If you can not DIY or have someone that will DIY for you for free or a "few bucks" a used e53 or any BMW is not for you. Sorry to say. The m54 x5 has the lowest maintenance costs compared to the m62 or n62 v8 models, but it still is not cheap.

You have cv boots or axles to deal with since it is awd. Cooling systems need to be replaced before failure as a best practice, ccv's on both engines are not quick work. And so on.

Do you have someone that can do work for you cheap/free? The labor charges are what make owning an older BMW a risky venture for those that can not/will not DIY.

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2004 E60 545i Sport 6MT. Black/Black Build Date 6-2004 102k miles