Going to buy a BMW E28 - what to look for?

[Troels K]

Hi guys,

I am about to buy a E28 518i (small engine, just for cruising/summer car).
Its from '85 and got manual gearbox.

I've seen it on pictures, and it got a bit rust in the bonnet (nothing to worry about). But where in particular should i be looking?

[Bimmerteck]

Around the front shock towers, in the floor boards under the carpet if the windows/vents have been leaking(be sure to feel for wet carpet), and in the bottom of the rear doors are where I most often find rust on e28 chassis.

[ZUBZ]

Around the front shock towers, in the floor boards under the carpet if the windows/vents have been leaking(be sure to feel for wet carpet), and in the bottom of the rear doors are where I most often find rust on e28 chassis.

good advice. thanks

[tcturbo91]

check the trunk also. the trunk seals go and water leaks directly into the trunk. pull up the carpet and check the spare tire well.

[R.C.]

I second all the things posted above as well as checking the shock mounts for the US bumpers - but since you said "bonnet" im going to guess your will have Euro bumpers. But still check under there if you can.

[Troels K]

Thanks guys!

[MikeG]

check the fenders and underneath the rear carpeting on the floor. also the corners of the trunk on the inside. by the lights. and the inside of the sunroof if it has one.