BMW 320, 2008, Kangasala

The only MOT remarks were an exhaust leak (repaired by welding a new flex joint), a blown bulb (not yet replaced — one angel eye bulb is burnt), and a windscreen crack (not repaired, has been passed for several years with only advisory).

There was no steady engine fault light, but sometimes after longer driving a yellow DPF symbol appears and then clears. Apparently this could be a timed reminder to replace the DPF, but it has not been investigated further. The canister was cleaned with solvents while removed for the exhaust repair and looked normal inside. Also there is the blown bulb warning mentioned above, not yet replaced.

The car builds some pressure in the cooling system. It seems to have done this for at least a year, although the car has been used nearly daily for many thousands of kilometres. The previous owner was not especially aware as symptoms have been mild. A small amount of coolant has occasionally leaked. It was investigated enough to know that replacing the EGR cooler did not change the situation. The cylinder head was also quickly inspected and no obvious visible cause was found in the head or block. Reassembled with a new gasket and bolts, but the issue remained. Hard to say if there is a very small hairline crack not visible to the eye. There were no signs of coolant in the combustion chambers. Oils and coolant looked normal and clean, so they have not mixed. During the repair the old red coolant got a little contaminated and has not yet been replaced — 20 litres of new blue coolant will be included. The car has been run in place and on short drives; this does not prevent driving. Especially with the expansion cap open there was no excess pressure and hardly any leaks from hose connections. When run stationary temperatures measured around 90°C as expected. Note: no stop-leak products have been tried. Nothing lost if the buyer wants to try; with luck a small leak might seal, or it might not.

One of the rear wheel bearings probably makes a little noise.

The remote central locking sometimes works for a while but usually does not. The antenna amplifier under the spoiler has got moisture, which is a known fault on these models. Both keys have been measured to transmit a signal. The central locking itself works and the doors can be opened/closed normally with the metal keys.

We have neither the time nor interest to investigate further. The car seems driveable for now and felt willing on short test drives. Not all equipment has been fully tested, so there may be other minor issues. Overall it is fairly tidy and doesn't look as heavily used as the mileage suggests. Sold for repair or parts due to the faults, although it may serve fine as, for example, a winter runabout. Collection by driving is possible at least to nearby areas. No guarantees for longer trips, but personally I would drive it further. It has been driven to us from Turku with these symptoms without problems. Coolant and even water will be included as spares.