[toxicnerve]

Hi all,

I've resisted posting for a long time but I feel I've exhausted Google and the "search" function here so I figured I'd pop my head up and ask some questions!

I'm considering a nearly-new/barely-used E92...Ideally either a 335i or a 335d M-Sport (I've not decided yet and some of my questions relate to that). So my questions:

1. Petrol vs. Diesel?

I'm leaning towards the 335d, mainly due to the slightly more favourable fuel consumption figures. I have a very moderate driving style and drive to the designated limits 99.99% of the time (please no abuse for that!).

Is the real world difference in economy between the petrol and diesel significant? They're both 3 litre engines so obviously you're not going to get serious economy out of them, am I leaning towards the diesel without justification?

2. ISO-FIX

I know they come with ISO-FIX and this is something I am taking into consideration as I am looking to keep the car for some time to come (at least 5 years) and if/when kiddies do come along...will I actually be able to fit a baby seat in there and then a toddler seat/booster when the time comes? Have any of you done this and if so what have your experiences been like?

3. RFTs

This is a big concern as I have seen on various sites (including here) and all over Google people experiencing issues with run flat tyres. Is the inside edge wear problem something that has a fixable cause or is it just an inherent issue with running RFTs on these cars? Will changing to non-RFT cause any warranty issues?

If you make the switch to non-RFT is some Tyreweld and a pump enough to get you out of most situations? I assume it's not as good as having a proper spare in the boot but I guess that's not really an option if you value your bootspace??

4. Servicing & Maintenence Costs

There have been a couple of recent threads here relating to this and have read that & searched for others but still have a few questions. I take it you do not have to use a dealership (I notice you guys call them "stealers" around here, I found that amusing!) to keep your warranty intact.

Is this the case or are you tied to using main dealers to during your warranty period?

On a car like a 335d or 335i what can I expect my servicing costs to be like? Some of the figures I have seen quoted seemed remarkably reasonable and the service interval can vary quite a lot depending on your driving style (with it being generally longer between services than I thought).

I also read here that it's cheaper if you supply your own oil etc (I didnt realise you could do that but every little helps as they say).

When it comes to things like brake pads/discs, microfilters and other minor maintenance issues like this are you free (meaning does your warranty remain intact) if you choose to undertake these tasks yourself? I have a very technical background and am more than capable of changing pads etc or servicing minor issues. Is this likely to present any problems? Obviously for any major issues that I felt were beyond my ability/resource then I would get a specialist or a dealer to look at it).

Is there anything else anyone thinks I need to consider before purchasing this model (purchase will be a few months off yet but best to prepare & gather facts now in my opinion!!).

Any help will be gratefully received!!

EDIT:

One last question, if you do not have the smokers pack do you still get a 12V powerpoint located in the centre console?

EDIT II:

Which are the best dealers in the London area? I live in the East End/Essex way but can get to where ever really...

Cheers!

[ed335d]

Evening, and welcome to the forum.

A couple of bits of info that may help...

I've run my 335d for a little over 18 months and have returned 34 mpg average with a good mix of motorway, town and a fairly heavy right foot (but not as heavy as some on here). My RFT's lasted 24k miles - I noticed that there was quite bad wear on the inside rears at 18k, but a bit of over-inflation got me another 6k with pretty uniform wear and not too much more on the insides.

RFT's can be driven, I think, for 50 miles at 50 mph when deflated - which is the same that's quoted for a can of tyre weld. The only time you might come unstuck is if you have a blowout - whereby BMW assist may not help you with non-RFT's.

The D is 18k to the first service, which is usually about £220 if the dealer supplies oil.

[toxicnerve]

Hi there!

Thanks for the info, it's much appreciated.

I've been reading around and some people say the inside edge wear issue is caused by under-inflated tyres. If your RFTs are inflated correctly you will not see the issue as much. Is there any truth to this? Seems like a reasonable argument to me but I know nothing about the dynamics of these RTF tyres.

[rogerxp]

I suppose if you look after your tyres (Grandma/suck eggs time!!!) then they should be fine. Keep your eye on the pressures as, due to the stiff side walls, it can be difficult to tell if they've lost pressure due to no bulge appearing.

If you supply your own oil when the dealer does any changes then that save you quite a bit of cash.

