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#1
04-05-2010, 09:22 AM
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2003 4.6is how reliable ?
so the question , is what to look out for in terms of problem areas and how reliable are they in general better than the standard Xs ? are the 4.8is better in terms or reliablility ? thanks for all input 
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#2
04-05-2010, 09:50 AM
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look out for torque converter and cooling system. cv boots and oil seperator lines that sit on the intake manifold that tend to gum up and crack.
__________________
 2001 X5 4.4i WHITE-Loaded like a baby's diaper SOLD
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#3
04-05-2010, 10:18 AM
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^^...agree. The higher stall torque converter on the 4.6iS is common to wear out post 80K miles. It can be costly if neglected as it can wear down the trany.
In terms of reliability in comparison to the 4.8iS, newer doesn't necessarily result in more reliability. The 4.8iS has it's own inherent issues as well. I have friends who have spent more time and/or $$ servicing their 4.8iS than i have on my 03 4.6iS (and vice versa). I'm on my second 4.6iS and have truly enjoyed it's unrefined sporty personality....next up...///M  I highly recommend an inspection/diagnosis by dealer (only) to confirm it's overall health. If you decide to purchase, i also recommend an aftermarket warranty.
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#4
04-05-2010, 04:37 PM
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It's kinda hard to use the word reliable in the same sentence as any X product designation as they are all built to similar standards. What kind of reliability are you accustomed to? If you are used to Lexus reliability then you are going to be in for a big surprise after your purchase. If this is not your first X then you can expect the same reliability (or lack thereof) as your previous X(s). I don't think it matters too much what powertrain you get as they all have plenty of known quirks. Regardless of which one you did choose, just make sure you've got plenty of reserve $'s because you're going to need it. Good luck with your venture.
__________________
2010 Lexus RX350 still new 2003 BMW X5 3.0i w/sport package w/68K miles. (gone Thank God!) 2002 Dodge Ram 2500 4X4 cummins diesel w/198K miles, custom repo truck 2009 Scion tC w/46K miles 2007 Suzuki SV650 custom streetfighter 2000 Lexus GS400 w/165K miles
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#5
04-05-2010, 05:19 PM
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The engine has the same leaks to look for as the 4.4i as it is the same block etc. The transmission itself is beefier than the 4.4i and will last longer than the 4.4i tranny before needing a rebuild, but as mentiones the torque converter is also prone to failure from 80k miles or higher. I'm at 94k and have no drivetrain problems yet as the vehicle was taken good care of by the original owner.
Pretty much other than the torque converter it is the same maintenance as the 4.4i, but with alot more fun power and a better tranny.
__________________
"When you do things right, people won't be sure you've done anything at all" (Bender, futurama) You make something idiotproof, they'll make a better idiot You think professional is expensive, just wait until you pay for amateur. Never let your sense of morals prevent you from doing what is right. Examine what is said, not who speaks. X5 pics RIP 4.6is..... 2003 4.6is 
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#6
04-05-2010, 06:53 PM
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Quote:
 Took the words right out of my mouth...
__________________
"What you hear in a great jazz band is the sound of democracy. “The jazz band works best when participation is shaped by intelligent communication.” Harmony happens whenever different parts get to form a whole by means of congruity, concord, symetry, consistency, conformity, correspondence, agreement, accord, unity, consonance……. 
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#9
04-06-2010, 03:02 PM
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80K km is pretty low miles. If the car checks out and has good maint records, you should be in good shape. Of course as others have said, BMW's in general and X5's specifically have some inherent issues where some preventative maint. may be called for. Similar to what you would find in a E38 7 series or E39 5 series with the V8.
I have 106K miles on mine. It was a former CPO car with all BMW factory service and repair history. Common items that have failed past 75K miles on mine included: - water pump and expansion tank - alternator - CV boot - valve cover gaskets - oil pan gasket That's pretty much it. So like any BMW they will require some care and feeding, but if you want a sporting luxury SUV there is no better alternative than the 4.6is or 4.8is, IMHO. Very fun to drive and top notch features and appointments on the "is" models, not to mention you don't see them around all the time. They sold less than 2K in NA for the entire 4.6is model run. I figure the 2003 is the better year to get for the 4.6is because it is the last year of the E53 before the mid cycle update, so generally BMW had more time to work out the kinks. As repoman says, these are not Lexus-like in terms of reliability. But by the same token are not lexus like in terms of driving pleasure, which is a very good thing!!
__________________
2003 4.6is - SOLD 2003 M5 Imola 2008 Mini Cooper S 2011 Mazda CX9
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