TooPhat4540i
05-26-2010, 11:01 PM
Up for sale is my 2001 BMW 540i (E39) with the highly desirable 6-Speed Manual transmission and M-Sport suspension and appearance option package. This is a tremendously rewarding vehicle to drive and I am only selling it due to job uncertainty. From a glance at Craig's List and eBay listings, this is one of the lowest mileage, best optioned examples available for the price. This is one of the last true driver's BMWs that can still be maintained at independent shops and represents near-M5 performance at a significantly lower entry, maintenance, and insurance cost.
BASICS
* YEAR: 2001
* MAKE: BMW
* MODEL: 540i
* VIN: WBADN53441GC98009
* MILEAGE: 76,000 (approx. - car is still daily driven)
* EXT. COLOR: Orient Blue
* INT. COLOR: Camel (Tan) Leather
* OPTIONS: M-Sport package (factory lowered suspension/"M" insignia steering wheel, sport seats, "M" 5-spoke staggered fitment alloy wheels 17x8 front 17x9 rear), Head Protection System (Side/Curtain Airbags), BMW Business CD player, Homelink garage door opener with 3-buttons, 3-position seat and steering wheel memory settings, dual power seats, dual zone automatic climate control, power windows and door locks, keyless entry with alarm, HID headlights (with "Angel Eye" rings), fog lights, full size spare
RECENT MAINTENANCE
I have receipts for all of the following work from professional shops that specialize in BMW maintenance and repair (Plati - Pasadena, CA, South Bay Autohaus - Hawthorne, CA, Globe Tire - Los Angeles, CA). I will include these with the purchase.
* Gas door lock actuator replaced (this locks the gas door with the door locks)
* Front suspension control arm bushings replaced (see "MODIFICATIONS" for more details)
* Purge Control Valve replaced
* 4-wheel alignment 5/2010
* 4-wheel balance 5/2010
* Engine belts replaced
* Power steering hoses replaced
* Radiator hoses replaced
* Water Pump replaced
* Cabin Air Filters (2) replaced 5/2010
* NEW BMW OEM camel/tan floor mats 5/2010
MODIFICATIONS/UPGRADES
I have added a few things to this 540i to enhance the driving and ownership experience. These were all professionally installed and the original parts have been kept (where applicable) if the new owner would like to return the vehicle to stock.
* Front suspension control arm bushings replaced with new bushings designed for the BMW X5: While they are a direct fit replacement on the 540i, the X5 bushings are built to withstand the weight of a 6,000 pound SUV and are accordingly "beefier." This translates into additional suspension rebound control with no noticeable degradation of ride or increase in vibration.
* Clutch Delay Valve delete : BMW includes an "idiot-proof" valve in the clutch/flywheel assembly of the manual transmission 5-series as a protective measure against premature clutch wear. Unfortunately, this valve makes the 1-2 and 2-3 shifts at low speeds nearly impossible to complete with any smoothness. Deleting this valve (it is absent in the M5), enables an experienced manual transmission driver to shift his own gears at any RPM or speed.
* E60 (545i/550i) Shifter Arm / Weighted ZHP shift knob : At the same time I had the CDV removed, I had a shorter shifter installed that provides a much more precise and notchy feel than the "loose" stock shifter. This shifter is an OEM BMW part from the current generation (2004-2010) BMW 5-Series. I also had the transmission fluid flushed and replaced with full synthetic Royal Purple at this time as well. This modification significantly improved the driving experience of the car - the transmission is very precise but still has a satisfying throw.
* 20% Window Tint: Sides and rear, professionally installed with a lifetime warranty by California Tint in Rosemead, CA.
* DICE iPod factory stereo integration: also professionally installed by California Tint, this module allows you to connect any generation iPod to your factory stereo and control it using your existing controls, including those on your steering wheel. The plug, which is routed to the glove box, also charges your iPod and includes an option to retain control via the iPod instead of the stereo. It also scrolls track/album/artist/playlist information in the instrument cluster.
* Kidney Grilles / Rear 540i Badge painted Matte Black*: this purely cosmetic modification was "homemade" and is not perfect. I will gladly include a replacement set of chrome grilles and rear 540i badge if requested.