Economy wise, I had a 335i which averaged 19mpg BUT I do drive like a loon and it hardly ever saw a motorway so that's not a fair comparison (my neighbour averaged 19mpg in a V8 M3 over a couple of weeks which he'd borrowed). If you drive sensibly I think you'll be pleasently surprised by the economy of the petrol car; don't rule it out just yet.

I guess you're happy with an auto otherwise you'd have already discounted the 335d as one plus is that you can get the 335i in manual (like mine was).

I never had a problem with the Bridgestone RFTs on my 335i (19 inchers) however the same tyre, in 18 inch size, on my 330d were horrific and have been changed over to Falken nonRFTs. Just see how you get on with them before making any decision.

As for the ISOFIX, yes, works a treat. Our rear-facing car seat fitted in a treat and see no reason why the front facing one wouldn't. Don't forget there's only two seats in the back but unless you have triplets you'll be fine!!! My top-tip is to get an ISOFIX base for the car seat. Even though it's OK without this, with the base, you just swing the 'ickle un in, pop them onto the base and no need to fanny around with the seat belt. Dead easy and well worth the £80ish to get the base (the base stays in the car and you just latch/unlatch the seat to/from it).

[toxicnerve]

Originally Posted by rogerxp

I suppose if you look after your tyres (Grandma/suck eggs time!!!) then they should be fine. Keep your eye on the pressures as, due to the stiff side walls, it can be difficult to tell if they've lost pressure due to no bulge appearing.

hehe, I'm not a granny driver by any means but I take your point.

Originally Posted by rogerxp

Economy wise, I had a 335i which averaged 19mpg BUT I do drive like a loon and it hardly ever saw a motorway so that's not a fair comparison (my neighbour averaged 19mpg in a V8 M3 over a couple of weeks which he'd borrowed). If you drive sensibly I think you'll be pleasently surprised by the economy of the petrol car; don't rule it out just yet.

Ok that is something to consider them...

Originally Posted by rogerxp

I guess you're happy with an auto otherwise you'd have already discounted the 335d as one plus is that you can get the 335i in manual (like mine was).

Yeah, I'm not too bothered about auto/manual. If economy was no issue I think I'd be aiming at a 335i with the 7-speed DCT. Even with the 335d, I quite like the idea of the paddle shifters and I hear the "lag" issues have been resolved with the latest software upgrade.

Originally Posted by rogerxp

As for the ISOFIX, yes, works a treat. Our rear-facing car seat fitted in a treat and see no reason why the front facing one wouldn't. Don't forget there's only two seats in the back but unless you have triplets you'll be fine!!! My top-tip is to get an ISOFIX base for the car seat. Even though it's OK without this, with the base, you just swing the 'ickle un in, pop them onto the base and no need to fanny around with the seat belt. Dead easy and well worth the £80ish to get the base (the base stays in the car and you just latch/unlatch the seat to/from it).

How old is your kiddy? As they get older do you think you'll be able to get a toddler seat in the back for them?

No plans for triplets but you can never tell with these things!!!

Thanks for the advice I really do appreciate it and it will help me make an informed decision...

[rogerxp]

My little girl turned 2 in May. Had the 335i coupe when she was born but switched to the 330d saloon when she was about 1. Didn't change for the practicality side, it's just my finance on the 335i was stoopid and so decided to calm things down the a diesel for a while. As for the car seats, I only used the rear-facing one in the coupe, but others have front-facing ones without any problem at all. The rear seats are bucket seats of anything so think the majority of seats do fit. You'll obviously just have to test each car seat to make sure it fits OK (most reputable shops wont let you leave unless they've tested it themselves).

As for practicalities, if you ignore the ease of access with 4 doors, I actually found the coupe the more practical car. The boot was slightly longer (unless it was my imagination) in the coupe so it seemed to swallow more stuff. Plus the seats go down as standard which is a necessity. My saloon as the 'split/fold' rear seats as an option which is a godsend; I don't know how others manage without it.

