Keep a warranty

It seems everything is expensive when it comes to our Bimmers. I have had decent luck with both my 650i and 750i, although I didn't keep either outside of the warranty period. My 2016 7 series was in the day of sale for a non-working electrical socket up front, then again a few months later for an iDrive drivetrain malfunction error message. They replace the battery and it was good as new. Interestingly, they put me in an X5 loaner which I really liked.

Like you, I just got into a corporate demo 2015 X5 xDrive35i with just about every single option. I see the potential for a LOT of expensive repairs down the line, but I still have maintenance plus wear and tear until the end of 2019 and warranty until the end of 2021 and 100k. That gives me some peace of mind. While spending extra time at the dealer is undesirable, doing so while covered is a plus!

Congrats on the new ride!

PMMD

 

I dont think these cars break down much more than other cars in their class (with the exception of lexus), but when something does break it is usually very expensive to fix. You will want to find / make friends with a competent BMW indy (independant repair shop), and that will typically save you 20-30% over dealer rates. They are still expensive to repair however.

If you are not a wrench turner yourself, I would go with the data that forum member "AutoPutzer" sort of put together showing depreciation and ownership costs, which has him getting rid of the cars at 100k. Failing that, I would set a decent amount of money for repairs past 100k. Likely 3-4k a year?

 

^^^^ this has been the correct way to enjoy our BMWs. The last 15 years with 4 different series confirms the above.

 

He has made several posts with his depreciation data points but here is one that is in a thread in this section just a couple down from your post:

http://www.bimmerfest.com/forums/showpost.php?p=9982843&postcount=18

 

Based on my experience it is the worst vehicle I have ever owned. I spent over $13,000 in repairs in the past 2 years. First failure started just outside of warranty and then continued all through the next 50,000K I have 105,000 miles right now. Lets see if I can remember all the issues... Water pump, Coolant pipe, Vanos Seal, Valve cover gaskets, coil, Transmission seal, front head light washer, washer tank, rear camera, rear differential, front thrust rods, both rear air springs. If your looking for long term reliability you need to look elsewhere.

 

^^What year and engine do you have?

Sent from my iPhone using Bimmerfest mobile app

 

2007 4.8l The newer 5.0 has other issues. Some kind of recall/Customer loyalty campaign because of faulty metal used in the camshaft or crankshaft. I don't remember the specifics. Another piece of crap V8 engine with major failures.