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BMW X5 Used Car Review

BMW's reputation for building engaging driver's cars meant it probably shouldn't have been a surprise when it set the standard for SUV handling with its first effort, the 2000 X5. Over two successive generations, it has grown in size, added a third-row option (since 2007), and introduced a rear-wheel-drive variant (since 2013). One of BMW's biggest-selling models, the X5 range covers a broad spectrum of engines including an eco-focused hybrid and performance-biased M model.

Pros

Cons

  • One of the best SUVs to drive in terms of handling
  • Wide range of engines from economical 4-cylinder diesel to powerful V8
  • Cabin and boot space further enlarged with third generation (2013 on)
  • Intuitive and smartly presented iDrive infotainment system
  • Latest X5 doesn't ride or steer as well as previous generations
  • Interior has improved though has yet to set any segment benchmark
  • Limited boot space with seven-seater option
  • Bulkier, US-focused styling of current model
This is general information and should not be relied on as purchasing advice.
BMWX5Is your car registered?: YesClear all

Top2016 BMW X5 xDRIVE 40d 8 SP AUTOMATIC 4D WAGON

$39,990
Southport, QLD

16/04/2024

Top2023 BMW X5 G05 LCI xDrive30d M Sport Black Sports Automatic SUV

  • 1500 km
  • SUV
  • Auto
  • 6 cyl 3.0L

Factory Options fitted Panorama glass roof Packages fitted M Sport package Adaptive M Suspension M leather steering wheel M Aerodynamics package M High-Gloss Shadow Line M headliner anthracite Enhancement Package 22" M Lt/Aly wheels Double-spoke 742 M Bicolour / MT Tyre Pressure Monitor Glass application CraftedClarity for interior elements Harman Kardon surround sound system We are located in Rushcutters Bay, only 5 minutes from the Sydney CBD. Our ultra-luxe and state-of-the-art showroom s

$149,900 Drive Away^
Rushcutters Bay, NSW

Dealer demo
17/04/2024

Top2017 BMW X5 xDRIVE30d 8 SP AUTOMATIC 5D WAGON

$47,000
Wurtulla, QLD

16 hours ago

Top2014 BMW X5 sDrive 25d F15

  • 195865 km
  • Wagon
  • Auto
  • 4

***Finance, trade in / zip pay and warranty available*** Quality Motors Group is a QLD based and owned business that operates NATIONWIDE with over 120 five stars Google review and our team is specialised in European & Japanese vehicles, all of our cars are mechanically inspected and they come with RWC, PPSR & WARRANTY. Our team speaks English, Italian and Spanish. **15 MONTHS WARRANTY INCLUDED ON THIS VEHICLE** BMW X5 S-DRIVE AUTOMATIC SUV FUEL EFFICIENT 4 CYL DIESEL YEAR: 2014 ODOMETER:

$21,980 Excl. Gov. Charges
Albion, QLD

Dealer used
17/04/2024

Top2018 BMW X5 F15 xDrive30d Black 8 Speed Sports Automatic Wagon

  • 99469 km
  • SUV
  • Auto
  • 6 cyl 3.0L

FULL SERVICE HISTORY AND M SPORT PACK. 2018 BMW X5 xDRIVE 30d AUTO 4X4 TURBO DIESEL SUV PRESENTED IN BLACK. HIGH SPEC LUXURY FEATURE PACKED EUROPEAN TURBO SUV THAT IS TO IMPRESS. DO NOT DELAY ENQUIRE TODAY. Call our experienced team NOW to secure this AMAZING INTERNET ONLY special price! Family owned Toyota dealership in PERTH, with over 500 quality used cars in stock, with an exceptional personal touch. WHERE THE GUEST ALWAYS COMES FIRST......Please Note - all our Internet specials are FIXED

