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Re: Is the X3 really the worst BMW ever? [bruceomega]
Written by: pp2009pp on Sep 24, 2009 2:56:38 PM
The 06 does not have the 6-speed GM6 Automatic Transmission. I do not know how the ride compares to the 2009 as I have not been able to find anything that says what BMW fixed if anything from the original 2004 model.
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Re: Is the X3 really the worst BMW ever? [cotmc]
Written by: roadburner on Sep 21, 2009 12:10:03 PM
What I CAN say, for fact, is that my wife and I have been very happy with both of our X3 purchases. For an all-weather all-wheel drive SUV, you can't beat the steering, handling, and braking feel of our 2006 X3. It still feels tight as a drum, and it has been trouble-free. Everything about it provides us with a safe and secure feeling, including the capability of quickly maneuvering and ... Read More
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Re: Is the X3 really the worst BMW ever? [steve_]
Written by: cotmc on Sep 21, 2009 11:58:20 AM
Exactly -- Discussion forums such as this attract more posts from people who have complaints or concerns about their car. On the other hand, we are now on my wife's second CPO X3. The first one was a 2004 3.0i model, and now we have a 2006 model. Before we purchased it last spring, I did my research..., and yes, I was a little nervous about buying a 2007 model, due ... Read More
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Re: BMW x3 Creaking noises [lisachristofid]
Written by: roadburner on Nov 16, 2007 9:17:04 AM
We just bought a 2004 x3 and it makes odd noises inside when turning corners and going over bumps and such. Does the noises sound as if they are coming from the doors? If so, it is a well-known problem involving the door seals and/or window seals. BMW has issued a few TSBs on the problem, so you might want to check with the dealer if your truck is still under ... Read More
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BMW x3 Creaking noises
Written by: lisachristofid on Nov 15, 2007 7:04:23 PM
We just bought a 2004 x3 and it makes odd noises inside when turning corners and going over bumps and such. We have always driven BMW's and have never had an annoying problem like this. Does any one else have this issue? Has BMW resolved it? If so what was the problem and how was it fixed?
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Re: Tires for 2006 X3 [bruceomega]
Written by: roadburner on Nov 13, 2007 9:52:21 AM
Will mixing one new EL-42 with the 3 existing EL-42 tires cause any problems? The local tire store was telling us we really should get 4 new tires, to keep everything "balanced". I also realize 4 new tires would be good for them business wise. I'd check with the BMW dealer. I know Audi recommends replacing all four. Would appreciate any suggestions. I put Pirelli P Zero Nero M+S tires on ... Read More
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Re: 2008 X3 lease - thoughts [expat2005]
Written by: cotmc on Nov 6, 2007 3:45:46 PM
Hmmm... I'm not sure why you say "an option-loaded model that was in the sub-$40K..." ? Based on the description of your 2005 X3, I'm guessing the MSRP was greater than $45K. For comparison sake, I have a 2004 X3, without Nav (and without Sports or Climate Package), which stickered at $44K. Take a look here within Edmunds for their "Full Test: 2004 BMW X3 3.0i" or their "Long-Term Test: 2005 ... Read More
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Re: 2008 X3 [parlynn]
Written by: roadburner on Oct 24, 2007 6:19:14 PM
I am thinking of getting the sport package as well as premium package. I'd suggest that you drive a sport package equipped X3 to make sure that the somewhat firm ride won't bother you. I don't mind it but I know that others find it to be too stiff. Would like to hear from current owners of this vehicle regarding negatives and positives of owning a BMW. I intend to have ... Read More
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Re: CPO BMWs [cotmc]
Written by: roadburner on Oct 15, 2007 8:06:44 AM
Every time I say I will hold onto my car for several years, something else comes along! I haven't held onto one car for more than 3 years since 1993. I'm getting better at keeping my cars, but I relapse from time to time... :P As it stands now, I have one car that I've kept for almost twelve years(1995 318ti Club Sport) and one I've kept for five years(1999 Wrangler ... Read More
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Re: Here's the deal [bodble2]
Written by: cotmc on Oct 13, 2007 1:18:51 PM
"Did you try the 215hp motor in the regular 3.0? Is the power adequate, or is there a significant drop-off from the 3.0si? " Are you referring to the '04-'06 3.0i? That model actually has 225hp. We recently purchased an '04 X3 3.0i for my wife, and I can say with some confidence its power is more than adequate. Of course, we were looking at used X3's (CPO models), which means ... Read More
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Re: I won't repeat the post. . . [markcincinnati]
Written by: div2 on Aug 1, 2006 10:24:06 AM
My friend has an X5 -- and loves it -- trouble free, thus far. At 54K miles it needed new FRONT brakes -- $900, standard, normal, routine expense. $900 for front brakes on an X5? That's ridiculous. Your friend gor hosed. Big time. I hope the Service Advisor kissed him and sent flowers the next day. My wife's E39 got new rotors, pads and parking brake shoes just before the PO ... Read More
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Re: I won't repeat the post. . . but the true is the true...!!! [driver100]
Written by: juanchypr on Jul 29, 2006 4:07:56 PM
http://www.greenvilleonline.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20060729/BUSINESS/607- 290308 BMW could move X3 production to Greer Demand for SUV has automaker weighing options, according to reports Published: Saturday, July 29, 2006 - 6:00 am By Jenny Munro STAFF WRITER jmunro@greenvillenews.com BMW could move production of its X3 SUV to the Greer assembly plant within four years, a European trade publication reports. Automotive News Europe reports that the German automaker is considering a couple of scenarios when it launches ... Read More
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BMW X3 Where in the glove box, does the rechargeable flashllight plug in?
