[Grecobeemer]

So after owning several older BMW chassis (currently own e46 and an e39), I decided to buy an e90 project runner (sight unseen). Showed better in the pictures. After assessing it looks like it needs some work, so currently trying to weigh the costs and what I should do with it (sell and keep looking, build, fix, trade).

8/2005 325i Auto
Alpine White/Beige int base model
134k Clean Title
Overall looks straight chassis and exterior

Pros: Being a base model appeals to me, I like less things and a simpler driving experience (no heated seats, power seats etc.). I’m a bit “old school” with cars. Plus lighter weight. Low mileage for year, and clean title. Most everything in Charlotte is salvaged/“rebuilt” titles with high mileage and questionable repair history.

Cons: No history with the car, so unsure what issues might need work. Rear regulators shot (not a big deal), door panels peeling, needs oem fender (replaced with cheap Gordon aftermarket), haven’t test driven. Newest BMW I’ve owned/worked on.

Runs, drove it about 50 feet but doing a coolant flush before anything else

Anyway I grew up working on cars in our family’s repair/machine shop and always loved BMWs (have owned 5+), but this is the first "modern" BMW I’ve owned and wondering if I was a little too eager for a project. Limited to what I can do, so any insight/recommendations/advice would be greatly appreciated.

Currently located in Charlotte, NC

Thanks.

[oVeRdOsE.]

more info could help. year ? spec? options? state ? pics?

if it's a base model, grey with beige interior, automatic. bah, depends on the effort and price, but chance to let it go might be high.

however, if its a loaded 330xi manual with a optioned color, that could change.

[Efthreeoh]

Yeah OP, we need some details. Just saying it's an E90 really doesn't help. Year, miles and model i.e. 325i, 328i, 330i, 335i and is it x-drive (AWD)?

E90 post has touched every part of the E90 over the past 18 years, we can help with an assessment of your car. Pics would help too. Under the hood pics will really help.

[Grecobeemer]

Originally Posted by oVeRdOsE.

more info could help. year ? spec? options? state ? pics?

if it's a base model, grey with beige interior, automatic. bah, depends on the effort and price, but chance to let it go might be high.

however, if its a loaded 330xi manual with a optioned color, that could change.

Apologies 8/2005 325i Auto Alpine White/Beige int base model (very)

[Grecobeemer]

Originally Posted by Efthreeoh

Yeah OP, we need some details. Just saying it's an E90 really doesn't help. Year, miles and model i.e. 325i, 328i, 330i, 335i and is it x-drive (AWD)?

E90 post has touched every part of the E90 over the past 18 years, we can help with an assessment of your car. Pics would help too. Under the hood pics will really help.

Will try to get some after I clean it up a bit.

[Efthreeoh]

Originally Posted by Grecobeemer

Apologies 8/2005 325i Auto Alpine White/Beige int base model (very)

Miles?

[StradaRedlands]

Originally Posted by Grecobeemer

Apologies 8/2005 325i Auto Alpine White/Beige int base model (very)

Walk from that one, not worth the time or money IMO... good project car for some high school kid that wants to learn about cars.

Clean it up and detail it so it looks nice, then sell it.

If you got it for a good enough deal, you should break even. Maybe make a little something for your time. You won't get what you put into it if you do the basics like tires/brakes/battery.

[Grecobeemer]

Originally Posted by Efthreeoh

Miles?

134kish

[gbalthrop]

Originally Posted by Grecobeemer

... (currently own e46 and an e39), I decided to buy an e90 project runner (sight unseen)... looks like it needs some work... 8/2005 325i Auto... Runs, drove it about 50 feet but doing a coolant flush before anything else... I grew up working on cars in our family’s repair/machine shop and always loved BMWs (have owned 5+), but this is the first "modern" BMW I’ve owned and wondering if I was a little too eager for a project. Limited to what I can do, so any insight/recommendations/advice would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.

