger12]

Thanks for replying to my message. I just noticed that there's a ZHP coupe in San Diego that may be a better fit for what I'm looking for, so I'm going to hold off on the NJ and MI ZHPs for now. On the other hand, don't let me stop you from a beer run!

Good luck with the San Diego ZHP.

We'll be here if that one doesn't work out.

Droid X. Tapatalk. Use it.

[BCS_ZHP]

RERobbins,
I can cover the greater DC metro area for you if something pops up. Know of a couple nice 6 spd coupes in my area, one currently for sale, the other on the fence and have posted info on them previously for other members. Believe BimmerRules is currently pursuing one of them.
Bruce

[danewilson77]

I will cover Newport News and Virginia Beach.

HTC Thunderbolt+TT

[MPHATIK]

...Seattle area covered...

[static667]

The Mafia has eyes across the world. If you need help, the family is there. I have north eastern NC covered.

[KC ZHP]

Just went through this experience when purchasing my ZHP last year. Few learnings to share...

- PPI needs to include both mechanical and body condition. Many BMW independents may not be well versed in checking for evidence of prior body or paint damage - do not rely on the word of the owner in this area.

Unfortunately, I spend several hundred dollars on what I thought was a thorough PPI at a nationally known and respected BMW independent / tuner only to find the car had evidence of repaint in multiple areas, zenons did not function and engine codes were not identified. If these cars are not up-to-date on routine maintenance as well as addressing the known trouble areas, they are expensive to get in order.

There is surely a checklist elsewhere; however, here are some key areas of which to be aware with these cars - with the exception of regulators and subframe, I've addressed all these areas in my year of ownership:
- Vanos seals, rattle - common issues on these cars, particularly the ZHP
- Camshaft position sensor and coils - common failure item; an easy DIY
- ECU software - newer versions address engine stumble and hesitation issues
- DISA valve - common wear / failure item; an easy DIY
- Valve cover gasket - common wear item
- Window regulators - these will fail; check records for replacement
- ZHP alcantara wheel - this is a wear item - see vendor area for inexpensive re-wrap options
- Cooling system - cost of BMW ownership, factor for this expense depending on mileage, if it's due
- Front control arm bushings - routine wear item, part of price of BMW ownership
- Sedan ZKW zenons will fail - this is a design defect
- Rear subframe mounts - relatively rare; however, if found, pass on the car

Good luck with your search!

[Marcus-SanDiego]

Excellent point about the body work being part of the PPI.

In San Diego I always recommend Euro Auto Spot for PPIs. In addition to them knowing these cars well, they also inspect the car for paintwork. When it's a close call, they recruit 2M Autobody, which is right next door. I've seen Dave, the owner of 2M, help out on the PPI. Makes for a very thorough PPI.

I couldn't agree more about finding a shop that knows how to spot body issues, too.

[aurelius]

There is surely a checklist elsewhere...

That's a good list KC posted above. On the topic of checklists for prospective buyers & DIY/maintenance info for current owners, I finally "gathered my thoughts" and posted a document with info and links. It's a work-in-progress. I make changes here & there and I'm certainly open to suggestions on future edits, therefore consider re-downloading it once in a while.