Educate me (or talk me out of) the 35D...

[Ricky Bobby]

Long story short, wife has a Jetta Sportwagen TDI - she loves the car and the mileage but we'll end up getting it bought back for about 5k more than we bought it for, or we have to wait until the EPA approves a "fix" for the first gen 2.0 TDI's -

Before anyone asks, yes we can drive it for the time being but if they don't have a fix before 2018 approved and have 85% of the cars "off the road or fixed" then I'm sure it will get dicey as part of the VW settlement with CARB and the EPA

Nothing else from VW ticks all the boxes for us as the Touareg TDI's are all included as well in the recall, and I don't know if I want to deal with the headache of buying one used and waiting for a fix on them too.

We'd sacrifice some mileage, but we have 2 decent sized dogs and may someday add a baby - and now that wife has driven a diesel she loves the torques.

I followed the 10 page build thread and read about the vaccuum hoses being cooked around 50-60k -

Other than that, any other 35D issues to worry about? I'd most likely be looking at a '13 as hopefully the E70 bugs were worked out by the last year, under 50k miles, CPO preferable but might buy an extended warranty if thats what we go with.


I'm pretty handy and can DIY many jobs, tell me if I'm crazy or if it would be a good fit for us if we decided to let VW buy back her wagon -

And, go!

[the_ulf]

so you're looking for someone on here to collate all the info that's easily accessible by using the search function for this forum?

[Proflyer]

First off, do some searching. That's been said. But I HATE guys who just say that, so I'll add my .02

Love the diesel X5. Lots of power, handles well, drive is what you'd expect with a BMW. It's not perfect, but I feel like that's more around what the EPA has forced on these guys and NOT a BMW thing. The only issues we've had have been diesel emissions related, you'll find threads about the faulty DEF tanks--get a clean CPO one and if it has issues they'll fix it, give you a loaner...not the end of the world.

We have two boxers and the grate thing that goes across the back--they love the car and it fits them fine. If you have larger dogs (they're about 65lbs each) you'd maybe want larger but that's up to you. Great room either way.

Get one highly optioned. We did and I'm glad we did. The options are a ton more new...but lose their value quickly used. We have every option but the rear DVD screen and it's nice stuff.

If you do get a diesel, learn how to do some 'handy' stuff yourself. Like when the DEF needed filled I learned I can go to the truck stop and pump it right out of the truck stop DEF pump into the two tanks with zero issues and it costs $2.50 a gallon instead of the robbery BMW wants to charge you. Use a local shop for oil changes or if you're CPO plus the extended maintenance do that (obviously). Overall I'm very happy with the car and to date we haven't had any real issues, just funny check engine light stuff that the dealer fixed. All new part numbers and *knock on wood* they got the bugs worked out.

I've heard they're extending the warranty on the emissions related stuff as well--EPA is obviously the 800lb gorilla here and a faulty DEF tank won't fly at any mileage. If it's required for the emissions to operate I've been told the EPA is talking 12 years unlimited mileage on all diesels and all manufacturers. We will see, but I think at the end of the day the emissions issues will be on BMW's shoulders like they are on VW etc.

You're in a neat spot here--I'd for sure sell the car back as that's obviously a good deal. I saw a news report of scammers trying to buy cars (and dealers) on trade way low knowing they can get the full buyback $. I'd either make the dealer take it to the penny for the buyback or give it back. Then go drive everything used in your price range, lots of great mid-size suv options out there. We did the same and settled on the X5 but I'm in Denver and have a ski house so travel during the winter was a top priority.

[smassey321]

If I were you I would consider a 2014. The new model got an 8 speed transmission which works great. A 2013 is nearly identical to a 2010. I have a 2009 and all the trouble areas have were updated to current while under warranty (other than my crap gen 1 i-drive).

Definitely take the buy back. My brother has 2 TDIs he is turning in .

[RDAvena]

We did this exact replacement a couple of days ago. 2010 Audi A3 TDi replaced by a 2011 X5 3.5D and I only have positive things to say about the X5D. I went from a e53 3.0 to the Audi TDi a couple of years ago and did not like the lack of space but felt the economy of the TDi was worth the tradeoff. Then the whole dieselgate B.S. happened.

