Looking at X5 Ownership

[AlpineX]

Originally Posted by Red911t

Thanks for feedback guys. I'm not afraid to turn my own wrench - Have a '69 911T that I keep up myself (hence the user handle) - but would also be using this car daily and thus can't get too deep into the weeds on a project that will leave me stranded, so I'm leaning towards a six cylinder version instead of the 8.

EDIT: years/mileages matching on low mileage units, v8s that are cheaper than the 6s obviously due to higher all in cost on deferred maintenance there or factor B/C as you can never truly compare without completing all due diligence. Exceptions apply.

From being on the various 3 series forums, a lot of those folks warn against the 335d engine but it seems like people on the X forums really favor the X35d - but both use the M57 engine, correct?

The 335d and X5d both use M57, which is a great engine. the emissions packaging installed between the two varies with the X5 allowing a 2nd channel of cleaned EGR gasses back into the engine, while the 335d does not have this feature (Low Pressure EGR). Additionally, the X5 is significantly larger which makes it easier for the engine to WORK which the M57 loves. The E90 is light enough, add rwd, and you almost have to tiptoe this car around town which the engine likes less.
Another major issue for the M57 in the US was that it was cutting edge technology for light duty diesels (been around in trucks longer), so everything related to servicing, and manufacturing were essentially on maiden voyage. Now that we are almost 10 years in, it is getting easier to keep these up and reliable.

Some more food for thought: 2012-13 have the best chance of getting a car that feels "loaded" as the convenience package is essentially the: Technology, Rear Climate Package, Premium Package and standalone Comfort Access of the 2010-11 years. 2011 is LCI for E70 and first year of combox for additional streaming features. 2010 is first year of CIC headunit. Check out comfort seats, uncommon option that totally transforms the car IMO. Identify these by the pivot point 2/3 up the backrest, same as 7 series.

Working on a car for fun can definitely be fun and rewarding. Working on a car because you rely on it to get you around is a little closer to work... (Spoiler alert!: You'll still have to work on the 35i)