Price Estimate?

[Chimi]

I'm looking at a 91 E30 318i with relatively low miles, 130-150k range. It looks like it's leaking a little oil (not sure what the problem is exactly; haven't had a chance to check it out in person) and has a sizable dent -- maybe fist size in terms of width -- but not too deep in a fender. Thoughts on pricing -- seller asking 4400.

Seems high to me because the oil issue is a big unknown to me right now; any thoughts from more knowledgeable folks out there? What's a catastrophic scenario in terms of an oil leak repair costs? And what about on the lower range?

[Freakshow]

Depends on where its leaking from. Oil pan will take an average person that hasn't done it before a whole day to replace the gasket unless you have help from a friend.

Get Maintenance records if seller declines or makes excuse that's a red flag!

First thing i would do is put the car on a lift and check where exactly its leaking oil, might be other leaks as well check the transmission and the cooling hoses that connect to the rad they are common to leak. Also check the rack and see if its good/leaking.

Got a link to the ad? I'm also in the Bay Area.

Check this car out you can try to talk him down he might be on here too. http://modesto.craigslist.org/cto/4346302059.html

[Chimi]

Hey, I've been in contact with the seller, since the car was previously put on CL. Car is not actually in the Bay Area; it's up toward Sacramento. Seller mentioned that the PO damaged the upper sump corner that bolts the oil pan. Language he used, not me. Ideally, I'd like to arrange for a PPI, but I'd first like to see whether it's worth even that step.

http://sfbay.craigslist.org/sfc/cto/4351964180.html

[Freakshow]

Looks in decent shape and has a lot of potential. Go drive it and since its in Sac go take it over to the guys at CAtuned they will look at it for you they are pretty familiar with e30's to say the least.

If the oil pan is leaking/damaged shouldn't be too hard to replace.