The real nail in the coffin was when the A3 decided to shit the bed with a HPFP failure. I am 1K miles over the extended warranty and VWoA said they will not be fixing this issue. I have to fix the bastard with my money before VW will take this P.O.S. back. I will never buy any VW product ever again.

We went out tried several 3.5D and settled on one we liked. Both the wife and I were very surprised at the night and day difference between the e53 and the e70. I should have never strayed..

[Socale39]

Went from an 06 M5 to the X5d and trust me, that's quite a swing. The X5d has been great. I have no regrets and I've already used the X5d for multiple towing tasks aside from the long mtn trips the wife and I do.

[bawareca]

Originally Posted by smassey321

If I were you I would consider a 2014. The new model got an 8 speed transmission which works great. A 2013 is nearly identical to a 2010. I have a 2009 and all the trouble areas have were updated to current while under warranty (other than my crap gen 1 i-drive).

Definitely take the buy back. My brother has 2 TDIs he is turning in .

I dont have the newer model (F_whatever)but I have a few friends who do. In my view it is indefinitely uglier than E70, has a single turbo engine with quite a different(worse) power band and the longevity of the whole car is one huge mystery. It has a marginally better interior, much better navigation and options and 50-100% more expensive than the E70. Might be better to go and lease one, if you like it.

[Ricky Bobby]

Originally Posted by RDAvena

We did this exact replacement a couple of days ago. 2010 Audi A3 TDi replaced by a 2011 X5 3.5D and I only have positive things to say about the X5D. I went from a e53 3.0 to the Audi TDi a couple of years ago and did not like the lack of space but felt the economy of the TDi was worth the tradeoff. Then the whole dieselgate B.S. happened.

The real nail in the coffin was when the A3 decided to shit the bed with a HPFP failure. I am 1K miles over the extended warranty and VWoA said they will not be fixing this issue. I have to fix the bastard with my money before VW will take this P.O.S. back. I will never buy any VW product ever again.

We went out tried several 3.5D and settled on one we liked. Both the wife and I were very surprised at the night and day difference between the e53 and the e70. I should have never strayed..

^^^The HPFP is going to be covered now under the "fix" for 120k miles (along with basically everything but the transmission)- but you're right it is a ticking time bomb.

The problem is whether VW can ever get EPA approval on the Gen 1 cars (which I doubt) - the first gen cars are the "worst" polluters of all and hardest to fix -

Trust me I'd be fine with $7500 in my pocket and get the "fix" and then just reflash to Malone Stage 2 after leaving the dealer - but I just don't know if they will ever get approved.

Buyback option you can get it bought back in a hurry - but if you elect for the "fix compensation" you don't get it until you bring your car to the dealer, and VW still has nothing approved yet.

[Ricky Bobby]

Originally Posted by Proflyer

First off, do some searching. That's been said. But I HATE guys who just say that, so I'll add my .02

Thank you - I don't foray into the E70 forum much (as you can tell by my sig pic) - but after 5 years and 8k+ posts I try to help others as much as I can.

Love the diesel X5. Lots of power, handles well, drive is what you'd expect with a BMW. It's not perfect, but I feel like that's more around what the EPA has forced on these guys and NOT a BMW thing. The only issues we've had have been diesel emissions related, you'll find threads about the faulty DEF tanks--get a clean CPO one and if it has issues they'll fix it, give you a loaner...not the end of the world.

Absolutely - wouldn't mind CPO to work the bugs out - not a big deal if little things need to be addressed -

We have two boxers and the grate thing that goes across the back--they love the car and it fits them fine. If you have larger dogs (they're about 65lbs each) you'd maybe want larger but that's up to you. Great room either way.

We have an American Bulldog (sig avatar) hes about 75 lbs, and just adopted a boxer mix (mixed with retriever, collie, and beagle we think - we ran a DNA test) who is 31 lbs now, probably will get up to 50-60 pounds - so yeah the E70 should be good to go on room for us.

Get one highly optioned. We did and I'm glad we did. The options are a ton more new...but lose their value quickly used. We have every option but the rear DVD screen and it's nice stuff.

