Used X5 buying advice

[Getsideways]

Hello this is my first post here, and I was hoping that some of you current x5 owners could shed a little light on a few things for me.

With the dramatic drop in prices recently I have decided to hop into a nice suv. I am young, work hard, and don't have alot of money but enough to get into something between 15-28k. i would love to steal something for under 20k right now, but would spend a few extra bucks to get something real nice. I am looking at both BMW X5 4.4's and Jeep Grand Cherokee srt-8's. I have seen srt8's as low as 25k w pretty low mileage (20-40k) and X5's as low as 15k with decent mileage on them (50-80k). I currenty drive an sti and am looking to upgrade to something that is a bit of a better daily driver for the NYC area with all the traffic and pot holes. I love fast sporty cars, which is why the srt-8 and x5 has made the list.

Ideally I would like one with the sports package. However, I can't find any real info on the suspension differences between the 4.4i and 4.4is. I would also consider a 4.6is but they are a little harder to find. Can anyone tell me what the major suspension differences are, besides the sport suspension just being stiffer? I cannot afford a X5 4.8, so for this discussion we can omit any changes or differences for that model.

In addition, are there any big problems to look out for when purchasing these used? Certain years or options to stay away from or be leary of? At what amount of miles do I need to replace lots of expensive stuff at (timing belt, cv/axle crap, pumps?) I would assume the 2000-2001 models were a little bit more problematic. Any insight would be greatly appreciated!

A few recent deals I saw that caught my eye and I went and test drove but didnt pull the trigger:

2002 4.4i w/ 48k silver on black, one or two small dings that could easily be removed. Car drove and looked fine. Had bubbling paint on painted area on top of the motor. Rear trunk lid did not sit as flush when closed on the passenger side as it did on the drivers side (indicating either an accident, or repeated attempts to slam trunk shut with something stuck in the back ???). Clean carfax. Needed tires. I got the guy down to 15k, and then walked away....

Any lovers or hater of the cherokee out there>?

2001 4.4i 69,800mi silver on gray w the 20inch 5 star sport rims. Visually the car was good, and drove well too. Clean carfax. Got the dealer down to --15.5k and walked away.....

2002 4.4is 67k Blu on gray, sport package, nav, and a few other things. Body is clean, but I have not test driven it yet. Dealer is asking --14.7k

2007 Jeep GC Srt8 26k black on black, nav, sunroof, etc, warranty --25k

[Big "J"]

I have a 3.0i so, I can't help much with the 4.4 or suspension. But, I can tell you that you'll enjoy and feel more comfortable knowing you're driving a BMW over a Jeep (Chrysler). I went from a Ford Explorer to the X5 and haven't regretted or thought of driving anything else.

Good Luck!!

[BGM]

You are better off getting something at the top of your price range @$28K on an X5 (I'm not sure what Jeeps go for). You mentioned a huge price range that starts at $15K and for that price you are almost certain to have some repairs. So, look at a CPO from a dealer in the $20K range. I think BMW is doing 2.9% financing on '05 and '06 X5s right now with CPO coverage---you could probably get an '05 in that $20K+ price point.

[FSETH]

I don't know exact specs on the difference between the 4.4 non sport and the 4.4 sport package, but I have the 4.4 sport package and it handles amazing for an SUV. The suspension feels a little firmer than the non-sport, the wheels are bigger/look better and you get the clear corner turn signals.

I agree that I would get the newest model that I could afford and be sure to get it with a warranty.

I would look out for oil leaks, coolant system leaks, torn CV boots and be sure to check all windows and electrical gizmos. If you do a search there are many threads on what to look for when purchasing an X5.

The SRT is balzing fast, but will not give you the overall driving experiance that a 4.4i sport package will. Besides acceleration, there is no comparison between the two, IMO. Everything else is better about the Bimmer.

Good luck.

[Getsideways]

Thanks for your input! After going through some of the threads on here, it does appear that maybe I would be better off getting a newer CPO'd x5 at the 20k mark. However, the warranty won't last forever, could it be worth picking up a non CPO'd x5 with decent miles for well under 20k if I find a clean one? I could always apply the money saved to any potential repairs... thoughts???

Are these x5's that trouble-prone, that one should avoid considering purchasing a used one with just 50k on it, just because it has an expired warranty???

Anyone know what the major suspension differences are besides the sport suspension just being stiffer, with biiger wheels when comparing a 4.4i ,to a 4.4is, and a 4.6is??? What different components are used? Or is it just a more aggressive/stiffer program/map/tune for the air ride suspension?

Thanks again!