Written by: sweeps on Jun 15, 2006 5:43:17 PM
Where in the glove box, does the rechargeable flashllight plug in? I just purchased a certified pre-owned 2004 X3. The dealer gave me the flashlight but the he could not find where it plugs in. He said it goes someplace in the glove box. I have searched and not been able to locate where it to plug it in. A MORE IMPORTANT QUESTION: The manual does not seem to have accurate ... Read More
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Re: Reliability of 2004 model X3's [designman]
Written by: driver100 on May 28, 2006 12:49:33 PM
You went two winters without insisting on a remedy? The dealer really tried. They did spray all the seals around the door. That didn't work. A newspaper columnist suggested some spray which I tried...helped a bit. I have told BMW Canada about it, even to say when I buy my next car I am going to test other makes to see if they have this problem, because I think it is ... Read More
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Re: Reliability of 2004 model X3's [driver100]
Written by: designman on May 28, 2006 11:05:30 AM
You went two winters without insisting on a remedy? You must have high tolerance for pain or low tolerance for service hassles. Is it acceptable for a BMW to have windows that don’t work below freezing? No. Your dealer is FOS. Make him fix it.
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Nuttin' (99%) but love. . .
Written by: markcincinnati on May 14, 2006 6:46:54 AM
Month 13, the Gloss Black with Terracotta interior 2005 BMW X3 (with nearly every option box checked) has now, just today, passed 20,000 miles. Been to the dealer for one oil change and twice (separate visits) for new windshield wiper blades. Probably by late this year, we'll put a new set of tires on the 18" sport wheels that came with the car. Love the car so much, we've signed up ... Read More
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Inspection I
Written by: juanchypr on May 8, 2006 10:13:36 AM
Hi all, My X3 is in schedule on 2 weeks for inspection 1, 27K miles. I printout from BMW OC's the suggested checklist inspection I maintenance schedule, that explain to us "know exactly what to expect when your BMW is serviced". On the list I highlighted a few items and add a few mores. If someone already went to bring your X3 on inspection I and want to share their experiences ... Read More
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Re: BMW X3 Chemical smell in passenger compartment [gmfox02]
Written by: ralphps2000 on Apr 23, 2006 5:02:18 PM
I bought a 2004 2.5 X3 in Oct 2005. I have a musty/moldy odor coming out of the vents. This condition has worsened. I have a strong sensitivity to molds and now I'm feeling my skin react and I'm having headaches as well. I took my vehicle to the dealership and they have NOT corrected it. This is a pre-owned warrantied vehicle but I am at a loss in on what ... Read More
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Re: X-3 LEMON [tfd7]
Written by: fiddell on Apr 23, 2006 10:26:04 AM
What year is yours? I have a 2004 3.0 which I have had plenty of problems with. I thought since it was the first model year that BMW would have fixed the problems by now. I haven't been to this board in a while, but my brother recently asked if i thought he should consider leasing one. I thought I would see if the problems have gone away, but I guess ... Read More
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BMW X3 Chemical smell in passenger compartment
Written by: gmfox02 on Apr 9, 2006 3:59:42 PM
I have a 2004 2.5 X3. For months now I have noticed a strong acrid chemical smell in the passenger compartment of the car. I notice it most often when the car has been sitting and with all the windows closed for a period of time. I can leave it in my garage overnight and the next morning the chemical smell is very strong. I have taken it to local dealer ... Read More
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Re: Should I buy a bmw 3x? Please advise. [needyouradvice]
Written by: div2 on Jan 8, 2006 2:54:57 PM