[toxicnerve]

Originally Posted by rogerxp

My little girl turned 2 in May. Had the 335i coupe when she was born but switched to the 330d saloon when she was about 1. Didn't change for the practicality side, it's just my finance on the 335i was stoopid and so decided to calm things down the a diesel for a while. As for the car seats, I only used the rear-facing one in the coupe, but others have front-facing ones without any problem at all. The rear seats are bucket seats of anything so think the majority of seats do fit. You'll obviously just have to test each car seat to make sure it fits OK (most reputable shops wont let you leave unless they've tested it themselves).

As for practicalities, if you ignore the ease of access with 4 doors, I actually found the coupe the more practical car. The boot was slightly longer (unless it was my imagination) in the coupe so it seemed to swallow more stuff. Plus the seats go down as standard which is a necessity. My saloon as the 'split/fold' rear seats as an option which is a godsend; I don't know how others manage without it.

That's great information. Lays to rest some issues about practicality I had in my mind in the event that we have some little-ones of our own.

It only being a 4 seater is not really a big deal, it's only myself and the good lady at the moment but usable rear seats means we can offer a lift etc if needed and from what you say the space is fine for child seats etc.

FYI: 335i 6-speed manual is still on the list. But we're not absolutely minted so I need the economy figures to be sensible (if not good).

[Neil McRae]

Talk to Synter with regards to dealers, but phone around, do research on what you are really looking for.

With regards to the run flats. Best option is to get rid of them and put the space saver wheel in the boot. Yes so you loose a little space but trust me the RFTs are nothing but freaking hassle. WHen you get a puncture its pretty much new tyre job, they say they lsat 50 @ 50, I don't believe it. when you get a puncture its just a nightmare having to deal with that rather than just shove the spare on and away you go.

[toxicnerve]

Thanks for the tips. I have a couple of Sytner dealers in easy reach so will definitely check them out.

I've also been reading good things about the Battersea dealer...

As for research/knowing what I want, I know what you mean. I have a list of options etc that are must-haves and some nice-to-haves and all the rest of it. I will definitely phone a few dealers and see what they each have when the time comes (like I say, it wont be for a few months yet but I like to be prepared).

I take it all main dealers have the same preparation standards?

As for the tyre issue, this is something that I am still concerned about. I might have to go for non-RTFs and a space saver spare...just undecided. There's a real difference of opinion with some people saying they are fine and other having had nothing but problems and I've seen loads of pictures of the kind of failures that occur and it doesn't look appealing!!!

[oscarguitar]

I have the 335d (still). Consumption is around 38 - 40 mpg over 22000 miles, about 70/30 A roads/motorway. I drive in a spirited fashion where safe to do so!

The performance is exceptional and very easily accessed, you don't need to be pushing it to be pressing on. In DS mode with DSC on (or completely off actually) it just flies, reeling in just about anything else on the road without effort.

I have switched to non RFTs on 19s after finding it impossible to get RFT replacements at the time. I find them an improvement in terms of comfort, handling is more progressive, and ultimate grip levels astounding. The RFTs had a sharper turn in but less feel and the ride was horrid on anything other than very smooth tarmac so I tended to work around it by going slower, maybe that is the safety feature!

I have not driven a 335i but hear they are exceptional, if your mileage is low the fuel cost won't make a big difference, but if you are a high miler you could get up to and extra 10- 15 mpg, which is a lot of dosh!

You have a great decision to make, you will be dleighted with either. But to be honest if what you say about your driving style is correct, you might consider a well speced 320d, de badge it and save yourself a packet in initial cost and fuel!

Key options for me are:19s, Zenons, DAB, Logic 7, aux input and of course the hugely overpriced Sat Nav/Bluetooth combo.

Enjoy

[Neil McRae]

yup upgraded audio as stock sucks.

[toxicnerve]

Originally Posted by oscarguitar

You have a great decision to make, you will be dleighted with either. But to be honest if what you say about your driving style is correct, you might consider a well speced 320d, de badge it and save yourself a packet in initial cost and fuel!

I think the 335 models are just more attractive, I really like the twin pipes look. I'm by no means a driving slouch and I do like to open the taps but day to day driving, mainly to protect my license, I just drive very sensibly. You won't find me blocking up the middle lane on the motorway etc either!!

335, mainy for styling and for that "warm feeling inside"

Originally Posted by Neil McRae

yup upgraded audio as stock sucks.

Duly noted gents. I will keep this in mind when the time comes.

