Just bought a 98 ti

[rholbrook]

Hello all, just bought a 98 ti automatic with 130k. I bought it for 4900, it has a few minor cosmetic issues but it runs strong and still drives tight. Wanted a stick but settled without. Sweet driving car I love it! Does anyone know of any common mechanical issues to look out for? I'd like to take it in and get it serviced and looked over thouroughly. What is the best online place to find genuine parts? Thanks...

Rick

[morrphix]

rholbrook

Well congrats on your purchase, I've had my 98 for about a year and must say its been my favorite of cars =). Anyways two problems I've seen crop up and seem pretty common are:

- The power lock actuators burn out and need to be replaced. Still haven't done mine as i haven't had the time yet.

- A switch in the brake peddle breaks and starts to burn the fuse for the instrument cluster. This was hard to figure out when it first happened as i was on the highway and my whole instrument cluster (gauges, trip computer etc) and cruise control went dead and it kept frying replacement fuses. Be careful as this shorts the break lights out as well as they are on the same bus, ie more fun for the cops . I would have replaced it myself but needed the car running asap, $130 job at the shop to fix her up.

As far as online parts places I'm curious as well.

[roadrash]

Pelican Parts is a good source of OEM parts.

[rholbrook]

I googled "bmw factory parts" and found some nice sites after searching a bit. I really don't mind those minor gremlins, as long as the engine and tranny run tight. BMW's are like any foreign product, they outperform the rest by far when they aren't broken. When they do break it takes special teqniques to fix and costs more money. Goes the same for all foreign helicopter companies... I fly for a living. Gotta love the Germans, French, and Italians.Thanks for the reply

[PeteN95]

Welcome to another NW ti! Keep an eye on the rad and plastic hose fittings.