was 04+ 4.4i transmission better?
 

I have been reading through all the transmission problem threads and I have heard that the x5 got xdrive and a new transmission in 04. I am wondering if the transmission in 04 up is a lot more reliable than prior to 04?

Thanks a lot
Jamie

I would say yes after the facelift all the improvements occured

instead of valley pans, you have intermediate levers

instead of transmissions and transfer cases, you have panoramic sunroofs.

Haha but in all honesty, would you spend an extra 4k to get and equivalently nice x5 with same km's because it is 04 model as opposed to 02. My main concern is just if the tranny is better and more reliable. I would really liek to minimize buying an 02 and having tranny going, but if i buy an 04 and have the same risk then why bother....

I know 04 will have 25 more HP :)

Stay away from 00-02. Reliability only improved in 03.

04 4.4 transmissions..hard tell reliability. Most of them aren't at high miles yet. All E53 3.0 transmissions are the same. I'd most definitely get an 04 over an 02 at $4kcad more..no brainer.

I would go for the '04 for the x-Drive if nothing else. Two years newer, so it may have fewer small nuisance problems. The '04+ 4.4 also gets slightly better fuel economy, not that it matters much in the overall cost of ownership.

I wouldn't judge it on the transmissions. That is a single issue IMO, and while there are lots of posts about transmissions on this site, it isn't a reason to buy or not buy a clean vehicle that you otherwise like.

:beerchug:Ditto

One more thing about the 04. It has a u-haul type hitch on it :S I would need to pull it replace with oem and make sure there is no damage. I got under there and it looked ok when i saw it.

The 02 on the other hand has every possible option including navigation/sports pack etc. No hitch on it. But it has more km's. I am really starting to think I am over thinking things it is just a big purchase, my first "nice" car. Out with the old durango.

I think in the long run you will be happier with the 04 over the loaded 02. Just my .02...:cool:

what is xdrive