PROBLEM AREAS
This is a used car and it is not without its share of imperfections. I have adjusted the price accordingly to offset these issues, and I am attempting to be as transparent as possible in disclosing all known issues. None of these issues affect drive-ability and I drive the car daily with no issues. Please contact me if any clarification is necessary.
* DSC Button Not Functional: Currently, the Dynamic Stability Control cannot be defeated/turned off. It has been diagnosed as needing new steering angle and ABS sensors.
* Instrument cluster light inconsistent: instrument cluster illumination goes in and out. Diagnosed as needing new bulbs.
* Glove box handle broken: got a little too aggressive and snapped the handle off of the glove box. Handle and spring included, box can still be opened by hand.
* Windshield wiper fluid motor non-functional: Diagnosed as requiring replacement.
* Windshield wipers: Diagnosed as needing replacement.
* Sunshades: this vehicle was originally equipped with power sunshades, but they are not currently functional. The driver's side and rear shades need to be replaced and the motor/switch mechanism still needs to be diagnosed. I was happier with window tint, but this is an issue all prospective buyers should be aware of.
* Radiator/Coolant Expansion Tank shroud: this is a small trim piece in the engine bay that needs replacement and is currently loose. Does not affect the cooling system mechanically whatsoever.
CONDITION
As mentioned before, this is a used car, but I would put it at good/clean condition aside from the issues mentioned above. There are a few cosmetic issues that I want to point out specifically. I have attempted to take photos of these areas.
* Paint cracking/scratches on passenger rear door: Evidence of an improperly prepped repaint in the car's past. Diagnosed as needing a repaint.
* Evidence of touch up paint on rear bumper and driver's side rear door.
* Scuffs on front bumper lip (from driveways)
* Curbing on 3 of 4 wheels
* Interior leather isn't the softest (BMW leather seldom is) and there is some light cracking at some seams. NO tears, rips, or stains.
SUMMARY
Please excuse the long-winded description, but I want to remain as upfront as possible. This is a clean, great driving car that is an absolute BEAST on the highway and will make passing in traffic a breeze. Price is firm. Cash or verified funds ONLY. This car does have a lien on it - I will provide the payoff amount once a final price is negotiated. Thank you for looking!
Contact Lindsey @ (310) 922-1917 or lindswillis@hotmail.com with specific questions or to arrange a test drive.
BASICS
* YEAR: 2001
* MAKE: BMW
* MODEL: 540i
* VIN: WBADN53441GC98009
* MILEAGE: 76,000 (approx. - car is still daily driven)
* EXT. COLOR: Orient Blue
* INT. COLOR: Camel (Tan) Leather
* OPTIONS: M-Sport package (factory lowered suspension/"M" insignia steering wheel, sport seats, "M" 5-spoke staggered fitment alloy wheels 17x8 front 17x9 rear), Head Protection System (Side/Curtain Airbags), BMW Business CD player, Homelink garage door opener with 3-buttons, 3-position seat and steering wheel memory settings, dual power seats, dual zone automatic climate control, power windows and door locks, keyless entry with alarm, HID headlights (with "Angel Eye" rings), fog lights, full size spare
RECENT MAINTENANCE
I have receipts for all of the following work from professional shops that specialize in BMW maintenance and repair (Plati - Pasadena, CA, South Bay Autohaus - Hawthorne, CA, Globe Tire - Los Angeles, CA). I will include these with the purchase.
* Gas door lock actuator replaced (this locks the gas door with the door locks)
* Front suspension control arm bushings replaced (see "MODIFICATIONS" for more details)
* Purge Control Valve replaced
* 4-wheel alignment 5/2010
* 4-wheel balance 5/2010
* Engine belts replaced
* Power steering hoses replaced
* Radiator hoses replaced
* Water Pump replaced
* Cabin Air Filters (2) replaced 5/2010
* NEW BMW OEM camel/tan floor mats 5/2010
MODIFICATIONS/UPGRADES
I have added a few things to this 540i to enhance the driving and ownership experience. These were all professionally installed and the original parts have been kept (where applicable) if the new owner would like to return the vehicle to stock.
