Looking at a 2003 X5 4.6is

[Kevindust]

2003 BMW X5 | Kanata Ontario Capital Dodge Chrysler Jeep Ram Fiat

Hello! I am looking at a 2003 X5 4.6is with 101,000 miles. They are asking $14,500 as is. This would be a second vehicle for winter commuting and towing a camping trailer in the summer. I currently have a small tent trailer (1300lbs) that I tow with my car but would like a larger trailer (3500-4500lbs range) in the future. It would be my first German vehicle. It has a clean CarProof. It was originally sold in Miami and imported to Canada in Dec 2007. Black Sapphire with black leather and aluminium style trim which is my ideal colour and trim combo. It has DVD NAV and the sliding load floor. The interior is really clean and all the electronics seem to work. There are no warning lights or messages. The exterior is good, a few minor knicks and scratches but it looks straight and I don't see any paint overspray. It has a Reese trailer hitch. I have a PPI scheduled on Monday afternoon at an independant that specializes in BMW - I also know the owner/ head mechanic from racing stock cars together at the local oval track. I've visited two BMW dealers to get the local service history. It's had the DRL's programmed (2007), annual oil changes (2007 - 2010) and a LR tail lamp replaced (2009) but no major work at the dealers. It turns out that someone else took it into one of the dealers for a PPI last week, it needs RF thrust rod and ball joint, LR stab link, wipers and a rear tire to pass an Ontario safety check. I've priced things out at ECS Tuning, it's about $400 for the suspension parts (replacing both sides with Meyle HD thrust rods, Febi ball joints and Febi rear stab links.) $40 for the wipers and I'd say an alignment too. I've found a couple of local used sets of 18" rims and tires that I would use for winter. I am a pretty handy DIY with access to a heated garage with a hoist. The suspension stuff doesn't worry me but there is also a small oil leak on the front timing cover. Would you advise to just replace the timing cover seals or is it time for a complete timing chain/ guide overhaul? Any other advice? The truck sure does drive nice. This forum has been a great resource, thank you.