I've driven BMWs continuously since 1983. My wife recently picked up a 2004 X3 2.5. Her two previous Bimmers were a 1997 Five and a 1998 Three. She liked the Five and loved the Three, but she REALLY loves the X3. The X3 engine is just about bulletproof and the rest of the mechanicals have proven to be pretty robust as well. While I prefer the BMW's M cars, I still ... Read More
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Re: div2 [nyccarguy]
Written by: div2 on Dec 6, 2005 8:15:31 AM
We really weren't planning to buy anything, but here we are... It seems our dealer was offering past customers a $50 gift certificate for BMW accessories if you test drove a new E90, so we stopped by a couple of weeks ago. While we were there, my wife jokingly asked our salesman if they were going to get any CPO X3s. It turned out that they were getting one the next ... Read More
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Re: How do you program the "Clown Nose" to flash if you don't have an alarm [dwainwright]
Written by: dwainwright on Sep 3, 2005 5:19:39 PM
Oops! Upon further review, with the mirror control switch set to the left, the passenger side mirror will tilt down when I put my 2004 X3 in reverse. Also, the only place I see to get full text of all the service bulletins and recalls is at www.alldata.com/recalls and pay for a subscription for one vehicle. But it tells me "ALLDATAdiy.com does not support Honda, Acura, and BMW at the request ... Read More
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How do you program the "Clown Nose" to flash if you don't have an alarm?
Written by: dwainwright on Sep 2, 2005 8:43:43 AM
How do you program the "Clown Nose" to flash if you don't have an alarm? I just got my wife a Certified Pre-Owned 2004 BMW X3 2.5i the other day. I was surprised to find that despite having the premium package with BMW Assist (7 months left on the free year of Assist service), that there was no alarm and no Home Link! Paid $30,995 for 2.5i with Premium Package, Cold ... Read More
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Knocking engines and rattling windows
Written by: babydoc on Aug 6, 2005 7:52:17 PM
I mostly purchase gas from Phillips, as it is the closest. I will try some of the other name brands and see if there's a difference. If not, sounds like I need to call the BMW service centers. The rattling doesn't seem to be heat-related. When I took it in for the problem, I was told that BMW was going to have to replace all the window seals- so far, nothing, ... Read More
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window rattling
Written by: babydoc on Aug 5, 2005 8:52:34 PM
Does anyone else have a problem with their 2004 BMW X3 windows rattling? I took it to the dealer, and was told that BMW was working on it, and for now, I am stuck with the annoying rattling. If the windows are rolled down half-way, the rattling stops. Also- dumb question- but do I really need premium gas for this car? The pinging sound is there no matter what grade of ... Read More
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Re: buying a used 2004 BMW X3 3.0 [seeker6]
Written by: kyfdx@Edmunds on Jul 28, 2005 8:56:31 AM
No.. there shouldn't be.. Agreed upon sales price Tax (6% in NJ, I think) Title, license, maybe some EPA tires fees, state inspection.. Maybe $300 total. That should be it.. regards, kyfdx
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Re: buying a used 2004 BMW X3 3.0 [kyfdx]
Written by: seeker6 on Jul 28, 2005 8:52:23 AM
I'm not leasing...buying it from a dealer (2004 bmw X3). So no "delivery charge" or anything like that? Just want to make sure. Any other charges besides tax, title and license fees? PS - I'm in NJ Thanks so much for your help and feedback.
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Re: buying a used 2004 BMW X3 3.0 [seeker6]
Written by: kyfdx@Edmunds on Jul 27, 2005 4:51:28 PM
Acquisition fees are only for leases.. You aren't leasing an '04, are you? Do you really want all of those options? If not, you'd be better off finding a new $41K MSRP '05 and getting it for around $39K... Tax, title and license fees vary by state..
