Newbie

[Smudger]

Hi

I am just about to purchase a 2003 3.0d sport with 95k miles on the clock. I would say the car is in reasonable condition but is not perfect with a couple of small issues to sort out. It has full service history but no receipts for the work done.

Is there anything I need to be concerned about or take a close look at and does £4k sound a reasonable price?

Thanks in advance

[Greydog]

Before buying make sure everything works correctly, an X5 is a complicated beast so before test driving I start the car and listen for any strange noises/smoke. Sit in the car and while it is warming up check all the electrical gadgets you have work as they should. When warmed up take it for a test drive make sure its over varied roads so you can give it the beans (check for smoke in the mirrors) feel how the gear changes are under all conditions. Check for creaks and groans or knocks from the suspension.

Engine Gearbox and Drive train must be good if not walk away, suspension can be used as a negotiation point (not cheap but can be done DIY) If there are electrical gremlins these cars can drive an experienced electrician nuts (just check all the forums) plus the cost of changing out and repairing units can be scary so again I would walk away (a couple of hundred off wont do it)

All said I am on my second X5 the first needed suspension bushes at the rear and a new FSR these items were done by the supplying dealer the car went through 2 MOT's with no advisories.

The current X5 again needed some bushes this time I used it as a bargaining tool.

Take care buy carefully and enjoy