$52,990 Excl. Gov. Charges
Osborne Park, WA

Dealer used
18/04/2024

Top2018 BMW X5 F15 sDrive25d White 8 Speed Automatic Wagon

  • 93353 km
  • SUV
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

NEW ARRIVAL!! // SAME DAY FINANCE AVALIBLE!! 2018 BMW X5 SDRIVE25D FINISHED IN ALPINE WHITE FULL-SERVICE HISTORY INTERIOR OPTIONS - LEATHER INTERIOR - HEATED FRONT SEATS - PANORAMIC SUNROOF - GPS - BLUETOOTH/USB/FM - CRUISE CONTROL - LANE DEPARTURE ASSIST - HANDS FREE EXTERIOR OPTIONS - FRONT & REAR SENSORS - ALLOY WHEELS - REVERSE CAMERA AND MUCH MORE!! PLEASE MAKE AN INQUIRY OR GIVE US A CALL TO ARRANGE A TEST DRIVE!!! ALL OUR VEHICLES ARE WORKSHOP TESTED AND UNDERGO A VIGORO

$43,990 Drive Away^
Camberwell, VIC

Dealer used
17/04/2024

2010 BMW X5 E70 MY11 xDrive30d Steptronic Gold 8 Speed Sports Automatic Wagon

  • 293192 km
  • SUV
  • Auto
  • 6 cyl 3.0L

2010 BMW X5 E70 MY11 xDrive30d Steptronic Gold 8 Speed Sports Automatic Wagon

Contact Dealer for Price
South Nowra, NSW

Dealer used
5 minutes ago

2018 BMW X5 xDRIVE30d 8 SP AUTOMATIC 4D WAGON

  • 88000 km
  • SUV
  • Auto
  • 6 cyl 3.0L

BMW X5 Msport All standard X5 plus Msport options Tow pack/ electric brakes New air bag suspension Service package Rego til 26 Apr 24 Great condition, first to see will buy

$59,999
Charlestown, NSW

25 minutes ago

2012 BMW X5 E70 MY12 xDrive40d Steptronic Sport White 8 Speed Sports Automatic Wagon

  • 154309 km
  • SUV
  • Auto
  • 6 cyl 3.0L

One Year Warranty Included in Sale Price. Excellent body and Interior Condition. Suit for Family with Kids as Seven Seater we are still operating as per usual with all mechanics open to prepare sold vehicle, all sold cars are transferred instantly online with no delays. We are practising a safe working environment with social distancing a requirement also disinfecting all vehicles. Thank you for your understanding. 25 MINUTES FROM CBD TOWARDS SOUTH EAST SUBURBS OF Melbourne. Undercover show

$21,999 Drive Away^
Mordialloc, VIC

Dealer used
30 minutes ago

BMW X5 F15 2013 model

  • 256000 km
  • SUV
  • Auto
  • 6 cyl 3.0L

CHEAPEST X5 F15 ON THE MARKET BMW X5 F15 2013 3.0D TURBO DESIEL X DRIVE KEYLESS ENTRY✅ SEVEN SEATER (LEATHER)✅ PANORAMIC ROOF OPENING✅ FOLD MIRRORS✅ MEMORY SEATS✅ ADJUSTING STEERING COLUMN✅ HEADS UP DISPLAY ✅ BLUETOOTH CONNECTIVITY✅ SATELLITE NAVIGATION✅ AUTOMATIC TAILGATE✅ FRONT AND REAR CRASH DETECTION✅ FRONT REAR SENIORS✅ RAIN SENSOR✅ BIRDS EYE VIEW CAMERA✅ REAR AIRBAG SUSPENSION✅ 256000KM HIGH WAY ALL THE LUXURY EXTRAS✅ SERVICE EVERY 10000KM DONE ✅ TRANSFER CASE SERVICE DONE ✅ TRANSMISSION

$14,850
Roxburgh Park, VIC

53 minutes ago

2013 BMW X5 xDrive 30d E70 LCI!!!

  • 219173 km
  • Wagon
  • Auto

***finance from $109,00 per week*** Roofracks Diesel Automatic Leather seats Cruise control reverse camera Duals on aircon Parkin senses 🔧 Workshop City is now open at 56 Division Street in Welshpool and they have a special offer of a FREE SERVICE with every car purchased this month. They can help with all your maintenance and repairs. Buy a car this month to get a FREE SERVICE! ⚙️ *WE LOVE TRADE IN'S & WILL PAY TOP DOLLAR FOR YOUR CAR. * FINANCE AVAILABLE ON ALL OF OUR CARS. STUDENT

