Should You Buy a Used BMW X5? (E53 Test Drive & Review)
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- čas přidán 16. 05. 2019
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The BMW X5 has been around for nearly 20 years. Early examples are now very cheap and I believe they still have a lot to offer. Here's why.
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#bmw #bmwx5 #x5 #highpeakautos - Auta a dopravní prostředky
It's only a matter of time before your star, which is definitely on an arc of the asending variety. Is noticed by someone in production of mainstream television . I've followed your stuff from the earliest videos . You have a quality which remains hard to put a finger on . It's not just one thing . This channel is going to get bigger probably way more than you ever envisaged at the start. In my opinion which I'm sure ,a lot of people will agree, is you will not even need the mainstream . Finesse and quality and sheer hard work will do . I do not believe in lucky breaks and overnight success stories . The mainstream will need you before you need them . I believe success is only a matter of time . I wish you well . From a fellow Progressive Jaguar Infatuation Syndrome sufferer. Keep up the good work
I totally agree 👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍
Thank you for your comment! It means a lot 👍🏻
@@HighPeakAutos Best of luck to you sir
Me too. From the beginning and I totally agree with the comment. Got the Spain comment as well - A fellow Toro Bull.
@urbex2007 conspiracy theories are all the rage these days
It's so crazy how the X5 E53 still looks bossy 20 years later. This is surely one of BMW's top masterpiece.
You are correct sir!
I agree!
But you'll be wasting tons of money in maintenance
ilyn Payne how so?
@@ilynpayne7491 no dude it depends on how you drive and how you treat it. If you treat it well it'll treat you better! I've had my 06 x5 for 7 years and I've repaired the sunroof once and the front passenger electric buttons once. Other than that only regular maintenance and i change oil every 4 to 6 months. Such a luxurious and comfortable suv!
The V8 head gasket and valve stem seal failures are limited to the N62 V8's which started production in October 2003. The previous engine M62TU44 and M62TU46 in the iS never had that issue, but they do have the potential to destroy timing guides at around 90 - 120,000 miles unless there had been exceptional over oil servicing throughout its life - same goes for the E38 and E39 Saloons with their M62TU44 and TU35 engines.
I recently got my third 2002 E53 X5 4.4 V8 with low miles, but only the regular 15,000 service intervals were done according to the books. To ensure long term reliability, I spent 1500 for timing guides, full gasket kit and all new cooling hoses, water pump, thermostat etc. I know this will save the potential for big headaches down the track.
Some people report problems with their X5's, but really they can blame themselves for their failure to maintain them correctly. Here are some tips if you've recently purchased one
1. If you hear rattling on start up, don't just turn the radio up and forget about it.. It's probably the main chain tensioner wearing out, a cheap as chips part that can be swapped out in 15 minutes, but left unchecked for months or weeks on end could see timing guides collapse and even chain breakage and ultimately a dead engine.
2. Definitely have the transmission serviced as suggested here (I suggest every 20 - 30,000), it is not a lifetime fluid fill regardless of what BMW claimed. Only allow a genuine ZF or BMW filter and ZF lifeguard fluid be used in the transmissions, aftermarket solutions kill the transmissions. I found the ZF regional HQ service centre who provide a very affordable highest quality service.
3. Make sure the cooling system is using blue coolant only and that it's functioning perfectly and all hoses etc are fresh. Most BMW parts have date stamps on them so you'll have a good idea of how old some bits are. The transmission thermostat is often overlooked even for what most would consider a full cooling system refresh. If yours is over 15 years old (there's a date stamp on it) change it, it's cheap and your transmissions' life counts on it.
4. Buy yourself a set of 4 cheapie eBay door handle carriers, and keep them ready for that day when one fails. You can almost count on doing the drivers door every 3 - 4 years. Search here on CZcams, there's so many DIY tutorials on how to replace them, it's quick and easy to do with minimal tools.
5. If you have a bit of IT aptitude, get PASOFT 1.4 BMW scanner and software. It is cheap and can diagnose 90% of problems without needing to go to a dealer.
Hope this helps someone enjoy their X5 more.
Besides routine maintenance I've had to replace the starter, oil gasket and belt, the electrical box for the daytime bulb, the amplifier (everything works however no sound) the amplifier baffles me and is costly, and the vehicle has had quite a few recalls. The vehicle is 8 yrs old with a little over 70,000 miles. Purchased at 4 yrs old with with close to 50,000 miles.