All these tips are exactly the kind of info I need!!

[zltm089]

335 D for the economy....and yes....it wins!!! can't compete with diesel economy!

Buying tips....make sure, you check the servicing history and MAKE SURE YOU GET SOMETHING IN WRITING...STATING THAT THE CAR DOESN'T NEED ANY Major service, change of brake pads etc....

those vampires will steal every drop of blood off you!...trust me...

You don't want engine warning lights coming up after a few months ownership!...You're paying for BMW quality!

[creepy coupe]

I’ve just bought a 335i from Sytners, before that I had a 135i and both give 30 MPG, 27 when driven spiritedly, so not a massive difference over the diesel IMO

335i coupe's are fairly rare at the mo, so if you do find one don't expect massive discounts

The petrol does sound amazing when you give it some beans and the engine pulls from 1400 rpm, not as much torque as the 335d, but it holds the revs far longer.

[toxicnerve]

Originally Posted by creepy coupe

I’ve just bought a 335i from Sytners, before that I had a 135i and both give 30 MPG, 27 when driven spiritedly, so not a massive difference over the diesel IMO

335i coupe's are fairly rare at the mo, so if you do find one don't expect massive discounts

The petrol does sound amazing when you give it some beans and the engine pulls from 1400 rpm, not as much torque as the 335d, but it holds the revs far longer.

There's a lovely 335i knocking about at the moment with one of the main dealers (national search on BMW site) with the DCT and it's fully loaded. Sapphire Black, Coral Red and all the extras you could want really.

Lovely car, sadly I'm completing on my house purchase today and as you can imagine I've literally just been cleaned out by that!! It's going to have to wait until around Christmas time (possibly into the New Year) but my time will come!!!

Yeah, I think I might have given the wrong impression about my driving style, I'm not adverse to a bit of technically proficient driving on the A-roads etc and giving it a bit but at the same time I'm not one for doing 40 in a 30 or 100+ on the motorway. Mainly for the safety of my family and those around me. I guess a lot you guys with heavy right feet think this is a bit sad but it's just me...

EDIT:

here it is - http://www.bmw.co.uk/bmwuk/auc/car_d...WB720X0PW81525


EDIT II:

Regarding my servicing questions, do any of you guys do your own bits and pieces? Pads etc, microfilter? I've seen a few people do, I assume it doesnt affect warranty etc?

[rogerxp]

I would really suggest you get one with improved sounds. The basic system is really crap for a car in this price bracket. I'd urge for the Logic7 system as that's fantastic but the Loudspeaker upgrade I'm sure will do. They may have changed the names of these systems but essentially the Loudspeaker is the first upgrade and the Logic7 is above that (the one above that 'individual' is stupidly expensive in my opinion).

[toxicnerve]

Cool, I will bear the audio systems comments in mind. I like listening to music while I drive so this is an important factor for me. I'm no audiophile but who wants rubbish speakers?!

Alternatively, can you not just fit some after-market speakers or is the entire stanard system duff?

[creepy coupe]

Originally Posted by toxicnerve

EDIT:

here it is - http://www.bmw.co.uk/bmwuk/auc/car_d...WB720X0PW81525

Looks very nice, same spec as mine, could do with being £2.5k cheaper IMO

[toxicnerve]

Originally Posted by creepy coupe

Looks very nice, same spec as mine, could do with being £2.5k cheaper IMO

Yeah, agree about the price. Like I say, my purchase will be at the tail end of the year/early in the New Year so I will be sure to try and make sure I get a good deal from the dealers I go to/end up buying from.

How do you find the DCT?

[creepy coupe]

Originally Posted by toxicnerve

How do you find the DCT?

Yeah love it. lots of variety, full auto, paddle, sequential

[rogerxp]

Originally Posted by creepy coupe

I’ve just bought a 335i from Sytners

Are you going to post some piccies 'cc'. How come you changed from the 135i (another thread perhaps...)

[creepy coupe]

Originally Posted by rogerxp

Are you going to post some piccies 'cc'. How come you changed from the 135i (another thread perhaps...)

I will, just a soon as I take some decent one's.

I went from the 135 to a Cayman S, but didn't get on with the Porsche, so back to the 335i which for me is the best blend of engine and refinement.