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Thread: 2004 X3 purchase. Need advice

  1. #1
    Join Date
    Mar 2007
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    2004 X3 purchase. Need advice

    Hello. I'm looking at a 2004 X3. 156k on the clock. It has some engine codes so I wanted to see opinions on whether the issue is serious or possibly get some thoughts on what the issue could be. Thanks in advance.

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  2. #2
    What's your budget? What's your mechanical experience? If you need the injectiors, full service of fluids, filters, sensors, plus what comes up as you clear each code.

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  3. #3
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    I'm pretty experienced with bmw. I ended up buying the X3. So now I have to sort through it, which will be fun.

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  4. #4
    Pictures, how does it run, options, and price info would be good.

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  5. #5
    Quote Originally Posted by bigmitch117 View Post
    Hello. I'm looking at a 2004 X3. 156k on the clock. It has some engine codes so I wanted to see opinions on whether the issue is serious or possibly get some thoughts on what the issue could be. Thanks in advance.

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    Between the misfires, bad sensors and steering angle issues, I believe the issue is deferred maintenance and it's going to be a pain. All you can do is fix what is dx as broken, but it might not be financially wise.

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  6. #6
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    Well, I have a laptop to diagnose the issues and time on my hands. From what I gather parts aren't that expensive either. You're opinion is probably right if I were to rely on a shop to fix it

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  7. #7
    Join Date
    Aug 2012
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    Looks like vacuum leaks from old rubber, possible bad coils or worse (head gasket). Does it run hot

  8. #8
    Join Date
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    No, it runs at a normal temp. It's 12 degrees F. Here though, so we'll see if it runs hot in summer. I will definitely be checking vacuum leaks, but I doubt all the coil packs are bad since I'm getting misfires in all cylinders

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  9. #9
    Quote Originally Posted by bigmitch117 View Post
    Well, I have a laptop to diagnose the issues and time on my hands. From what I gather parts aren't that expensive either. You're opinion is probably right if I were to rely on a shop to fix it

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    Depends on the part, obviously. If one of the cpus goes bad, happened to my 01 330, it's pricy. Tyranny problem, how good are you? Either keep us posted with your progress. I had an 06 before my 13 and liked it. You don't say what motor, but I had the i6

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  10. #10
    Join Date
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    It's the 3.0 i6. Really enjoy the way it drives so far. Did my first oil change on it last night.

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  11. #11
    Join Date
    Oct 2007
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    Too many/Not enough
    I had the 281c and 281d BSD codes. Ended up being caused by an aftermarket alternator not integrating properly into the BMW software. The alternator would charge properly and I had no other issues related to these codes. I purchased a lightly used BMW alternator and it cured the problem. It sounds strange, but these codes can also be triggered by the oil level sensor installed on the bottom of the oil pan. Good luck.
    Current Garage:
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  12. #12
    Join Date
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    03 540i, 04 X3, 00 328i
    There could be many reasons of course, but I got those mixture prep codes along with occasional misfire codes when the DISA valve suddenly crapped out in my car. If you have any grinding noise that comes from the intake/driver side of the engine, that's most likely the reason. It is fairly easy to check and replace.

  13. #13
    Join Date
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    1996 m3 coupe
    Upstate. 3/1/18. I replaced the intake boot and all the lean codes I was getting, went away. The check engine light came back on though for "vehicle speed sensor"
    Is there another speed sensor besides the wheel speed/abs sensors?

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