Or just buy a Lexus and never worry about crazy amount of maintenance and repair bills for the next 10-15 years.
A Lexus gets you home.
A BMW gets you towed.
Jake de Kleuver
I have a 2006 X5 3.0i USA model which I shipped to Accra, Ghana when it was just 6 months old.
I must confess I woke up from my slumber as far as its care was concerned only about 3 years ago and that was when I came to the realization Jake has so succinctly highlighted!
Approaching it’s 14th year with a little over 80k miles, I don’t have the slightest desire to let it go, a consideration I gave some 8 years ago when a plethora of problems (most of them due to negligence on the part of mechanics and dealerships!) eroded any tinge of my affection for X5 culminating in my replacing the automatic transmission (leakage was ignored by ???) 3 years ago: the moment of rude awakening! And that happened to be the turning point of sticking to it till...
And thanks to, my oh my, the initiator of this incredible channel and to you e53 enthusiasts my X5 shall surely continue to dominate its younger siblings and rivals within my network....You guys have more than encouraged me to continue to own it.
Cheers buddies!!
Every 20-30 000km for transmission oil change is way too soon, 80 000km is surely enough. As long as it's done on low miles, don't bother if it hasn't.
@@ritak8715 You should ask the BMW enthusiasts on several forums about the amplifier.
In my opinion your a better presenter than them fools on BBC top gear . Keep them vids coming
Thanks for watching!
You're probably right!
Yes, I agree he is a breath of fresh air 😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊.
Totally agree . I find the Top Gear challenges silly and the presenters annoying Pratt’s .
Keep your excellent reviews coming. Always look forward to them.
Thanks!
After a horrendous experience of owning a Disco 3 money pit I am now on my 2nd X5 and they have not missed a beat I am now only ever driving one of these they are great.
They are brilliant cars
Bought a new 3.0i in 2003 and the engine still runs smoothly with very little oil leakage.The first 8 years it was basically oil changes and tires, and in the past 8 years, I've spent about $11,500 in repairs and maintenance (not including tires). As others point out, there are things that will break, including stuff like window regulators, pixel display strip beneath the instrument cluster with dead pixels, side view mirrors stop retracting, coolant system/radiator issues, etc. You can read about them on other sites like repairpal. Overall, though, I still enjoy this vehicle and like the sculpted looks of it more than any other SUV on the road. It is very solid.
Thats not bad going! :)
I just love the old school BMW interiors, especially the E39 5series ... and that sound the doors make when you close them, it‘s just so satisfying!
I agree! A satisfying 'clunk'
Indeed true. I had a 2005 530d with full maximum interior spec. back in 2005. Any model later was cheap made and got worst with each new model!!!
Useless brand today indeed!
@@HighPeakAutos Even more like a 'thump'
I know right.... that old school door rubber *"Thump!"*
MrJeronimo94 , yes like a safe door!
Since I saw the X5 in Charmed series I loved it at 2000's earlies... 10 years later, I bought one of them. It's one of the most iconic auto from BMW.
Same that's why I want one too lol prue car
I bought a 2005 X5 Feb. 2020. I paid $3700 us dollars. I had a complete tune up done, new battery installed, new tires, new BMW emblems, and had some body work done. Best vehicle I've ever known! Enjoyed your video, good job. Mike from Virginia Beach, Virginia.
I remember this vaguely from my youth, I agree total game changer in the car industry for a sporty SUV!
I have a 2003 X5 with a 3.0 I. Purposely avoided the V8. She runs great after all this time. All you have to keep an eye on is your airbags, rear suspension bushings, and Axle boots. always change your oil don't let valve cover leaks get on your AC pump or your axle boots. and don't be a moron by jabbing your buttons really hard inside your car. mine still the original buttons from 2003 and they still work great 17 years later
I bought one very, very cheap as the owner was leaving the country and wanted to get rid asap. Thought it would be a good starter car for my son who isn't old enough to drive for another couple of years. Problem is, it is so nice, I want it! Just parked in the garage, gathering dust...
