Anybody own an E53? Interested in Perspectives on It.

[Gator335i]

I'm currently in the market for a beater. I need a truck to haul large items around in for my business, so I'm looking at perhaps picking up a cheap E53 for $5k or so. I'll probably go with the 3.0 model, since they tend to be more reliable than the 4.4.

I know this is more of an E70 forum, but I'm curious to know if anyone has any experience with the E53, especially in 3.0 trim and would be willing to share their experiences with it, pros and cons, etc. Thanks.

[smass]

My father has both a 3.0 and 4.4 E53. The 3.0 is cheaper to operate than the 4.4. Just change out the cooling system (radiator, coolant tank, water pump, thermostat and hoses). Keep in mind the 3.0 in the E53 is not the N52. It is the older design 6 also used in the E46. And the transmission is the GM 5 speed rather than the ZF 6 used in the later 4.4s. Not bad things but they are 20 year old technology at this point.

The 4.4 is not bad but the oil leaks can get expensive. Currently he has the alternator bracket leak which may cost $1500+ to fix. Both of his E53 are are over 175k miles and he is the original owner.

[Gator335i]

Originally Posted by smassey321

My father has both a 3.0 and 4.4 E53. The 3.0 is cheaper to operate than the 4.4. Just change out the cooling system (radiator, coolant tank, water pump, thermostat and hoses). Keep in mind the 3.0 in the E53 is not the N52. It is the older design 6 also used in the E46. And the transmission is the GM 5 speed rather than the ZF 6 used in the later 4.4s. Not bad things but they are 20 year old technology at this point.

The 4.4 is not bad but the oil leaks can get expensive. Currently he has the alternator bracket leak which may cost $1500+ to fix. Both of his E53 are are over 175k miles and he is the original owner.

Yeah, I'm looking for a pre-facelift as I figure they'll be the cheapest so I'm stuck with the M54 but I think for what I want to use it for that should be fine. At least those engines love to rev so flogging it to get to power will be a bit of fun.

I just got an E70 a couple months ago, but it's too nice to haul around the kinds of stuff I need to move hence my need for a beater.

[JDAURIA]

Gator335i

I have an E53 4.6iS, a fickel beast but a lovely rare one. At that price range you'll definitely be looking at "beaters". One suggestion, if you end up buying into an E53 be ready to have some cash available for maintenance. Most out there have been neglected by the previous owner (or two). Cheap BMW = Expensive BMW. Just have to live with them being older SAVs and needing attention. They do return joy

I have my 4.6 listed for sale, but still on the fence about selling it.

3.0i - Inline 6 M54 (easy motor to work on) 2002-2006
4.4i - V8 2002-2005(?)
4.6iS - V8 (rarest) - 2002/2003
4.8iS - V8 - 2004-2006

All suffer window regulator issues, sunroof issues, BMW Cooling system woes, etc