The ultimate guide to picking a used BMW

As one of the world's most famous car manufacturers, Germany's BMW is a fine choice when you go to purchase a used-car.

However, with so many models available in used car showrooms, it can be tricky to know exactly which one you should go for. Sporty? Spacious? Reliable? All of the above?

Here's a run through some of the things you need to think about when picking a used BMW.

Reliability

Simply by choosing to go for a used BMW, you're almost guaranteed to get a reliable car. It's often one of the things the brand is criticised for, but we beg to differ. With the correct maintenance, BMWs are actually highly reliable, regardless of model. Just make sure you change the oil when needed and look out for certain electronic issues that could worsen over time if left. When you buy a used BMW from Carbase, you'll bring the car in every 12 months for a check-up.

Budget

Like any big purchase, it's crucial you know exactly how much you have to spend. Naturally some used BMW models will cost more than others (the BMW X5, for example, can cost £25,749, whereas a BMW 3 Series could cost just £4,000).

There's more to think about than just the upfront cost too; you need make sure that running the car sits comfortably within your budget and buying a service plan can help reduce costs. You can always get in touch with us here at Carbase with any BMW-related questions.

Eco-friendliness

BMW was actually named the 'most eco-friendly car firm' by Clean Green Cars. The result was predominantly due to BMWs average of 0.74 grams of carbon dioxide per kilometre per brake horsepower produced.

Model

With so many models to choose from, you should consider what you really need to get out of the car. Here's a run through some of the models you could choose by vehicle category:

Family cars:

BMW X5 - Large and spacious, and yet it remains surprisingly buoyant considering it's a SUV. This model also offers excellent fuel economy.

BMW X3 - Easily one of the best used SUVs you'll find at a reasonable price. The X3 is sophisticated and well-equipped with brilliant fuel efficiency.

BMW X3

Sports cars:

BMW 3 Series - Available as a convertible, the BMW 3 Series offers stylish leather interior and an agile performance.

BMW 3 Series

Hatchbacks:

BMW 1 Series - an excellent small family care that offers a smooth, comfortable drive and is cheaper to run than you'd think.

BMW 1 Series

Estate cars:

BMW 5 Series - Long and spacious without ever losing its sense of luxury, a used BMW 5 Series is an excellent shout. People in the know raved about it when it was released, and to this day it still shows BMW at their best.

BMW 5 Series

If you're looking for used BMWs in the Bristol area, then get yourself down to Carbase and you can view the whole range in person.

Frequently Ask Questions

What is BMW EfficientDynamics?

EfficientDynamics is a standard feature of BMW cars and aims to lower fuel consumption and CO2 emissions, while improving driving pleasure and dynamics.

What is BMW comfort access?

BMW comfort access is a keyless entry system that works if you have your keys in your bag or pockets. Once seated in the car, you only need to press the 'Start' button to turn on your car's engine.

What is BMW SensaTec?

BMW SensaTec is the name given to the vinyl upholstery included in many of their cars.

What is BMW Steptronic?

Steptronic (also known as step auto) is an automatic transmission system designed to make shifting gears in a BMW as dynamic as it would be using a manual transmission. It is controlled using the paddles on the steering wheel.

What is BMW xDrive system?

The BMW xDrive system is a permanent all-wheel drive system that adjusts the driver power between the front and rear axles according to the current driving conditions.

What is BMW iDrive system?

The BMW iDrive system is designed to control many of the secondary vehicle systems in the car to unify them for ease of use by the driver.

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