Tips on buying used 35d or 50i?

EClayton08 · 07-23-2015, 02:02 PM

I previously owned a 07 335i coupe that I loved but sold it last October to get an SUV. I was commuting 60+ miles a day so figured it wasn't smart to get a X5 at the time. Well I'm not commuting about 12 miles a day and wanting to get back in a BMW. I had plans on getting a 35d but the 50i really intrigues me. Anyone else have this dilemma and how did you go about deciding which to buy? Is there a big difference in insurance price between the two?

Also what are the thoughts on buying one that isn't CPO? Is it a must have to buy CPO with a used BMW? Since I'm driving roughly 12,000 miles a year max, I figure finding an 2011-2013 with 50K miles might not be too bad, thoughts?

TIA

jiggz · 07-23-2015, 02:31 PM

I don't see many people here deciding between the diesel and V8...typically it's 35i or 50i. Most people that have a diesel were planning that route from the beginning, at least from my perspective in reading the posts here.

Many here will likely say not to own either out of warranty, especially the 50i and it's recent history of engine issues (search for N63 customer campaign). I initially planned on a 35i but after driving the 50i decided on the V8. There's plenty of certified models available for purchase (check BMWUSA.com - CPO page)...I'd recommend getting one of those. I don't know that it's a must have, but it will likely help you out at some point, and give you some peace of mind (especially after reading some of the posts here).

Many here get warranties from a 3rd party...that would be another option.

socale39 · 07-23-2015, 09:56 PM

What we really need to know is what you are looking for and preferences before we can legitimately give you sound advice or suggestions.

Have owned M cars in the past for the power and there's one thing I've learned, the additional costs associated with more power really aren't worth it for me. Seeing as my cars only see street and highway driving it's rare I actually get to use high powered vehicles to their potential. I'm not saying they aren't fun to drive but from a practicality stand point it doesn't make much sense. All that being said I was in the same dilemma as you and after a ton of research and weighing the pros/cons, I opted for a well optioned X5d to suit my needs.

serge1 · 07-24-2015, 11:31 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by EClayton08

Well I'm not commuting about 12 miles a day and wanting to get back in a BMW. I

If you don't care about additional costs (more fuel thirsty, somewhat less reliable, higher initial price, etc) and have to have an SUV, get a 50i. More fun to drive (for an SUV).

EClayton08 · 07-24-2015, 11:58 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by socale39

What we really need to know is what you are looking for and preferences before we can legitimately give you sound advice or suggestions.

Have owned M cars in the past for the power and there's one thing I've learned, the additional costs associated with more power really aren't worth it for me. Seeing as my cars only see street and highway driving it's rare I actually get to use high powered vehicles to their potential. I'm not saying they aren't fun to drive but from a practicality stand point it doesn't make much sense. All that being said I was in the same dilemma as you and after a ton of research and weighing the pros/cons, I opted for a well optioned X5d to suit my needs.

After kind of thinking this over, I think the 35d is what is best for me right now. I don't need a SUV that is fast, the 35D was plenty on my test drive.

I see ton of CPO on the bmw website but very few have the 20" rims I'm looking for, I hate the look of the 18" rims. So a CPO is pretty much a must though, so I guess I'll have to wait to find one come available around me. Also what options are pretty much must haves that I need to look for?

omgboost · 07-24-2015, 01:26 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by EClayton08

After kind of thinking this over, I think the 35d is what is best for me right now. I don't need a SUV that is fast, the 35D was plenty on my test drive.

I see ton of CPO on the bmw website but very few have the 20" rims I'm looking for, I hate the look of the 18" rims. So a CPO is pretty much a must though, so I guess I'll have to wait to find one come available around me. Also what options are pretty much must haves that I need to look for?

Everyone says Adaptive Drive. I don't have that on mine and haven't test drove one. I'm hoping I don't so I don't regret not getting it. You can always buy 20" rims from another forum member afterwards and depending on where you live, you can use the 18" for winter setup.

EClayton08 · 07-24-2015, 01:49 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by omgboost

Everyone says Adaptive Drive. I don't have that on mine and haven't test drove one. I'm hoping I don't so I don't regret not getting it. You can always buy 20" rims from another forum member afterwards and depending on where you live, you can use the 18" for winter setup.

