Update on 6/10/15 and 77,000 miles, the Passive DEF tank sensors are now bad and the tank needs to be replaced!

The X5 has been throwing a new code over the past 2 months, P281A. I've cleared it a few times with my Creader VI, and it has mostly gone away for extended periods if I top off both DEF tanks.

The last time it threw the code, I noticed a lot of urea crystals around the filler spout for the active tank. Topped it off and cleaned it up. Shortly afterwards, I was in at BMW Seattle for an oil change, and I mentioned the error codes. They did a scan and came back with this:
"Confirmed SES light on. SCR Passive Tank sensor fault. 4 times. Performed test module. Accessed connector. wiring and signal voltage ok. sensors in tank failed. recommend replace."

Estimate? $2,200 plus tax. OUCH!!!!! And great timing, as we were shopping for a new X5 to replace this one (I called it a ticking time bomb, I waited too long.....)

Well, in working with both BMW Seattle and BMW NA, I got the repair covered at 100%, and promptly placed an order for a 2015 X5 35i. I'm done with the diesel because of the emissions crap that is required to be on it. About the only way I'd consider a diesel again is on a lease that ends before the 4/50k warranty is up.

Naturally the part is not in stock ANYWHERE in the US right now, so it will be a few weeks. I'm guessing it will arrive about the time I go to pick up the new X5.

__________________
Scott
On Order: 2015 F15 X5 35i
Space Gray with Mocha Nappa Interior Design Pkg and fineline Oak trim
ZXD | ZCW | ZPP | 3AG | 456 | 4UB | 4U1 | 5DL | 688
To be Traded: 2010 E70 X5 35d
Alpine White on Black with Dark Bamboo trim
ZAP | ZCW | ZPP | ZPS | ZRC | ZTP | 322 | 328 | 330 | 386 | 4AZ | 4UB | 655 | 6FL | 6NF