Vehicle Overview
- Vehicle: 2005 BMW 545i
- Purchase Date: February 19, 2024
- Auction House: IAAI Greensboro
- Total Investment: $3,134 ($2,275 bid + $859 fees)
- VIN: WBANB335X5CN63441
Strengths
- Excellent highway performance and handling
- Engine in great condition
- Heated steering wheel - significant comfort feature
- Attractive deep-dish wheels
- Headlights responded well to restoration
Issues and Solutions
- Hood Damage: Solved with $50 hood bra
- Oil System: Oil pump bracket gasket failure - $15 part, time-consuming but straightforward repair
- Water Leak: Persistent issue on rear driver's side affecting seatbelt
- Initial Condition: Arrived with zero oil despite being "run and drive"
Learning Points
- Contact with previous owner can provide valuable insight into vehicle history
- Simple cosmetic solutions (hood bra) can effectively address expensive body damage
- Some repairs may be inexpensive in parts but require significant labor time
- Performance can be almost too good - consider legal implications of very capable vehicles
Exit Strategy
- Final Sale: Sold to Peddle for $315
- Alternative Offer: Carmax offered $200
- Notes: While not profitable, provided excellent entertainment value
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