I've noticed this too. Even my E32 7'er had to have my coolant reservoir and T-stat replaced twice in the five years I owned it. I'm not even going to go into the mess with the two E39's I owned. So far, my 2009 X5 has been good, except for the fact that the previous owner's shop put in a POS Indonesian made radiator, that sells for $89 on Ebay (and probably charged the owner for a BMW/Behr radiator). Nissens fixed that problem.

Same here and agree. Ive only had three BMWs and all were after warranty due to years not miles. I never had any major issues with them (yes Im knocking on cherry wood in my desk) but that doesn't mean I wont blow a differential on the way home today. LOL

But seriously, BMW resale value in So Cal is horrendous and that's great for guys like us. I rather love buying $52,000 cars for $17,000. :D

I used to be pretty hard core into VWs and will be the first to admit during those years VWs were probably the biggest POS on the road. But I never had an issue with any of mine. Lucky? I dont know....

BTW I have never paid anyone to work on my machines. If its not covered under warranty I fix it myself. Hell I have even fixed stuff that was under warranty, that's how much I hate people touching my stuff, well my vehicles anyway. :D

^Solid strategy.

I understand now. You, like many other people look at
vehicles as an appliance rather than a driving experience
and that's ok. The rest of us enjoy the performance and
handling. So if money is your only deciding factor then
do as you say "find another brand." Perhaps a Honda fit, or
any of the others on this list. In fact you could buy 2 of these
and save one for later. All have a warranty:thumbup:

Regards B&R

Chevrolet Cruze — MSRP not yet announced.
Toyota Corolla — MSRP not yet announced.
Subaru Impreza — MSRP not yet announced.
Hyundai Accent — MSRP $14,745.
Kia Rio — MSRP $14,165.
Scion iA — MSRP $15,700.
Honda Fit — MSRP $15,890.
Dodge Dart — MSRP $16,995.