Crystalworks - This E53 has been with us since 2006 and was our first X5. It was reasonably reliable until 2011 when the trans failed. After that it ran ok for four more years (with occasional work in the wheel wells) but then oil leaks became an annoyance and the ABS module started to fail. FFWD: Last March I tweaked it enough for it to run with only the occasional code for the breather valve and rarely the vanos. Not sure if it is the colder weather that makes cold starts more critical. However, I need the car to be fully sorted for emissions inspection. Nevertheless, I am considering parting with at least one of the X5s as 4 cars is too many for the relatively few miles we make since Covid broke out.

Andrew - thanks, INPA states the error is -1 degree on bank 1 which is a pretty small error. If a tweak of the reluctor plate doesn't help then I will have to remove the TC covers and do the full sequence again and will then look into the sensors. I am not really keen to unbolt the front but may not have an option.


EDIT: Popped the blocks on Bank 1 cams and tweaked the reluctor plate just a tiny bit, about 1.0-1.5 degrees. Deleted the codes and cold started it, codes did not come back. Test drive did not reveal any discernible change in throttle response so I assume that is now solved. On to the next item.

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2003 4.4i black ext./black int./black headliner (kid's runabout)
2014 535d X-drive, M package, silver/black interior

Sold but not forgotten:
2009 E70 35d, black ext./black int./black headliner (sold 2021)
2006 4.8iS Le Mans blue/cream int./black headliner, SOLD in 2012 sadly...

Other hardware:
2015 Cayenne S (wife's new DD and definitely wroooommmmm)
2016 Tundra 1794 edition crew cab, luxo hauler
2005 Tundra crew cab, weekend hauler. Sold after 150k very happy miles.