Should I give up on my X5?
 

I have a 2006 X5 3.0 which needs major repairs. It can't start (it actually does start, but dies almost instantly) and is giving me several lights at the same time (check engine, engine failsafe, 4x4 light, brakes light). I had it towed to an independent service shop and they told me they'd take a look at it. They also told me it was likely going to be an expensive repair, but can't give me any details until they find out what's wrong.

At this point I'm considering just selling this car for scrap or selling it to someone in non-running condition because the repair costs will likely exceed the value of this car.

Do you think it's a good idea? Or should I eat the repair costs (even if they likely will be over $3000) and keep driving until something else goes wrong?

Also, anyone know of what could be the problem?

My thought - see what the shop says and go from there. Everything you described above could be the result of something as simple as a bad battery honestly 🤞

Let us know what the shop says.

I had similar symptoms from a failed fuel pump. Easy fix

What color is your brake light? Amber or Red? Do you have a code reader? 90% of stuff is usually some item causing a chain of issues. I had your symptoms minus the rear brake light problem and it was when my valvetronic motor went tits up....

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How do you know the repairs are major if it's not known what is broken in the first place?

I suggest you get it diagnosed first, then post it here. Then we can give an opinion on your question and help you get it fixed if you want to.

It depends on how many miles are on it and how good of shape it is in otherwise I'd say..

If it's in great shape with low miles it may even be worth putting in a new engine, but if it's a ratted out rust bucket then ehh..

Usually it is better to stay with the devil you know than the devil you don't know unless you purchase a much newer vehicle say with under 30,000 or so miles and comes with a warranty. A lot depends on your budget for the replacement and what is a viable replacement.

If you know the history of your X5 and the miles left before it is time to replace the more expensive items such as rebuilding the suspension, that is an extremely important consideration in the decision making, big plus. I would have the repair shop do a complete inspection to see what else needs to be addressed now or in the near future.

It sounds like you are not a DIYer. Labor is a big part of cost of repairs. If I did not DIY everything I wouldn't own an E53, certainly not as a daily driver.