My $14,000 Used Car Mistake
I lost $4k when I sold it and $10k in repairs. These are the 4 lessons I learned the hard way.
The last one is unexpected — but if you’re serious about owning a reliable car, it’s something you should know.
I didn’t choose a reliable car model
A car’s design and materials dictate how reliable it is. Some cars (like the Toyota LandCruiser) have a reputation for lasting forever — while others (like the Range Rover) are known for constant problems and rapid depreciation.
I didn’t know the BMW 135i had a reputation for issues - and I didn’t check. If I’d done a quick Google search, I probably would’ve thought twice.
I didn’t check the maintenance
The way a car is maintained in its early life determines how many problems you’ll face later.
My BMW had no service records for the last 80,000kms — and I inherited the entire backlog of missed maintenance.
In just 6 months, I needed to replace the expansion tank, starter motor, driveshaft sensor, both sets of shocks, and the transmission… twice.
Always check the service history for yourself. Don’t just take the seller’s word on face value.
I was emotionally attached
From the first sight, I loved everything about the bmw—the strong proportions, the classy silver, the sharp handling, and its raw power.
The car in question
When you’ve got rose-tinted glasses on, red flags just look like flags. I already made up my mind and stopped asking questions.
You can’t control your emotions — but getting a second opinion from a friend or family can stop you from making a costly mistake.
Mechanical inspections don’t guarantee a car
This was the most expensive lesson
I hired a mechanic to inspect the car and he gave it the all clear. But he didn’t warn me about the missing service history or the risks of buying a BMW.
A car has tens of thousands of components. Many are impossible to check, buried deep in the engine and transmission. In my case, a small rubber seal failed inside the transmission and fried all the clutch plates. It needed to be rebuilt for $7k.
To be clear, inspections still catch safety issues, visible damage, and parts due for replacement. They still matter but just not enough on its own.
Over my time as a buyer’s agent, I’ve developed a 4M Framework to help my clients buy safe and reliable used cars. It covers all the key areas, from avoiding faulty cars to spotting dodgy sellers.
To learn how to buy used cars like a pro, book a free 30min Bulletproof Car Consultation.
No strings attached, just clear practical advice to help you buy with confidence.
Best,
Roger
Buyer’s Agent