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buying a used 2004 BMW X3 3.0
Written by: seeker6 on Jul 27, 2005 2:36:53 PM
Ok...if I were just writing a check to a dealer, and I offered, let's say $36000 for a fully loaded 2004 X3 3.0L automatic/premium pkg/sport pkg/premium sound/nav with 16K miles on it... What are the MINIMUM extras I can expect on the contract? Meaning, I know there's an acquisition fee (around 595 or so), taxes and title (how much would title be?), and a doc fee (the dealer is saying it's ... Read More
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Re: Sport model: Bone Jarring? [bargamon1]
Written by: markcincinnati on Jul 15, 2005 5:47:10 PM
My wife and I are NOT experts in ride quality. But we've had dozens of German cars over the past 30 years. We currently have three in our garage right now -- the X3 we have is a 3.0 Sport, Premium, Cold and a bunch of other options to crank this little puppy darn near into the Luxury Performance Sedan class of vehicles. I can tell you that the 2003 TT ... Read More
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Mileage
Written by: driver100 on May 30, 2005 4:29:26 PM
I have had my 2004 X3 2.5 since September 04. With about 6,000 miles the gas mileage is 20 m.p.g.(U.S.), in 50/50 city highway driving. I was skeptical about how much better a BMW could be, when you can buy fairly competent cars for almost half the price. However, I have changed my mind, it is worth every extra penny - and I don't know why anyone would buy anything else ... Read More
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Re: Day 3 X3 Update. . .continued. . .
Written by: markcincinnati on May 9, 2005 1:40:48 PM
So much of the criticism of the X3 (in early 2004) was centered around two areas: it's cheap looking interior and its rough-riding suspension. In May of 2004 BMW recalibrated the suspension; and, make no mistake about it, the Sport Package is quite firm -- but rarely, if ever, harsh even on some of Cincinnati's most pock marked secondary roads. Some of the stiffness of the sport suspension is mitigated by ... Read More
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Re: City and Hwy Mileage BMW X3 (2.5 and 3.0) [want2have1]
Written by: idagorn on Apr 26, 2005 7:42:40 AM
diesel X3 Hi! I bought an X3 turbo diesel here in France in March 2004 ;3.0L 204HP engine. so far I've done 17000miles without any problems at all and I get 30mpg which is about twice as much as you get with your gas guzzlers; most people here wouldn't dream of buying a SUV with a gas engine;and now you can get your X3 with the smaller 2L 150HP turbo diesel ... Read More
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Re: City and Hwy Mileage BMW X3 (2.5 and 3.0) [haakon]
Written by: vmerch on Apr 23, 2005 10:46:27 AM
I own a 2004 X3, 2.5. I get 28.6 on the highway (no stopping), and 18 in the city. I live in Chicago, so the city mileage reflects a lot of gridlock. On a separate topic - I am considering getting the Ipod accessory cable to play through the stereo. Does anyone have any experience with this? Do you have to go to the dealership? Cost? Worth it? Thanks!
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Re: Premium Sound [beemcity]
Written by: markcincinnati on Apr 20, 2005 12:49:07 PM
Test drove one with and one without -- huge difference. The lease payment difference was about $6 per month on a 36 month 15K lease. I thought it was well worth it. I currently have a 2003 Audi allroad with the Bose "upgraded" system. A. I think the Audi system is better than the standard BMW system B. I think the upgraded BMW system is better than the upgraded Audi system ... Read More
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X3 for 2005
Written by: markcincinnati on Apr 14, 2005 12:34:54 PM
Call us obsessive complusive and fussy test drivers (my wife and me) -- but we did indeed test the X3 extensively over more than one visit to the dealer and we tested both manual and automatics, sport and non sport equipped versions (we ONLY tested 3.0 engine versions, however). We could not believe the difference between the stick and auto -- two completely different cars, with the stick the car drove ... Read More
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Re: More complaints or more raving reviews? [motorcity3]
Written by: robertv on Apr 14, 2005 9:22:39 AM
I can understand your conerns about what you've read on this forum as it had me a little worried as well. But in the end I think it has mainly to do with first model year problems. Most of the creaks, howls and sensor problems seem to be associated with the 2004 models. You don't seem to hear as many complaints about the 2005 models but I'm sure a few minor ... Read More
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Re: X3 3.0 1500 mile report [newbmer1]
Written by: the_worm on Mar 30, 2005 2:41:58 PM
I had the same problem... the dealers know about this issue. Visit your dealer and tell them about your key problem and also tell them to look up BMW bulletin SI B 66 01 04 (dated 12/2004) to cure the problem. Basically they need to replace the antenna in the mirror. I am waiting for my replacement mirror but they made me come in for a day to "see for themselves" ... Read More