Yea I thought about looking into buying 20" rims off a forum member if I find a good deal on one with 18", being in SC I don't really need a winter setup.

P1 · 07-24-2015, 02:29 PM

I have Adaptive Drive on mine, but have never driven one without it. So I would not be able to tell you whether it's worth it or not. But CPO, on the other hand, is worth it. Or, you can buy yourself a BMW warranty once the warranty runs out on the vehicle as it's under the factory warranty.

Flying Ace · 07-24-2015, 02:45 PM

having 18's is a blessing in disguise in terms of tire replacement cost. 20's are at least $1200 for a replacement set. 19's are also cheaper.

The look on the 20's however is almost worth paying up for. Here's some more pics:

http://www.bimmerfest.com/forums/sho...d.php?t=851635

I waited for a tire sale and was able to get 20's all-seasons for $750.

canonguy12 · 08-03-2015, 11:25 AM

With CPO: 50i all the way especially with 12 mile commute you need not worry about MPG. Its lot more fun
Without CPO: 35D. Bad idea to buy a 50i or M without CPO.

socale39 · 08-03-2015, 02:48 PM

50i if you want to become good friends with your SA

In all seriousness if gas mileage isn't a concern, at all, then the 50i is a fun vehicle to drive but the real question is what your 12 mile commute is like. If it's anything like Southern California you'll never really get to use the power. If it's open roads, well that's a different story.

RyanD75 · 08-04-2015, 10:12 AM

I'm looking at buying a 2012 X5 35d. Any tips would be appreciated. There are very few with under 40k miles in my area.

rennis · 08-04-2015, 10:57 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by socale39

50i if you want to become good friends with your SA

This is the truth right here. I know what shirt my service advisor is going to wear based on the day of the week. Oh look it's Tuesday. I can guarantee you she is wearing a white button down shirt with a pink stripe on the collar.

.......

I'd get CPO no matter what I chose, just because. But definitely with the 50i. On my 50i, the warranty has paid for itself I'd guess somewhere around 5x over.

I chose 50i because of M Sport package and adaptive drive. If I could go back and do it again, I'd get a 35d and turn it into a M Sport clone and deal without the adaptive drive.

Adaptive Drive makes a huge difference though, I get non-AD X5s as loaners and they kinda suck.

blue dragon · 08-06-2015, 05:26 PM

No way I would buy a 50i without warranty, the coolant valley pan issue, the injector issue, the battery issue. And thats coming from some one who has pretty much had every issue there is to have on the diesel with the exception of the any active/passive tank issues

djrabbi · 08-07-2015, 01:37 PM

Do yourself a favor and get a 35D. I had my 50i for about 14 days on "paper" and traded it in. The problems are endless. I should have listen to my gut and got a 35D as I was planning but the 50i power is just mind boggling.

socale39 · 08-07-2015, 08:39 PM

^^^ this. Hate to say it but it's probably the best choice. To me the extra power really wasn't worth all the hassles. Sure even if you get a warranty there is a good chance you'll be having to deal with the company on claims let alone have to deal with a number of possible dealer visits in the future. Let's not forget the anxiety of possible breakdowns if on a road trip.

jiggz · 08-07-2015, 11:40 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by djrabbi

Do yourself a favor and get a 35D. I had my 50i for about 14 days on "paper" and traded it in. The problems are endless. I should have listen to my gut and got a 35D as I was planning but the 50i power is just mind boggling.

Did you get a PPI done on our 50i before you bought it? The fact it blew up in your face right after purchase, I assume you didn't? At least not from a reputable shop. It seems you bought the worst 50i on the market at the time, given the issues you experienced were far worse than what the rest of us are experiencing. I'm sure your happy with the new Lexus….are you gonna stick around here and continue to disparage the 50i?

Quote:

Originally Posted by socale39

^^^ this. Hate to say it but it's probably the best choice. To me the extra power really wasn't worth all the hassles. Sure even if you get a warranty there is a good chance you'll be having to deal with the company on claims let alone have to deal with a number of possible dealer visits in the future. Let's not forget the anxiety of possible breakdowns if on a road trip.

