New 320i work and parts question

[superkully]

Hello,

Hello I picked up a 320i auto in good nick yesterday with just 64K miles to do up and pass on to my sister.

I've been looking on Euro Car Parts and am a little confused as to what to get, as there are multiple parts listed for my model, by the same company, for different prices!

I'm after:

1) Timing belt, water pump, thermostat - should I renew the tensioner as well? (Last belt change is documented 18K miles ago, in 2002).

2) Air filter, plugs, oil filter

3) Transmission oil

I've got the air and oil filter sorted, not sure which of the myriad other options to get. If there is a company that supplies these in kits - all the better.

Cheers and nice site!

[johnt0709]

I would edit your post to delete that you are a rover 75 driver.

You will get the answers you need loads of knowledgeable guys but also a lot of friendly banter.

[darkchild]

should I renew the tensioner as well?

Most definitely yes!

[Ranchero]

This is a good site to find out what parts you need. Put in your VIN or go the long-winded route by inputting the details of your car. E30's are in the "archive" section.

http://www.realoem.com/bmw/select.do

You can then use the part number to order. Guide prices are in dollars.

[Brianmoooore]

As a rule GSF/ECP sell cheap parts that are intended to be used by dodgy dealers to MOT and sell on a car, and also a better quality version of the same part. ALWAYS buy the more expensive parts for a car you intend to keep, and if the part is largely rubber, I'd recommend buying from BMW.
Don't always assume that prices of parts are higher from the dealers than from other sources. Often they are, but occasionally you will be surprised.

[daimlerman]

I tend to buy the more expensive option at GSF,although if I am desperate and the cheap one is on the shelf I'll have it!

As Brian has pointed out,it's often worth a phone call to the dealer to check on a price,and we have a tamed zone dealer who will give you 10% and free postage when you spend at least £20,now most E30 parts are next day anyway,so a phone call to Cotswold could be cheaper than the petrol to your local dealer!

[superkully]

Thanks for the replies. I'll be ringing up Cotswold - beats having to give up working on it Sunday when I realise I don't have the right bit.

BTW I've started noticing E30's all of a sudden - saw a looked-after medium blue coupe coming in to Basingstoke on the A33 this morning.