Contemplating...
 

2004 BMW X5 4.4i SPORT+PREMIUM PKG+RUNNING BOARD for $13,888 in TORONTO | autoTRADER.ca

Thoughts...? I figure it's a fair price for what I need it for...I don't mind putting a few bucks into maintenance...the Mazda 3 I drive every day has 256km on it and the transmission is on the fritz

Thanks

personally, I think that price is high, especially since you have to pay taxes at a dealership.
I know in Alberta, we do not have to pay taxes on a private sale (do you in Ontario?) bt I know the x5's are cheaper out here and not as much of a rust issue here like you can see there.
i'd keep looking

6 cylinder might be a lot easier on your wallet later on

Unfortunately, in Ontario, sales tax has been harmonized. So, now we pay HST (13%) even on private sales...

If it is what you want, I would take a first hand look at it. If it looks as good as the pictures I would weigh the price against how it stands up to a pre purchase inspection.

I like it, but I am not just going to grab an X without a PPI

check for leaks and make sure you do check the following...

1) let it warm up to normal operating temp
2) turn off AC and let it idle for 2+ minutes after warm and then rev up motor and look for " mystical blue smoke at the tail pipes )
3) run it on the highway and watch for check engine lights

if it passes all those tests, you will be happy in the long run :)

I know you've been craving to buy one bad judging by your other threads I've read, but let's be honest, you'll be spend less money in the short and long term putting a new or rebuilt tranny in the 3. Your an experienced BMW owner so you know how much trouble these things can be, especially the V-8 models. With the mileage it has it's due for the timing chain guides to be replaced, cost wise there's your new tranny. If your budget allows I would get a newer X5 (not an E53) with a CPO warranty, you know you're gonna need it sooner rather than later, but at least you can drive your X with peace of mind.

You are right! I am so on the fence about keeping the 3 or jumping into an X...there is something about the SAV that is appealing to me...

Never seen an indy car lot state "This vehicle has achieved Certified Pre-Owned status, by passing BMW's rigorous certification process".

This statement means the vehicles has undergone a certified BMW dealer lease/used vehicle inspection that would be done prior to adding to the BMW dealers used vehicle inventory.

I would bet if you ask to see the certification docs, you'll get a blank stare or shown an indy shop inspection report.