If you already have an E46 & E39, and are now ASSESSING a 2005 E90, it's TIME to get INPA/ISTA, ProTool, or SOME BMW-Specific Scan Tool/ diagnostic Software. Even a "Base Model" 325i N52 AT has 15 or more Control Modules, beginning with DME (Engine), EGS (AT), CAS (Car Access/ Locking/ Starting), DSC (Dynamic Stability Control - ABS), etc.

Proper Scan Tool, or Diagnostic Software (INPA/ISTA) can not only tell you what Fault Codes are currently present in each module, it can SHOW you Fault HISTORY Memory ("HistorienSpeicher). You can connect to each of the "Powertrain" Modules listed above (NOT CAS) & SEE the last 10 Faults that occurred. For the last 3 instances of each of those faults, you can see the MILEAGE and other system conditions (Temp, RPM, etc.) at moment Code was saved (Freeze Frame Data). WHY GUESS?? Your vehicle contains its HISTORY. Read it.

INPA or ISTA can also show you "Live Data", or INPUTS to a Module from a Sensor, such as ECTS (Engine Coolant Temp Sensor) signal/ temperature; Cam Angle (VANOS); Wheel Speed from each wheel Sensor; Climate Control Flap position, Refrigerant Pressure, Evaporator Temp, ALL for analysis of heating & cooling; etc.
It can ALSO allow you to "Activate" or "Trigger" an electrical component: Motor, Solenoid or light, such as to test Fuel Pump, Coolant Pump, VANOS Solenoid, VVT Actuator, Locking or Lighting Module OUTPUTS, etc.

If you have the "Datens/Data" files for each series (E90 uses "E89 Datens"), you can use INPA/ISTA on ALL THREE of your BMW's, assuming each has an OBD II Socket.

Hope you ALREADY know all that, but I did NOT until a few years ago. I have always maintained my own vehicles (for 60+ years ;-). I was partial to Jaguar & had 7 of them over the years, including an XJ-S V12, which I just sold (still running) 4 months ago. I avoided "Electronic Black Boxes", although I was good with regular wiring diagrams/ systems & Jaguar supplied all that in a $25 CD, along with complete Shop Manual.

So when I bought my 3/2007 Build 328xi N52K Seven years ago, I was NEW to Scan Tools, Diagnostic Software, & Electronic Control Modules (other than Engine & ABS ECU's). The "Learning Curve" is steep, there are a LOT of incorrect CONCEPTS 'out there', & it takes TIME, but if a retired Lawyer can do it, YOU CAN!!

My impressions from my own experience, and from following Forums (Jag & BMW) for 25+ years:
1) Most cars (on a Good Day) are BETTER than their Owners (at least on a Bad Day).
2) Many (50% or more?) Issues are due to "Operator Error" (Something done improperly by Owner/ Mek-nik).
3) Most Vehicles built in 90's & early 2000's SHOULD still be On-the-Road today if properly maintained. YMMV if you "Live in your car".
4) Electronic Control Modules are INTENDED to reduce mechanical component failures, such as relays, wiring faults (less "dedicated" wires), and make vehicle LESS prone to breakdown.
5) However, you need proper Scan Tool or Diagnostic Software to "Get Started" with Diagnosing the Fault, when a Fault DOES occur. You ALSO will need a $10 Multimeter & wiring diagrams (ISTA).
6) Until about a year ago, one could download INPA, E89 Datens, & ISTA FREE from MEGA. The software you NEED is still "Out There".
7) DIY is NOT for everyone. It takes time, concentration, & attention to DETAIL. It's a different skill set from "Wrench-turning", but conversely, nearly ANYONE with time & motivation CAN DIY (DIAGNOSE It Yourself).
George

[Grease23]

Specifically, what makes this one "a project"? At this point what do you perceive as being wrong with it?

[Grecobeemer]

Originally Posted by gbalthrop

If you already have an E46 & E39, and are now ASSESSING a 2005 E90, it's TIME to get INPA/ISTA, ProTool, or SOME BMW-Specific Scan Tool/ diagnostic Software. Even a "Base Model" 325i N52 AT has 15 or more Control Modules, beginning with DME (Engine), EGS (AT), CAS (Car Access/ Locking/ Starting), DSC (Dynamic Stability Control - ABS), etc.