I purchased an 03 BMW X5 4.4l petrol in 2017.. it had a profound affect on me..I loved everything about it.. amazing car.. sadly she is no longer with me and I miss her every day. No other car has touched me since.. soon I will purchase another X5 and she will stay with me forever.. it’s something that I will do.. love X5 BMW ..👏👍🤝
Love the e53, when i first drove one it blew away my expectations of what a big vehicle can do... as far as its off road abilities, a good set of tires (think bfg ko2’s) and turn off DSC and it will do wonders. Its basically a land rover discovery 2 made from the BMW parts bin.
Also older models had a NVG transfer case which is what you want going off road.
After all these years I still think this is the best looking SUV ever made.
Kev199117 best ever
well, we have the Velar now :)
It is.
@@brianmuponda1166 bin it and get an X5
I have a 2006 e53 diesel it’s way more reliable than my wife’s sdv8 vogue Range Rover and the velar is horrendous reliable issues my uncle hates his
The quality of the review itself stood out for me, really good quality, and the E53 still looks so good today
As an owner of this vehicle my answer to all of you is: YES!
I owned both the (e-53) and the e-46 3 series.. They were fabulous vehicles. They were sporty and elegant and I would prefer them over the new ones today because they were not over teched and a joy if properly maintained. I think by the mere fact that these generation BMW's are reviewed the most times of any generations before and after, is a testament to their quality both in engineering and design. These were the real ultimate driving machines that put BMW squarely on the map. Good review.
Ha, have an e46(04’ 330 ci smg), but had to get a bigger car so I found an e53(05’ x5 4.4), and I love it
Good point about the key. Also worth noting the key can actually be separated with a blade and the Panasonic battery replaced for about $15. These rechargeable lithiums are getting up to 19yo now!
Love these reviews . I genuinely look forward to the next one . Nice approach , calm and stylish
Thanks! Appreciate it :)
Amazing how far you have come, your videos just seem to be getting better and better!
Thanks for saying that :)
Looks-wise this is one of the nicest SUVs even today. I continuously find myself wanting one, but always settling for something a bit more practical in terms of maintenance cost. If I had space for a nice weekend car, this would be it.
Great cars, I had a 200,000 mile 06 3,0 diesel sport which we took on a 3500 mile road trip around Eastern Europe.... 4 passengers, 2 dogs and a load of luggage... super comfy and it averaged nearly 40mpg amazingly!
snakeflipz You can’t beat them for that kind of trip
Nice honest review on the E53. I thought I knew everything on these, but the key fob is a new one!
I like your reviews even when I'm not that keen on the car in question - a sign of the quality of your work. Good practical advice, and good knowledge of the range beyond the individual vehicle you happen to be in that day is what marks out your reviews.
Thanks!
I own a 2001 BMW X5 3.0i. It is one of the most solid vehicles I have ever driven, and I have driven alot of different brands.
The I6 is a powerhouse and moves it very quickly.
The cooling system overhaul at 100k is a necessity as well as all the fluids and suspension too. Buy one, put some preventative maintenance into it and ride in a great, safe and stylish vehicle.
Love the sound of the turbo when the windows are wound down....
You have great presenting skill, I can tell that a lot of preparation goes into your reviews. All the best, I enjoy your reviews thoroughly.
Thank you! :)
Another no nonsense overview Matt. Thanks for the video.
Cheers
Mike
Mike Waldt Thanks Mike 😉
had a 2002 E53. I loved that car, and I never got points on my licence because I couldn't afford to do more than 65mph (3 litre petrol)
Any problems whit that engine? How about consume?
It's only my opinion but I think that the three liter is one of the best engines made by BMW
@@dantelickc No ran like a dream, fuel co assumption was about 28mpg on the motorway and around 19 in town.
@@albertal3 ; the 3 litre straight 6 is BMW’s masterpiece. As a matter of interest it was the first commercial product they manufactured and was fitted into the Fokker DVll in 1917. So basically, it’s an aero engine. My 95 E36 328i still makes me smile every time I put my foot down.
@@dantelickc I'm getting 18mpg
Another great video Matt. Those cars always seemed very ostentatious to me back in the day, but they're aging well. Almost subtle compared to a lot of what's on the road now. Keep 'em coming!
You're right, they were ostentatious back then, but now they look conservative. Funny how thats changed
3.0i with PRINS LPG and everything you've said is bang on ... Had to replace passenger lock and the rear bushes now starting to clunck but she's a dream to drive, heavy, quick when you want it and the 6cylinder does sound quite nice too.
