4.8is long term reliability
 

Very interested in picking up a 4.8is in the near future. Only thing holding me back is something expensive going wrong with it. I don't mind expensive oil changes, maintenance, etc. However, I don't want to worry about the tranny breaking every time i stomp on it (quite often). Small problems are fine I just hate having the type of problem that makes it un-drivable/leaves me stranded.

What I'm asking is, are there any real problems with these trucks? People make it out to be so much worse than any other car. Should I just buy a camry?

Never owned an auto as they always seem to wear out and start slipping or break far before the rest of the car.

the new trans in the 4.8is is completely different than the 4.6is failure rate is low compared to 2000-2003 x5's

Thats good to hear. So other than regular maintenance costing more there won't be anymore problems than say an expedition or tahoe?

I've had my 4.8 for a few years now. Besides a few little things here and there, I have not had any major problems (knocks on wood).

The only thing that has me worried is that I havent seen to many high mileage ones around the forum. I wonder how they're holding up in the long run.

I don't think you have much to worry about with what you're asking..What you should be worried about is the 4.8is that you buy should be thoroughly inspected, checked out, preferably low miles, no wrecks, etc. That is the key to buying a used car. This will also be a strong indicator as to what to expect out of the car in the future when you have it. If it wasn't taken care of, or just barely maintained then yeah, chances are high that you're going to experience problems.. obviously if you're buying new, then you shouldn't really be worried.

who does have the highest mileage 4.8is? still on original trans?
i have 53,xxx miles on my 04.
done control arms, brakes, tie rods, and a motor mount.
also, x2 to primetime.

I have around 64,000 miles on my 06' 4.8is and I have driven it pretty hard, for the past few months ive been driving back and fourth from NJ to CT and she hasnt let me down (knock on wood) I have never had any major problems, the only thing ive just ran into today was hearing my two front rims are bent while in the process of powder coating them black :banghead: Luckily, i got the wheel and tire insurance so that should help me. As long as it is certified pre-owned i dont think you have anything to worry about.

Sounds good, Its just all these stories getting to my head from the M3 forum. About rear subframes tearing, vanos units going bad, etc. Same with the E60 M5, Vanos, SMG, steering sensors, etc. Everyone talks about how bad an idea it is to own one out of warranty.

If you buy a CPO, than you have extended warranty and you can also get extended maintenance(there is a thread for extended warranties).
I have the 4.8is for over 5 years and no major issues, other than DME was changed in first year under warranty.