Buying an M3 with accident: What to look out for

phichi1106 · 07-07-2016, 10:46 AM

Don't want to beat a dead horse but I'm interested in buying a 2009 E90. He has provided all the service records for the car and disclosed to me the car was in an accident in 2010 (passenger front). I'm still waiting on the repair records and he said they were $12k before anything. I don't find it all shocking because I hit a mile marker once in a loaner and my insurance bill said it cost $7500 in a 328i. He came down on the price to something agreeable.

I won't be able to see the car in person as it's 1000 miles away. I am waiting for a PPI to be done (at PSI in Winter Park, FL). What things in general should I have them look out for. I was thinking:
-Battery was replaced in 2013, I was thinking of them checking the charge
-Engine ticking
-Brakes pads/rotors? car has 45k miles
-Vanos
-Leaks
-Belts, hoses
-Evaporator was replaced 2013.
-Spark plugs were done 2012 @ 30k
Anything else I'm missing?

Just got the accident repair list. Happened with 7k on the odometer and it's at 48k now. List of repairs include: front bumper, headlight, fender, hood.

General thoughts on the purchase as well? Everything checks out well from the service records after the repair, has run perfectly aside from a few loose items. It looks like he's just selling because he just doesn't drive it anymore (life changes, a few children and shitty work commute).

As for people going to say it'll hurt resale in the future. I planned to drive this car for a long time (150k miles?) so that would be a little moot.

Thanks for the input guys.

yidgyi · 07-07-2016, 10:58 AM

I would avoid it if possible. Cars that have been in accidents are never the same. The structure/frame of the car could be compromised. Also, body panel alignment tend to be off after accidents. I would check body panel alignments. (I.E. the hood to the side arches and front bumper.)

DSilk · 07-07-2016, 11:01 AM

An accident may or may not have caused structural damage to the frame, and repairs may or may not have been done to a high standard. As with any used car, a thorough pre-purchase inspection is in order. I would also hire somebody from a top notch body shop to take a look at the repair work that was done and assess it.

EJT86 · 07-07-2016, 11:06 AM

I'd avoid it too and not only because of the accident. At 45k assuming it's never had a brake job it'll need one soon and maybe replace the diff fluid plus it's nearing the common age for throttle actuators to go. I'm not positive but I don't think "engine ticking" is the only symptom of bad bearings and pre lci M3s are more susceptible to this issue as explained to me by a tech at Turner. It'd be a little different if you were able or willing to see and drive the car in person

6ixSpd · 07-07-2016, 11:13 AM

-If you have the repair record showing the items replaced, does it show the name of the body shop/facility that did the repairs? Google it to see if they're a BMW approved repair shop.
-Do the repairs mention any framework?
-From the items you've listed, it sounds like the PO clipped the corner of the car. And at such early mileage, $12k sounds about right for an almost new car getting new OEM parts. Doesn't seem too alarming.
-The biggest issue I see here is the inability to go inspect the car in person. Normally a non-issue but in this case, you want to see how things were fixed (panel alignment, paint matching, durability of the repair work since 7K, etc)

If the price is a lot less than a clean car and the savings are worth it to you, I'd fly out and see it before buying it. A couple hundred dollar plane ticket is nothing compared to the headaches and woes with regretting a $30k purchase.

Amirsm3 · 07-07-2016, 11:16 AM

No other examples in your area that are cleaner - or at the very least close enough for you to see in person?

Flying Ace · 07-07-2016, 11:22 AM

how great of a deal is he giving you where you're seriously considering this car?

also it says you have a '12 M3. Why do you need this one? you doing a track build?

phichi1106 · 07-07-2016, 11:24 AM

I'm not locked into buying this. The repairs were done by the collision center of orlando. They are certified BMW but their reviews aren't quite spectacular. A PPI will be done by PSI in Winter Park, FL. I've informed them of this thread. Honestly if things aren't perfect, I'll just say no. I'm in no rush to purchase.

Also for 2009-2011 E90's with a 6MT that are 100% stock... yea those are hard to come with some people asking for ~40k lately

Oh I had a '12 because of life changes and as me and the gf got more serious, it was the right thing to do. Now things are sorted away and my promotion let's me WFH 100%. I wanted something enjoyable again and I don't have to deal with traffic on a daily basis.

