What should I have checked and replaced on my 13-year-old BMW 520i?
I have a 13-year-old BMW 520i SE auto saloon that now has 106,500 miles on the clock. It has served me well over the eight year period l've owned it, and it is comfortable, reliable and good to drive. I would like to keep it, but although l'm told it should be good for another 100,000 miles, l am concerned that at this stage of its life something major may go wrong. Could you please advise me on the likely items to look out for, and what steps should l take now to check and, if necessary, replace them earlier rather than later, when replacement might cost more than the vehicle is worth.
Don't fix what isn't broken. It's a good idea to change the ancillary belts, but the engine is chain cam so as long as you change the engine oil and filter every 5000 miles, the chain and tensioner should remain in good condition. It's wise to change the coolant and the brake fluid, and to have the automatic transmission fluid professionally changed by a member of www.fedauto.co.uk (this needs to be done at precisely the correct temperature and pressure or damage will ensue). The brake discs, brake pads etc are simply wearing parts, like tyres, that you replace when they wear out.
Answered by Honest John on
