Need advice: should I import a second-hand X5 from the UK

[mixersoft]

Hello,

I am moving to KL this summer and have the chance to import a car tax-free in the relocation package. What are the pros/cons of buying a 2013/14 X5 in the UK and bringing it to KL with me?

- is it easy to get them serviced at an independent shop?(assume no warranty)
- is there an engine/petrol/diesel that I should favor?
- is there some option I should avoid?
- what about the "hot climate package" that is usually not offered in the UK? Can it be added/programmed by a shop?

Generally, I'm thinking I could do better by buying second hand and paying the duties after 3 years whe I resale than buying New in KL (even tax-free) and suffering depreciation.

Any thoughts would be appreciated.

 

[Kennethkwy]

1) It would be relatively easy to have service done at the many independent workshops available here in Malaysia.
2) Wouldn't be able to recommend a specific engine but do take note when deciding on a diesel engine. Malaysia is looking at moving to B10 biodiesel in the near future and only Euro 5 would be available in B7 form (selected stations). B10 would not be suitable for BMW engines.

Hope it would help in decision making process buddy. Cheers.

Sent from my VIE-L29 using Tapatalk

 

[mixersoft]

Diesels are much more common in the UK. But the current Malaysian BMW lineup also includes a number of Diesel engines for the X5. Are these engines designed for the different/local diesel fuel, or is it the same across the board? You just have to go to the special stations with Euro5 Diesel?

 

[haywire]

The diesel cars in Malaysia does not have the DPF diesel particulate filter that you have in UK.

The risk is clogging these filters and requiring pricy replacements, which would recur over time. I'm not sure about current DPF delete mods these days but last I checked there are no expertise to do so in Malaysia. Correct me if I'm wrong

 

[aoch88]

How about selling off your diesel and buy a petrol then import into Malaysia tax free? :d

 

[gimli]

why not get the new x5 hybrid instead? price is around RM380k, and you are getting a high spec model + m sport. Cars in UK are usually of lower spec (judging from recon cars)

It will also be difficult for you to sell the car as banks are not keen to give loan to cars with personal AP.