I will be watching your reviews carefully for when I next change my car ...
BANG ON every time, thanks
Chris Munro Thanks for watching. I’ve had loads of 3.0 and they’re the cheapest and best way into an X5
Whats better? 3.0i or 3.0d?
I reckon this car will soon become a collectable classic - for all the reasons you mention.
Good review, this is very fair. I have my 2005 E53 from new, it’s terrific.
What engine does it come with? M54?
I own a 2001 BMW X5 4.4i V8 with sport package. It has over two hundred and three thousand miles and is by far the BEST SUV aka SAV that I have ever owned.
Good to hear! The V8's sound great don't they
I love my x5
great videos -your reviews are about cars and details about cars 10/10 thanks for what you do.
G N Thanks for watching!
I had been looking at getting a 2006ish Disco 3 HSE TD5 for towing around UK (when I eventually get back there!) but just found this about the E53, which i hadn't really considered. Don't want anything newer than 2006 so your, as usual excellent, review of the E53 has made be start comparing options, just as I had crossed off the XC90 option following your review of that.
Keep up the good work and ignore the trolls.
One of the last fairly good bmw. Used to have one, facelift, the review is spot on except those seats. These sport seats are nightmare on long journeys. Maybe its better when they have adjustable lumbar but I had mine without that and i feel the pain always when I see them :D otherwise great car. Styling is timeless also. Great review as always !
I like the design of E53 X5 - The P38A and E53 are just a couple of my all-time favorite SUV's of the 90s ;)
I agree :)
yes! i love listening to you and appreciate your reviews!
Thanks!
As usual simple and majestic content! Thank you
Thanks for watching :)
Love the X5, if you know how to turn wrenched they are pretty cheap to upkeep. As far as off roading goes, put some good tires on it and it does great on all kinds of trails. Got an E70.
I have a 2006 4.4 sport and it’s still my favorite car. Even more so than my E36 M3’s and even over my 99 CLK430. It’s just such a tight suspension even at the 170k miles here in treacherous Los Angeles. I do maintain it well as I own my own auto repair garage, but I do admit I refer to it as my x-wife 😂 … the repairs and maintenance are endless but it’s also the fun part of owning one. It’s loving a woman despite her many faults lol
I prefer the X5 to both my ex-wives! 😂
I am proud to be an x5 owner ,2005 3.0 diesel,purchased it off my boss for $7k.
The suspension has been changed from airbag to standard springs and shocks purely for financial reasons,the only costly fault that my boss encountered was an engine reco because the pcv valve was blocked.so guys remember for the price of a new pcv valve it is cheap enough to replace every third service,but in saying that the engine failed at 350,000 km because of the pcv valve, i have 420000 on the vehicle and it drives and tows like a dream,little heavy in the steering department but in my opinion it hugs and sticks to the road like shit to jocks,all in all I am so happy because at 110 km an hour on the highway it burns between 5.6 and 6.5 litres per 100km,that's just amazing in itself.
An (I drive) was also fitted to the vehicle and the power and torque on take off is instant when the right mode is set .I'm loving it
A review so genuine, I can relate. This man speaks the truth: the E53 X5 was not just "sports activity" but rather a symbol of status, as mentioned in 1:27. Brought home in 2005 by my pops and still driving it to this day, I've gone through coolant tubing replacement, transmission and transfer case replacement+rebuild and a handful of switching out burnt bulbs (mostly myself). Funny how he didn't make a jab about BMWs and turn signals because that's a very common issue, yet a simple job.
But nothing speaks like nightmares when it comes to leaking valve cover gasket (very common in M62s), oil top ups every couple months, economy and servicing. Rear bushings are not that big of a deal unless you're hauling heavy loads all the time or have 2-3 fully grown adults sitting in the rear. In roughly 100km, the car uses 13L of petrol because you're rolling 2 tons on the road. But don't forget, you're also driving AWD and 8 cylinders. Was the V8 a mistake? Can't say because the E39 also had a M62 motor inside it. But it certainly does sound good, at the expense of your wallet of course.
Thanks for watching :)
Just got a 2005 4.4l earlier this month and I just love it. The V8 sounds sooooo good!!
It sounds the best!
