Looking to get an E70 for the wife. Is it risky to get a Diesel version?

[Nyc Dito]

Originally Posted by crystalworks

Owned almost 20 BMW's, 4 X5's. Only been stuck on the side of the road twice through all of them. Once was my fault and the other was a bad tire valve stem. If you want a reliable BMW, replace things on a schedule, before they break. Yes, there are weak points, but most models of vehicle have certain points of failure that are common across it.
I prefer to spend a day on a weekend of my choosing replacing, say a water pump every 100,000 miles, than sitting on the side of the road because the water pump bearing failed waiting for a tow truck at ungodly hours.
But I advise almost everyone who asks if they should buy a BMW, not to. Only buy it new with a warranty, know how to work on it yourself, or have unlimited funds to pay someone else to work on it. If any or those 3 are not met, horror stories are bound to happen.

Pretty much same here. I only got stuck with an expansion tank in my E38 (Twice). Then I replaced everything in the coolant system and never had any issues after that. All other BMW's we have owned (and those of my brother, another BMW family) have not left us stranded. And we put MILES on our cars.

We buy used BMW's knowing that maintenance is the key but also preventative measures.

Going back to the X5D or 35I. I love the way my 35D feels, even if it has less HP than the 35i variant(s) from the factory. I drove my friends 35i and I can admit the quiet motor was nice, but it left me unimpressed when driving or "pushing" it. The 6 or 8 speed tranny's of course factor in, but I still loved the way the M57 felt.

Thankfully I would think either choice would be a good choice, but based on your personal preference. Either choice you will need to update maintenance.

The most common things Ive come across (aside from basic items) on the 35i's is the valve covers, water pumps and injectors. On the diesels, its usually thermostats, then the parts that follow from a faulty t-stat. Rarely have I sold injectors or valve covers on M57's (im in the parts biz).

When I purchased my 35D, I was well aware of the diesel issues they come with. I will be... "altering"... my vehicle once its out of warranty with BMW.

Good luck!