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Re: Considering 05/06 X3 3.0 or 3.? [jpouchet]
Written by: beemcity on Jan 7, 2005 7:35:43 AM
I was looking at simliar choices as you, but not coming from Mercedes, rather Japanese cars. However, seeing your priorities: luxury, etc, etc.. I think the Touraeg should be off the list. We looked at and the thing was a beast and fuel economy was less than desirable. Volvo, i guess it's a personal thing, but I dind't like the design or look of it. I would suggest you also ... Read More
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Yep, this is the essence
Written by: designman on Dec 12, 2004 8:14:54 AM
Among the critics what gets lost or not noticed to begin with is the X3's handling ability. Many people want cushy luxury utes. Harsh ride? Stay away. Bring on the sport drivers who need a little utility. No iDrive, spartan interior? Works for me. I think this is the one new-age bimmer that really hits the target. All beef, no fat. I always take reviews with a grain of salt ... Read More
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Re: Really driving the X3 [kewilpee]
Written by: jrynn on Dec 12, 2004 4:51:31 AM
In 2004, BMW held an X3 "performance" driving event in various cities around the US. When it came through Washington, DC, they set up a short (3/4 to 1 mile) road course in the FedEx Field parking lot. Not super challenging, but enough S's, sweeping lefts, and hairpins to offer variety. They'd load three drivers and one instructor in each X3 and basically send people out to lap as fast as ... Read More
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x3 passenger side air bag problems
Written by: corral on Nov 25, 2004 7:31:57 PM
I have a 2004 x3 2.5 with a defective passenger side airbag occupant detection sensor. The sensor turns on the passenger side air bag off light and a red air bag warning ligh on the dash. Is this common? The dealer said the part is on back order and will not be in for several weeks or months, They claim everything works well and not to worry and won;t rent me ... Read More
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Re: 05' X3 Suspension Changes
Written by: harplayr on Nov 8, 2004 6:41:37 AM
I got this from another board. This guy is a BMW Mechanic, and his info has been reliable to date. It cover the Sport Package only. No info yet on Non-Sport. 2005 X3(SPORT)softer Ride? changes? it's mm's : Message: this is my finding after new car prepping 2005 X3 Sport Package 2.5 and 3.0 (stick & auto trans) for delivery this week: .................................................................- ...... for 2004 , the info on Sport ... Read More
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Re: BMW X3 3.0i -2004 - help me with pricing [bmwksr]
Written by: lojak on Oct 29, 2004 9:06:17 AM
Nav on BMWs are very good. I have 1 on my 325i sedan (had to get it because it was euro delivery and I'm not multilingual enough to ask directions in 3 different languages). We used it in Europe and didn't ask directions 1 time! It's fast and easy to use. I played with 1 on a Honda and after entering the address, it gave me one of those "loading...please wait ... Read More
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Re: BMW X3 3.0i -2004 - help me with pricing [bmwksr]
Written by: bmwksr on Oct 21, 2004 2:44:32 PM
Thanks and I planned to let it go. I found one more and is a similar one and following are the details. 1. BMW dealer, 2004 X3 3.0, premium package,privacy glass, metallic 2.mileage:7000, asking price $35K, CPO vehicle. 3. Again the deal is it is 1800 miles from my place. 4. I checked the Carfax, No scary things on the report and...will follow the routine. will await for your advise. Thanks ... Read More
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Re: BMW X3 3.0i -2004 - help me with pricing [kyfdx]
Written by: bmwksr on Oct 21, 2004 1:44:42 PM
Hello kyfdx, Thanks for your prompt response and advise. 1. yes..this is owned by a BMW dealer. I checked Car fax with the vin number and no accident reports are there. 2. yes it has a CPO. She said it is a Demo extension warranty and CPO. it is 1500 miles away from me. 3. What might be the price..2004 x3, with premium package, privacy glass and 11000 miles. she is ... Read More
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Re: BMW X3 3.0i -2004 - help me with pricing [bmwksr]
Written by: kyfdx@Edmunds on Oct 21, 2004 7:31:53 AM
Is it at a BMW dealer? If so, ask him to fax you the vehicle history report and a CARFAX. The vehicle history report will have the warranty expiration date, options on the car, and any service done on it.. I really have no idea on price.. I would try to compare it to what you could buy a brand-new '04 for.. and subtract at least $4K-$5K. If it is CPO, ... Read More
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BMW X3 3.0i -2004 - help me with pricing
Written by: bmwksr on Oct 21, 2004 7:23:11 AM
This request is for kyfdx: I am planning to buy a used BMW X3 3.0 and no experience in buying used cars. help me with the pricing. 1. Used BMW X4 3.0, premium pkg, privacy glass and 11000 miles on it. What price might be reasonable to pay? 2. This car is in some other place,if it is BMW certified is it reasonable to purchase the car without looking or driving ... Read More