@@HighPeakAutos Agreed.....bought a 2006 4.4 here in the US a month ago.......sounds and drives like a dream........+++
I just bought an 05 4.4 yesterday and fitted 2.5” mufflers on it. Kept the centre muffler. Has rebuilt gear box, new torque converter, cooling system done, new timing chain guides, new belts, tensioners and new hoses, plugs and I drives like a new car. A steal at $6500 with only 106,000 miles. It’s also in the rare M blue colour. Sport pack. Ah they so good and so fast for a big heavy car.
Smart move.
Me too 2005 in silver, it's a beast , awsome motor
i have an E53 . i love it but the reliability is somewhat good . The M54 is a good engine but the plastic parts in the cooling system is bad
Great channel and presenter. Balanced, honest and informative , coupled with a great manner and some well punctuated humour! A fantastic change from the worn out adolescent humour of the top gear crew. Well done you deserve to do well !
Thank you! I appreciate the compliments :)
Hooked on this channel now! Please keep the content coming!
Haha thanks!
Agreed, this year looks better than the version that came after
Love my 06 3.0i, solid feeling starts when open the door, super smooth engine, it is hard to find those feeling in today's models
Great car
Very well phrased description/assessment, I would say 100% spot on/right!
Cold Fusion & Space XXX thanks
Thanks for this intro,taking delivery of my 2012 x5 Monday, feeling a bit anxious, as my Hyundai ix35 has been really good.
I've got '2006 E53 3 liters petrol engine for 3 years now, and had changed rockers gasket twice regularly engine service every 10,000 km. And just service gearbox oil and filter early last month at 122,000 km. on clock I owned this machine for 3 years and never have any other problems annoying me at all. After gearbox service she's runs like new again.
Proud of E53 ❤❤
Such a good looking car still. Used to have an 05 4.4. Drove brilliantly. Much better to drive than the E70 I had after which was riddled with faults, heavier and thirstier.
I agree! I still love them and the V8's sound great
another watchable chunk of my time lodged happily with high peak autos,,,,, me gusta!
MrFlyingguy gracias
I’ve just bought a 2006 E53 X5 off the back of this video and love it so far!
Good stuff! Get the gearbox serviced it is hasn't been done already - you'll thank me later :)
..Really enjoyed that..cheers!
My 05 3.d is fabtastic,i even camp in mine (bit cold tho at mo)
Bmw specialists look after it,
Over 500nm torque &45mpg long runs to cornwall 😇 happy dayz
They're great cars. I've always liked them
BMW's still look good 20 years later. One key point that adds to the design and is rarely ever mentioned, is the quality of the paintwork that lasts. Also they are incredibly well put together, thanks to their life long quest against Mercedes which benefit past and future owners.
fantastic review. Thank you
thanks for this video i will pick my one up next week look forward to driving it look forward to more videos from yourself
Thanks! Which model did you go for?
Great review, I really wish we got e53 diesels in North America. They seem to be best x5's, especially with the manual.
West Van Garage Thanks for watching! It’s a shame because I agree, it’s probably the best engine for the X5
Still have my 2001 X5 3.0i w/sport package, factory black chrome exhaust tips with shadow line trim pushing 252k miles on original engine and trans, smooth as silk. It needs some work on suspension but other than that, still drives better than most SUVs. New BMWs are hideous next car will be a Tesla. Don't buy the V8, the i6 is the best option used I can confirm, and plan on working on it yourself which is overall satisfying
"Could get stuck on a bowling green" LOL That's the info I came for,. Thanks!
Frank Stephenson now has a you tube channel....such a cool car and a cool guy..... happy 60k mate...
I purchased a '06 4.4i this past spring for $6k. Absolutely fantastic vehicle to drive. Terribly expensive as well. I've already had to sink $6,400 in repairs in less than a year. Brutally fun!
They sound great though!
Great review very informative!
Thanks
Great car . I want one , maybe my next car? Another great video!
Obviously x5 was much nicer looking than the ml. It came out second it had an advantage there. Also, this x5 during these times were some of the most beautiful SUVs in history. Most beautiful midsizr at least.
Had one for 14 years and did 210,000 miles, was like an old pair of slippers.
They're great cars aren't they
I'm right there with you. Mine 17 years old and she's great with 259000
Whats it like to run a car to that sort of mileage?