* Front suspension control arm bushings replaced with new bushings designed for the BMW X5: While they are a direct fit replacement on the 540i, the X5 bushings are built to withstand the weight of a 6,000 pound SUV and are accordingly "beefier." This translates into additional suspension rebound control with no noticeable degradation of ride or increase in vibration.
* Clutch Delay Valve delete : BMW includes an "idiot-proof" valve in the clutch/flywheel assembly of the manual transmission 5-series as a protective measure against premature clutch wear. Unfortunately, this valve makes the 1-2 and 2-3 shifts at low speeds nearly impossible to complete with any smoothness. Deleting this valve (it is absent in the M5), enables an experienced manual transmission driver to shift his own gears at any RPM or speed.
* E60 (545i/550i) Shifter Arm / Weighted ZHP shift knob : At the same time I had the CDV removed, I had a shorter shifter installed that provides a much more precise and notchy feel than the "loose" stock shifter. This shifter is an OEM BMW part from the current generation (2004-2010) BMW 5-Series. I also had the transmission fluid flushed and replaced with full synthetic Royal Purple at this time as well. This modification significantly improved the driving experience of the car - the transmission is very precise but still has a satisfying throw.
* 20% Window Tint: Sides and rear, professionally installed with a lifetime warranty by California Tint in Rosemead, CA.
* DICE iPod factory stereo integration: also professionally installed by California Tint, this module allows you to connect any generation iPod to your factory stereo and control it using your existing controls, including those on your steering wheel. The plug, which is routed to the glove box, also charges your iPod and includes an option to retain control via the iPod instead of the stereo. It also scrolls track/album/artist/playlist information in the instrument cluster.
* Kidney Grilles / Rear 540i Badge painted Matte Black*: this purely cosmetic modification was "homemade" and is not perfect. I will gladly include a replacement set of chrome grilles and rear 540i badge if requested.
PROBLEM AREAS
This is a used car and it is not without its share of imperfections. I have adjusted the price accordingly to offset these issues, and I am attempting to be as transparent as possible in disclosing all known issues. None of these issues affect drive-ability and I drive the car daily with no issues. Please contact me if any clarification is necessary.
* DSC Button Not Functional: Currently, the Dynamic Stability Control cannot be defeated/turned off. It has been diagnosed as needing new steering angle and ABS sensors.
* Instrument cluster light inconsistent: instrument cluster illumination goes in and out. Diagnosed as needing new bulbs.
* Glove box handle broken: got a little too aggressive and snapped the handle off of the glove box. Handle and spring included, box can still be opened by hand.
* Windshield wiper fluid motor non-functional: Diagnosed as requiring replacement.
* Windshield wipers: Diagnosed as needing replacement.
* Sunshades: this vehicle was originally equipped with power sunshades, but they are not currently functional. The driver's side and rear shades need to be replaced and the motor/switch mechanism still needs to be diagnosed. I was happier with window tint, but this is an issue all prospective buyers should be aware of.
* Radiator/Coolant Expansion Tank shroud: this is a small trim piece in the engine bay that needs replacement and is currently loose. Does not affect the cooling system mechanically whatsoever.
CONDITION
As mentioned before, this is a used car, but I would put it at good/clean condition aside from the issues mentioned above. There are a few cosmetic issues that I want to point out specifically. I have attempted to take photos of these areas.
* Paint cracking/scratches on passenger rear door: Evidence of an improperly prepped repaint in the car's past. Diagnosed as needing a repaint.
* Evidence of touch up paint on rear bumper and driver's side rear door.
* Scuffs on front bumper lip (from driveways)
* Curbing on 3 of 4 wheels
* Interior leather isn't the softest (BMW leather seldom is) and there is some light cracking at some seams. NO tears, rips, or stains.
SUMMARY
Please excuse the long-winded description, but I want to remain as upfront as possible. This is a clean, great driving car that is an absolute BEAST on the highway and will make passing in traffic a breeze. Price is firm. Cash or verified funds ONLY. This car does have a lien on it - I will provide the payoff amount once a final price is negotiated. Thank you for looking!
Contact Lindsey @ (310) 922-1917 or lindswillis@hotmail.com with specific questions or to arrange a test drive.