New to the E53. Hi-Mileage 3.0 6 Speed Stick Questions

[ChiefRider]

Hello all,

I've been lurking for a bit, trying to glean what I can before picking up an E53. I've found a local 2004, 3.0 6 speed manual that I am interested in. It has 150k on the clock, and zero service history. Overall, it looks good, albeit filthy inside. All the doors are tight, windows all work as do the door handles. Everything seems to work as it should, no apparent leaks. No clunks or other obvious noises. Seems like the shifter is a bit loose, but no problem finding any gears. Clutch is smooth, trans sounds fine in all gears. No lights on the dash, seller says no codes (or resets; I'll check for readiness monitor status to ensure).

What else should I be looking for?

Thanks!

[crystalworks]

$2000 to spend on maintenance in the first year.

Kidding aside though, if there isn't maintenance history on any of the BMW's I've bought... I'll typically spend $2000 doing suspension, cooling system, plugs, and seals to bring it up to some sort of base level maintenance wise.

Did you look under the vehicle? Check for leaking CV boots on the axles, engine/trans leaks of course. A PPI is cheap insurance for peace of mind too.

[Skeletor]

Originally Posted by ChiefRider

What else should I be looking for?

Check out the rear sub frame bushings. That's one thing that's almost guaranteed to need replaced. Both of my 5 speeds need them done here shortly. The manual transmission X5's don't have as much drive train loss as the automatics and also shift a bit harder than the automatics as well. If you're a DIYer, you can rent the tool (or make the tool) and have it done in a day. I'm not sure what the rates are to get it done at a shop.

The looseness in the shifter is probably the bushings in the linkage itself, not the synchronizers. Our higher mileage (325,000 miles) 5 speed has had the bushings installed and it feels like a brand new transmission. My daily driver needs it done, it's starting to feel just a tad wobbly.

CV axles and some suspension parts are mainly the most common issues to have.

Other than that, keep up on general maintenance. Check the oil level frequently and don't forget to change it. They're good machines and last longer than you would think. Every X5 is unique, and will act apon the previous owners actions. I bought my Black 5 speed with 158K and have put 16K miles on it in the past year and don't regret buying it one bit.

[ChiefRider]

Great replies, thanks! Looks like the CV boots are fine, no readily seen leaks, and the chassis is dry. I welcome more, and will keep you posted on what I find and do. Thanks!

[lo_jack]

Look at the tire wear, if you can. That tells you about suspension junk that needs to be replaced.

Also, if the rear wheels look like a teenager from VWVortex put extreme negative camber on them, then a bunch of rear suspension needs to be replaced.

Specifically I am talking about bushings (which are mostly mounted in replaceable arms). Those are wear parts, but with zero maint history, assume none have been replaced.

I'd think the same about the cooling system, which is all "wear" parts, basically.

6 speed MT will be your friend, though. Good call.

[ChiefRider]

So, I skipped on the local X5. Just too iffy- The interior looked like it had been used as a farm truck. Just not a good indicator of overall care.

Instead, I have purchased a 3.0 6 speed manual from a member here. More to come soon....

[Skeletor]

Show off the new ride! Who did you buy it from?

[ChiefRider]

I'm still waiting for it to ship- Was hoping to fly and drive it home, but no time for that at the moment. More when I take possession.

[ChiefRider]

So my "new" E53 has shipped, and is on its way. Should receive it mid week. Here is a pic from the former owner.

[ChiefRider]

Just to close the circle on this thread, I received my "new" 2004 3.0 6 speed MT on Saturday. The car was shipped from Las Vegas, and arrived with no problems.

I never like long distance purchases, but I had several conversations with the cars owner that went a long way to boosting my confidence. A PPI by Franks European, and a lengthy conversation and report from them sealed the deal. This E53 has high miles, but has had excellent maintenance. The interior appears as nearly new, the exterior very nearly so. There is a bit of a whine or hum from the front end rolling stock which the seller disclosed; probably a bearing noise. Not in need of immediate attention, but I'll investigate that soon.

Excellent care and maintenance, and the 6 cylinder / stick shift, I hope to get some good use out of it. No doubt, there will be more threads coming, none problematic I hope!