@@harithahmed104 it still runs very good and still looks new. So I guess my answer is GOOD.
@@albertal3 wow!! That’s quite a testament for a vehicle guys like Scotty Kilmer says is crap. I love the x5 and am looking for one now. 👍
Great video, great presentation , great info...
Thanks!
Such a good video! I've always loved the E53, and this video was super informative
Thanks for watching!
@@HighPeakAutos
Any change of a Range Rover classic review?
I've got one, but its nowhere near ready for the road.. its an ongoing project. One day it will happen
I hope you will come across an old Alfa 166 V6 or 159 V6 one day to review.
Thanks so much for your feedback
An excellent review. Thanks.
Thank you
I’ve owned a 2005 4.4i m sport for the last four years covering around 40,000 miles.
Coming from the bmw e46 (330ci), and being 6’2”, it felt like a larger, taller version of the coupe.
A perfect blend of sportiness when needed/ desired and space for transporting mountain bikes to and from trails.
Happy to report 20-23mpg, even in hilly Yorkshire and the sound of the v8 when the car is left in ‘manual mode’ makes the eye watering petrol bills totally worth it.
Great video!
Pleased to hear it. Love the V8 noise
IVE just been offerd a 2003 4.4i in mint green 1 owner 53000 miles,no advisorys ever never ever ,it has 12 months mot , £3500 ,bolton .
Must say I totally admire the honesty of his reviews despite being a car dealer.
Thanks for watching
The ML doesn't handle as well or feels as sporty because it's a real hardcore body on frame truck, it comes from the Jeep grand Cherokee (the best modern Jeep imo from Mk1 to Mk3). It may look like a puny modern SUV but you'd be surprised by its towing capacity. But it still handles and drives amazingly for what it is, Mercedes are one of the few people who can make a body on frame 4x4 truck feel as sporty and refined
The X5 started the sporty SUVs, so even though it still has very good off road capabilities, people use it on the road as luxury truck
Once again, Matt, another cool calm and honest review 👍👍👍👍👍👍👍 Love the comment about its off-road capabilities !!!!!!!!!!! "it would struggle on bowling green" absolutely brilliant🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣
Cheers pal! :)
@@HighPeakAutos You are more than welcome mate. Ps been looking on your dealership website and I must say you currently have some tasty motors for sale, just hoping you had a Range-Rover Evoque tucked away in a dusty corner waiting to be reviewed but unfortunately not my lucky day. Kindest regards Steve
I've still not been offered an Evoque... I do have some nice bits in at the moment though
My one of these kept on throwing electrical control boxes which cost a fortune, a gearbox repair cost me £2.2k and i eventually gave up repairing it. Fabulous car to drive just horribly unreliable in my case. but now i'm tempted again!
Currently Looking at buying one of these.some good info,thanks
Mark Dilks
Get a 3.0i or 3.0D, but if the V8 is a must get it with 60k miles max
DONT
I borrowed my friends 4.4i (nearly new 2003 ? ) for a trip from the midlands to my house in Brittany, that was a memorable drive 👌🏻😎
Got a 2005 E53 diesel with 156,000 on clock. Had all new discs/pads/sensors/tyres,manifold,turbo downpipe,rear bearings/bushes,brake servo,glowplugs,rear shafts,steering angle sensor,prop centre bearing and I fitted a android unit. Spent a few quid on it admittedly BUT,it's the best car ever. I've had 4 jags (2 xfs) 2 Mercedes,3 audis, rover 75,3 monkeys and for an all rounder this E53 is still the best.
I switched to X6 after selling my 06 X5 i3, oh man I should've just kept it 🤦♂️
Decent car E53. My brother has this and has never moaned about it and he has always had older cars. I think the E70 looks better in my opinion and I have it in a Alpine white MSport guise LCI and it’s look great with 20 “ black wheels. Anyway with the diesels expect the DPf codes come up, glow plug controller issues. If the E53 has no air Susp that’s a godsend as I had to replace both airspring in mine at £200 a corner and they can fail if the car is even lifted on a MOT believe it or not.
Apart from it chewing tyres if alignment is out these cars can last over 200k in diesel form.
