1988 325

[pnw_bmw_325]

Just acquired this 1988 BMW 325. 5-speed. Stock. Was just bough at auction from the seller I acquired from. Otherwise appears to be one owner car.

ZERO rust. Black vinyl interior all original. No rips or tears. Stock radio. Dash intact. Sunroof and alll electronics except on board computer work from what I can tell. AC does not blow cold.

I plan to get the timing belt changed, and there is an intermittent check engine light. What else should I do or check for?

[reelizmpro]

Timing belt, water pump and tensioner are important and typically done altogether around 50-60k miles IIRC. The valves also need to be adjusted every 30k or so. Other than that, the maintenance is basic. You should know that the 88 325 aka Super ETA is a 1 year anomaly. It's like a transition between 325e and 325i as well as early/late model (like late model body with early bumpers), so familiarize yourself with the differences.

[2mAn]

I plan to get the timing belt changed, and there is an intermittent check engine light. What else should I do or check for?

Like Barry said, but I’d include the water pump and any suspect hoses too. This way you’ll be covered for a long time.

Also, the “check” light is mostly related to the check panel above, not an actual check engine light. Push the button up top and let us know what’s on… probably the washer reservoir.

[Panici]

Change the rubber fuel hoses!

I like Gates brand hose, skip the cheap ones which will crack and/or react with Ethanol.

[pnw_bmw_325]

Thanks for the feedback. Had the timing belt, water pump, all belts, cooling system flush and new hoses, and valve adjustment done. Shop said timing belt was toast, so glad I did that. They found a snapped head bolt. I found the notice and procedure for swapping out the original heat head bolts for recommended Torx head bolts without removing the head. Did that myself. The check engine light (yes, check engine, not check panel light) has been intermittent, and was not on while at the shop. Somewhat of a rough idea when cold, but don't notice any real performance issues. Also keeping an eye on fuel gauge, as it seems to jump back up to full on occasion as the tank level goes down.