Powerful Lemon!
I've owned five BMW's since my first (a 1969 BMW 2002). Have loved them all -- until this one. For the first time, "treated" myself to the high-end engine: the 5.0 liter bi-turbo. Since then, I've spent over $20,000 on repairs, and still have three oil leaks that fortunately don't present a safety hazard or affect performance, because they would cost another $15,000 to repair. I've put 150,000 miles on all my previous models, with minimal non-maintenance repairs. This car, in addition to all the repairs, has suffered at least three recalls, and numerous lawsuits settled by BMW. The major settlement, of a lawsuit over engine problems, entitled me to nothing more than two oil changes (the pro-rata discount based on mileage for complete engine replacement was an insult, since it covers less than 20% of the cost of the repair). Have had several other problems (electronics and turbo issues) requiring repair also. They are apparently adopting Range Rover's strategy: if your friends see you driving one of these cars, they know you have money to burn. I will never buy another BMW.
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Back to BMW for more space for new baby.
Very pleased with the car so far after 2 weeks. Switched from a 2010 Range Rover Sport with the 5.0 V8 but the car is just as fast - different power delivery. Fuel economy in a different league. Ride quality is much better than the RRS both on 20" wheels. Handling is much more sedan than SUV. Convenience features on the BMW are leagues ahead of the RRS. Electronics are so much better thought out and things like the power lift tailgate etc make a big difference when you have a small one. Last BMW was a diesel X5 in the UK ten years ago, was one of the best cars I've ever had. Mine is actually a 2013 model not that there are any changes.
- xDrive35i 4dr SUVMSRP: $6,20017 mi away
- xDrive35i 4dr SUVMSRP: $7,49119 mi away
- xDrive35i Premium 4dr SUVMSRP: $6,99526 mi away
Yes to BMW X5
The 2005 BMW X5 is my first BMW. I was amazed at how fun this car was to drive. The X5 is a sports car, not an off road vehicle. Don't buy this car if you intend to do a lot of off road driving. The X5 handles like a dream even at high speeds. The top speed is about 128 MPH. At 128 MPH the x5 handles like my Land Rover did at 70 MPH. Speed and handling are definately the X5's best features. The X5 is dependable. If you have any problems it will be with the electrical system. BMW has power plant, drivetraine and suspension down pat. They have a few things to learn when it comes to electronics. I have had problems with tail lights and electric door locks.
Fuel Pump issue and putting on a hitch aftermarket
I love the way this car drives but after 10,000 miles it broke down on the side of the road. It was a fuel pump issue which I've heard has been a consistent issue with the X5. My friend said they are replacing it with the same fuel pumps so she ended up having it happen again and got rid of her car. I also opted to put a hitch on aftermarket but beware it may cause serious problems with your lease return since they have to actually break off a piece of the bumber to put it on so you would get dinged when turning in the lease. I opted to use the tow clips with a BMW bike rack which carries 2 bikes (can opt for a 3rd tray but it would be tight) and it's a fantastic bike rack.
142,000 miles and selling today to get a 2018 dies
It really is a great vehicle, live everything about it except the dealership supporting it.
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