I'm looking to buy a X5, probably the 4.4i, but would like to know what experience owners have had with reliability and cost of maintenance? Perhaps this has been already discussed, if so where I can find such data? Thanks.

My X5 has been very reliable...the only issue that I have had was my AC went out about 8 months ago, but thanks to my CPO warranty and regualr scheduled maintenace it didnt cost me a thing.

I have a 4.4 and it has been a good experience.
Since my X5 has an extended warranty I have not had any maintainance costs yet.
We do average about 19 miles per gallon which I would consider to be pretty good considering the power that the 4.4 liter engine has.

Thanks - good hear.

Have just had a test drive of 3.0d (no 4.4 available) and it was surprisingly light footed. Might be a good option if petrol stays at $50 barrel...!!

ive owned 2 3.0X5s, no probs!!

I had a 4.4 2000 that had many electrical issues. Nothing that kept it from driving but low fluid alarms would go off, gas gauge rarely worked, and seat memory sometimes remembered sometimes forgot. I got most things fixed with in a year of owning it and it finaly just all about worked good. The seat memory NEVER worked.

I have a 2005 4.4 with 9,000 miles and not one single glitch..! Awesome car.

If you guys wouldn't mind enlightening me on this one, but isn't the 4.0 V8 studded with some problems and issues in the sedan? I've headr the 540 has had some engine problems.

BMW's are mechanically strong and reliable, and as long as you keep up with required maintenence, your engine should last. But the electrical side of BMW's......could use some work.