I have a 2001 x5 and had to replace the transmission at 102,000 miles - 2K over the extended warranty. I finally "bargained" with the dealer and BMW North America and they gave me a 50% discount on the parts. Overall, the job cost me a little over $3,000.

More recently, at 126,000 miles, it appears that the head gasket blew and I not have a major oil/engine problem. It's at the stealer right now being diagnosed. I will NEVER buy another BMW product. Not even a T-shirt with their logo on it. Ummm, hello, that's a $50,000 vehicle that's not engineered for crap. Sorry to be so negative, but to have to put another $4,000 into getting that fixed is RIDICULOUS.