Well, we found an X5. 2006, X5, 4.4, 29,500 miles, No Nav at a local dealership. $33,500 and CPO to 100k.

It drove great, lots of power, tight and clean. I asked for the records and from memory here are a few highlights:
1400 miles - New Headlights (Perm Failure)
1500 miles - New Headlights (Perm Failure)
10,000 miles - New Steering Rack
15,000 - Brakes and Brake fluid flush
15,000 miles - Engine missing (solution not found)
25,000 - Brakes
Plus a little more misc things.

We are now at 29k and I expressed my concern that this vehicle has been in the shop a lot....especially electrical issues. Because of the warranty, we decided to move forward.

Got it home that night and noticed the engine surging up and down in the park position. Some of the electrical were dimming at the same time the engine hit the low end of the surge. Also, noticed the rear seat heater was on high and then, on it's own, went to low. The other rear seat heater stayed on high.

Later on that night while in the garage, I turned on the headlights and only one light came on. Turned off, then on, the other light came on and the other off. Again, then no lights. Again, just parking. Again, parking fog lights and one headlight. Again, both headlights. Unbelievable!

Out of frustration, I sent an email on Sunday saying I have had some serious issues in less than 24 hours and will be coming back Monday morning to discuss. I also told them I want my check back until this is resolved.

Came in this morning and they were very understandable. I told them I was already worried about the electrical on this vehicle but now I'm really nervious. I told them if they can give me specific reasons why these issues came up, I might still consider the purchase. If they just throw parts at it hoping it will fix it, I'm not interested in the vehicle.

Does this sound unusual for these vehicles? I need some advice here. I am trying to get a low mileage vehicle for some reliability but right now, I'm not too convinced.

FYI - I have not been able to get the surge nor the rear heat problem to re-occur after the initial night. Just the headlights for now.