Most reliable x5 e53
 

Hi guys
Is there a x5 e53 that is particularly reliable compared to the rest?
Are all auto boxes the same or is there a particularly reliable one?
Petrol or diesel? (For reliability)
What do you recommend?
Thanks!

n62 4.4 4.8 have leaks and valve seal problems
m62 4.4 4.6 have chain guide and vpg problems
3.0 has water pump problems...


Check this out:
http://www.xoutpost.com/bmw-sav-foru...st-e53-x5.html

read through replies and stuff

I6 with MT would have the least problem out of them all.

In addition, N62 has intermittant shaft lever issues (HUGE $s for repair when they get noisy). When compaired to M62s, many repairs (like valve cover gaskets) require DOUBLE labor hrs to correct, due to additional components/added complexity of items needing removal/replacement. Not DIY friendly, open your wallet WIDE at the dealer/indy.

3.0 also has CCV and DISA valve issues.

I agree with TMV, 6 cylinder with manual transmission will have fewer endemic issues overall. Ideally the NV125 transfer case (pre-iDrive), no on-board DSP, SatNav or fancy sound systems. For the ultimate (non-North American markets), buy a 3.0 diesel (184 HP) with manual transmission. This also avoid the diesel intake swirl flap issues (CCV & DISA valve on the 3.0 liter gasoline engine is less costly and usually won't kill your engine).

Definitely the 3.0

BMW's inline 6 motors are practically bullet proof when maintained. Sure they have normal issues with higher mileage as all engines do. Just look at how long BMW has been building the I6 motors. I think they have it down to a damn good science.

This. None of my problems I had in the past 2 years were engine related, all worn suspension items, and air suspension issues (popular on all models).

The M54 and my 5-speed has been bulletproof.

I really wish I bought a 3.0 when I purchased mine. I have an N62 and while it's a blast to drive, it's not the most fun thing to work on and parts can get expensive in a hurry.

Is Ha5, your location, a UK postal code? Format looks familiar. If so, you probably want to look at a diesel, and there were changes made to the automatic transmission years ago due to some early problems. I think the issue was the diesel had more torque than the transmission was designed for, but I don't know the details. You won't find much specific information on either the diesel or specific transmissions for them here, as most members are in North America where the diesel wasn't available. Powers1 is a member who would be a good source of info.

Wouldn't this imply the engine / transmission combination you have is irrelevant?

With that said the majority of problems I've had on my two E53's were unrelated to the engine. I did have one valve body issue and, as a general rule of thumb, a manual transmission is likely to be more reliable. However I suspect the problems you'll experience are likely to be more non-engine / transmission related.