I consider everyone here at least a BMW X5 enthusiast. As enthusiasts we are quite likely willing to take more risk to drive what we want. My guess is the majority that purchase a 10+ year old vehicle are taking that risk.

In my case I couldn't help myself. I always wanted to buy something newer, even new, but was sure I couldn't afford the payments. As a motorhead I wasn't going to wait until it made sense. That left buying a used vehicle. It was scary but it wasn't a sure thing that the purchase would be a money pit.

Sometimes it worked out, sometimes it didn't. It was--I can't pay you now and I hope I don't have to pay you a lot later rationalization. Given the same set of circumstances I would do it again.

Bear in mind I have always done my own work. I learned early on that anything I could take apart I could put back together and there were always friends to help me with the details and tools I didn't have. Same is true today but the primary route is though a internet search for help. What do I find but a forum that reaches X5 enthusiasts around the world. I am saved from disaster. I join already concerned, afraid even panicked the leap of faith I made may have been off a cliff. It would never enter my mind I am about to get slammed.

The fact is that we have no idea if the problem they come here about is the first of many to come or the only one then have during their ownership.

I'm hiding from my in-laws.

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X5 4.6 2002 Black Sap, Black interior. 2013 X5M Melbourne Red, Bamboo interior
Dallas