Again - this is for the E53 - but to answer to Funf Dreisig's questions:

Did you replace the rear axle carrier bushings on your E53 yourself? YES

Did you do it with the rear axle carrier still on your E53? You do one side at a time. There are 2-3 good Youtube videos that outline this, but do NOT remove or cut your exhaust hangers - they serve a purpose. You can carefully bend them just a bit for clearance.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=grTMssDU-iw THIS SHOWS HOW TO DO IT

A second one (can't find the URL) shows it with the tool that I used.



Did you use one of the special tools to get the bushings out? YES - I used the custom set (I've seen 2-3 different ones). Buy the one with the three shiny cups - it works rather well.

Were the bushing fractured vertically or horizontally? The inner metal insert was no longer bonded to the rubber or the outer ring. Same case for ALL four. The car is now a pleasure to drive. I used Meyle HD bushings.

E70 - this isn't as well documented. Not many resources (yet). I'd suggest you buy a Bentley manual to see what they recommend.

__________________
2002 Euro X5 (E53) 3.0 diesel (M57)
5 speed manual with UUC short shifter.
Pre-xDrive NV125 transfer case (chain & gears).
Factory Xenon headlights, Spyder LED tail lights
Updated vortex crankcase breather.
Motorsport dead pedal, factory fire extinguisher, factory first aid kit, factory F&R mud flaps, factory PDC

Bilstein B6 shocks F&R
Redline oil has replaced "lifetime" fluids (F&R diff, manual transmission, transfer case and P/S).
Dimple magnetic drain plugs in all compartments.