EJT86 · 07-07-2016, 11:34 AM

What's his asking price

phichi1106 · 07-07-2016, 11:40 AM

I've attached the repair list

Zertag01 · 07-07-2016, 12:16 PM

1-Start the car with the key in your pocket and look for the DSC triangle if you get this light on the dash that could be major work if you don't have warranty2- look under the front bumper for the cover that protect the hoses if this panel is not attach the car was not service by BMW 3-Used the center console and go to vehicle information that go to service it should say all systems good 4-Stand in the back of the car and have some one drive the car look for frame damage. If you can do this because the car is out of state have the do it and sent you pictures.

phichi1106 · 07-07-2016, 01:30 PM

Thanks for the input guys... I'm going to opt walking away from this one.

Yvette · 07-07-2016, 02:12 PM

I wouldnt buy one that has over $10k repair bill

EJT86 · 07-07-2016, 02:25 PM

Buy Flying Aces M3 since he's apparently too good for us and his M3

doogee · 07-07-2016, 03:02 PM

I wouldn't be afraid of that car. Mine had almost the exact same kind of repair done in the past and everything was repaired top notch, no one would ever be able to tell.

I don't see any body/frame repairs so I'd say you're all good!

The repairs done, in my opinion are no different than someone going to a body shop for a front end repaint. Parts come off, parts go on.

Just make sure it is thoroughly inspected!

NashvegasR · 07-07-2016, 04:58 PM

The reason *not* to buy this car is line C81 on the repair estimate. Unibody pull. That prob means they did do some slight unbending and measurement of the frame (probably front frame rail that supports bumper and fender.

6ixSpd · 07-07-2016, 08:13 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Zertag01

1-Start the car with the key in your pocket and look for the DSC triangle if you get this light on the dash that could be major work if you don't have warranty2- look under the front bumper for the cover that protect the hoses if this panel is not attach the car was not service by BMW 3-Used the center console and go to vehicle information that go to service it should say all systems good 4-Stand in the back of the car and have some one drive the car look for frame damage. If you can do this because the car is out of state have the do it and sent you pictures.

This is some seriously dumb advice. 90% of this post doesn't make sense.

drwankel · 07-07-2016, 08:33 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by NashvegasR

The reason *not* to buy this car is line C81 on the repair estimate. Unibody pull. That prob means they did do some slight unbending and measurement of the frame (probably front frame rail that supports bumper and fender.

Ding ding ding. Winner. Wouldn't touch a unibody pull with a ten foot pole.

Flying Ace · 07-07-2016, 10:37 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by EJT86

Buy Flying Aces M3 since he's apparently too good for us and his M3

I concur, op should buy my car

EJT86 · 07-07-2016, 10:39 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by drwankel

Ding ding ding. Winner. Wouldn't touch a unibody pull with a ten foot pole.

What if they used said 10 foot pole and welded it on to reinforce the damaged frame?

WingZeroX5 · 07-07-2016, 10:41 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by the6M3

This is some seriously dumb advice. 90% of this post doesn't make sense.

Roflmao, I wanted to say the same thing, but the app crashed and I just said screw it.

WingZeroX5 · 07-07-2016, 10:42 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Zertag01

1-Start the car with the key in your pocket and look for the DSC triangle if you get this light on the dash that could be major work if you don't have warranty2- look under the front bumper for the cover that protect the hoses if this panel is not attach the car was not service by BMW 3-Used the center console and go to vehicle information that go to service it should say all systems good 4-Stand in the back of the car and have some one drive the car look for frame damage. If you can do this because the car is out of state have the do it and sent you pictures.

