I had my Mechatronic module replaced last October on my 2004 at around 50,000 miles and it was $4,100; extended warranty paid for that w/$100 deductible. That stopped all the issues I was having.

But for me it was really not confidence inspiring to have that happen on a nearly $57,000 car (when new). And it seems quite common to our E53's.

I really wanted a new E70 but because of this experience I'm just hanging on to my paid for 2004 until my remainder of warranty expires in 2 years. Had I not had the warranty I would have dumped it. Oh, and my Indy mechanic figured out my transmission problem where the dealer couldn't after multiple visits. A trusted mechanic is best bet and without it I wouldn't continue to own this car.

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2007 328i Sport, Monaco Blue
2011 X35D - sold -Space Grey
2004 X5 4.4i - sold - Kalahari Beige
2001 X5 3.0i - sold - Pearl Beige
2006 325i Sport, Sonora Beige
2000 323i - sold - Sienna Red