Re: E34 525 "Service Engine" Risk Assessment (URGENT)

["Ron Buchalski" <rbuchals@xxxxxxxxxxx>]

The Service Engine light is from the Service Indicator system, which 
monitors usage of the car and reminds you when service is due.  It's not an 
indication of a problem.  It's not the Check Engine light.  A check engine 
light would illuminate if there was a problem with the fuel, ignition or 
emission system.

It's an indication that Inspection II is due.  Inspection II involves oil 
and filter change, diff oil change, trans oil change (manual trans), new 
plugs, new air filter, new microfilter, new fuel filter, checking of all 
other fluid levels, lubrication of all hinges and latches, checking of 
bulbs, etc.

If you do your own work, you could tackle this for less than $500.  However, 
if you aren't familiar with the car, or don't do your own work, pay the 
$500.  That's actually a good price for Inspection II.

Ron Buchalski
BMWCCA #76387
1995 E36 M3
1993 E34 525iT
1999 Mazda Miata


> Date: Sat, 5 Jul 2003 09:37:10 -0500
> From: "Karl Zemlin" <karl@domain.elided>
> Subject: E34 525 "Service Engine" Risk Assessment (URGENT)
>
> I'm trying to firm up a deal on a car that is about 2 hours away - I 
> haven't
> been to see it yet.
>
> The car's "SERVICE ENGINE" light is on.  The dealer (not BMW) has made two
> offers.
>
> Price X - take the car as-is and assume all risk associated with the light 
> -
> I can get the car today.
> Price X + $500 - They will take the car to a BMW dealer and have the 
> Service
> Engine light taken care of - they will hold the car until my next chance to
> get it, 7/14.
>
> Another digest member familiar with E34s has seen and driven the car and
> given a very positive assessment.
>
> How much risk am I taking that the Service Engine light will cost me more
> than $500?
>
> Thanks folks
>
> ------------------------------
>
> End of bmw-digest V10 #23
> *************************
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