Definitely agree with that. There is a place just down the road from me that deals specifically with import cars, they always have BMWs, Jaguars, Mercedes, etc for sale. I have heard mixed reviews on them though, and it seems they are more of the type of shop that just fires the parts cannon at something rather then try to actually diagnose the root cause and fix it. I certainly have no shame though in reaching out for help from those with more experience and knowledge then myself though, I just am extremely cautious / picky with who and where I get that help from. My biggest problem is my work week often is full of overtime days as well then I spend time with the family so car time doesn't happen as often as it once did. I have talked to my wife though about sort of making this a family project to bring it back to life, she isn't so interested, but my kids (2 boys - 7 & 8 yrs old 1 girl - 2 yrs old) will jump at the opportunity to help out, gearheads in the making just like me haha!!

Is your coolant full? Seems silly but since it is water cooled.... On mine it seems if the coolant is a bit low (yah I have a valley gasket leak) the alternator gets too hot and the battery light comes on. I assume it is not putting out the right amps anymore. I top up the coolant and it works fine again. The alternator may also be on it's last leg. Who knows. I haven't had this truck long.

Never thought to check that, previous owner did say they just spend $1,200 on intake gaskets and some other work, as well as the upper radiator hose fitting being replaced. I would think it's ok but definitely worth checking.

lets not get too carried away now :)

if battery light is coming on, its not the coolant level

Don't be so quick to criticize. It is a WATER cooled alternator. What do you think it will do if it overheats? If the coolant is low certain circuits could be starved. In the e46 the cabin heater will stop working BEFORE the low coolant light even comes in.

I'm not theorizing. I'm telling you what I have observed on my newly acquired X5 over the last few months.

It may be something else in this car. But it takes 5 min to open the overflow tank and top it off and try it again.

Thaniel