If the dealers in Europe do a detailed Inspection I and II, and deal with the items that they find, that is great. In North America, there appears to be little respect for the BMW inspection list of items, and many vehicles seem to get a cursory once over along with an oil change, and that is about it.

I would look to the 2006 more than the 2004, as the 2004 was the first model after the face lift. The 2006 was probably the most reliable E53 (I don't know that for sure, but I suspect it).

__________________
2007 X3 3.0si, 6 MT, Premium, White

Retired:
2008 535i, 6 MT, M Sport, Premium, Space Grey
2003 X5 3.0 Steptronic, Premium, Titanium Silver
2002 325xi 5 MT, Steel Grey
2004 Z4 3.0 Premium, Sport, SMG, Maldives Blue