So Ive been to two well different local BMW specialist and both have told me that the replacement heated kit would not cure my problems - it is simply insufficient for the extremes of temperature that we see here

Interestingly both have advised that a different CCV system be fitted - one mentioned that this system is from the 5 series and it takes away all the external parts which are prone to freezing up and places them internally where they are better protected

This is a fairly intensive task it seems - both have quoted figures in the region of $4K for this including parts and labour - it was quite the shock

So as it stands these are my options:

Spend a relatively small amount of cash (say $1000) and repair the damage but leave it as standard - the problem will almost certainly reappear IMO (I know others may disagree with this statement but if the last month has taught me anything its this), I suppose I could trade it for something else before this happens

Spend big cash (around $4K) and fit all the internal running gear which I think will make it winter proof - this is however a lot of cash for a car that isn't worth a lot of cash - is it worth it?

Leave the car as it is and sell it for parts (not sure I could be bothered with the hassle)

I should also mention that the mechanic suggested he may be able to lay his hands on a low mileage motor (mine is pretty high mileage - around 125,000) which could then be fitted with the internal CCV running gear much easier before swapping the motors and, I`m guessing selling my original motor to claw back some cash

Thoughts?

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2002 (05/02) 4.6IS X5 (Estoril Blue)