I think the E53 from 2006 with msport and piano roof auto with FSH and 80-90k miles should last long with TLC. Make sure you oil change every 5-10k and fuel filter every 5k. The diff and transfer case needs doing at 60-100k as well. I would do the auto after 100k. There is a gear in case actuator which goes in both E53 and E70 and you will hear groaning at short speed turns. Changing it out yourself will be £11 but add labour 1hr. Saves changing while actuator at £200-300 or transfer case at nearly £2000.
Both cars make sure you stick to Bmw star marked tyres as the transfers case can f*** up due to differing circumferences of tyres if you run a staggered setup.
Many more knowledgeable after driving this and E70 for 5-6 yrs.
E70 looks more contemporary and generally lacks character... or to be simple, bland and boring, which is just a sign of the times as now as is the case for 90% of car shapes. The best era for distinctive and unique car designs was early 90s through to late 90s / early 2k period then all the car designers started running out of ideas. That said, E53 oozes character there's nothing that looks anything like it yet it still looks boss and is relatively timeless in appearance. Another perfect example of this - E39
Great video! I remember a family friend getting one of these in 2001, soon after they came out. It was an absolutely incredible car for the time and it even came with a built-in television and Minidisc player. It was a lovely dark green.
They were great cars for their period. There was a 4.4 dark green with tan interior that lived near me too :)
@@HighPeakAutos, yes, that was the colour combination! It was a 3.0 diesel, though, so best avoided these days, clearly. The satellite navigation and television wouldn't work any more, that's for sure, and the pixels would have gone (just like on the L322 Range Rover). You did remind me how nice it was, though...
I always liked the pale green colour too (although I think I'm on my own with that opinion)
@@HighPeakAutos, I don't remember that one... Mind you, BMW had absolutely masses of different colours back in the day, didn't they? Well, I look forward to coming up and visiting High Peak Autos soon, I have been offered a trip to the North West to film some nice cars, so it would be rude not to stop by... With your permission, of course!
Lloyd Vehicle Consulting The early Range Rover L322 was offered in the same colour green. When are you up north?
Nice review as always!
Thanks!
It is a great car but the reliability is questionable, now i'm speaking of clogged drains for sunroof that will eventually rust, doors/trunks that will rust, air suspension in general with all the bushings, as you mentioned dead pixel displays and door handles, head gaskets, and MANY leaks, quite a lot of cooling leaks. Mine is a 3.0d 2006 my that has been around me since 2010. The powertrain is pretty decent tough. Now at 200k on the clock
my 4.4 has been a real good car had it for 10 years
i've got one of these and agree with every word you said, they are a really good suv. Good reporting.
Thanks for watching
Wow, you explained everything amazing. What a nice video!!!
Glad you liked it!
I sure did!!!
I loved my X5 3.0D, still, regret selling it.
Was it really good? Manual?
Some free advice. This X5 will be the old G wagon. Everyone will start looking for one in 5 years. Classic looking car
Maybe...
G wagon?
Very very good review thank you very much, I’ve got a 2006 lemans edition fully loaded panoramic roof heated steering etc genuine aux can be fitted if you remove the nav unit the plug is ready that’s what I’ve done to mine , I’ve fitted a nice quad exhaust which looks fantastic , and I’ve got it remapped goes very well and I get 30-32 mpg around London like you said cheap money for a great looking suv.
I love the Lemans edition
I have a 2003 X5, Awesome ride!!! Thank GOD I found an awesome mechanic to help with any trouble. Lol
Still a beautiful vehicle! Had to get a brother.....so i got an 2007 E46. Never in my life did i think i would own BMW's. Great cars and i owe it all to my mechanic.
Good choice!
Interesting fact about the keys!
Idk, I enjoy the E70 more than the previous gen. Just looks perfect to me. Also, I'm a huge fan of the N54/N55 engine haha
Love your reviews and also really enjoying the beautiful scenery. We're in the grip of the worst drought in living memory here, so loving all the greenery! Thanks for the video.
David Hynd Thanks! Where are you watching from?
Just bought one of these 05 3.0D 2 days ago, owned a 4.4 V8 L322 RR and a 4.6V8 P38. This car is great and I love it Already
"You could get an X5 stuck on a bowling green."
haha Its true!
Would greatly depend on what tyres are on it
It's the tyres more than the drive system tho.
Hardly surprising as it is not a 4X4 as most (including reviewer) think but an all wheel drive with 62% rear bias.
Russ Cattell It was a joke to be clear