Thinking about a 2004 BMW X5 3.0
 

The car is my sisters. 94k on the clock. She has done all maint. No issues. Owned since new.

I had heard the 6 cyl is pretty bullet proof. What about the drive train? Any issues to be wary about?

Is it the twin turbo or NA?


Sent from an abacus

04 3.0L isnt turbo.

No N54/55 in the E53.

I've heard from friends that E53s are nearly as big of POSes as W163 MLs but admittedly that's me regurgitating third hand info. I do know both friends who have attempted to "flip" E53s have lost money.

Didn't Tyler have an X5 of this vintage? IIRC, it was a money pit.

Did not think they even made it as a turbo back then. When I looked at KBB there was no mention of that option.

The cost of tires on that thing would be enough to get me to look elsewhere.

First thought: No!

Second thought: Why does this vehicle interest you?

You guys are right, looks like the n54 didn't come in until 07. Anyways the M54 in that car is great, love that engine. I can't really speak for the rest of it though.


Sent from an abacus

I am flipping houses with my brother so hulking stuff would be a plus. Also have a large dog and that would be a plus.

X5 FAQ, common problems and model year changes


Also note this is mostly only people complaining, most of the "success" stories never get re-told. But they outline a lot of the stuff that breaks on E53s.

If they did a 3.0L without air suspension that would probably be the way to go.