lem0n

So my second '08 535xiT that I searched for over 2 years got rear-ended couple of weeks ago by a texting moron, and insurance is writing it off. Seeing how long it took me to find low-mileage Sport Package 535 wagon and passively scanning the market for the past year and half, it's clear that my chances of buying one for a (relatively) sane amount of money are slim.
So I figured I'd open up my search to include 530XiT and would like to hear opinions from owners of such beasts. My only requirements are automatic transmission, Sport or M-Sport (was it even offered?) package and as low miles as possible. Couple of questions for those in the know:
- did they ever come with newer style Sport steering wheel and if not, could it be retrofitted;
- were proper Sport seats with lumbar support, or at least Comfort seats available as option?
- any horror stories that are thismodel-specific (I'm aware of breaking head bolts on early N52s) and are different from common E61 chassis issues?
- any significant differences between '06 and '07 models?

I know this forum has gotten significantly slower but am grateful for any and a all input.
Thanks!

BostonJon

my comments in CAPS

lem0n

Thanks Jon! I see you own one and local too, what's your experience has been so far in our lovely New England climate and roads, if you don't mind my asking?

lem0n

Thanks guys. Looks like '07 is the one to look for, as it's LCI and more likely to have newer style head bolts. Somehow I have a feeling finding low-mileage one with Sport package won't be any easier though, but at least I have better chance than just looking for 535s.

oclvframe

Good luck with your search.....they truly are hard to find. I bought my first 07 in '10...but stupidly sold it 2 years later after hardly driving it. I instantly regretted selling it and began my search for another. It took 2 years and I stumbled across an immaculate 07 with only 30k mi on it, in Albuquerque.....so not only was it 7 years old with hardly any miles on it! I need to add, it has the sport, winter, and premium packages as well as my preferred interior color which is the auburn leather....hence why it was so long to find. I have logged almost 70K mi on it since and still absolutely love it. You can't go wrong with an 07 with the proper packages....from an engine standpoint, they're as solid as I have found....assuming maintenance has been maintained as prescribed.

Sometimes, for no reason, consider selling it to get a simpler vehicle like a Subaru, but the rewarding drive just cannot be compared to anything else out there.

Again, good luck with the search but don't be afraid to get a 530 if you cannot find another 535....I realize they have a lot more power but the 530 has never left me wishing I had more.

-r

lem0n

Thanks! It seems that '07 530 Sports are even harder to come by than 535xi. One looked good in Oregon but turned out it had two accidents on CarFax with structural damage reported, so I obviously pulled the plug on that. I'm still searching for either, just need some time, patience and a bit of luck.

oclvframe

What mileage are you trying to get? I realize as low as possible but what kind of mileage can you live with?

lem0n

I'm trying to be reasonable but would really like to get something under 60k. My logic is that I feel that by that mileage even with factory oil changes by clueless owner, there is still a chance to turn the ship around and get the motor somewhat healthy. Anything over that, you're in for some serious engine work after 100k mi, unless you like burning oil.

losblancos

Our 530xiT has 140k on it and counting. We picked it up a little over 3 years ago with 100k. We love it. It does leak oil, though -- gotta get around to changing that valve cover gasket sometime.

lem0n

Good to know. At 140k it may be valve guides as well, M54s had this problem after 100k mi. Easy way to test is to get engine up to temp (let it idle for 10-15 mins) and then floor it and see if there's a blue smoke; a tell-tale sign of hardened valve guides.

My search for a decent e61 continues, haven't been able to find anything worth getting just yet.