I purchased a beautifully maintained 2004 645csi Coupe, and three local mechanics have suggested I get rid of it as soon as possible. It is immaculate, but it has 138,000 miles on the odometer. The owner used it for long trips (he's a wealthy collector with probably 12 cars, including Jags and a Morgan).

This will be my daily driver...

Bad idea?

Morning Ken

Welcome to the Forum

Did any of the Mechanics give a reason and were they the same reason or were they basing there advice on what they have heard not experienced ??

I have owned 2 BMW X5 (still own one a 4.6is) with the N62 engine that is in your car. These engines like many others from many manufacturers have weak points if not maintained, sadly this coincided with many Manufacturers (not just BMW) selling "Extended Oil Service Intervals" some cars were only serviced when the onboard computer illuminated a warning which could have been 30k ?? At the same time BMW were telling customers Gearbox's were "Sealed for Life" so many expensive problems were caused by in my opinion Abuse not Use.

So back to your car as it is Low miles (a little over 5k per year) owned by an enthusiast I would think it has been well serviced probably annually. Are there any rattles at start up ? Engine should be smooth and quiet in operation, Gearbox should be smooth changing even under pressure. Early 5 speed ZF boxes could develop a lurch when coming to a stop. Normally indicating poor servicing.

My own E53 4.6is I changed the timing chain and guides at 90k due to poor oil services in it's early life before my ownership ever since it has been serviced every 5k When doing the work I also fitted uprated cams a larger throttle body and injectors she shows 420 whp on a rolling road (0 to 60 4.8secs at Sata Pod) and now has 175k on the clock

Find a good BMW Specialist there will be one local to you and enjoy your new car

Dave

I own a 2002 x5 with 150000 miles on it and it still goes like stink!

I own a Porsche cayenne with 140000 miles on it that goes even faster!

It’s not the mileage that’s an issue, but how it’s maintained. I would just drive it, enjoy it and be happy.

What was the reason the mechanic gave to get rid?

The mechanic to whom I was recommended said he wouldn't touch the thing...

It has no problems and I love the car, although I can't get the iPhone to connect to it. I would suppose a 3 series would be a better idea; since I only paid $6,000, I am a thinking my opportunity to trade is now...?

Morning Ken

From the early 90's BMW like many other Marques began developing their own in car control systems. These systems gave is better engine control better shift control better suspension control resulting in far more efficient cars with smoother rides. Your 6 series runs basically the same control systems as a 3 series so your mechanic (If you use the same one) would have just the same issues ?? With a good Diagnostic system many jobs on your BMW are within the scope of the Home DIY mechanic as a lot of fixes are plug and play swapping sensors or control units.

So personally if I had found a car I liked (and by your description you have) I would keep it and enjoy it just find a BMW friendly Mechanic

Dave

Keep it and enjoy it… change the mechanic! lol.

You can get after market head units that will work with iPhones and androids. No issues there.

3 series are too common anyway! lol.

On 8/4/2026 at 5:38 PM, X5smw said:

3 series are too common anyway! lol.

Sticks his tongue out and blows a loud rasberry 🤣

I also have no idea how to get my phone to connect- is this car too old to expect that?

Morning Ken

First is your phone able to find the car ? If it can your in business so first thing to try is on the cars screen clear any registered phones and history. BMW ULF (Bluetooth) units around this vintage could only cope with 4 or 5 registered phones. Once they are cleared you should find the unit with your phone to connect you will need a 4 digit pin number which should be in the book pack. If not then left side of the Boot (Trunk) behind the removable panel you should find the ULF and on it's label the 4 digit code. Ask your phone to connect and when asked enter the code, you should have a connection.

The bluetooth units are plentiful on the internet if it's broken or not there

Hope this helps

Dave

When I click on the phone icon, it tells me to contact BMW. I can't imagine that would be productive...

Morning Ken

I take it your phone now connects ?

Sounds odd it could be a number of things, it could be the previous owner had BMW Subscription services and the car wants you to renew 🤣 (Good for BMW) Or it could be a fault with the Bluetooth unit or its antenna

If you can find a member local to you with Diagnostics it may tell you more

Dave