I don't want to argue with you…you've been around the block with BMW's based on your previous posts, but I hope this reply this isn't based on djrabbi's posts and 1 or 2 others around here. There's a few people on here who've had poor luck with the 50i and have made it clear on this forum it's a terrible vehicle (in their opinion). I don't believe you've owned an N63 powered BMW? I could be wrong though…? Anyhow, yes more power typically means more problems with BMW's, but I've had my 50i over a year now and it's been completely, 100% trouble free. Not a single issue. Would not trade it for anything, including a 35d. Just my .02.

socale39 · 08-08-2015, 02:01 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by jiggz

I don't want to argue with you…you've been around the block with BMW's based on your previous posts, but I hope this reply this isn't based on djrabbi's posts and 1 or 2 others around here. There's a few people on here who've had poor luck with the 50i and have made it clear on this forum it's a terrible vehicle (in their opinion). I don't believe you've owned an N63 powered BMW? I could be wrong though…? Anyhow, yes more power typically means more problems with BMW's, but I've had my 50i over a year now and it's been completely, 100% trouble free. Not a single issue. Would not trade it for anything, including a 35d. Just my .02.

My post was aimed particularly at OP given the potential slew of issues he could have. The 35D is undoubtly more reliable than the 50i and the mere fact that BMW has an unofficially recall only further supports that claim. On the other hand the 50i is undoubtly more fun to drive. Before purchasing my 35d i did tons of research and test drove nearly every trim of the E70 lineup so I can speak from experience on the differences. Do I own an N63 powered BMW? Absolutely not and never will. I have plenty of friends who've had to deal with issues and few without. I've also had a good friend tear down an N63 and gave me some very sound advice while I was debating between 50i and 35d. By no means am I going to claim that every 50i is the same and it sounds like you've got yourself one of the good ones, but I think it's well documented that the N63 has its share of issues. Unless OP is ok with shelling out a few grand for an aftermarket warranty, doesn't mind the potential of having higher than average dealer visits and can actually use the power, it just doesn't seem like the practical choice. Then again my BMW ownership in the past hasn't always been practical, but I've know when to cut my losses.

Cattivo · 08-08-2015, 05:14 AM

I've owned my 50i over a year now and have had no problems with it...fast n fun truck to drive

djrabbi · 08-08-2015, 08:01 AM

I actually did get a PPI done and everything checked out. I am not complaining the car was terrible, I am saying if you have deep pockets for all the little gremlins, go ahead. Even all other members clearly said they will NOT buy a 50i without some sort of warranty and my point is the same as theirs. I plan on getting a F10 within next few months anyways so yes, I will be around this forum.

To the OP, get the 35D or a 50i with a solid 100k warranty.

yoandry · 08-10-2015, 10:02 AM

You need warranty with any cars, someone more than others, but of course with luxury cars like BMW that the repairs are expensive you definitely need one. I have my 50i for a month now and yes, it had some problems before I bought it. My fault I didn't do a full PPI on the car, but the dealer is taking care of everything. Saying that I love the power on the 50i and I will keep it as long as I can.

rennis · 08-10-2015, 11:47 AM

The trend I've noticed with the 50i owners is that 2012 and newer models seem to have fewer problems and the 2011s have more than their fair share.

Mine is 2011 and has higher miles (I'm over 80k now). Mine is a problem child. I know someone with a 2012 who has no issues with his, but he's only at 30k miles. Will be curious how these hold up as more of the N63s approach 100k.

FWIW, dealer replaced my turbos at 78k.