5. Attach random photos

You forgot to add check the blinker fluid in your convoluted list

07-07-2016, 10:46 AM	#1
phichi1106 Enlisted Member 12 Rep 45 Posts Drives: '11 BMW M3 Join Date: Mar 2009 Location: NJ iTrader: (3)	Buying an M3 with accident: What to look out for Don't want to beat a dead horse but I'm interested in buying a 2009 E90. He has provided all the service records for the car and disclosed to me the car was in an accident in 2010 (passenger front). I'm still waiting on the repair records and he said they were $12k before anything. I don't find it all shocking because I hit a mile marker once in a loaner and my insurance bill said it cost $7500 in a 328i. He came down on the price to something agreeable. I won't be able to see the car in person as it's 1000 miles away. I am waiting for a PPI to be done (at PSI in Winter Park, FL). What things in general should I have them look out for. I was thinking: -Battery was replaced in 2013, I was thinking of them checking the charge -Engine ticking -Brakes pads/rotors? car has 45k miles -Vanos -Leaks -Belts, hoses -Evaporator was replaced 2013. -Spark plugs were done 2012 @ 30k Anything else I'm missing? Just got the accident repair list. Happened with 7k on the odometer and it's at 48k now. List of repairs include: front bumper, headlight, fender, hood. General thoughts on the purchase as well? Everything checks out well from the service records after the repair, has run perfectly aside from a few loose items. It looks like he's just selling because he just doesn't drive it anymore (life changes, a few children and shitty work commute). As for people going to say it'll hurt resale in the future. I planned to drive this car for a long time (150k miles?) so that would be a little moot. Thanks for the input guys. Last edited by phichi1106; 07-07-2016 at 10:56 AM..
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07-07-2016, 10:58 AM	#2
yidgyi ///M 237 Rep 703 Posts Drives: 2013 E92 M3 ZCP Join Date: Oct 2015 Location: Northern VA iTrader: (0)	I would avoid it if possible. Cars that have been in accidents are never the same. The structure/frame of the car could be compromised. Also, body panel alignment tend to be off after accidents. I would check body panel alignments. (I.E. the hood to the side arches and front bumper.) __________________ Follow me on IG: dre.pt
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07-07-2016, 11:01 AM	#3
DSilk Major 550 Rep 1,148 Posts Drives: 2008 BMW M3 Coupe Join Date: Jun 2015 Location: South Florida iTrader: (0) Garage List 2015 Jaguar XJ [0.00] 2015 Jaguar XF [0.00] 2014 VW GTI [0.00] 2008 BMW M3 Coupe [0.00] 2007 VW Passat 2.0T [0.00]	An accident may or may not have caused structural damage to the frame, and repairs may or may not have been done to a high standard. As with any used car, a thorough pre-purchase inspection is in order. I would also hire somebody from a top notch body shop to take a look at the repair work that was done and assess it.
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07-07-2016, 11:06 AM	#4
EJT86 Brigadier General 2383 Rep 3,736 Posts Drives: 2018 M2 Join Date: Mar 2014 Location: Boston, MA iTrader: (0) Garage List [0.00] 2018 BMW M2 [0.00]	I'd avoid it too and not only because of the accident. At 45k assuming it's never had a brake job it'll need one soon and maybe replace the diff fluid plus it's nearing the common age for throttle actuators to go. I'm not positive but I don't think "engine ticking" is the only symptom of bad bearings and pre lci M3s are more susceptible to this issue as explained to me by a tech at Turner. It'd be a little different if you were able or willing to see and drive the car in person
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07-07-2016, 11:13 AM	#5
6ixSpd Save the manuals! 6022 Rep 6,752 Posts Drives: '16 M3, '23 718 Spyder Join Date: Feb 2016 Location: 416 iTrader: (4)	-If you have the repair record showing the items replaced, does it show the name of the body shop/facility that did the repairs? Google it to see if they're a BMW approved repair shop. -Do the repairs mention any framework? -From the items you've listed, it sounds like the PO clipped the corner of the car. And at such early mileage, $12k sounds about right for an almost new car getting new OEM parts. Doesn't seem too alarming. -The biggest issue I see here is the inability to go inspect the car in person. Normally a non-issue but in this case, you want to see how things were fixed (panel alignment, paint matching, durability of the repair work since 7K, etc) If the price is a lot less than a clean car and the savings are worth it to you, I'd fly out and see it before buying it. A couple hundred dollar plane ticket is nothing compared to the headaches and woes with regretting a $30k purchase. __________________ '16 M3 \| '23 718 Spyder Past: E92 M3, F87 M2, E39 M5, etc
