I just bought an 89 260E with 113,000 miles. Car is very clean and I am happy with my purchase.

Question is, what "typically fails" on these vehicles? I am a previous BMW M3 owner and found great forums on BMW's with active interactions and help from other owners. I hope this board will prove to be as fruitful!

Just wondering what I should be looking out for on this car..Thanks! Tim

Hello,

I have an 89 260E and just crossed 135,000 miles. Here's what has failed/needed replacement in the past two years:

Necessary Fixes:
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Ignition coil
Motor Mounts
Brake Pads
Overvoltage relay
Fuel pump relay
Oxygen sensor
Tie Rods, Center Link, Steering Shock

Unnecessary/Cosmetic Changes:
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Headlight Assemblies (Got Euros)
6 1/2 inch rear speakers (Car had NO bass!)

Problems I Have Not Fixed Yet:
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Air in my freon
Engine leaks oil (but so what, all old things leak something.)

Recommendations:
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Get Z-Max oil/tranny/fuel additive kit. It actually works.

If the car shudders at idle, and if you are using 92+ octane fuel, switch to 89. Shuddering will stop or be greatly diminished, however, you may notice black smoke on very hard acceleration.

Eric Silver

By the way,

How are things in my soon-to-be-next-home, Sacramento?