EXACTLY what I was thinking - I'd like one with Sports Activity package, Style 214's, etc -

If you do get a diesel, learn how to do some 'handy' stuff yourself. Like when the DEF needed filled I learned I can go to the truck stop and pump it right out of the truck stop DEF pump into the two tanks with zero issues and it costs $2.50 a gallon instead of the robbery BMW wants to charge you. Use a local shop for oil changes or if you're CPO plus the extended maintenance do that (obviously). Overall I'm very happy with the car and to date we haven't had any real issues, just funny check engine light stuff that the dealer fixed. All new part numbers and *knock on wood* they got the bugs worked out.

Absolutely - I'm fairly handy and routine maintenance I probably can handle myself - DEF, oil changes, filter changes, etc is not a problem.

I've heard they're extending the warranty on the emissions related stuff as well--EPA is obviously the 800lb gorilla here and a faulty DEF tank won't fly at any mileage. If it's required for the emissions to operate I've been told the EPA is talking 12 years unlimited mileage on all diesels and all manufacturers. We will see, but I think at the end of the day the emissions issues will be on BMW's shoulders like they are on VW etc.

You're right there - I think if you lost a DEF tank at 80k miles I'm pretty sure BMW would have no problem covering it - isn't EPA emissions warranty 120k or 12 years either way?

You're in a neat spot here--I'd for sure sell the car back as that's obviously a good deal. I saw a news report of scammers trying to buy cars (and dealers) on trade way low knowing they can get the full buyback $. I'd either make the dealer take it to the penny for the buyback or give it back. Then go drive everything used in your price range, lots of great mid-size suv options out there. We did the same and settled on the X5 but I'm in Denver and have a ski house so travel during the winter was a top priority.

See above - yeah there is a ton going on with the TDI scandal right now, we bought our 2014 three months before the scandal hit as a new leftover.

Like I said I wouldn't even be considering the buyback normally, IF VW had something approved by the EPA for the people who want to keep their cars.

Originally we just wanted to keep and drive it, but since the settlement has VW forced to get 85% compliance, I don't think we can just go on our merry way.

Wife owes about 14k on the car which is great by most people's standards, with the buyback we'd be at $31k so having $17k in her pocket. If she gets whatever approved fix (if there ever is one) performed, they would pay us $7600 -

However I say "if there is ever one" because I don't think its VW's priority to get something approved because they are already pissed at the EPA for finding their cheat - and they don't want to deal with warranty claims on fuel pumps, turbos, DPF's, etc because any fix will likely hamper mileage somewhat and also accelerate lifespan of emissions components.


Back to the X5, the 2014's are out of our price range most likely and I'd rather go with the E70 which probably had its bugs worked out later in its life cycle with a '12 or '13 - than going with first model year of a new generation - My E53 is still going strong 13 YEARS LATER so I have no problems buying another BMW as I know how to keep them running tip top shape long term.

With the color combo and mileage I'm looking at (Alpine White, under 60k miles) I'm getting around $35-38k which I still think is kinda high but I have a few months to decide.

However, yes its a friggin mess - I have a feeling its going to really hurt VW as a brand - since the stop sale on TDI's there is literally nothing that VW makes that my wife would drive in the same price range - sure you can get a Golf Sportwagen 1.8T but if I'm going to sacrifice the mileage of the TDI I may as well get something bigger and with more options - plus it has a slushbox automatic (she has the Dual Clutch auto in her TDI now)

What kind of mileage are you guys seeing with your 35D's?

[Tuesday]

I just looked at a CPO 13 loaded,27K miles for asking price of 40k.Thats a 25k+ depreciation in 3.5 yrs.Now get this,it's quieter,trans feels better on take offs from stop than my 12 with 40k but not 10k$ better.However it seems to be a better deal than your finding,60k miles for 38$.I could have found a better deal but after 2 weeks of looking at x3's I bought the first x5 I seen.It being a diesel I said how bad could it be and its a hell of a lot more car that my wife's ,other car that I hate,RX350.Good luck with your mechanically incline abilities with this car.I hope it doesn't challenge me much! Thousand mile trip,25mpg,70-85 mph.Not bad for gettin it !