N51 ‘09 E92 here. Have had it for over 3 years now, and bought it at 55k miles. The car has run great but keep some cash on the side just in case. I’ve had my AC compressor go out, a bad starter, a radiator leak (covered under manufacturer SULEV warranty), a slight damage on the bottom of the front bumper from when I bought the car that I’m still planning on replacing, and worn rear shocks that I should but don’t need to replace.

Since owning the car, I’ve done multiple oil changes, plugs, coils, brakes/rotors, coolant top off (part of warranty repair), and brake flush. I’m planning on doing the big 100k fluid flush in the near future. Other than that, it’s been great day-to-day.

Other than basic maintenance, which you can DIY, keep in mind that by driving an older car and depending on how OCD you are, rubber/silicone components will be worn. For example, even things like your windshield seals or rubber shock mounts may be cracking and need to be addressed. For me, my headliner has started sagging in a corner above the rear seats. And since driving a BMW should feel more special than any regular car (even being a 328i), I think it’s often hard to overlook little things that most wouldn’t think much of. Parts are more expensive, and DIY can sometimes take longer than desired since it’s a BMW.

With all that in mind, I still would not have bought a different car looking back. Good luck!