XSeries-forum

Hi All!!

So i'm looking at getting a used X5 and am just a little concerned about mileage and maintenance / reliability; am hoping to get some reassurance from those in the know...

My budget, unfortunately, only extends to enough for a 2008-2009 model with >100k (max price £15k), but i've only ever had cars that have been new or x-demo, so extremely low mileage.

What are the key things that i need to ask/look for when i'm shopping around for one of these? My problem is that i have expnsive taste, so am looking for one as loaded as possible with extras...

Many thanks in advance.

Good morning & welcome,

Unfortunately I am not aware of a decent buyers guide for the E70. This is much to my frustration. I have written one for the E53 but I do not know enough re the E70 to type a buyers guide of real use.

That said the rules of buying are same for all cars....

Check for damage, functionality, poor repairs, items needing attention, history and mileage versificatio, ( use HPI, old MOT's, stamps, invoices and Verify info online & with BMW.

Assuming you have an eye for body repairs and mileage commensurate wear then you should be ok.

Be very careful if you are toy focused on bottom budget. Condition history and provenance should be higher priorities than mere spec. Do not assume clocked cars all show sub 50k miles. It is not unheard of for cars to show north of 100k but having covered tens of thousands over this. That said computer records make this relatively easy to detect prior to purchase.

Check emissions figures online against VIN & VRM as switch point for lower tax band efficient  dynamics was 2008 MY but there was crossover.

Spec wise be realistic - sure it's good to have a given colour and trim preference ands one alloys look better than others.  You may need to travel or wait to get what you want. If a cars seems to be 2 or 3k cheaper than others it may be a true bargain but nah be priced like that for hidden resons.

Drive some nice ones even if a little over budget - that way you will easier spot the not so good & hopefully avoid.

Finally be aware that various wheel, suspension and even steering choices (not to mention rubber fitted)there can be differences in handling and driving dynamics.