said by BMW Gift :.... my mother has a bmw 2002 5series car she is giving to me as an early gift for graduating college.
Depending on how well your mother maintained the 5-series and the mileage it has, you *might* want to look that gift horse in the mouth, get her to sell it her & give you the cash instead. Then you go & buy a used 3-series in the US with extended warranty and import it.
Is it a 528/530 or 540?
The 6 cyl. variety is less costly to repair than the V-8 540.
If it's a 540 with
a) >120,000km then you REALLY want to replace the timing chain guides NOW ($1200+), and the water pump, the thermostat, and a few other bits (rad hoses, etc...) while you are at it (figure $2k +tax all-in). Do this every 120,000Km.
b) If it has the ZF Steptronic automatic transmission and the car has >100,000Km - do NOT ever replace the transmission fluid - that can cause more problems than it could potentially solve.
Either model - You probably also want to replace the front suspension ball joints + tie rods @ 100,000Km [540] or 120,000Km [528/530] (~$800-$1000). Ditto for carefully checking the radiator for signs of failure/leaks. Also at that age you will want to make sure that the hood release cable and latching mechanisms are not showing signs of seizing.
Take the car to a good alignment shop (not a dealer) and get the wheels aligned to factory specs (~$100) - the procedure is VERY specific, including adding weight (50Kg IIRC) in the trunk while the alignment is done.
These cars NEED 4 proper winter tires if you are driving in any non-city areas or expect to move when it is snowing, especially the 540. Dunlop Winter Sport 3D is exceptionally good on the 5-series and is priced right.
At that age I suggest you find a good independent BMW mechanic, stay away from the dealer whenever po$$ible, and source major parts from a wrecker when needed/available or order parts from US dealers for 50-70 cents on the dollar vs. here. Electrical/computer repairs can be hellishly expensive out-of-warranty, ie. a water-cooled 540 alternator is $1000+ installed.
Door seals need to be treated every winter to prevent freezing to the doors. Install a new battery every 3 years [540] or 4 years [528/530] as the 5-series really sucks electricity.
www.realoem.com and www.getbmwparts.com are your friends.
That said, the E39 BMW (1997-2003 5-series) is the best 5-series ever and a bloody joy to drive (especially the 540).
Signed,
A former 540 owner