Quote:
Originally Posted by basora
Here's the background to my question(s). Would like your opinion:
After my recent discovery of a catastrophic drive-shaft and transmission failure on a 2011 E70 X5 50i with only 38K miles I was considering buying (see 2011 50i transmission faillure - Bimmerfest - BMW Forums), I am wondering if spending $2200 on CPO and $1800 on the platinum WRAP wouldn't be a good idea ...
I'm looking at another 2011 50i with 49,500 mi with no CPO on it at the moment. Dealer says it can still be done.
I can't imagine what it would cost if I drove the car off the lot and experienced such a catastrophic tranny failure. It might be $10K+ or more to fix. A CPO inspection will not reveal any imminent failures, but at least you know you're covered, in case .... Even a simple problem with the DSP stereo system, or RES, or NAV can cost thousands to fix.
I can tackle brake jobs and the like, but wouldn't have a clue where to start when it comes to transmissions or electronics on a car like the e70 ...
Buy another Honda ...? |
I understand the motivation.
But that tranny issue is absolutely covered by the CPO. A CPO (or a BMW Gold Extended warranty, SAME PLAN) is like "major medical": the big stuff is covered. Engine. Transmission.
Now, what about the stuff in between? Hoses? radiator hoses, AC hoses, seals, rubber, suspension, electornics.... yes, you can be bled with that stuff. [harsh on] But if you cannot tolerate a few thousand a year- possibly- for upkeep on a $80k car, why are you playing in this sandbox? I know this is harsh, and comes off poorly, but folks need to really get beyond monthly payments and 'the deal'. You are in it for more than just the buy in. [harsh off]
A CPO is FAR better than nothing, and will cover quite a bit. Personally I used to manage my service visits by first diagnosing the issue, then making sure my reported issue 'fit' into the CPO coverage- those items that didnt, I wouldnt even bother at the BMW dealership.
The "Wrap" seems to be targeted at fearful and unknowledgeable buyers- "I jsut want to be protected". The actual coverage is really poor- it would do nothing for the 'bleeders' that the CPO misses (except nav and radio).
Finally you should discount the CPO inspection ENTIRELY. The sales folks will (or may) tell the ionspector "pass this" and it will.... get your own PPI. yes, get the CPO for the warranty, jsut dont believe the cpo is some kind of 'refurbished to factory conditions'...
A