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Returning a garaged car to the road after a long time - is it worth the effort?

I have a BMW E30 325i - the car was in mint condition when placed in a garage in France 8 years ago. Occasionally started since. Never given a long run.

Where should I start (if at all) with getting it back on the road? Before I spend the money on four new tyres, full fluids and belt changes - is there anything I should check first to make sure it is worth the effort?

Asked on 8 February 2013 by dj_akademix

Answered by Honest John
Will it move? That's the first thing. If the brakes are seized solid that is just the beginning of a long, uphill struggle. Next, will it start and run? If affirmative in both cases, then start assessing what you need to fix - brake pipes, battery, brake discs, timing belt, waterpump, etc, etc;, then when you get it running be prepared extra failures, such as alternator, PS pump, steering rack seals.
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