[tlems2016]

Hey All, longtime lurker, first time poster. Was wondering how many miles/how much longevity peeps are getting out of their m235s - because I know, miles are not just miles.

I've got a 2014 m235 that I purchased in 2016 with 25k miles on it. I've gotten it up to 162,000, and despite a few things here and there, it's been one of the most reliable cars I've ever owned. Still pulls well and seems pretty solid, if not new and shiny.

That said, the shocks are cooked, and it's like driving a brick down the road. I'm not a DIYer - am a longtime, loyal customer of one of the best Euro shops in the Northeast, who's estimating around $3k to update suspension. They see nothing alarming with the rest of the car. BUT.... $3k is a significant investment in an aging car whose trade in value is ~$3500-$5k, and could go the distance on a new to me 3 series (looking for more room).

How far are people getting their m235s? I know it's a very subjective question but...how do you know when it's time to say goodbye?

[BringBackButtons]

My m235 6mt f23 is a summer only car. Its not going to get sold and has half those miles. And I will pay for suspension to be refreshed as $3k is cheaper than any other replacement car out there that is in as good condition that fits my wants.

What I do know is that no matter how cheap or expensive, suspension will not fix the "need" for more space as your posting alluded to for a 3 series., So if thats your end goal, cut to move and sell the car to someone who is able to make their mind on how the syspension should be.

My .02 anyway.

[John in VA]

Not being a DIYer changes the game, but like BBB said where can you get a car like the M235 for $3k? Most BMW shocks/struts are ready for replacement at 50-70k miles.

I almost spent that on parts to do maintenance & suspension on my 2006 330i ZHP coupe but it has 60k miles & won't be going anywhere!

I spent $1100 for maintenance parts (brakes, rear bump stops, valve cover gaskets, plugs, coils, belts, fluids changed) & shocks/struts for my wife's 2015 228i with 60k miles. Suspension is still compliant so doesn't need to be updated yet. She still loves it so we'll be keeping it.

If you need a larger car it makes sense to defer the repairs & pass the 2er on, letting the next owner know what your mechanics have suggested for future work.

[rhop101]

Agreed with the above. If you need the space and plan to sell the car and nothing prevents it from being registered to a new owner. Be open about what it needs and sell it. Anything you’d do to a 235 you can do to a 330/335i mod wise

If you keep it and need to catch up on maintenance it’s going to need new shocks, suspension arm refresh, a full cooling system overhaul, oil pan gasket, charge pipe, rod bearings etc.

Expect to spend $6000-$8000 in the coming years even if you were DIYing the work.

I have a friend with over 200k miles on their F30 335i. If you keep up with the maintenance the cars seem to last. Agree with you the F w/N55 is very reliable in terms of random failures that leave you stranded or unexpected part failure. I have 120k miles on my car and it doesn’t even burn a 1/2qt every 5k oil change despite track and Autocross use during the summer months. It’s much better on oil consumption then a similar mile N52 engined car I had.

[snakedoctor]

I just bought a used 2016 M235i and am budgeting for a suspension refresh. I'm not doing anything more than spirited driving from time to time but it will be my daily driver.

Is it best to refresh with OEM suspension or is there validity to going with an aftermarket solution? I've heard Bilstein mentioned but don't know if it will drastically change the ride quality to the point of being uncomfortable. I like the stock ride performance but also plan on changing out the wheels for something from VMR if that makes a difference.