[FSETH]

Originally Posted by Getsideways

Thanks for your input! After going through some of the threads on here, it does appear that maybe I would be better off getting a newer CPO'd x5 at the 20k mark. However, the warranty won't last forever, could it be worth picking up a non CPO'd x5 with decent miles for well under 20k if I find a clean one? I could always apply the money saved to any potential repairs... thoughts???

Are these x5's that trouble-prone, that one should avoid considering purchasing a used one with just 50k on it, just because it has an expired warranty???

Obviously some X5's have more issues that others. The earlier years appear to be the worse from what I have read. Just an FYI, I bought an 02 4.4 with 60,000 miles. I now have 90,000 miles and have had over $7k in warranty repairs done. I am loving having an extended warranty.

You can get one without the warranty and save some money on the side for repairs like you suggested. It just depends on how you want to do it.

Some people buy the warrnaty and don't get their money out of it and others wish they would have got the warranty because they spent nearly 10k on repairs. It is a gamble and there really isn't a right or wrong answer.

Sorry I can't help more with the exact suspension details.

[AW8]

Your welcome to read my UK focused guide on buying E53 (2000-07) X5 as posted on x5drivers.co.uk...............I think it may answer some q's inc differences between SE and Sport versions, however, bear in mind there are market differences and most uk cars are to sport spec.

Easiest way is to drive a few different cars get a feel for what suspension and spec you like then do maths, go shop then negotiate.

In the uk on E53 X5's stamps in the book merely mean its been inspected they are not a record of work or jobs done - I'd rather buy a car like mine with 84k with fulls history than say a 60k car needing an Inspection 2 service, new tyres, brakes and suspesion components etc.

Dont disregard well manitained cars which have had niggles sorted.

Despite all the above I dont fully understand the american board user term "CPO" other than believing it to relate to dealer sales with warranty. Perhaps someone will enlighten me.

Oh and If you buy out of warranty make sure you have plenty of spare money for maintenance and repairs or maybe even buy a Lexus.

Good Luck

[BGM]

Originally Posted by Getsideways

Thanks for your input! After going through some of the threads on here, it does appear that maybe I would be better off getting a newer CPO'd x5 at the 20k mark. However, the warranty won't last forever, could it be worth picking up a non CPO'd x5 with decent miles for well under 20k if I find a clean one? I could always apply the money saved to any potential repairs... thoughts???

Are these x5's that trouble-prone, that one should avoid considering purchasing a used one with just 50k on it, just because it has an expired warranty???

Anyone know what the major suspension differences are besides the sport suspension just being stiffer, with biiger wheels when comparing a 4.4i ,to a 4.4is, and a 4.6is??? What different components are used? Or is it just a more aggressive/stiffer program/map/tune for the air ride suspension?

Thanks again!

I don't think you will be able to get a CPO 4.4 for $20K. At the price it's probably an '04 or '03. If you want a 3.0 with sport package you could probably get that. You are in NY and like you said the streets are bad, potholes, etc. A 4.4 sport package has a really stiff set-up so you will feel everything. I think a 3.0 with sport package will be a better option on the price you are wanting and still deliver handling.

[Getsideways]

OK, so the jeep srt-8 is just not practical for me, and if I wanted a sports car with a big v8 I would buy one thats not 4' off the ground. So it looks like its gonna be an x5.

FSETH- Thanks for the helpful insight. Its good to know.

AW8- I read your write up already, and hear you on the Lexus. I am willing to pay to play though! Lexus's are for old people with hemroids imo, and i'd rather be dead than behind the wheel of a lex of any ilk. I need a drivers car. And you are right on with the CPO thing - (Certified bmw-dealer Pre-Owned - basically an overpriced dealer warranty with some guarentee your car wasn't crashed or too messed up before you bought it). And I agree with you on driving the vehicles to see/feel the suspension differences for myslef. Thanks!

BGM- You make a very good point here, however i'm not sure my right foot would ever forgive me for not going v8. And while its not only more reliable, its also cheaper. Yet, the 3.0 for me, is a deal breaker. I'm just one of those types.... Thanks for sharing your wisdom!

During these difficult economic times, I would prefer to keep as much cash in my pocket as possible. I believe I will try to find the best deal on an 02-03ish 4.4 sport, and will price out a warranty through another independent warranty company. Anyone know any good reliable warranty companys that have reasonable pricing? Anyone on here go this route?

[ZsX5o3]

Personally I have not ever bothered with a warranty and always have bought used bimmers.

More important than a warranty (to me) is a good independant mechanic. If you plan to take a gamble at the dealership for your repairs, I would stay far away. They will tell you to replace absolutely everything that isn't perfect on your car, and charge you thousands of dollars on a regular basis. This is what gives the X5 a bad name.

I would definately recommend the sport package, the difference on paper isn't much, but the difference in handling is huge.