Which X3 to buy?
 

I have to get rid of my Tribby pretty soon and replace it with a little X3 (for my daughter), and yes, I will be taking care of it. She'll do the driving.

I am interested in the 3l engine, so that would be a start, however I am unsure which year would be the best.
I understand the pre-facelift models have the M54 engine (with which I am very comfortable), and the facelift sport the N52 engine. Also reading through different BMW forums, it reveals that the new 6 speed slush box had some issues (not sure how effective updating the software is - I can also do that, I have INPA, GT1, SSS Progman, etc and I am familiar with procedures).

To conclude, what are the common issues with pre-facelift & facelift models?
Do the pre-facelift models have cooling issues like the e39 for example (exploding radiators, hoses, expansion tanks)? The like.
Is the N52B30 engine more reliable than the M54B30? I know the M54B30 is quite a good one, didn't give me any headaches so far (except for the known CCV issue). Does the N52 suffer the same?

Thanks, looking forward for some pointers.

Get a facelifted E83 with 6MT.

Problems solved :)

Hi RB. My daughter doesn't know how to drive stick....
it's just me & my son. My wife hates stick...soccer mom at best. She sports the X5. I'm the mechanic. I hate my life.

No x3- x5 all the way lol

I'd get the LCI.

We had three M54 BMWs, and now have a 2007 3.0si X3. I liked the M54 engine a lot Now I like the new one. No issues to date. 35 or so more hp. Better fuel efficiency.

I think the LCI X3s have a better ride, not as harsh. We have a panoramic sunroof on ours, but that isn't very important to me. The headlights are better, but they may have been an option.

Drive it and see if the automatic transmission shifts ok. Problem solved.

Our only issues in 8 years have been the motor in the passenger side mirror, and a broken rr coil spring. Both were straightforward to fix.

We think about trading it in, but my wife doesn't want to as she would have to get an automatic and doesn't want one.

Jeff

If its for you daughter I would say its probably more important to find a really well cared for X3 with lower miles than deciding between the LCI or pre-LCI.

pre-LCI, expansion tanks last 80 to 100k, oil filter housing gasket the same. water pumps the same or longer if you are lucky. my LCI's have 80k and 103k miles on them. both 6MT. rear window regulators like to go out too.