Hello all! I recently purchase my first 2003 BMW X5 3.0i (E53)
Wanted to tell you my story and experience thusfar, I purchased the case on Friday March 3, 2012, from a car dealer. I purchase the car for $11,625, the dealer put a new axel in for me.
The car is Blue with biege interior and and a black headliner, I think this is unique to the 2003 and earlier models.

The car also has the after marker Dynavin GPS/TV/Radio/Backup Camera/ Radio etc.. head unit which is pretty cool.

The car also came with some after market HID head lights, the person told me they are similar bulbs that come with the current X5, not sure how true that is, but never the less a major upgrade.

Also took it for a presale inspection at a place that was suggested by BimmerFest. by which the mechanic said it was in good shape and at some point the controll arms may need to be replaced.

The car runs really nice, I have the dreaded check rear ligjht, check brake light and check back up lights which I am addressing.

Car has practically new tires on it which was a plus for me.

Anyhow, I am currently putting 93 or 91 grade octiaine. I am wondering if this is a mandate in this car? I am coming from a Maxima.

Also I am about to do an oil change. I have done some searching and it appears people are pretty split between using BMW 5-30 or using Mobil 1 0-40.
The past owned used Mobil 1. Just wanted to know what the community thinks about a car with this mileage in terms of getting the oil changed. Should I go BWM or Mobil 1 High Mileage, and what type of filter? I plan on changing every 5,000, the previouis owner claims to have done it at 8,000.

Also the Transmission FLuid was changed on 91,000 miles. I am considering getting it changed at 120k..

I am wondering what do you guys think about the deal? Was it fair? Did I do bad on the deal, please let me know. Thanks

Photos of the X5 that I purchased.
https://plus.google.com/u/0/10250789...ts/jCgyHv38eaa