Proper Scan Tool, or Diagnostic Software (INPA/ISTA) can not only tell you what Fault Codes are currently present in each module, it can SHOW you Fault HISTORY Memory ("HistorienSpeicher). You can connect to each of the "Powertrain" Modules listed above (NOT CAS) & SEE the last 10 Faults that occurred. For the last 3 instances of each of those faults, you can see the MILEAGE and other system conditions (Temp, RPM, etc.) at moment Code was saved (Freeze Frame Data). WHY GUESS?? Your vehicle contains its HISTORY. Read it.

INPA or ISTA can also show you "Live Data", or INPUTS to a Module from a Sensor, such as ECTS (Engine Coolant Temp Sensor) signal/ temperature; Cam Angle (VANOS); Wheel Speed from each wheel Sensor; Climate Control Flap position, Refrigerant Pressure, Evaporator Temp, ALL for analysis of heating & cooling; etc.
It can ALSO allow you to "Activate" or "Trigger" an electrical component: Motor, Solenoid or light, such as to test Fuel Pump, Coolant Pump, VANOS Solenoid, VVT Actuator, Locking or Lighting Module OUTPUTS, etc.

If you have the "Datens/Data" files for each series (E90 uses "E89 Datens"), you can use INPA/ISTA on ALL THREE of your BMW's, assuming each has an OBD II Socket.

Hope you ALREADY know all that, but I did NOT until a few years ago. I have always maintained my own vehicles (for 60+ years ;-). I was partial to Jaguar & had 7 of them over the years, including an XJ-S V12, which I just sold (still running) 4 months ago. I avoided "Electronic Black Boxes", although I was good with regular wiring diagrams/ systems & Jaguar supplied all that in a $25 CD, along with complete Shop Manual.

So when I bought my 3/2007 Build 328xi N52K Seven years ago, I was NEW to Scan Tools, Diagnostic Software, & Electronic Control Modules (other than Engine & ABS ECU's). The "Learning Curve" is steep, there are a LOT of incorrect CONCEPTS 'out there', & it takes TIME, but if a retired Lawyer can do it, YOU CAN!!

My impressions from my own experience, and from following Forums (Jag & BMW) for 25+ years:
1) Most cars (on a Good Day) are BETTER than their Owners (at least on a Bad Day).
2) Many (50% or more?) Issues are due to "Operator Error" (Something done improperly by Owner/ Mek-nik).
3) Most Vehicles built in 90's & early 2000's SHOULD still be On-the-Road today if properly maintained. YMMV if you "Live in your car".
4) Electronic Control Modules are INTENDED to reduce mechanical component failures, such as relays, wiring faults (less "dedicated" wires), and make vehicle LESS prone to breakdown.
5) However, you need proper Scan Tool or Diagnostic Software to "Get Started" with Diagnosing the Fault, when a Fault DOES occur. You ALSO will need a $10 Multimeter & wiring diagrams (ISTA).
6) Until about a year ago, one could download INPA, E89 Datens, & ISTA FREE from MEGA. The software you NEED is still "Out There".
7) DIY is NOT for everyone. It takes time, concentration, & attention to DETAIL. It's a different skill set from "Wrench-turning", but conversely, nearly ANYONE with time & motivation CAN DIY (DIAGNOSE It Yourself).
George

Thanks George. Yeah we had the top Snap-on diagnostic tool and Alldata. Been looking into bi-directional Obd2 scanners for scans and resets. Used a generic scanner to pull and clear codes. The idea was to do a coolant flush then run and see. Starts and runs, but needing a proper diagnostic tool.

Trying to decide if the investment is worth it at this moment. Any recommendations on laptop based software rather than buying something handheld based?

[StradaRedlands]

Originally Posted by Grecobeemer

Any recommendations on laptop based software rather than buying something handheld based?

As gbalthrop mentioned above, INPA/ISTA is exactly that!

