All knowing auto board, what's the best way to attempt this? Lease? Lease return? Carmax? I don't have the skrilla for new, nor would I pay it. Happy wife, happy life, or misery. All replies are welcome, sarcasm or not.

Off-lease CPO (extends warranty) would be my first choice, but it will be the most expensive used option versus private party, random used car dealer, or Carmax. Any idea which model, year, and engine?

I really want an X5 diesel to replace my wife's explorer sometime in the next year or two...

My dad has had three X5's and my mom is on her first X3. They both LOVE them.

How to pay? I dunno. I can't afford one.

I'd recommend going the CPO route first, then probably the carmax route and see if you can get the warranty through them for coverage. I'd probably try to avoid going private party unless you know the person you're buying from and know the car's extensive history and are comfortable with the service that's been done. Especially the turbo motors which if you're considering I'd make sure it's a six cylinder model.

I haven't driven an x1, but I do like the x3 and x5 models quite a bit.

Thanks all! After talking to her, it's really more about a luxury SUV. She likes the German ones, and is tired of getting beat up in her FJ.

jabberwalkie09 said:

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I'd recommend going the CPO route first, then probably the carmax route and see if you can get the warranty through them for coverage. I'd probably try to avoid going private party unless you know the person you're buying from and know the car's extensive history and are comfortable with the service that's been done. Especially the turbo motors which if you're considering I'd make sure it's a six cylinder model.

I haven't driven an x1, but I do like the x3 and x5 models quite a bit.

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Agree with this.

Most BMWs suck for maintenance out of warranty. CPO or CarMax is the way to go and dump the car at 100k. Once you hit 100k lots of things will start falling apart and need replacing (cooling system, valve cover gaskets, known engine defects, etc)

They're great cars while under warranty.

txyaloo said:

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jabberwalkie09 said:

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I'd recommend going the CPO route first, then probably the carmax route and see if you can get the warranty through them for coverage. I'd probably try to avoid going private party unless you know the person you're buying from and know the car's extensive history and are comfortable with the service that's been done. Especially the turbo motors which if you're considering I'd make sure it's a six cylinder model.

I haven't driven an x1, but I do like the x3 and x5 models quite a bit.

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Agree with this.

Most BMWs suck for maintenance out of warranty. CPO or CarMax is the way to go and dump the car at 100k. Once you hit 100k lots of things will start falling apart and need replacing (cooling system, valve cover gaskets, known engine defects, etc)

They're great cars while under warranty.

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Replacing the coolant system hoses at about 70-100k miles is pretty common from what I can tell. Of course, it all depends on what you're able to do versus willing to pay someone to do the same work. I can't think of any BMW between me or my parents have had where the a/c hadn't had some kind of issue from blower motors failing to a compressor leak, but even the couple of Fords I've had in the last five years have let me down in regards to a/c as well.

Generally, the major things I look for when looking at used BMW's private party is body if it's straight and if the paint is good, bushings (varies by model and chassis), and if there's any indication of a fluid leak. Really, getting up under the car on a lift helps quite a bit. One of the biggest leaks I look for is a head gasket leak. Also depending on model and mileage, the valve train might need work. Some of that can be regular maintenance though, like the s52 and s54 engines in M3's had lifter adjustment as part of their regular service intervals IIRC.

KRamp90 said:

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Ugh. I wish I could talk her into a Lexus...

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I'd try to at least get her to try an RX. Maybe even a Mercedes GLE or comparable SUV in their line up (the M/ML class was renamed to GLE within the last couple of years). Just to get a comparison between the three.

KRamp90 said:

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Thanks all! After talking to her, it's really more about a luxury SUV. She likes the German ones, and is tired of getting beat up in her FJ.

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Most anything will ride smoother than that FJ - which is great in its own right, but not smooth or luxury. You could even go top end Hyundai and she might like it. Go to Carmax for looking as you can see everything in one place.

What about the Audi Q5? Do they have the same maintenance problems/costs as the BMW?

AgEng06 said:

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What about the Audi Q5? Do they have the same maintenance problems/costs as the BMW?

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I would say yes...and this is coming from an Audi fan and someone on their 3rd Audi. The German 3 are all generally going to be more expensive due to over-engineering simple stuff that costs more to repair. You have to want that ride, performance and over-engineering!

Y'all are awesome! Would prefer she wanted a 3/4 ton truck but, no. She is reaching an birthday that requires me to make her happy, happy. Within reason...

Although I am aware of this device, I have never had the need to use one. I am of the opinion that what goes on in your bedroom, stays in your bedroom. You and your boyfriend can do what you want. Let's stick to the cars..

DannyDuberstein said:

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I've just never been able to wrap my head around the concept of a piece-of-**** luxury car.

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Wow. Danny and I agree to the letter!

No harm, no foul. Just don't want the GYN creeping in. More importantly, any advice? And yes I do turn 50 this year... fml

That's what I'm going to do and hope for the best. Is there a Lexus contact on the board?

Wallet wants a new wife.

Great vehicles. Just don't break them.

Well, I like her and all, and we have been married 26 years, and together for 32, but I like your thought process.

Guess we know who wears the pants. If you can't afford it, you can't afford it, period.

Check out the new 2018 Honda CRV. Extremely reliable, has gotten great reviews.

Gx460
Sweet talk the dealer on a Friday and have them let you take one for the weekend. She'll buy it Monday

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Ugh. I wish I could talk her into a Lexus

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Used to love them, now they are some of the ugliest cars on the road...IMO

Purchase is not a problem. I don't want to have to go to the dealership more than necessary.l