[isosunrise]

looking at two different 335is convertibles both at independent dealers in my area, no warranties as is.

Both are 2011. Both with about 100k on them.

First car had the valve cover gasket replaced a few days ago per the dealer. Went for a test drive, car seemed sluggish… started using paddle shifters and upon acceleration got a check engine light and reduced power message. Dealer says probably a vacuum leak..CEL went off upon restarting car, very weary.

Second car has a cobb branded exhaust but looks horrible. regardless, car would not start, no crank… Lots of clicking noise from glove box, convertible top worked however, every time the top went up or down the trunk would open and a message trunk open would appear on the screen…

Second car is in better shape but doesn’t even seem to run at the moment. First car runs but feels like it weighs a ton and doesn’t move. I use to have a 09 335 and it moved (from what I remember). any advice here.

[StradaRedlands]

Prices?

[Ohio Enthusiast]

Keep looking.
Admittedly 335is, and especially convertibles, are not that common, but sounds like both are in poor shape. Unless you're okay with that (such as good DIY or trusted mechanic that is budget friendly) and the price makes up for the condition, I wouldn't get either car.

[isosunrise]

Originally Posted by StradaRedlands

Prices?

both roughly 15k both 2011.

[lookalikehuuh]

Sure sounds like neither are a great option because they are both broken.

I find it funny the dealer said it was a vacuum leak with no diagnosis or anything else. Both could work in your favor since you could has for a bunch of money off OR they could signify other much more problematic issues are going on with the car.

Either way each car REQUIRES a good independent BMW specialist to do a pre-purchase inspection before you even consider buying it because there could be a hell of a hot of expensive issues going on there. Keep in mind the 335is has the older N54 and common failures like injectors are over $3K just for parts, not including installation (which requires special tools, and coding). Not to mention 100k on probably original turbos probably doesn't bode well for their longterm durability.

[StradaRedlands]

Originally Posted by isosunrise

both roughly 15k both 2011.

I think that's too much for a car that doesn't run. If injectors and HPFP have been done, top seals in great condition, suspension refreshed, new tires, lots of maintenance records, then it would be worth looking at for that price. That's just my opinion, but they seem high given the non-working condition. Find a car that has been loved, not one dumped at an auction.