$15,980 Excl. Gov. Charges
Victoria Park, WA

Dealer used
4 hours ago

2021 BMW X5 G05 xDrive30d M Sport Grey Automatic Wagon

  • 46701 km
  • SUV
  • Auto
  • 6 cyl 3.0L

$7,000 in FACTORY FITTED OPTIONS**FULL M-SPORT PACKAGE**PANORAMIC ELECTRIC GLASS SUNROOF**ADAPTIVE LED HEADLIGHTS**COMFORT ACCESS SYSTEM (keyless entry/exit/start/stop)** FULL ELECTRIC SEATS WITH MEMORY OPTION** HEATED FRONT SEATS** REVERSE CAMERA with FULL SURROUND VEIW 360 CAMERAS and FULL LIVE COCKPIT PROFESSIONAL DISPLAY** DRIVERS ASSISTANT PACKAGE INCLUDING COLLISION MITIGATION, LANE DEPARTURE WARNING, ACTIVE LANE KEEP ASSIST AND BLIND SPOT SENSORS ** ADAPTIVE CRUISE CONTROL**PROFESSIONAL

$85,888 Excl. Gov. Charges
Wangara, WA

Dealer used
4 hours ago

2021 BMW X5 G05 xDrive30d M Sport Black Automatic Wagon

  • 38567 km
  • SUV
  • Auto
  • 6 cyl 3.0L

$7,000 in FACTORY FITTED OPTIONS**FULL M-SPORT PACKAGE**PANORAMIC ELECTRIC GLASS SUNROOF**ADAPTIVE LED HEADLIGHTS**COMFORT ACCESS SYSTEM (keyless entry/exit/start/stop)** FULL ELECTRIC SEATS WITH MEMORY OPTION** HEATED FRONT SEATS** REVERSE CAMERA with FULL SURROUND VEIW 360 CAMERAS and FULL LIVE COCKPIT PROFESSIONAL DISPLAY** DRIVERS ASSISTANT PACKAGE INCLUDING COLLISION MITIGATION, LANE DEPARTURE WARNING, ACTIVE LANE KEEP ASSIST AND BLIND SPOT SENSORS ** ADAPTIVE CRUISE CONTROL**PROFESSIONAL

$86,888 Excl. Gov. Charges
Wangara, WA

Dealer used
4 hours ago

2021 BMW X5 G05 xDrive30d M Sport Black Automatic Wagon

  • 33121 km
  • SUV
  • Auto
  • 6 cyl 3.0L

$7,000 in FACTORY FITTED OPTIONS**FULL M-SPORT PACKAGE**PANORAMIC ELECTRIC GLASS SUNROOF**ADAPTIVE LED HEADLIGHTS**COMFORT ACCESS SYSTEM (keyless entry/exit/start/stop)** FULL ELECTRIC SEATS WITH MEMORY OPTION** HEATED FRONT SEATS** REVERSE CAMERA with FULL SURROUND VEIW 360 CAMERAS and FULL LIVE COCKPIT PROFESSIONAL DISPLAY** DRIVERS ASSISTANT PACKAGE INCLUDING COLLISION MITIGATION, LANE DEPARTURE WARNING, ACTIVE LANE KEEP ASSIST AND BLIND SPOT SENSORS ** ADAPTIVE CRUISE CONTROL**PROFESSIONAL

$86,888 Excl. Gov. Charges
Wangara, WA

Dealer used
4 hours ago

2008 BMW X5 E70 d Steptronic Silver 6 Speed Sports Automatic Wagon

  • 257500 km
  • SUV
  • Auto
  • 6 cyl 3.0L

2008 BMW X5 E70d Wagon with Panoramic Sunroof! Are you ready to enjoy the ultimate driving experience in this luxurious 4x4 3.0DT BMW X5? With a stunning panoramic sunroof to let in the sunshine and fresh air, you'll feel like you're flying down the highway in style. Equipped with all the features you need for a comfortable and safe ride, this BMW X5 is ready to take you on your next adventure. Cruise control, Bluetooth system, leather trim, and a multi-function steering wheel make driving a

$9,990 Excl. Gov. Charges
Mount Druitt, NSW

Dealer used
9 hours ago

2015 BMW X5 F15 xDrive40d White 8 Speed Sports Automatic Wagon

  • 155093 km
  • SUV
  • Auto
  • 6 cyl 3.0L

7 SEATS. Yes, 7 Seats and 40d. X5 xDrive40d 3.0L 6 Cylinder Twin Turbo Diesel, 8 Speed Automatic, M Sport package, Electric, Memory, Radar Cruise Control, Glass Electric Panoramic Sunroof, Heads Up Display, Black Leather including Leather Covered Dashboard, M Sport 19' Alloys, Body Kit, Steering Wheel Paddles, Satellite Navigation, Rear, Front Camera and 360 Camera, Keyless Entry with Start Button, Bluetooth Phone and Music. 5 Year National Warranty Company Warranty Available at Extra Cost.