[gbalthrop]

Originally Posted by Grecobeemer

... needing a proper diagnostic tool... Any recommendations on laptop based software rather than buying something handheld based?

Thoughts:
1) If you already have 2 BMW's I would get/install something like INPA & ISTA (BOTH). You would need separate "Datens"/ data files for each Chassis, but SAME Software.

2) If you have a Windows 10 Laptop, all you need to BUY is a K+DCAN Cable ($50 from BimmerGeeks), and install the software. You can use ISTA as a "Shop Manual" (Repair Procedures, Electrical Diagrams, etc.) WITHOUT being connected to vehicle.

3) There are NO good manuals that I know of for explaining HOW/WHY to use INPA or ISTA. I spent HOURS just looking at screens (Hundreds of them ;-) and saving ScreenPrints for each Module/ function so I could understand WHAT Data or software functions were available. I had to rely on wiring diagrams (TIS/ISTA) to learn what Sensors (INPUTS) or Components (Outputs) were connected to each Module.

4) Even if you do NOT have the Time/Interest, if you have the Software, you can request info on the Forums, and some Geek like me may show you HOW to ANALyze a certain function/ component/ system.

5) I figure if the Engineers & Techs at Munich developed and used INPA (Factory-Level Diagnostic Software) to analyze vehicle faults "off the assembly-line", that provides the BEST Data they knew how to use for Diagnosis, at least as of ~ 2005 when E9x production began. ONLY thing I can think of that other software CAN do is "Logging" Parameters, but you CAN view Live Data & Freeze Frame Data, to catch "Intermittent" faults in the act. INPA can show "History Memory" in PowerTrain Module Memory (DME,EGS,EKPS,DSC), even AFTER Fault is cleared in "Fault Memory"/ "FehlerSpeicher". THAT is particularly helpful in Analyzing "New-to-You" vehicle, such as in YOUR case.

6) INPA Menus are in English (BG Version), but much of Technical Labels & data descriptions is in German, so Google Translate is required. IF you take the time to ANALyze, translating Technical Terms from German to English actually makes you THIMK. Guys in Munich did NOT use the word "thingy".

7) ISTA (Dealer-Level Diagnostic Software & Shop Manual) is a bit LESS Capable as far as providing DATA, but is in English, apparently used to Train Techs (NOT to be Automotive Engineers, but to R&R), & contains Procedures & Wiring Diagrams (Shop Manual), along with "Test Plan" which is a "Flow Chart" type "Guided Diagnosis". AKA "Trail of Bread-Crumbs Approach".

So each Software has its features, and is best-suited for a particular user knowledge level, or fault situation. I have tried to learn the basics of EACH: INPA & ISTA. Jack of all trades/ Master of NONE.

Most Forum Folks "Know what they Know". They have learned to at least Read Fault Codes with Whatever. Most recommend whatever they have, even if they DON'T know the capabilities & LIMITATIONS of that Tool. Almost NO ONE on Forums is a Pro, or spends all day, EVERY day evaluating & comparing Tools. So the "Recommendations" you get on Forums (Including MINE ;-) are generally worth what you pay for them.
George

[Grecobeemer]

Just wanted to say thanks to all the posters, gives me a good starting point. The feedback reminds me of GRM and Bimmerforums, glad to be here (tbd for how long, might sell/might keep lol).

But I’ve always liked the E90, and wanted something with potential (3si + tune). Will get it further along then post pics. Thanks again.

[Efthreeoh]

Originally Posted by Grecobeemer

134kish

Psth... baby miles.

[chris55552]

Originally Posted by Grecobeemer

So after owning several older BMW chassis (currently own e46 and an e39), I decided to buy an e90 project runner (sight unseen). Showed better in the pictures. After assessing it looks like it needs some work, so currently trying to weigh the costs and what I should do with it (sell and keep looking, build, fix, trade).

