[CKemp]

So I understand that the N63 - especially the pre-TU prior to 2013 - is notorious for a multitude of issues. I'm currently trying to find an F10 550i within my area at or below the $10k range. I know that's a bit of a rarity and a risky stretch, but I also have other options if I didn't think I would find anything worth looking at.

Of course there is plenty of risk involved with any n63 past 100k miles, but I have been told quite a bit that as long as there has been consistent oil changes at around 2500-3500 intervals, there's no defects, and the car has been taken care of well, there shouldn't be a problem. One of the biggest factors, of course, being the owner's care of the car.

I just found a deal that's actually within range of me that really has me excited but also terrified... it's a 2012 550i with 150k miles that's listed for $8k with the M Sport Package. Normally I would've shut my excitement off for this one because of the risky mileage, but I got the VIN from the guy and thoroughly inspected the CarFax. Based on what I saw, the car had plenty of preventative maintenance, and each owner (there has been four of them) have each changed its oil at intervals ranging between 2500 and 4k miles.

The fact alone that I haven't even seen an F10 550i out there that has more than 150k at all is something that does concern me. Another part that, unfortunately, has me attached is the cinnamon interior. I haven't seen a viable option in that interior color and I absolutely love it. Everything in and outside of the car appears visually pristine from the pictures, including the engine bay.

The mileage though. That's what's killing me. I would be much for comfortable with a 535i with 150k than a 550i with a 150k for sure, but I would certainly take the 50i over the 35i if they both were at around 100-130k, because I was originally in the market for a 50i and I was looking for that power of the n63. I've been doing a lot of research on it lately, but I know that if I did own it, I would baby it for sure.

Given all of that, is there a realistic possibility of this turning out positively for me if I were to purchase it? Also, and I suppose more importantly, is it even a good idea in the first place?

Thanks!

[ezaircon4jc]

Four owners over 10 years (about 2 1/2 years each)? Seems each is kicking the N63 can down the road.

[Houranimd49]

I’ve ran into a very similar situation. It was a 2013 550i with 1 owner and 133k miles. However, there’s was absolutely nothing on the CARFAX regarding anything maintenance related. But considering it was 1 owner, I looked into it more. I’ve had my f10 535 for almost 5 years, so I am already familiar with driving dynamics and what to expect. This 550 drove like dream, and appeared very well cared for.

My point in this story is that when looking into a car, there are multiple factors and variables to consider and even ignore. I bought my F25 N55 with 88k miles, 1 owner, and whoever had it went to the dealer for all maintainence (including VCG and oil pan gasket!). In your case, I may disregard the mileage if the car has been meticulously maintained, but I will consider 4 owners as a little bit much. To the point of walking away from the car (which I did). But 4 owners could mean many things. Did these owners buy a car they couldn’t afford? Was the car itself a hassle to maintain for them? Or was the car a headache with multiple problems? It’s hard to tell.

Another factor I look at is the first owner. I check to see how many miles the first owneer drove on it compared to the amount of time they had it. I had a 135i with 3 prior owners but the first owner owned it for 70,000 miles for the first 7 years. I.e this car endured likely the same driving conditions for the first 7 years/70k miles of its life. That’s a big deal. 7 years means someone likely truly enjoyed this car and cared for it.

I can go on and on but I think you get the point. Hopefully you can use this in your decision making.

[SWFLf10]

For that price, personally I’d say it’s worth the risk. I’d check it out in person and make sure there aren’t any red flags like strange engine noises, clunky suspension components, or the ac not working.

[ezaircon4jc]

Originally Posted by SWFLf10

For that price, personally I’d say it’s worth the risk. I’d check it out in person and make sure there aren’t any red flags like strange engine noises, clunky suspension components, or the ac not working.

Since the OP is looking for a sub $10K car, I doubt he has the money for anything major that would crop-up. If he did, he could easily find a newer example.

[CKemp]

Thank you all for your advice! I’ve taken it to heart and walked away from this one. I am, however, going to look at another listing of a 550i with 115k miles (still quite a bit but it’s not 150k) for about the same price. Let’s hope it turns out well in the long run!

[ChiltiCoatl89]

If you take the time to save money up to 15-20k you will have better horizons with cars that are more likely better cared for, and with less miles. Or consider an extended warranty if that is up your alley if possible.
N63TUs are after 2012, known for less issues than the N63, a free Vin decoder is available as well just type in a search BMW Vin decoder, and you can pinpoint which packages you want and also make sure the Engine is of the year you are looking for.