Buying used X3 (good idea or bad??)
 

Hi,

I am thinking to buy a used X3 (2004/2005). Are there anything important that I need to know (expect to experience)? Would you recommend to buy CPO? What would be X3's shortcomings? I read a lot of good vs. bad for X5 but not X3. Any insight would be appreciated.:thumbup:

Regards,
TJ

If its a cpo you should be fine, from what I know the X3 is a very reliable vehicle

I think the X3 is a pretty reliable BMW. Ours has had no significant problems, and only one minor quibble (it was me being picky) on the belt tensioner. If there are any weaknesses in the X3's reliability, potential issues include leaky moonroof, dead batteries (if not driven enough), and noisy driver door seals. However, none of those occured on mine so they're probably minor.

Go for the 05'. 04's had some rattles, and squeaks. Especially if the production date is from 03.

Plus 05' could have bluetooth (no 04 has bluetooth unless modified), nicer black dash (different plastics than 04'), chrome interior door handles, and color matching carpet (beige & grey interiors). The 05' also has one less line in the side profile.

Plus the 05' has a softer ride, without removing most of the handling capability.

It's an excellent, solid, reliable vehicle that handles better than any other SUV on the market.

I'd suggest the 2005 due to some interior and suspension updates that were made that year.

I've got an '05, and agree with the above recommendations. I don't think you'll find a CPO, will you? Isn't it too early?

I bought my 2004 x3 CPO last year with 13K and very happy with it. My x3 came with Premium sound, sport package, heated leather sport seats, etc.

It is one of the best SUV (SAV) IMO since it drives and handles like much like a car compared to my MB ML350.

Good luck and check out the BMW CPO site for availability.

There are some really good deals on new X3's right now. If you are going to finance the difference in interest rates could sway you to a new one. If bluetooth is of interest to you, go with the 05 with premium package. The 04 was the first year and some here have had some minor problems that might not find themselves in later production years. We have an 06 and couldn't be happier with our choice.

Oh and unless there's a real reason (aka spouse or handicap), get the manual. It's much more fun and feels like it has more guts. The automatic, esp. with the 2.5 liter, can feel like the slowest BMW, because it probably is.

Whatever you do either CPO or whatever.. don't buy the 2.5 Model's
BMW has stop making them. and there are a few still out there that owners are trying to get rid of, as well as 2.5 "Loaners" from dealers.

Some of the early lucky owners managed to get "trade-assist from BMW NA...

Buyer Beware.