Yes, the water pumps go bad, there are two and they overheat and warp the heads easily especially if any wife will drive it...no offense.

The overflow tanks all crack, sometimes twice and the radiators crack, hoses will also rupture. Seems that the plastic they used back then does not hold up over the years heating and cooling. It also depends where you live...if In the Northeast like me it pounds the shit of the X5's.

They also have a EGR or CCV valve that needs to be changed so they don't freeze. The valve covers also all leak but not bad to fix.

I'm like you, I want my wife to have a powerful car so when I drive it, but you have to understand you will spend double what the car is worth over time on the V-8 X5...Awesome looking truck, handles awesome, interior is outdated. If your dead set on a V8 and don't care about money get a 4.8 and have fun.

This is not an unusual question- to buy or not to buy an X5. This same question is asked regardless of the vehicle and there will always be input on both sides. Human nature is that there will always be more negatives than positives. Your experience will be particular to your X5, just as it would be with any other brand vehicle.

It sounds like you would like to buy this X5. The mileage is low enough that major wear items such as suspension should be OK for another 25-35,000 miles.

It is critical to get that PPI done at a well recommended independent shop that specializes in BMWs.

The most important service and repair history is that after say 35-40,000 miles.

Regardless of the reliability of a used vehicle s$%t happens. Purchase an aftermarket warranty that covers major items, if only for peace of mind.

If it is a 1-2 owner vehicle that is a plus.

As far as the oil leak- find out why in the PPI and attempt to negotiate a no charge or shared cost repair prior to purchase.

Once you have all the information, add up everything and then compare the total cost and see if the purchase is still attractive to you. If so, don't harbor the potential negatives, just enjoy your new X5. You have made an informed decision.

My personal input--I bought my X5 new. I have over 115,000 miles on the clock. I drive hard and have done many performance mods stressing components well beyond the norm. I have had an excellent owner experience.