Why Are BMW 6 Series So Cheap? The Real Reasons Behind the Affordable Luxury
The BMW 6 Series has long been the pinnacle of luxury grand touring coupes and convertibles. With smooth, powerful engines, elegant styling, and lavish cabins, these ultimate driving machines seem like they should cost a fortune. However, if you start browsing used 6 Series models from the past decade, you’ll notice something surprising – their prices are shockingly affordable compared to competitors like the Mercedes-Benz SL-Class and Audi A7.
With its status as BMW’s flagship luxury coupe, why are used 6 Series models so much cheaper to buy than you’d expect? As it turns out, there are some very good reasons behind these low prices. Rapid depreciation, costly maintenance, and complex technology all make purchasing a used 6 Series an absolute bargain compared to other luxury cars.
In this in-depth guide, we’ll explore the reasons why the BMW 6 Series depreciates so quickly and becomes so affordable on the used market. We’ll look at ownership costs, reliability issues, and tips for finding a 6 Series that balances performance, luxury, and value. If you’ve been eyeing a used 6 Series but wondering why prices are so tempting, read on to uncover the truth!
Rapid Depreciation Drastically Cuts 6 Series Prices
One of the biggest contributors to the affordable pricing of used BMW 6 Series is the rapid depreciation these luxury coupes experience. As a general rule, most luxury cars see sharp depreciation in the first few years as the “new and exciting” factor wears off. But the 6 Series seems to depreciate even faster than rivals.
Several factors drive this rapid depreciation:
Strong Competition in the Luxury Market – The luxury coupe and convertible segment is fiercely competitive with models like the Mercedes SL, Audi A7, and Porsche 911 all vying for sales. This gives buyers many alternatives to the 6 Series which hurts resale value.
BMW’s Less Exclusive Brand Image – Mercedes and Audi are viewed as more prestigious brands, especially when it comes to luxury grand touring cars. The BMW brand doesn’t command the premium pricing of its German rivals.
Ongoing Innovations & New Models – BMW frequently introduces major updates and new generations of the 6 Series. This makes existing models seem outdated faster, accelerating depreciation.
Looking at resale value statistics bears out just how rapid 6 Series depreciation is. According to CarEdge data, a 3-year old 6 Series retains just 45% of its original MSRP on trade-in. After 5 years, trade-in value drops to about 33%. That’s significantly worse than competitors:
- Mercedes SL– 57% retained after 3 years, 42% after 5 years
- Audi A7 – 51% retained after 3 years, 37% after 5 years
Clearly, the 6 Series depreciates faster than the prestige luxury brands. This means used prices quickly fall into affordable territory. You can pick up a 5-year old 6 Series convertible for $30,000 – $40,000 or a coupe for even less. Considering these cars cost $80,000+ when new, depreciation is slashing prices in half in the used market.
Costly Maintenance & Repairs Deter Buyers
In addition to fast depreciation, the high ownership costs of the 6 Series also contribute to reduced used prices. Maintenance and repairs on these complex performance machines gets very expensive. Many buyers are deterred by the looming costs of upkeep.
High Routine Maintenance Costs – Even basic maintenance is costly on a 6 Series. Oil changes run $150+ at the dealership. New tires can be $300 – $400 apiece. Brake jobs are $1,000 or more.
Expensive Parts & Labor Rates – Repairs get really pricey due to high BMW parts prices and hourly labor rates at the dealer. Something as simple as replacing a failed fuel pump can run over $1,000 in parts and labor.
Electrical Glitches & Leaks – Some problem areas on 6 Series include oil gasket leaks, water pump failures, fading brake pads and rotors, faulty fuel pumps, and glitchy electrical systems. Parts and labor to fix these issues add up fast.
While a used Mercedes or Audi will share some of these expensive maintenance costs, the perception remains that the 6 Series is one of the pricier vehicles to own long-term. These recurring expenses scare away some buyers and contribute to lower used pricing. For buyers willing to take on the maintenance burden, it’s a great way to get luxury car performance and styling at an affordable price via the used market.
Complex Technology Can Cause Reliability Issues
In their quest to deliver cutting edge performance and luxury, BMW loaded the 6 Series with complex technology. Twin-turbo V8 engines, all-wheel drive, adaptive suspension, and the latest infotainment systems push the technological envelope. However, this advanced tech comes at a price – reliability issues.
Problems owners report with the 6 Series’ complex systems include:
- Twin-Turbo Engine – Turbocharged motors add more power but also more complexity. Turbos can fail causing reduced power.
- All-Wheel Drive – BMW’s xDrive AWD system delivers enhanced traction but suffers from issues with transfer case failure and driveshaft problems.
- iDrive – This knob-controlled infotainment system has bugs causing freezing, slow response, and glitches with navigation and stereo.
- Active Suspension – The computer-controlled active roll stabilization and adaptive damping systems are prone to leak and fail.
- ABS & Stability Control – These safety systems experience problems with wheel speed sensors and pump failures.
Diagnosing and repairing issues with this technology is time-consuming and requires expertise that many independent shops lack. Repair costs at the BMW dealer for complex electronics and drivetrain glitches can be staggering.
While the 6 Series delivers an amazing driving experience courtesy of this technology, it comes at a cost when things go wrong. For buyers focused on solid reliability and low repair costs, these complex systems make the 6 Series less appealing. But if you don’t mind the occasional gremlin and are willing to pay for repairs, used 6 Series packed with tech are an absolute performance bargain.
How To Find an Affordable Used 6 Series
If you want to score an affordable used 6 Series, follow these tips to find one that balances price, condition, and cost of ownership:
Target 2009 – 2012 Models – The E63/E64 generation 6 Series spans 2003 – 2012. Aim for ’09 – ’12 to get the latest styling, tech, and most options. Avoid older models.
Look for One-Owner, Dealer Maintained Cars – Try to find a car with full BMW dealer service history from the original owner. This indicates quality maintenance.
Check for Active Warranty – Some used 6 Series still have active 4 year/50K mile factory warranties which can help ease repair costs.
Consider Higher Mileage Options – Models with 70K – 110K miles offer huge discounts versus lower mileage. Just have a mechanic inspect before purchase.
Negotiate Below Book Value – KBB and NADA “book value” doesn’t reflect real market prices. Offer 30% below book for the best deal.
Third Party Inspection – Don’t rely on dealer inspections alone. Pay $100 – $200 for an independent pre-purchase inspection first.
Check Insurance Costs – Insure the VIN before buying to make sure premiums for a luxury coupe or convertible aren’t too high.
Buying from a BMW dealer provides the advantage of vehicle history reports and occasionally extended warranty options. However, you will pay a premium compared to private party and independent lots. Cast a wide net searching online and through major used car sites and you can find the right 6 Series that balances affordability with year, mileage, and condition.
Used BMW 6 Series Offer Luxury & Performance
In the used car market, few vehicles offer the blend of luxury, performance, and affordability provided by a gently used BMW 6 Series. Rapid depreciation slices thousands off the price in the first few years. Buyers that aren’t deterred by higher than average maintenance costs and electronics glitches can score an amazing luxury grand touring machine for $15,000 – $35,000.
While you need to be diligent assessing service history, mileage, and general condition, a used 6 Series truly offers exotic car styling and performance on a real world budget. Take advantage of the bargain pricing but go in with eyes wide open on total cost of ownership. For savvy buyers, a used 6 Series coupe or convertible is the pinnacle of affordable luxury.