8/2005 325i Auto
Alpine White/Beige int base model
134k Clean Title
Overall looks straight chassis and exterior

Pros: Being a base model appeals to me, I like less things and a simpler driving experience (no heated seats, power seats etc.). I’m a bit “old school” with cars. Plus lighter weight. Low mileage for year, and clean title. Most everything in Charlotte is salvaged/“rebuilt” titles with high mileage and questionable repair history.

Cons: No history with the car, so unsure what issues might need work. Rear regulators shot (not a big deal), door panels peeling, needs oem fender (replaced with cheap Gordon aftermarket), haven’t test driven. Newest BMW I’ve owned/worked on.

Runs, drove it about 50 feet but doing a coolant flush before anything else

Anyway I grew up working on cars in our family’s repair/machine shop and always loved BMWs (have owned 5+), but this is the first "modern" BMW I’ve owned and wondering if I was a little too eager for a project. Limited to what I can do, so any insight/recommendations/advice would be greatly appreciated.

Currently located in Charlotte, NC

Thanks.

I can offer some reassurance and inspire confidence,, I recently did the same thing and thus far have been really pleased with my decision. Im learning to do the maintanance and repair and replacement work as I go with zero auto mechanical experience and have been able to swing it thanks to this forum and youtube. With time I think youll be happy with your purchase, for me the engine alone was worth getting the vehicle, the N52 NA motor is one of my favorite engines of all time, its just so smooth, refined and a joy to operate.

[Cloverdale]

Originally Posted by Grecobeemer

So after owning several older BMW chassis (currently own e46 and an e39), I decided to buy an e90 project runner (sight unseen). Showed better in the pictures. After assessing it looks like it needs some work, so currently trying to weigh the costs and what I should do with it (sell and keep looking, build, fix, trade).

8/2005 325i Auto
Alpine White/Beige int base model
134k Clean Title
Overall looks straight chassis and exterior

Pros: Being a base model appeals to me, I like less things and a simpler driving experience (no heated seats, power seats etc.). I’m a bit “old school” with cars. Plus lighter weight. Low mileage for year, and clean title. Most everything in Charlotte is salvaged/“rebuilt” titles with high mileage and questionable repair history.

Cons: No history with the car, so unsure what issues might need work. Rear regulators shot (not a big deal), door panels peeling, needs oem fender (replaced with cheap Gordon aftermarket), haven’t test driven. Newest BMW I’ve owned/worked on.

Runs, drove it about 50 feet but doing a coolant flush before anything else

Anyway I grew up working on cars in our family’s repair/machine shop and always loved BMWs (have owned 5+), but this is the first "modern" BMW I’ve owned and wondering if I was a little too eager for a project. Limited to what I can do, so any insight/recommendations/advice would be greatly appreciated.

Currently located in Charlotte, NC

Thanks.

Dump as many of them as necessary in order to get yourself into a 335 which you're capable of quickly and easily modifying to 500hp for about $1500 through a Burger Motorsport or Arm pkg.

[fastboatster]

Originally Posted by Cloverdale

Dump as many of them as necessary in order to get yourself into a 335 which you're capable of quickly and easily modifying to 500hp for about $1500 through a Burger Motorsport or Arm pkg.

very likely, after another 3 - 4 grand in injectors and high pressure fuel pump)

[Efthreeoh]

OP, I re-read your updated original post. So, it wasn't clear before, you said you grew up working on cars in your family's machine shop, and have owned several older BMWs. The E90 is a modern BMW to you. You said you owned an E46 and E39.

Okay, well an E46 is not that far less modern than an E90. Any BMW past 1996 is OBDII compliant. The level of computer control is just a matter of degrees. I've owned BMWs for 35 years, spanning from the E30 to the E90. In the fleet right now I have an E36/7 (Z3), E86 (which is an E46 with an N52), and an E90. For a few years from 2019 to 2022 I owned a E46 330i. Prior to the E30 starting in 1988, I wrenched on a few E21's starting in the early 1980's. So my breath of BMW experience fits well with your question.

Other than choosing a scan tool format to use, there is not a big jump in tech from the E46 to the E90. If you worked on the E46, the E90 is not really much different. The N52 has an electric water pump and Valvetronic that the M52/54 in the E46 doesn't. If you've worked on BMWs predating the E90, the E90 is not much different than an E46.

