is e90/92 i-drive any good ?

[Cosimo]

Wasn't the pre update iDrive terrible? Or can you have it updated?

iDrive has never been terrible and has improved considerably since it first appeared. It’s easy to use unless you’re thick. Jeremy Clarkson is just a little slow on the uptake when it comes to things like this. He just doesn’t appreciate German logic.

 

[Sone]

I have the original version on my 05 e60. I wouldn't say it's "terrible", but it's nowhere near as good as the version available in newer BMWs. And no, it can't be updated as it uses different hardware.

i thought the original crap version was only on the early e65 7series. Thoguht the 5 always had second version or newer.

 

[mattx2]

You mention complex engines - the engine in that 325i is an N52B25 which has is a Dual VANOS Direct Injection Straight Six with Valvetronic. It is hardly the most simple engine around, so ensure you have a good warranty (Hint: The 36 month thing the dealer is offering is unlikely to be a good warranty!).

yeah but it doesn't have two turbo's and all the other stuff that goes with it like high pressure fuel pumps

I thought the 325i and the 330i engines were pretty bulliet proof have had a browse on some bmw forums and haven't heard of many vanos issues unlike the older m3 vanos which everyone moans about

 

[[TW]Fox]

The problem with iDrive is its not immediatly obviousy the first ever time you use it exactly how it works, like say a button on an old style stereo is.

You need to spend an hour or so with your new car reading the manual, fiddling, and getting to know. Once you've done this, it is simply fantastic.

This is something many people dont appreciate and something you cant really tell from a test drive.

 

[[TW]Fox]

yeah but it doesn't have two turbo's and all the other stuff that goes with it like high pressure fuel pumps

It does have high pressure fuel pumps, if its an N53, but if its an N52 then you are right, it wont.

I'm not saying its unreliable, but you seem to be under the impression that compared with a 335i it's basic, simple and has no expensive failure points.

This is not the case.

 

[Edward01]

Are they reasonably reliable fox? I see you can pick up a 55/06 50 - 60k miles 325i for 8 - 10k or 330i for 10 - 11k, bargain second hand deal or money pit waiting to happen?

 

[[TW]Fox]

The 07 525i which has just replaced my parents 530d had new injectors under warranty at just 1 year old and a new high pressure fuel pump about 3 months ago...

Edward, are you talking Coupe's here? These will be M54 engined E46 cars. These engines are more simple than the newer direct injection engines and do not have high pressure fuel pumps, so you wont have an issue with these components. There is still plenty to go wrong, but as long as you've got some spare cash for the bills there is no reason why you cant enjoy owning one. A used BMW is rarely a bargain, mind. They don't offer good value for money, if you want value for money buy a Ford. If you want a decent car but appreciate its going to cost you a bit to keep running, then go for it.

 

[Edward01]

Sorry fox, I meant the earlier E90 models. But I guess the same advice applies. They are so much more fun the Fords though...

 

[[TW]Fox]

Right E90's are the Saloons, these will have N52 engines at this age. These are not direct injection so thats one worry out the way. I would not personally trust an £8k 6 cylinder E90!