$39,999 Excl. Gov. Charges
Albion, QLD

Dealer used
9 hours ago

2012 BMW X5 E70 MY12 Upgrade xDrive 40d Sport Alpine White 8 Speed Automatic Sequential Wagon

  • 100012 km
  • SUV
  • Auto
  • 6 cyl 3.0L

M SPORT - 7 SEATER - INNOVATION PACK - 2 KEYS - HEAD UP DISPLAY - KEYLESS - SUNROOF - LOW KMS - LOGBOOKS . - NAVIGATION - REAR CAMERA - PARK SENSORS - POWER TAILGATE . WOW FULLY LOADED 7 SEAT M SPORT X5 IN GOOD ORDER . FINANCE AVAILABLE PLUS ALL TRADES WELCOME . Plate not transferable . Call Apex direct ******9108 or www.apexmotors.com.au . Bank finance available call Brian or

$26,990 Excl. Gov. Charges
Sylvania, NSW

Dealer used
9 hours ago

2014 BMW X5 F15 sDrive 25D Silver 8 Speed Automatic Wagon

  • 161042 km
  • SUV
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

-CLEARANCE SALE FOR LIMITED TIME -CLEAR TITLE -NO ACCIDENT HISTORY -RWC -TURBO DIESEL -ECONOMICAL -5 SEATS -TIDY INSIDE OUT -LOADS OF EXTRAS -REG DEC2024 -ONBOARD SERVICE HISTORY -AND MORE. MOST OF OUR CARS COME WITH RWC FOR YOUR PEACE OF MIND. WITH OVER 15 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE I CAN GIVE YOU THE BEST ADVICE AND PROVIDE YOU WITH THE BEST CUSTOMER SERVICE. HASSLE FREE SALE, FRIENDLY STAFF, AUSTRALIA WIDE WARRANTY IS ALSO AVAILABLE UPTO 5 YEARS WITH DIFFERENT LEVEL OF COVERS TO SUIT YOU AND YOUR

$26,999 Excl. Gov. Charges
Ravenhall, VIC

Dealer used
9 hours ago

2009 BMW X5 E70 MY09

  • 170397 km
  • Other

BMW X5, 2009, IN STUNNING BLACK 3.0 LITRE PETROL, STEPTRONIC, POWER STEER, POWER WINDOWS, ALLOY WHEELS, NAVIGATION, BLUE TOOTH SYSTEM, SERVICE BOOKS,SPARE KEY, DRIVES VERY WELL, AND COMES IN IMMACULATE CONDITION, INSIDE AND OUT, HAS TO BE SEEN. WE ARE LOCATED ON THE NORTH EAST SUBURB OF SOUTH AUSTRALIA NEXT TO BEN BAKER. PLEASE LEAVE DETAILS IF YOU ARE GENUINE INTERESTED IN THIS VEHICLE AND ONE OF OUR STAFF WILL CALL YOU TO ARRANGE YOUR TEST DRIVE. Purchase with confidence - We are a family ow

$13,995 Excl. Gov. Charges
Windsor Gardens, SA

Dealer used
11 hours ago

2017 BMW X5 F15 sDrive25d Black 8 Speed Automatic Wagon

  • 86729 km
  • SUV
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

Powered by a punchy 2.0-litre twin turbo diesel engine, the X5 offers a smooth ride with 8-speed automatic transmission. Plenty of comfort with leather interior, electric adjustable front seats making it easy to get the perfect position every time, reverse camera with front and rear parking sensors and satellite navigation to guide you on your way. Generous cabin and cargo space with a 650L boot providing ample space for luggage, golf clubs, school bags, groceries, you name it! Contact u

