Thinking of buying - Advice needed

Jughead028 · #1 11-19-2021, 04:48 PM

Hi All,

I need to buy a replacement car as the wheels (literally) fell off my X5.

I am currently looking at two cars.

A 2009 X5 E70 Diesel which has an electrical issue. Done 215,000 Kms.
Apparently the sun-roof was left open and it rained. Now the electricals don't work.
The sun-roof cannot be opened, nor can the tailgate. The instrument cluster only works briefly when I press some buttons (end of indicator stalk, etc) but then go back to not working. The screen in the centre does not work at all.
Could it be just a loose wire? The fuse bank is corroded? Some or all of the various modules are shot? What is the most likely?

Second car is also a 2009 X5 Diesel. Done 260,000 Kms.
This one has an unusual problem. While driving, sometimes the engine power is reduced (according tot he owner, not Limp Mode, just reduced power). There are no codes and the BMW trained mechanic has not been able to diagnose the issue. It is only intermittent, and shutting off and re-starting fixes the issue.

If I can get either of these cars at a reasonable price (allowing me funds left over for fixing them), which one is the better bet?

Or should I steer clear of both?

Thanks in advance,

JG

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andrewwynn · #2 11-19-2021, 10:35 PM

I would not be scared of the second one. I would not get the water damaged one.

I've seen the reduced power to resolution about 4 times on xoutpost on the diesel x5

Jughead028 · #3 11-19-2021, 10:44 PM

How do I search for these threads?
What could be the issue/solution?

andrewwynn · #4 11-19-2021, 11:09 PM

Use advanced search. Search topic only to start with. 35d loss of power up hill might get you one of the most recent threads.

35d will lose power on long power demand when there is a leak or damage to the vacuum reservoir. Very often no codes.

ard · #5 11-19-2021, 11:55 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by andrewwynn

I would not be scared of the second one. I would not get the water damaged one.

I've seen the reduced power to resolution about 4 times on xoutpost on the diesel x5

Agree 100%.

Keep in mind OP is in Australia. BMW parts dont grow on trees.

OP, who will be doing your work? You or a shop? These are not simple cars.

Jughead028 · #6 11-20-2021, 02:01 AM

Thanks for the advice, but have decided to give both a miss.

Jughead028 · #7 11-21-2021, 06:31 PM

Finally bought a 3.5D - 2009 model.

Ending and mechanicals look good, but the interior is a little ratty.
The leather of the steering wheel is peeling, and there are many chips and scratches all over the interior (outside is pristine!). Kids!!

I am told it is a twin-turbo model.

What should I expect in terms of repairs?
Car has done 214,000 Kms, and looks well looked after.

Also, what is the difference compared to a 3D model?

Any advice appreciated.

JG

ard · #8 11-22-2021, 12:07 AM

Why ask now? You bought it.

You might need a new transmission next week. Or not. And there isnt a 30D and 35D model. Both the same. In 2009 it was a 3.0L Diesel. The same motor was sold as "35D" as well. confusing. In Oz, you guys got the 40D as I recall, but that was way later.

andrewwynn · #9 11-22-2021, 12:24 AM

The new naming is moronic.

30i 35i 35d 40d 50i the numbers aren't tied to anything logical.

crystalworks · #10 11-22-2021, 02:25 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by andrewwynn

The new naming is moronic.

30i 35i 35d 40d 50i the numbers aren't tied to anything logical.

According to BMW marketing... they are tied to ego size now vs. engine size like back in the day.

OP, diesels are great... but they are high maintenance (BMWs in general are). I'm not sure if you have all the emissions stuff we do here in the States. But if so, be prepared for garage time.

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