my 318i

[nikkis318i]

bought my 1st bmw back in Oct 04 (1991 318i lux auto in glazier blue). i paid Ԛ£1400 4 it from a so called mechanic, not knowing much bout them (only been driving year an bit), it looked nice so i bought it. all in 1 month had 2 pay 4 car, insurance, mot and tax, so it started off expensive. now im gettin problems i.e. water pump went another Ԛ£100, rear rusty wheel arches, front rusty arch, minor rust on bottom passenger door, the temp/date display freeks out every now and then, horrid tapping noise which has gradually got worse, trackings out, the list goes on.

what do u think i should do, sell it or spend some money on it????. generally it is a nice car and i havent seen any1 else with 1 that colour about!

[placey]

hmmm i think the answer to your question lies in the answer to other questions - how much do you like the car? how much money do you have available to throw at it? how much time are you willing for it to be unavailable (while bits are sorted)? how much of it can you do yourself?

in my experience early driving days cars need more time and money and effort spent on them to keep them going than later in life cars - when more money and experience can be brought to bear on potential purchases.

if you decide to keep it look upon all the traumas it will doubtless provide as good experience.

if you decide to move it on you'll find it like a partner - you might love it at the time but the next one soon takes your affections and the previous ones are quickly forgotten!

paul