07-23-2015, 02:02 PM	#1
EClayton08 Private 16 Rep 76 Posts Drives: 2007 BMW 335i Coupe Join Date: Sep 2008 Location: Greenville, SC iTrader: (0)	Tips on buying used 35d or 50i? I previously owned a 07 335i coupe that I loved but sold it last October to get an SUV. I was commuting 60+ miles a day so figured it wasn't smart to get a X5 at the time. Well I'm not commuting about 12 miles a day and wanting to get back in a BMW. I had plans on getting a 35d but the 50i really intrigues me. Anyone else have this dilemma and how did you go about deciding which to buy? Is there a big difference in insurance price between the two? Also what are the thoughts on buying one that isn't CPO? Is it a must have to buy CPO with a used BMW? Since I'm driving roughly 12,000 miles a year max, I figure finding an 2011-2013 with 50K miles might not be too bad, thoughts? TIA
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07-23-2015, 02:31 PM	#2
jiggz Brigadier General 2140 Rep 3,647 Posts Drives: E90 M3\|F15 X5 50i Join Date: Mar 2005 Location: Seattle iTrader: (2)	I don't see many people here deciding between the diesel and V8...typically it's 35i or 50i. Most people that have a diesel were planning that route from the beginning, at least from my perspective in reading the posts here. Many here will likely say not to own either out of warranty, especially the 50i and it's recent history of engine issues (search for N63 customer campaign). I initially planned on a 35i but after driving the 50i decided on the V8. There's plenty of certified models available for purchase (check BMWUSA.com - CPO page)...I'd recommend getting one of those. I don't know that it's a must have, but it will likely help you out at some point, and give you some peace of mind (especially after reading some of the posts here). Many here get warranties from a 3rd party...that would be another option.
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07-23-2015, 09:56 PM	#3
socale39 Major 209 Rep 1,044 Posts Drives: 04 545i SMG Join Date: Jan 2011 Location: California iTrader: (0)	What we really need to know is what you are looking for and preferences before we can legitimately give you sound advice or suggestions. Have owned M cars in the past for the power and there's one thing I've learned, the additional costs associated with more power really aren't worth it for me. Seeing as my cars only see street and highway driving it's rare I actually get to use high powered vehicles to their potential. I'm not saying they aren't fun to drive but from a practicality stand point it doesn't make much sense. All that being said I was in the same dilemma as you and after a ton of research and weighing the pros/cons, I opted for a well optioned X5d to suit my needs.
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07-24-2015, 02:29 PM	#8
P1 Lieutenant General 11568 Rep 11,136 Posts Drives: 2004 3/4 ton Duramax Join Date: Aug 2007 Location: United States iTrader: (1)	I have Adaptive Drive on mine, but have never driven one without it. So I would not be able to tell you whether it's worth it or not. But CPO, on the other hand, is worth it. Or, you can buy yourself a BMW warranty once the warranty runs out on the vehicle as it's under the factory warranty.
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07-24-2015, 02:45 PM	#9
Flying Ace Lieutenant General 4985 Rep 11,891 Posts Drives: G05 45e, 997.1 & 991.1 GT3s Join Date: Jul 2014 Location: SF, CA iTrader: (5)	having 18's is a blessing in disguise in terms of tire replacement cost. 20's are at least $1200 for a replacement set. 19's are also cheaper. The look on the 20's however is almost worth paying up for. Here's some more pics: http://www.bimmerfest.com/forums/sho...d.php?t=851635 I waited for a tire sale and was able to get 20's all-seasons for $750. __________________ 22 Phytonic/Coffee X5 45e (CoVID-free) 08 Speed Yellow 911 GT3 Sharkwerks 12 AW/Cinnamon X5d Sports Pkg (retired) 14 AW/Beige M6GC ZCP, MPE, V2 steering wheel, vorsteiner (retired) 08 SSII/Black E90 M3 (retired)
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08-03-2015, 11:25 AM	#10
canonguy12 Enlisted Member 4 Rep 48 Posts Drives: 2011 BMW X5 35i Join Date: Dec 2014 Location: Charlotte NC iTrader: (0)	With CPO: 50i all the way especially with 12 mile commute you need not worry about MPG. Its lot more fun Without CPO: 35D. Bad idea to buy a 50i or M without CPO.
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08-03-2015, 02:48 PM	#11
