What would you do?

[xxxxxman]

I recently made that same buying decision (only mine is a 4.4i). I think that is an outstanding deal on an X5. I absolutely love driving mine and that is really what sold me. I doubt you find a more comfortable vehicle in that price range.

This is the first BMW I have ever owned and the only thing I wasn't prepared for is the maintenance / repair cost.

I have done most of the repairs on my other vehicles myself. I don't think that is going to work on the X5. I believe that BMW somewhat forces you to take it to a shop for repairs and maintenance. Seems like a lot of stuff requires them to reset the computer. Heck, I was surprised when I opened the hood and could not locate the alternator. I had never even heard of a $75 oil change before... Could be that I just need to learn how to do the repairs/maintenance on a BMW, but it definitely seems more complicated than other cars I have worked on.

The only other thing to think about is if you take a lot of short trips and live in a cold, humid climate. I was very disappointed to learn that this vehicle is not suited to that combination.

If that doesn't talk you out of it, then you might as well buy it.

[Fraser]

Originally Posted by xxxxxman

The only other thing to think about is if you take a lot of short trips and live in a cold, humid climate. I was very disappointed to learn that this vehicle is not suited to that combination.

Short trips in a cold, humid climate is not ideal for any vehicle.

[sedate_driver]

Originally Posted by xxxxxman

I have done most of the repairs on my other vehicles myself. I don't think that is going to work on the X5. I believe that BMW somewhat forces you to take it to a shop for repairs and maintenance. Seems like a lot of stuff requires them to reset the computer. Heck, I was surprised when I opened the hood and could not locate the alternator. I had never even heard of a $75 oil change before... Could be that I just need to learn how to do the repairs/maintenance on a BMW, but it definitely seems more complicated than other cars I have worked on.

These are considered premium vehicles and they'll generally cost more for parts and labour, the parts because they're imported, and the labour because BMW owners have higher than average expectations and can generally afford to pay. BMWs have also tended to go for cutting edge stuff over reliability so you won't get the affordable but boring Toyota. Having said that, much of the routine maintenance can be done in your own garage without special tools or computers. Pick up a Bentley manual and look through forums like this one. You'll find tons of information, good advice, and lots of encouragement. It'll lessen the cost of ownership and give you a sense of pride on a project well done.