3.0 vs. 4.4

[Lucky7]

Before I ask let me preface my questions with "yes I did search and read through several threads offering qualities of both motors."

I currently own a 745i, MB E350, and Ford F-150. My fiancé drives the MB daily and I drive the truck or BMW depending on weather. We are looking for an SUV (X5) for trips to the mountains in the winter and beach during the summer. We have two large mutts who travel with us.

I'm not concerned with fuel economy because I can use the extra write off. I am leaning towards the 4.4 over the I6 because of the extra ponies. My only concern is longevity and reliability. We are planning to keep this truck and like all other vehicles we own properly maintain them.

Are transmission issues in 2002-04 4.4 models a concern?
Which will be more reliable long term?
I am aware on 4.4 models w/ sport package I will have to eventually change to coil springs, but are there any other issues with the sport package I am missing?
I am not opposed to a 3.0 if over the course of 300k miles the motor will be that much more reliable.
Finally is a 2002 4.4 with under 50k documented miles a good candidate at under $18,000?

Looking to keep the purchase under $20k and pay cash.

[JCL]

There aren't any significant differences in reliability between the two engines. Both are solid. I think the I6 is easier to work on. The V8 uses more fuel, may cost slightly more to repair, and has more power. Drive both, and decide if you want the increased power.

Transmission issues can happen with either model (I6 or V8) and with either pre LCI (up to 2003) or LCI (2004 onwards). Transmissions don't tend to wear out (ie due to mileage or high loads), rather they have random faults (they break). Transmission problems are not predictable.

The LCI models have the improved xDrive AWD system, which is more sophisticated. They also have the facelift, which some owners like.

[Lucky7]

JCL,
Thanks for the insight. I have driven both and prefer the 8. It appears that a properly maintained V8 should last over 200k?

[motordavid]

Originally Posted by Lucky7

JCL,
Thanks for the insight. I have driven both and prefer the 8. It appears that a properly maintained V8 should last over 200k?

'properly maintained', and a little luck, no pun intended.
There are a few members here who have notched 200k miles and, 'Wally' is at/closing in on, 300k miles.

The real unknown is your buying 'well used' and hoping that the previous owner(s) fit into the 'properly maintained' category.

JCL, as usual, nailed the overview, imo.
GL, mD

[JCL]

That leads to some discussion of the nature of reliability, vs durability, vs failures.

The vehicle is very capable of lasting 200,000 miles. The engines are very solid. Transmissions can go that long, although some don't. So, I would say that the vehicle is durable, and reasonably reliable when properly maintained (and add in MD's comment about luck).

The issue you will likely run into is that the vehicle is perhaps too complicated. BMW engineers sometimes take the most complicated route to solve a problem. Use the example of PCV valves. They work fine in nearly every car. But BMW decided that instead of a PCV, they needed an oil separator built into their crankcase ventilation valve. That parts causes more problems that any PCV ever did.

The complication in design results in nuisance failures of parts that aren't worn out, but which experience random failures. Window regulators, electronic sensors, etc, are the types of things that can drive owners mad, and which are not at all predictable when they fail. Many X5s eventually get sold because of the frustration associated with those failures, not because the vehicle is worn out. Just because an engine is still working fine, doesn't mean that the entire vehicle will never let you down.

[Lucky7]

Very good points about previous owner(s) taking care of and the misc. quirks along the way. I'm very familiar with the quirks (long time German car owner). The vehicle in question has one previous owner and has mant. Records.

[diyanich]

Originally Posted by JCL

But BMW decided that instead of a PCV, they needed an oil separator built into their crankcase ventilation valve. That parts causes more problems that any PCV ever did.

Many X5s eventually get sold because of the frustration associated with those failures, not because the vehicle is worn out. Just because an engine is still working fine, doesn't mean that the entire vehicle will never let you down.

[JLW]

Gonna rock the boat here. The 3.0 are the better choice for longevity. Parts are way cheaper. The trans typically last longer and over all they have fewer problems. I've worked with both. 3.0i have and will continue to clock the largest original miles(on this board and others) for motor and trans. I would love for the high milers to chime in. I'm at 156k. 4.4i motor and trans have typical issues. try e38.org. same motor, same stuff. Now, power is nice, but general use 3.0i

[cfmistry]

From what I've read on these forums, which is not to say a lot, the 4.4i and the 3.0i are about equal in reliability. Both of those engines have the potential for longevity. That being said, yes the 4.4i will cost more as there is more to repair and it can be harder to access certain parts. So the 4.4i will cost you more over the long run, though probably not too much more if you do the work yourself. That being said I am not saying the X5 is "reliable" - mine has plenty of quirks, however most of them are not engine-related. As for the extra power, I can't speak for a 3.0i, but there has never been a time I wished my 4.4i had more power. And that definitely says something for an 8 year old SUV.
-Cyrus

[c4racer]

X5 is a pretty heavy vehicle for a 3.0L motor, IMHO. I had a 330i that I felt was very underpowered. I would personally not consider a X5 with a 3.0L for my own use. Maybe for the wife to drive. As it turns out my wife drives mine for 2/3 of the miles currently, but only for 1-2 years for some carpool needs with our kids.