Does the engine need to be replaced?

Question

I am looking at 2 different BMWs to buy.

1997 BMW Convertible (Asking $650)
The engine is seized. The owner was driving it and it seized up. Can it be repaired by unboring it and getting new pistons? Cleared with oil or wd40? Or does it have to be replaced?

2001 BMW Sedan (Asking $1000)
Engine overheated and is cracked where the coolant goes into the engine. Owner says the engine needs to be replaced and it costs nearly $4000. Is that really necessary? Can just the part that is cracked be replaced? He says it still runs, but it pours out the coolant and quits.

I know I can get a used engine for either for about $200 at a "pull a part". Is either worth it? Which is my best choice?

Answer 1

Run away from both. Both are worth scrap value. About $200.



How many engine installs have you done on Beemers?



How well equipped is your shop?



A $200 engine will likely be worn out junk, so budget for an engine stand and at minimum: compression test, replace timing belt, tensioner, any external seals, plus normal maintenance: oil, air filter, plugs, wires, distributor, etc.



I'd budget at least $5,000 for your sub $1,000 trashed car project, if you can do 90% of the work yourself (have truck with engine boom, shop, tools, engine hoist, etc).



Also, don't forget these cars with fried engines were likely abused, so add in new brakes, possible clutch/tranny, tie rods/ball joints... not to mention any driveline issues, electrical, etc.

Answer 2

When you said: "unboring", you told us you don't know anything about engine repair...nothing wrong with that, except that it indicates you'll be paying someone, which means you might as well save a few dollars and buy a car that doesn't need repairs. A Honda or Toyota would serve you well, not a BMW.

Answer 3

Neither is worth spending more than an hour on. They're both done. if you pay $650 for the first car, the guy selling it will laugh all the way to the bank and then tell his buddies about the sucker he found.

Answer 4

An old Beemer is money pit. A old Beemer with a bad engine is a boat anchor. RUN run run run, away from both of these.

Answer 5

How about taking that $1650.00 put it in a bank and walk for a while untill you can

save another 2 or 3 grand and buy you somthing that runs???