$41,990 Drive Away^
Southport, QLD

Dealer used
11 hours ago

2007 BMW X5 4.8i 6 SP AUTOMATIC STEPTRONIC 4D WAGON

  • 249000 km
  • SUV
  • Auto
  • 8 cyl 4.8L

For sale. 2007 V8 350hp petrol 4.8lt bmw x5 E70 6 speed automatic suv. Immaculate condition for its age. Has just been professionally detailed inside and out. Paint correction detailed and leather conditioned interior. Father has owned this car for the last 8 years. Has been serviced through Geelong bmw. Full service history and reciepts on the following Alternator Rear airbags Upper and lower control arms and balljoints Water pump Coil packs Brand new injectors Engine gaskets sump rocker cover

$14,000Negotiable
Colac, VIC

11 hours ago

2016 BMW X5 F15 MY15 xDrive 50I Black 8 Speed Automatic Wagon

  • 115336 km
  • SUV
  • Auto
  • 8 cyl 4.4L

Have a look at this car buyers!.. Great Value.. 2016 BMW X5 X-DRIVE 50i - Black with Black Leather Trim.. comes with all luxuries you need in a Family Vehicle.. Presenting in most tidy condition with logbooks & spare keys.. Features include- * Leather Trim * Panoramic Roof * Satellite Navigation * Front & Rear Park Assist * Push Start * Power Tailgate * 360 Degree Cameras * Power Options We are a major dealer for your peace of mind, servicing Sydney area, ACT, Newcastle, South

$38,990 Excl. Gov. Charges
Haberfield, NSW

Dealer used
11 hours ago

2010 BMW X5 E70 MY10 xDrive30d Steptronic Grey 6 Speed Sports Automatic Wagon

  • 190160 km
  • SUV
  • Auto
  • 6 cyl 3.0L

We are one of Australia's largest vehicle wholesale operations open direct to the public, so this car is priced at a fixed discounted rate to sell extremely quick. Please genuine and ready to buy inquiries only. We are located Inner West Sydney, 15 minutes from CBD, 25 minutes from Sydney Airport, 15 minutes from Parramatta. Dealer charge applies to all sales. Shop from home or in store. All cars are sold with a clear PPSR certificate and NSW roadworthy. All sorts of trade ins welcome. Easy

$11,999 Excl. Gov. Charges
Five Dock, NSW

Dealer used
11 hours ago

2010 BMW X5 xDRIVE 40d SPORT 8 SP AUTOMATIC SEQUENTIAL 4D WAGON

  • 159250 km
  • SUV
  • Auto
  • 6 cyl 3.0L

This 2010 BMW X5 takes its family responsibilities very seriously. I am selling that for an investment which is a House-Land package, otherwise nothing is wrong with it and we were happy with it. Some safety features: - new front Brakes, Disks and Sensors - Parking assist graphical display - Rear vision camera so you can easily see what is behind you when reversing - Front parking sensors - Rear parking sensors - ABS brakes - Brake assist - Side airbags - Driver airbag - Passenger airbag - Ful

$19,999
Kellyville, NSW

12 hours ago

2016 BMW X5 F15 xDrive50i Wagon 5dr Spts Auto 8sp 4x4 4.4TT

  • 142903 km
  • Wagon
  • Auto

Introducing the magnificent 2016 BMW X5 F15 xDrive50i Wagon, a true hallmark of luxury and performance. This marvel is not just a vehicle, but an expression of sophistication and style. Boasting a sleek white exterior, this stunning wagon commands attention on the road. Its phenomenal design is matched only by its impressive performance, powered by a robust 4.4TT, 8-cylinder engine. The BMW X5 is an automatic, sports auto 8sp 4x4, designed for those who seek adventure and crave an exhilaratin

$43,990 Excl. Gov. Charges
Maddington, WA

Dealer used
12 hours ago

2014 BMW X5 F15 sDrive25d Black 8 Speed Automatic Wagon

  • 196468 km
  • SUV
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

2014 BMW X5 S-Drive 25d Automatic M-sport Diesel Panoramic sunroof Sat nav Reverse camera Electric seats Electric tailgate Bluetooth connectivity Multi function steering wheel controls Front and rear parking sensors Alloy wheels with near new tyres 2 keys Log books Dealer charge applies to all sales. Shop from home or in store. We are one of Australia's largest vehicle wholesale operations open direct to the public, so this car is priced at a fixed discounted rate to sell extremely quick. Ple

