Originally Posted By: jrcowboys
I have personal experience, 2008 BMW 650i, 90K miles, and had the following problem: leaks, failed alternator, failed crankcase ventilator valves, and valve seal replacements. Total cost 7-8K at the BMW dealer. I would never buy an older BMW, but this car was my daughter's and she practically gave it to me. I do love the car, it now runs great and uses no oil. Also, great looking car. Buy only if you are willing to spend the money to keep it up. Also, even if you have mechanic skills, working on the car yourself is a pain.
JR
Well, that's an N62. 2010+ V8s are the N63, which has a different set of problems, all of which are taken care of by the N63 CCP. The CCP includes (amongst many, many other things) a reset of the OLM to 1yr/10k instead of the original variable service monitor which could go as high as 20k miles. These very very extended drains are the cause of most N63 issues.
The exception to the "all 2010+ BMW V8s are an N63" rule is the 2010 X5 4.8si, which has the NA 4.8 V8. On these you have to watch the valve seals and timing guides. The X5 4.8si also had read air suspension, so I would forego it completely.