Searched but still have questions about a E53 purchase!

[georgiev]

Alright before people start flaming for not searching let me make my case:

First of all hello everyone,

I am new to the forum and there is no newbie sub-forum so I decided to post in here. I'm on a couple of other BMW boards and have owned a 2006 330ci, 2001 530i, and a 1999 Euro M3 Evo (my current drive in UK). I joined this board because I am selling my M and moving to live in Austria where I am looking into buying a E53 X5. My reasons/needs are as follows:

- I want to eventually tow a track car trailer
- I want a BMW which I can put the family in and go skiing with
- But I am also looking for a relatively reliable daily driver
- Have driven a Range Rover 3.0d for a while, but hate the light steering and that is what draws me to the X5's reputation as a drivers car.
- Because I am used to relatively good acceleration from my previous cars I am looking at the bigger engines 4.4i and 4.8i (so I can occasionally scratch that itch)
- I have also narrowed it down to the facelift models (2004-2006) because I prefer the looks and extras.
- Looking for a e53 X5 that will serve these purposes well for another couple of years without causing too many headaches

So, considering the above and the fact I've never driven an X5 I have a few questions:

1. What are the major issues on the N62B44 and N62B48. I understand there is an issue with the intermediate levers of the valvetronic. Anything else to look out for on the engine?

2. Are there tranny issues on the facelifts or is that only on the pre-facelift models?

3. I am not worried about wear and tear items, but would really like to know about any other major problems to look out for! (I realize the brakes fade quicker and that the suspension bushes wear quicker as well) Before someone flames me I did search and found only window regulators, valvetronic levers and tranny issues. Are there other issues such as electrics? Cooling system? Something I am missing?

I am sure I'll have some more questions once we get a discussion going. All help is appreciated.


Cheers,

Anton