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07-07-2016, 11:16 AM	#6
Amirsm3 Brigadier General 514 Rep 3,482 Posts Drives: 2011 Space Grey e90 M3 Join Date: Feb 2014 Location: Williams/Flagstaff, AZ iTrader: (3)	No other examples in your area that are cleaner - or at the very least close enough for you to see in person? __________________ 2011 e90 M3 Space Grey DCT ZCP- eAs, BMW Performance, Agency Power, Macht Schnell, iND, Milltek, Volk, Challenge, Stoptech, Ohlins BMWCCA:518970
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07-07-2016, 11:22 AM	#7
Flying Ace Lieutenant General 4986 Rep 11,891 Posts Drives: G05 45e, 997.1 & 991.1 GT3s Join Date: Jul 2014 Location: SF, CA iTrader: (5)	how great of a deal is he giving you where you're seriously considering this car? also it says you have a '12 M3. Why do you need this one? you doing a track build? __________________ 22 Phytonic/Coffee X5 45e (CoVID-free) 08 Speed Yellow 911 GT3 Sharkwerks 12 AW/Cinnamon X5d Sports Pkg (retired) 14 AW/Beige M6GC ZCP, MPE, V2 steering wheel, vorsteiner (retired) 08 SSII/Black E90 M3 (retired)
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07-07-2016, 11:24 AM	#8
phichi1106 Enlisted Member 12 Rep 45 Posts Drives: '11 BMW M3 Join Date: Mar 2009 Location: NJ iTrader: (3)	I'm not locked into buying this. The repairs were done by the collision center of orlando. They are certified BMW but their reviews aren't quite spectacular. A PPI will be done by PSI in Winter Park, FL. I've informed them of this thread. Honestly if things aren't perfect, I'll just say no. I'm in no rush to purchase. Also for 2009-2011 E90's with a 6MT that are 100% stock... yea those are hard to come with some people asking for ~40k lately Oh I had a '12 because of life changes and as me and the gf got more serious, it was the right thing to do. Now things are sorted away and my promotion let's me WFH 100%. I wanted something enjoyable again and I don't have to deal with traffic on a daily basis.
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07-07-2016, 11:34 AM	#9
EJT86 Brigadier General 2383 Rep 3,736 Posts Drives: 2018 M2 Join Date: Mar 2014 Location: Boston, MA iTrader: (0) Garage List [0.00] 2018 BMW M2 [0.00]	What's his asking price
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07-07-2016, 12:16 PM	#11
Zertag01 Private 0 Rep 52 Posts Drives: 2011 BMW M3 Join Date: May 2016 Location: Washington DC iTrader: (0)	Buying an M3 with accident: What to look out for 1-Start the car with the key in your pocket and look for the DSC triangle if you get this light on the dash that could be major work if you don't have warranty2- look under the front bumper for the cover that protect the hoses if this panel is not attach the car was not service by BMW 3-Used the center console and go to vehicle information that go to service it should say all systems good 4-Stand in the back of the car and have some one drive the car look for frame damage. If you can do this because the car is out of state have the do it and sent you pictures. Attached Images
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07-07-2016, 01:30 PM	#12
phichi1106 Enlisted Member 12 Rep 45 Posts Drives: '11 BMW M3 Join Date: Mar 2009 Location: NJ iTrader: (3)	Thanks for the input guys... I'm going to opt walking away from this one.
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07-07-2016, 02:12 PM	#13
Yvette Major General 761 Rep 7,408 Posts Drives: M Join Date: Sep 2006 Location: Vancouver iTrader: (19)	I wouldnt buy one that has over $10k repair bill
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07-07-2016, 02:25 PM	#14
EJT86 Brigadier General 2383 Rep 3,736 Posts Drives: 2018 M2 Join Date: Mar 2014 Location: Boston, MA iTrader: (0) Garage List [0.00] 2018 BMW M2 [0.00]	Buy Flying Aces M3 since he's apparently too good for us and his M3
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07-07-2016, 03:02 PM	#15
doogee Major 748 Rep 1,256 Posts Drives: '08 M3, '09 328xi Sport Wagon Join Date: Oct 2008 Location: Ancaster, ON, Canada iTrader: (0)	I wouldn't be afraid of that car. Mine had almost the exact same kind of repair done in the past and everything was repaired top notch, no one would ever be able to tell. I don't see any body/frame repairs so I'd say you're all good! The repairs done, in my opinion are no different than someone going to a body shop for a front end repaint. Parts come off, parts go on. Just make sure it is thoroughly inspected! __________________
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07-07-2016, 04:58 PM	#16
NashvegasR Lieutenant 174 Rep 532 Posts Drives: 2016 M4 F83 Join Date: Dec 2012 Location: Portland, OR iTrader: (4)	The reason not to buy this car is line C81 on the repair estimate. Unibody pull. That prob means they did do some slight unbending and measurement of the frame (probably front frame rail that supports bumper and fender.
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