You also said you are "limited to what I can do". What does that mean? Limited in funds, limited in a facility to work on the E90, limited in tools?

[Grecobeemer]

Originally Posted by Cloverdale

Dump as many of them as necessary in order to get yourself into a 335 which you're capable of quickly and easily modifying to 500hp for about $1500 through a Burger Motorsport or Arm pkg.

The e46 is my daily and will restore (seats, paint fixes/corrections, trim). It’s a pristine maintained seconded owner car. The e39 I let my mom drive when she’s visiting and excellent condition 130k miles one owner. So these are staying, and not worth selling.

If I keep the e90, then I’m happy to 3si and tune for the time being. I’ve always had NA, but if I want more hp, will look into a turbo build. But rather sort wheels, suspension etc. This is a low mile 2nd(?) owner car and kinda rare to find. 335i is great, but everything in CLT is trash titles with high miles, and rather have a budget build.

I should have looked here first, but that’s in the past. Hopefully this gives some more insight.

[Grecobeemer]

Originally Posted by Efthreeoh

OP, I re-read your updated original post. So, it wasn't clear before, you said you grew up working on cars in your family's machine shop, and have owned several older BMWs. The E90 is a modern BMW to you. You said you owned an E46 and E39.

Okay, well an E46 is not that far less modern than an E90. Any BMW past 1996 is OBDII compliant. The level of computer control is just a matter of degrees. I've owned BMWs for 35 years, spanning from the E30 to the E90. In the fleet right now I have an E36/7 (Z3), E86 (which is an E46 with an N52), and an E90. For a few years from 2019 to 2022 I owned a E46 330i. Prior to the E30 starting in 1988, I wrenched on a few E21's starting in the early 1980's. So my breath of BMW experience fits well with your question.

Other than choosing a scan tool format to use, there is not a big jump in tech from the E46 to the E90. If you worked on the E46, the E90 is not really much different. The N52 has an electric water pump and Valvetronic that the M52/54 in the E46 doesn't. If you've worked on BMWs predating the E90, the E90 is not much different than an E46.

You also said you are "limited to what I can do". What does that mean? Limited in funds, limited in a facility to work on the E90, limited in tools?

Thanks, I think I meant more modern CAN-BUS and number of computers. But I’m the same. Work on BMWs from the 70’s, e23, e21, e28, e38 etc. but will get the Bimmergeeks tool (thanks for the insight).

I’m limited in facility. Have a general tool kit, can buy anything else needed. Just a driveway at the moment. No garage at the moment. But appreciate the insight, it’s very helpful.

[Efthreeoh]

Originally Posted by Grecobeemer

Thanks, I think I meant more modern CAN-BUS and number of computers. But I’m the same. Work on BMWs from the 70’s, e23, e21, e28, e38 etc. but will get the Bimmergeeks tool (thanks for the insight).

I’m limited in facility. Have a general tool kit, can buy anything else needed. Just a driveway at the moment. No garage at the moment. But appreciate the insight, it’s very helpful.

So, then my experience with the E90 is the CANBUS system is very reliable. Messing around in the various modules is what I stay away from. My car has needed software service just once, for the oil life monitor issue (which I was the first owner to discover), so I let a BMW dealership try to solve it. It's a well-documented story here on E90 Post.

Otherwise, the E90 mechanically is just like every other BMW. If you've progressed with the brand as far back as the E21 through the E46, the E90 will not be a challenge. All the common E90 issues are well documented on E90 Post in the DIY section. The only real special tools are Torx and eTorx sockets/drivers and a BMW scan tool. If you get into wheel bearing and suspension work, then you'll need a spring compressor, bearing/busing pressing kits, and a hub axle removal tool. But all those are the same tools 3-series have needed since the E21.

George @gbalthrop can solve nearly any electrical issue in the network you may have. There are plenty of members here too besides George who have dug deep into the E90's CAN.