After looking for a few months and lots of help from some other forum members (Thanks @chrisv @Peter@AEW @Razz @AdiS) I found a really well looked after e39 530i in Cape Town. The seller was super helpful, going through the car on video calls with me, taking it to a mechanic to be inspected etc. So I bought it sight unseen and transported to Joburg where I took ownership in Oct 22.
Model: 2002 BMW E39 530i Auto Sedan
Maintenance: Full service history and extensive details for the past 6 years (thanks Rayhaan)
Mileage: 156,000km
Colour: Alpine White
Gearbox: 5 Speed Auto
Interior: Black Leather
Wheels and Tyres: Style 66 wheels with Michelin Primacy 4 (60% tread)
Optional Extras: Sunroof, M-sports package
Other: All Books, spare keys, mostly complete toolkit
Modifications:
- Parrot handsfree
- Speaker upgrade (needs a subwoofer..)
Issues
Shocks worn
Small dent on left side sill
Rear disks and pads worn
Vanos not operating
Disa rattle
Airbag sensor failure
Windscreen washer pump non-functional
So far I've really enjoyed owning, driving and maintaining the car. Fuel consumption is a little heavy, I'm hoping a VANOS refurb helps, though I'm not sure the fun factor is more to blame. I replaced the shocks with Koni FSD as soon as I got it. Also replaced, rear disks and pads, fixed the Disa valve with a kit from X8R, bypassed the airbag sensor (though the light has since come back), replaced windscreen washer pump, fixed dent in sill and done an oil change replaced air, oil and cabin filters.
Cosmetically the car is very good. I installed an original first aid kit (though its grey rather than black), and replaced the center console storage compartment. Would like to give it a good deep clean and polish when I have time.
It's not all been smooth sailing. The original windscreen was cracked while driving on the highway and replaced by insurance. The original front bumper was cracked after driving through a pothole and I've just gotten it back from having that replaced. I've also had the ABS lights start showing up, so planning the best way of addressing that. Also plan to overhaul the VANOS soon, maybe install a bluebus for better bluetooth integration. The cooling system looks in good shape, but Rolf from Brilliant Mechanical Workshop noted that the thermostat may need to be replaced.
I always look forward to getting into and driving this car, get lots of compliments from people who know, and the odd comment or wave from another BMW driver in traffic. The new shocks feel amazing, and the engine is just so smooth and makes a great sound when pushed. I've attached some pictures, but they're just the original ones I received from Rayhaan. Need to find a nice spot sometime and take a few updated ones.
Model: 2002 BMW E39 530i Auto Sedan
Maintenance: Full service history and extensive details for the past 6 years (thanks Rayhaan)
Mileage: 156,000km
Colour: Alpine White
Gearbox: 5 Speed Auto
Interior: Black Leather
Wheels and Tyres: Style 66 wheels with Michelin Primacy 4 (60% tread)
Optional Extras: Sunroof, M-sports package
Other: All Books, spare keys, mostly complete toolkit
Modifications:
- Parrot handsfree
- Speaker upgrade (needs a subwoofer..)
Issues
Shocks worn
Small dent on left side sill
Rear disks and pads worn
Vanos not operating
Disa rattle
Airbag sensor failure
Windscreen washer pump non-functional
So far I've really enjoyed owning, driving and maintaining the car. Fuel consumption is a little heavy, I'm hoping a VANOS refurb helps, though I'm not sure the fun factor is more to blame. I replaced the shocks with Koni FSD as soon as I got it. Also replaced, rear disks and pads, fixed the Disa valve with a kit from X8R, bypassed the airbag sensor (though the light has since come back), replaced windscreen washer pump, fixed dent in sill and done an oil change replaced air, oil and cabin filters.
Cosmetically the car is very good. I installed an original first aid kit (though its grey rather than black), and replaced the center console storage compartment. Would like to give it a good deep clean and polish when I have time.
It's not all been smooth sailing. The original windscreen was cracked while driving on the highway and replaced by insurance. The original front bumper was cracked after driving through a pothole and I've just gotten it back from having that replaced. I've also had the ABS lights start showing up, so planning the best way of addressing that. Also plan to overhaul the VANOS soon, maybe install a bluebus for better bluetooth integration. The cooling system looks in good shape, but Rolf from Brilliant Mechanical Workshop noted that the thermostat may need to be replaced.
I always look forward to getting into and driving this car, get lots of compliments from people who know, and the odd comment or wave from another BMW driver in traffic. The new shocks feel amazing, and the engine is just so smooth and makes a great sound when pushed. I've attached some pictures, but they're just the original ones I received from Rayhaan. Need to find a nice spot sometime and take a few updated ones.
Last edited:
Beautiful
