Questions from (possible) future X5 owner

[PLDubz]

I've been reading up on a lot of the posts on here and this seems like one of the more knowledgeable and reliable sites on the web.

I'm looking into buying a 2001-2003 X5, but I have a few questions about a couple of issues, mainly pertaining to reliability. The first step is deciding which engine size. I'm looking closely at either the 3.0 or the 4.4. I've read that the 3.0 engine tends to be more reliable, although I've read some differing reports on here, too. The gas mileage is essentially the same, and I would like to have the power in such a large and heavy vehicle, but if the 4.4 is going to cost me more in the long-run, that extra bit of power isn't really worth it to me. However, if there isn't a big difference in reliability, should I go with the 4.4.?

Another question has to do with price. From looking at ads, they range quite a bit and most of it is based on mileage. What's a fair price for a used X5 from '01-'03?

Finally, I've heard differing reports on the longevity of X5's. Is it a good idea to buy an X5 with over 100k miles on it? (Meaning will it last until I'm ready to upgrade in the next 5 years or so?)

Also, I live in the DC area and I was wondering if there was any reputable dealerships that have fair prices and well-maintained cars.

Thanks for checking my post out. I'd really appreciate any advice you all got for me.

[sethro]

The I6 motor in the X5 is a very good all around engine, I personally have a 3.0i and its more than enough power and torque for my needs. Now if your going to be doing some heavy towing or you want to V8 power then its probably better to get a 4.4i

In terms of reliability try and find a X5 that has all of its service records and preferably one with low miles. Things that commonly go bad in all X5 and BMW's in general are window regulators an CV boots.

Also another advantage to getting an 3.0i is that it can come equipped with a stick shift, in any case good luck in the search

[X5 Meister]

"one of the more knowledgeable and reliable sites on the web" ??? Which site or sites are better?

[cheappc]

Good questions, I just bought an X5 and your right, the price varies greatly.

In my experience by looking at a car it has shown me that the way it was taken care of, says a lot about a vehicle, I for example one time passed a vehicle which claimed it had only 79,000 miles for a car that had 111,000 miles, same price, because going all over the vehicle, service records, engine, all around.. the one with 111,000 miles was immaculate...

The great news about going with the one with 111,000 miles was that the previous owner changed the full cooling system on it (it usually went bad about 100,000 miles..) It was a BMW E36, 1998, with the 2.5 inline 6...

So in essence buying the one with MORE MILES was smarter than buying the one with less miles, due to the previous owner changing most of the things that go bad about that mileage...


Also

[ncsucarjock]

Just got to read the tips and tricks. These cars are great, but they're expensive to fix when they break. There are a lot of "known" issues (window regulators, cooling systems, cv boots, alternators, suspension bushings, transmissions (sometimes), final stage resistors, etc) Ideally, you'd either buy one under warranty, or find one that's been well maintained and has had most of these issues corrected. Usually that'll be just over 100k miles.

As far of I-6 vs V8. Drive and decide. There seem to be two camps. I appreciate the 6, but the X weighs entirely too much for that engine in my opinion. V8 was the only option. I "wimped" out with the 4.4i, due to off-road conditions and concerns with the suspension and tires in those conditions.

I love my X, and wouldn't trade it for anything else right now. It'll cost me some to maintain as I continue to rack up miles, but it's worth it.