Value of no start immobilized X5?

[1BADM6]

So I was perusing craigslist as I often do looking for deals and ran across a re-posted ad I saw about a month ago. A 2001 X5 with 160k miles, supposedly in good condition, we all know how that goes, the issue is it won't start. The owner believes the immobilizer is the issue and I'm thinking they are partly right. The key is no longer valid. On the ad they claim the dealer quoted $800 to $2000 to repair. Since I will only make my offer on a worst case scenario, what do you figure a reasonable off would be? I have no other info thus far aside from the vehicle having a new starter, alternator, tires and radiator. Most X5's I see are indeed in good condition but without full service records I can add a complete front to back service to the list and possibly gaskets and seals. I'm thinking of an offer between $500 and $1000 but no more. I would likely flip this. Is there anything I'm missing here? There is no way I can tell the condition of timing chain guides, transmission, transfer case, fuel system, etc, etc. What do you think a low risk offer would be with no consideration of parting it out?

[crystalworks]

$1000 is a good "low-risk" offer, but not likely one the owner would accept (immediately) if the body and interior are in good condition. I'd try it anyway and just give them my number if they changed their minds. No big loss if they decide not to sell to you and wait for a better offer.

[lo_jack]

Can you not just slam a new ECU/key combo in it off ebay and reprogram? I believe the E46 people know this magic.

[1BADM6]

$1000 is a good "low-risk" offer, but not likely one the owner would accept (immediately) if the body and interior are in good condition. I'd try it anyway and just give them my number if they changed their minds. No big loss if they decide not to sell to you and wait for a better offer.

Yeah I think I would have to walk away if they won't take $1000. The risk is too high for any non-running vehicle and especially of german descent. I'm trying to figure a number where I just quit and have to part it if I can't get it running. I don't want to part it but I think I have to consider the worst case scenario. It's only worth about $3k to $3.5k running. It's amazing how cheap these are going for.

Can you not just slam a new ECU/key combo in it off ebay and reprogram? I believe the E46 people know this magic.

That would be the best scenario and one which I'm gambling on. It's possible all it needs is a key but, if they don't have a service history, it could need a DME just to get it to run. What I'm concerned about is what I might find after It runs. There always seems to be something they forgot to tell you or just happens to go out a week later, haha.

[itscoo2pyopants]

I’ve seen that one on Craigslist too. Seller was very vague with details and pictures so I lost interest. I believe it is a salvage title too.

Good luck if you decide to pick it up. I have diagnostic software if you need help scanning / troubleshooting.

[jopecasa]

Originally Posted by itscoo2pyopants

Good luck if you decide to pick it up. I have diagnostic software if you need help scanning / troubleshooting.

No ignition.....Scanning not possible.

Modules need to be on active state....before diagnostics/interrogation.

[Overboost]

I think the immobilizer only prevents the X5 from starting. The existing key should go to position 2 and switch on the ignition and all the modules providing the battery has voltage.

[upallnight]

If you have the correct software and know how to do it you can align the EWS system to work with the DME, and reregistered the key if it is not physically damaged. Sounds like the seller is talking BS.

I found the spare valet key for the soccer mom minivan, but it wouldn't start the engine. Use Techstream to re-registered the key with the computer and now she starting.

[Fifty150hs]

How much could you part it out for? More than $1000, then money ahead. If you can start it, money Way ahead.

[1BADM6]

I’ve seen that one on Craigslist too. Seller was very vague with details and pictures so I lost interest. I believe it is a salvage title too.

Good luck if you decide to pick it up. I have diagnostic software if you need help scanning / troubleshooting.

What software do you have? I got my Foxwell NT510 last week. Should be good to go.

I think the immobilizer only prevents the X5 from starting. The existing key should go to position 2 and switch on the ignition and all the modules providing the battery has voltage.

You are correct

If you have the correct software and know how to do it you can align the EWS system to work with the DME, and reregistered the key if it is not physically damaged. Sounds like the seller is talking BS.

I found the spare valet key for the soccer mom minivan, but it wouldn't start the engine. Use Techstream to re-registered the key with the computer and now she starting.

Considering dealer costs, the software is actually quite cheap. I can program a new key for about $60. It's possible the DMW and EWS need to be realigned but I think that's worst case. I got a reply and the seller seems to think it's worth $1000 - $3000. I tried very hard not to be condescending in my reply and asked to see it this weekend. No response yet.

I'm thinking $3k to $5k. Even used parts for these aren't cheap. Modules and sensors always going out or parts showing wear. Ebay is a goldmine of used X5 parts, panels and trim.