Hi,
I've been a lurker here for a few years now, and I'm now hoping to join the M5 club. I've been actively looking for the last few weeks (currently own a 2001 540i), and a nice one just came up locally for a good price. However (like always), it's not perfect. The owner says it has an "intermittent problem with the throttle actuator", and that once the engine reaches operating temperature, it goes away. I'm going to check out the car in person this afternoon, but just wanted to ask the knowledgeable people around here:
- I've read a lot on the FAQ here and searching the forums, on what to look for, items that need special attention on E39 M5s, etc... no mention of a throttle actuator. Is it usually called something else?
- Could it be VANOS related noise? Besides the noise, when there is a VANOS issue, what else should I look for?
The car checks out in Carfax (not a guarantee, I know), so hopefully everything else checks out in person. I'll ask for service records, get the car through a PPI/CPO Certified list, all the usual stuff, and maybe post pics here later.
Thanks!
Marcos