x5 for the wife. Bad idea? too late now.

[meltdown325]

I wouldn't worry about it too much. Reading this forum will make you paranoid about your X5.

I've owned several older 100k+ mileage BMW's, and while they did have their quirks, they all ran hard and took lots of daily driving abuse.

There are always a few weak spots with BMW's (power windows, some of the electronics, cooling system), but the vehicles and drivetrain overall are always solid. My X5 has been no different.

I also got my X5 because of its superior crash safety. I knew that I was giving up a little in reliability to gain that increase in driving safety. I don't worry when the wife and baby go out in the X5.

we drive very sedately

In my experience, BMW's tend to respond better to more spirited driving. BMWs that are "babied" seem to have more issues than ones that are daily driver workhorses. I'd suggest taking advantage and have fun driving the X5.

If you're really worried, just get a cheap roadside assistance/towing policy for emergencies.