What is life like with your car? Let us know and win £500 in John Lewis vouchers | No thanks
Should my parents keep or replace their eight-year-old BMW 318is?
My elderly parents have a dilemma. Their BMW 318is is now eight years old and, to date, has been reliable save for a few minor problems. They are after advice as to whether they should run the car into the ground or purchase another car. They would like to replace it with a newer BMW but funds won't allow. I have stated it is an awkward one to answer. They only do a few thousand miles a year and their car has approximately 43,000 miles on the clock. They could be lucky, but if not are BMW clutches expensive repairs? What do you think?
Asked on 30 July 2010 by Akerwood6
Answered by
Dan Harrison
It depends what they're willing to pay for peace of mind. If they want everything to be covered, they may be better off selling the BMW and - if funds allow - getting a Hyundai or KIA with a five / seven year warranty as standard. It hasn't quite got the kudos of a new BMW, but both manufacturers are now making excellent, well-equipped and economical to run cars.
Alternatively, there's the option of an aftermarket warranty from Warranty Direct. that will probably cost a few hundred pounds per year: www.warrantydirect.co.uk/quote_page1.html?apc=1265...0
Although the 3 Series is generally reasonably reliable and the car is low mileage, you will find that there could be some large bills in the coming years, bills which may seem excessively large for a car that may only be covering a few thousand miles per year.
Alternatively, there's the option of an aftermarket warranty from Warranty Direct. that will probably cost a few hundred pounds per year: www.warrantydirect.co.uk/quote_page1.html?apc=1265...0
Although the 3 Series is generally reasonably reliable and the car is low mileage, you will find that there could be some large bills in the coming years, bills which may seem excessively large for a car that may only be covering a few thousand miles per year.
Similar questions
I am becoming increasingly alarmed at upgrading our cars to more recent models. My wife and I operate three petrol cars: a 1996 Ford Mondeo V6, a 2008 (original shape) Ford Ka and a 1971 MG Midget 1275cc....
I have narrowed my search for what is possibly my last car to the Ford Kuga Zetec, Hyundai ix35 or Kia Sportage. I know that the Hyundai and Kia have long warranty periods but found the Kuga seemingly...
I am thinking of buying a 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer 1.6 Equipe. Can you give me your view on build quality, dependability and durability please? I am paying £4000 and it has done 24,000 miles.
.jpg)
