Guidance sought: buying a used X3 in the US

[Kaizen]

Hi All

I'm new to the forum and kind of to the US. After being here for two years with one car, I'm looking at a second hand 2006 / 2007 X3 for my better half. I'm looking at something with a premium package as this come with HomeLink support, an auto-dimming rear-view mirror and bluetooth support. (Why cars don't ship with this as standard these days is a mystery to me but that's a rant for another thread.)

I've been using CarMax to get an idea of what is out there as well as going to a few dealers in the area. The latter seems laughable with the premium they're charging.

Does anyone have any advice on how best to approach this?

Thanks to all the contributors on this forum.

[AzNMpower32]

I would personally stay away from the 2007 models with an automatic gearbox. The 6-speed AT was new for 2007 and has a tendency for significant software and hesistation problems that often cannot be fixed yet.

Going to a BMW dealer and purchasing a CPO is more expensive, but it does offer some peace-of-mind since there is that extended CPO warranty that isn't offered at other dealers. The X3 has held onto its value fairly well, and thus, prices aren't going to be as low as say, a Chevy Tahoe. A 2006 X3 in good condition should run in the mid $20s depending on options and packages. I strongly suggest finding one with the xenon headlamps (easily discernable from the projector headlamp bumb).

Of course, if you can drive a manual, that's the absolute best way to go for any year. A 2007 X3 with 6MT is an absolute blast.

[Kaizen]

Originally Posted by AzNMpower32

I strongly suggest finding one with the xenon headlamps (easily discernable from the projector headlamp bumb).

Of course, if you can drive a manual, that's the absolute best way to go for any year. A 2007 X3 with 6MT is an absolute blast.

Thanks for the feedback!

I'm REALLY trying to stay below 28k and while my first choice is always a manual, trying to find such a beast is a nightmare. The search goes on....

[AzNMpower32]

You can use the CPO model search tool on the BMW USA website. It might not be fully up-to-date, but there's never any harm in emailing or calling the dealership to see if such a car exists.

[Kaizen]

Hi

Thanks for the advice. I've looked at the site and have started getting in touch with some dealers. We'll see what comes of it.

Thanks again for the help.