$20,999 Excl. Gov. Charges
Five Dock, NSW

Dealer used
13 hours ago

2013 BMW X5 E70 MY12 Upgrade xDrive30d White 8 Speed Automatic Sequential Wagon

  • 74222 km
  • SUV
  • Auto
  • 6 cyl 3.0L

Great value 2013 BMW X5 30d! This nice looking family SUV drives well and has an economical 3.0L Turbo Diesel Engine, Air Conditioning, Power Steering, Sporty Automatic Transmission, Electrics, Alloys, ABS, Airbags, Leather, 4x4, Books and much much more! Drives very well. Priced to sell very quickly. Hurry in for a test drive today! This Vehicle is located in Perth, Western Australia! Extended Warranties and Competitive Finance Packages available, Top trade in prices offered, all less than 20k

$30,990 Excl. Gov. Charges
Wangara, WA

Dealer used
13 hours ago

2014 BMW X5 F15 xDrive30D 8SP Auto 7Seat

$32,990Negotiable
Mount Claremont, WA

13 hours ago

2019 BMW X5 G05 xDrive40i Steptronic M Sport White 8 Speed Sports Automatic Wagon

  • 76508 km
  • SUV
  • Auto
  • 6 cyl 3.0L

Stunning example with loads of extras including but not limited to Skylounge Panoramic roof with ambient lighting, Alacantra steering wheel cover, 20 inch alloy option, Individual High Gloss Shadow Line, heating/cooloing cupholders, wireless Apple carplay and loads more. Trade ins welcome and fast finance available.

$79,984 Excl. Gov. Charges
Jandakot, WA

Dealer used
14 hours ago

2008 BMW X5 3.0sd 6 SP AUTOMATIC STEPTRONIC 4D WAGON

  • 131000 km
  • SUV
  • Auto
  • 6 cyl 3.0L

BMW x5 E70 Well looked after. Interior has been maintained. Engined serviced regularly, low kms. DVD played in rear (missing remote) and extra seats in the back. Making it a 7 seater. Rear view camera not working. Few wear and tear marks over the years but still in good condition considering year of car. 4 new disc rotors, Rear brake pads replaced, new battery.

$15,500Negotiable
Balga, WA

14 hours ago

Overview of the Bmw X5

Overview of the Bmw X5

BMW's reputation for building engaging driver's cars meant it probably shouldn't have been a surprise when it set the standard for SUV handling with its first effort, the 2000 X5.

Over two successive generations, it has grown in size, added a third-row option (since 2007), and introduced a rear-wheel-drive variant (since 2013).

One of BMW's biggest-selling models, the X5 range covers a broad spectrum of engines including an eco-focused hybrid and performance-biased M model.

BMW X5 GENERATIONS (SINCE 2000)

2000-2007

2007-2013

2013 onwards

RUNNING COSTS

Fuel Consumption (current model)

Hybrid: 3.4 litres per 100km

2.0L 4-cylinder turbo diesel: 5.5 to 6.0 litres per 100km

3.0L 6-cylinder turbo diesel: 6.2 to 6.3 litres per 100km

3.0L 6-cylinder tri-turbo diesel: 6.7 litres per 100km

3.0L 6-cylinder turbo: 5.5 litres per 100km

4.4L V8: 10.5 litres per 100km

4.4L V8 twin-turbo: 11.1 litres per 100km

= Highly economical.

= Good economy.

= Average fuel use.

= Heavy consumption.

Servicing

SIMILAR MODELS TO BMW X5

WHAT TO LOOK OUT FOR: BMW X5 (2013 ONWARDS)

Like any quasi off-roader, the X5 needs a close check to make sure it hasn't been driven in inappropriate terrain.

Luckily, most of them were used as family cars, and that's the one you want to buy provided the interior hasn't been trashed by kids, dogs and mountain bikes.

Mechanically, the big thing to watch out for is an engine that has experienced patchy maintenance.

The VANOS variable valve-timing arrangement in the engine is one of the things that gives the X5 its performance, though skipped oil changes can lead to dirty oil that will clog the delicate little oilways that operate the system.

If the VANOS hardware quits, it's big dollars to fix.

Check for oil leaks anywhere around the VANOS actuators (at the front of the engine) for signs of oil weeping, which can be (but isn't always) the first sign of trouble.