Personal cost of ownership is anecdotal. Every buyer has different experiences and used cars are not created equal. Minimizing cost of ownership is directly related to the pre-purchase due diligence. Find a vehicle that has had no more than 2 owners. Find one that didn't spend time in the snow belt. Find one with complete maintenance records. Find one that has a clean Carfax. Find one that has 75,000 miles or less. If over 75,000 miles be sure that all the maintenance that should be done with the extra mileage has been done. Have pre-purchase inspection done at a local independent BMW shop that specializes in BMWs and is well recommended. There will be some costs of operation but the purchase should be less risk--but not always. I agree with those that take the position that it is always risky to buy a used car if you can't DIY. Labor costs and factory parts are way too expensive. Whenever possible purchase a warranty if you don't DIY. Often the reason to buy used is payment related. That is high risk if your purchase limits don't allow you to find a vehicle that meets the above criteria. I think paying the higher cost up front is much better than hoping you won't have a costly problem.

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