Considering an X5

[Caryalon]

Hi,

I currently own an e39 530i and an e46 325i, am considering buying an e53 X5.

I'm more interested in a later model year (2004 - 2006) 6 cylinder version, but might consider an 8 cylinder.

My questions:
What problem areas should I be aware of?
Would you buy a 6 cylinder X5?

Thanks!

Cary

[Clockwork]

Cary, there are LOTS of things to consider for either 6 or 8.
both offer advantages/problems.
Honestly this has been beat to death over many threads, so just search for "problems" or read the "How To" section at the top of the website to see what repairs are documented so you know what to look for.

so many to talk about.
PS: just as a few topics, look for Panoramic moon roof, air ride suspension, ride height dropping, bluetooth troubles, engine problems, transmission issues, torque converter issues, door carriers... lots of issues with both designs, but lots of fixes.

[mike_dmt]

I wouldn't let that scare you off of one though. Since it isn't your first rodeo with a Bimmer, you already know they require more maintenance.

Remember too, most of these threads are the people having trouble. Hardly ever will you see a thread saying how the car is working perfectly for years.

[tmv]

They are pretty much in the same era as your E39 and E46, so cooling system overhaul and BMW plastic parts are the main concerns. They can be reliable when taken care of.
I would buy an I6 X5 if that's what I want.

[Caryalon]

Thanks - I realize that there are many commonalities between the e39 and the e53 - I was wondering what "quirks" the e53 may have that I'm not familiar with.

Both my e39 and e46 have m54 engines, so I'm familiar with it, and my wife would be driving the X5. She has a lead foot as it is, so a V8 would just be more trouble...

Thanks for pointing out the how to section, hadn't noticed it. I did a search for common problems, but the results were all over the place.

[Qsilver7]

Originally Posted by tmv

They are pretty much in the same era as your E39 and E46...

Ditto TMV...while reading through the thread...my thoughts were basically the same as he wrote.

The e39 & e46 are generational cousins of the e53. So engines, electronic systems, and much of the design architecture is basically the same or VERY similar. The biggest difference is obviously the early AWD system (40/60 front to rear torque split), and then later, the "variable split" xDrive AWD system starting in 2004 model year.

And if you are hesitant about BMWs that go into the next generation of BMW technology (MOST communication bus)...like iDrive...then the e53 is your last hooray...and takes you to the brink of the "new world" while allowing you to hang on to the old.

The 2004-06 V8 e53s (4.4 & 4.8is) do have a "toe" dipped into the next gen in that they have the N62 engine & 6 speed trannys used in the e60 & e65 5 & 7 series...but yet retain their mechanical connection to the transmission by still having the old gear shift lever. For me, that was a plus because I really don't care for the new "joy stick" (electronic) gear shift lever...and electronic parking brake.

Below are some common maladies that were printed in the June 2006 issue of BIMMER:

[panchosouth]

Interesting info thanks for that post!
Re: 6 vs 8...My logic has always been based on load vs demand: If you poodle about town, then a six is the way to go- but a six is still driving the same weight as the eight, so if you get on the gas, then you should opt for the 8 as it will hold up better over the long run with the demand....

[nate13]

I have an e46 330i as well, and my mentality was to stay with an engine who's problems I've worked with before. My 2005 3.0 does not have a problem getting out if its own way by any means. What's interesting to note is that the differential and final drive is higher in the 3.0, meaning higher torque to the wheels. For this reason, the smooth high revving I6 gets to flap it's wings, relying on engine management and a light foot for efficiency. This compared to using gearing against a high torque motor to reduce rpm as seen in the v8.

Finding a well optioned late I6 was a struggle for me (sport, premium, nav, pano, 19s, truffle interior), especially in the sub 100,000 mile range. It's a race to the bottom now as the few lightly driven x5s left will start creeping over.

That is my personal take on the subject, and I'm sure you'll gather that the decision must be made after driving both.

[Caryalon]

Thanks to all for the info/comments. I'm hesitant to even drive the V8, because then I'll really want one... :-)

I guess I have to go drive a couple to decide, but really leaning to the i6.

[X5SND]

Got mine going on about 8 years ago now, and love it. I originally got it to haul my ass to and from university....so the v8 seemed a bit much. Don't get me wrong, the sound & power of the 8's are definitely intoxicating, but for the city jaunts I do, the I6 has served me incredibly well. The only complaint I have is it can, at times, feel a bit under powered.

I won't be dumping my X anytime soon as its basically a necessity for our winters....and as for the 3.0 power; well, there's always ways around that too. all depends what you're after.