[Joe-BMW33]

Here is my input which echo's a few others and contradicts some.

I personally only buy new or CPO from a dealer and if CPO it is a car with verifiable records and a car that appears to be owned by someone like me, meaning takes great care and performs all maintenance on time or earlier. Body is impeccable.

An M550 with 65k miles sold from a sand lot with dings, scrapes and scuffs is a car I would steer clear of. BMW won't certify a car with 65k miles on it. A car like the one you are looking at was likely a trade that was auctioned off.

In terms of reliability, I question a few of the blanket comments from people that appear to not even own one. Yes, the initial N63 was problematic, the N63TU2/3 so far has not shown to be any more problematic than the B58. I personally have had relatively minor issues and the more expensive one were covered under warranty. Coolant issues seem to be the most common sure thing, but once the lines are replaced, most people are fine.

As for aftermarket warranty vs. CPO, a good aftermarket far exceeds the coverage of CPO for less money usually. Do a search on the Route 66 thread. My CPO ran out a few weeks ago and I seriously considered going without a warranty for the first time ever. I like you don't drive the car daily and it is a weekend car for Spring and Summer and then it goes away. BUT, at the end of the day I wanted some peace of mind. Not because it has the N63TU2, but because it is a german car and like all german cars, you bend over and take it up the ass for every repair. Parts are expensive and even independent shops are marginally better priced than the dealer. You need to ask yourself the question - can I afford a German car and all it comes with.

I feel pretty confident to proclaim that the M550 is no ticking time bomb, but even wear and tear repair will be 3 times the cost of Toyota.