socale39 Major 209 Rep 1,044 Posts Drives: 04 545i SMG Join Date: Jan 2011 Location: California iTrader: (0)	50i if you want to become good friends with your SA In all seriousness if gas mileage isn't a concern, at all, then the 50i is a fun vehicle to drive but the real question is what your 12 mile commute is like. If it's anything like Southern California you'll never really get to use the power. If it's open roads, well that's a different story.
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08-04-2015, 10:12 AM	#12
RyanD75 New Member 2 Rep 14 Posts Drives: 2012 BMW X5 35d Join Date: Aug 2015 Location: Indianapolis iTrader: (0)	I'm looking at buying a 2012 X5 35d. Any tips would be appreciated. There are very few with under 40k miles in my area.
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08-06-2015, 05:26 PM	#14
blue dragon Lieutenant Colonel 1190 Rep 1,544 Posts Drives: '22 Tesla MY + '23 Tesla MY Join Date: Jul 2010 Location: Land of high taxes and crappy healthcare iTrader: (2)	No way I would buy a 50i without warranty, the coolant valley pan issue, the injector issue, the battery issue. And thats coming from some one who has pretty much had every issue there is to have on the diesel with the exception of the any active/passive tank issues __________________ \| '22 Tesla Model Y P - My daily \| '23 Tesla Model Y LR - Wife's daily \| '17 F15 35D - missed daily \|
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08-07-2015, 01:37 PM	#15
djrabbi Lieutenant Colonel 728 Rep 1,659 Posts Drives: G05 M50i Join Date: Apr 2015 Location: Raleigh iTrader: (1)	Do yourself a favor and get a 35D. I had my 50i for about 14 days on "paper" and traded it in. The problems are endless. I should have listen to my gut and got a 35D as I was planning but the 50i power is just mind boggling.
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08-07-2015, 08:39 PM	#16
socale39 Major 209 Rep 1,044 Posts Drives: 04 545i SMG Join Date: Jan 2011 Location: California iTrader: (0)	^^^ this. Hate to say it but it's probably the best choice. To me the extra power really wasn't worth all the hassles. Sure even if you get a warranty there is a good chance you'll be having to deal with the company on claims let alone have to deal with a number of possible dealer visits in the future. Let's not forget the anxiety of possible breakdowns if on a road trip.
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08-08-2015, 05:14 AM	#19
Cattivo FDNY Engine 55 681 Rep 2,115 Posts Drives: X5M, X5 50i Msport, EscaHoe Join Date: Jul 2014 Location: The Concrete Jungle iTrader: (1)	I've owned my 50i over a year now and have had no problems with it...fast n fun truck to drive
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08-08-2015, 08:01 AM	#20
djrabbi Lieutenant Colonel 728 Rep 1,659 Posts Drives: G05 M50i Join Date: Apr 2015 Location: Raleigh iTrader: (1)	I actually did get a PPI done and everything checked out. I am not complaining the car was terrible, I am saying if you have deep pockets for all the little gremlins, go ahead. Even all other members clearly said they will NOT buy a 50i without some sort of warranty and my point is the same as theirs. I plan on getting a F10 within next few months anyways so yes, I will be around this forum. To the OP, get the 35D or a 50i with a solid 100k warranty.
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08-10-2015, 10:02 AM	#21
yoandry Colonel 693 Rep 2,083 Posts Drives: G80 M3CX & X5 M50i Join Date: Jan 2011 Location: Naples, FL iTrader: (0)	You need warranty with any cars, someone more than others, but of course with luxury cars like BMW that the repairs are expensive you definitely need one. I have my 50i for a month now and yes, it had some problems before I bought it. My fault I didn't do a full PPI on the car, but the dealer is taking care of everything. Saying that I love the power on the 50i and I will keep it as long as I can. __________________
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08-10-2015, 11:47 AM	#22
rennis Captain 43 Rep 708 Posts Drives: E70 5.0 & B5 S4 Join Date: Mar 2012 Location: Kirkland iTrader: (2)	The trend I've noticed with the 50i owners is that 2012 and newer models seem to have fewer problems and the 2011s have more than their fair share. Mine is 2011 and has higher miles (I'm over 80k now). Mine is a problem child. I know someone with a 2012 who has no issues with his, but he's only at 30k miles. Will be curious how these hold up as more of the N63s approach 100k. FWIW, dealer replaced my turbos at 78k.
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