Quote:
Originally Posted by Mandrake
Uncertainty can't be eliminated in a used car purchase, and of course that is one reason used car prices are lower than new cars (in most cases). If you are risk-averse then you can buy insurance or a service contract to help limit your liability. Many forum members have done that, myself included. These cars are trading hands at one-third to one-half MSRP nowadays, but there's no similar discount on parts and service. It's easy to feel nervous about everything that could happen, but I would not let that concern drive you to speculation that will not advance your decision to buy or pass. Just try to think about the price and the risk you can accept, try to make both as low as possible, and proceed accordingly.
Your PPI turned up a few issues, including four missing valve stem caps. I suppose there were nice caps and someone removed them? But any dealer would have the standard plastic ones around. It raises questions that they didn't bother to put some one. Had the dealer noticed and disclosed the leaking transmission and oil filter seals? The feel you have from those interactions is one sign of trustworthiness. What is PA's used car warranty law? In some states the seller has to warrant the car for some period, eg, one month. That would be plenty of time to have the known issues fixed and check for more. You may be able to find out some of the service history of this car by providing the VIN to a BMW dealership, too.
If you decide to proceed, my inclination would be to take a discount and have your own shop do the repairs. The M6 is better in the hands of specialists.
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I really appreciate this response, thank you! The dealership did not disclose any of these issues beforehand. In my opinion, they were just unaware. The car has only been with them for about two weeks. The car's VIN was ran by a friend at a BMW dealership: no real concerns on service history. Will absolutely look into the used car laws + insurance options, as you recommended.