Thanks for the posts above and references Gents.
I have a 2007 E83 X3 3.0D MSport that has now done 192000km. Very well maintained and clean.
Recently I had some high cost breakdowns like transfer case, prop shaft, ignition switch etc.
I was worried that the car might need serious servicing and maintenance within the next couple of years, and then it is time to pull the plug and look for a newer car. It does not make sense to spend more money on a car than it is worth in the market. My next car would unfortunately not be a BMW since they are getting ridiculous with prices and maintenance in SA. Just the reality for me. I drove BMWs from E30 days and was always able to keep them going and clean. It is getting very difficult to do. I was getting pretty sad thinking this might be my last beemer. And a 3.0 D for that matter. Add to that, my trusty BMW guy for the last 20 years, Frikkie from Centurion, emigrated to the Cape about 2 years ago. I started to develop serious maintenance stress with my X3, not having someone to ask for help that knows the cars well... preventative maintenance is key!
Based on the recommendations here and the rest of the forum, I took my X3 to Ross Duncan in Midrand. I tried a few other shops in the last 2 years, but they we just not in touch with the cars like I want them to be. Got great service though, doing what they can to help.
Ross carved some time out for me to have a chat about my concerns and he was willing to fit me in the next week and have a look.
The depth of Ross with the Gen E beemers shone through immediately. He diagnosed a slow growing problem I had for years within seconds, using just his experience and a confirmation trip around the block. The airflow meter was giving funky readings, but not broken yet, just deteriorating. Car was getting very lazy over time. But he just immediately knew what it was. No computer or typical trail and error crap at dealers etc. He also changed engine mountings for me. The rest of the things done was gearbox oil, engine oil and filter, front diff oil change (rear diff was fine), brake fluid flush, coolant flush, air filter. Transfer case and actuator was replaced in April. Fuel filter was changed a year ago. Computer and service counter reset. Injectors nicely within spec on the diagnostics. The car drives like its a different car. Like the "original". Smooth and quiet (engine mountings) and all the power is back (airflow meter and service), as well as the smile on my face!
Ross felt good about my car and it's condition. Mentioned it is very clean with no leaks, nothing. I knew that, Frikkie and team was champions. He said I should not worry at all and can drive it for another 100000km with ease. Just service it more regularly and that is fine with me, I usually service about every 8000km, year on year, anyway.
Anyone welcome and invited to comment on the above.
Any further things to look out for, or imminent part replacements past 190000km?
I am going to Ross from now on. Someone that is actively involved with every car, knows his stuff, all BMWs, and high in demand. And I got the vibe the team respects the man and each other. Definitely worth the drive from Centurion and using the Gautrain to drop the car, and come back to Centurion for work, and same in reverse for pickup when they are done wit the car.
Thanks again gents!
Cheers,
W
