Considering an Older BMW X3...

Jiggy

Member
Hi guys!

I have been toying with the idea of getting second car, a small SUV, and came across a few good examples of X3’s online. My plan is to keep it for a while and think petrol is the way to go, but looking for your advice.

Can those who own/ have owned them give me some insight (reliability and maintenance) into the car?

Looking forward to the expertise-ness!
 

Jiggy

Member
I am going to see a ’04 3.0i Auto tomorrow, checked the service history and saw the transfer case was worked @ 105K – it’s on 121K.

Looks like it’s a go!
 

FerdiBotha

Well-known member
My dad drove a 2006 x3 3.0d auto since 2007 until four months ago. That 3.0d engine is a gem and made the car such a pleasure to drive thanks to endless torque and more performance than one would expect from a SUV. The AWD also makes it stick on the road like crazy. Consumption bested at 7.3l/100km and average was around 8.5-8.7l/100km with a rather heavy right foot. In the 208 000km we put on the vehicle nothing major was replaced other than service consumables. A very underrated car, but truly enjoyable. I would without a doubt go for the diesel. :clapper:
 

Jiggy

Member
Thanks for the input guys! I have been longing for the 3.0 since a mate of mine had an E46 330i... The sound is epic + in the long run, I think the petrol, in terms of maintenance vs. fuel used, will outlast the diesel. Also, from what I heard and read, the 3.0 is a simple, proven engine that, if maintained properly, will last lifetime. I know the fuel consumption is considerably more, but it’s all in your right foot.

I just hope that this one doesn’t have run flats!!!
 

Bmw.wp

Active member
I also consider moving up from the E46 330i to the X3 3.0i or 3.0d

But eish i luv my car. lol :blueCry:
 

Jiggy

Member
Sooo... bought the car! All worked out, test drove another one as a reference and I made a good decision.

As soon as I get it I will post it up... Very, very happy that I’m coming back to BMW.

What an awesome car for the age!
 
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