This seems like it might be an issue of corrosion. Looks like those of you where salt is used on the roads have the lion's share of spring issues. Down in South Texas, over ~20 BMWs, I've never had an OE spring break. Nor have I heard of a local having the issue. Not that it hasn't happened, but working at a shop, I would have thought we'd have seen one if it were a problem here.

So, as a PSA, if you live in an area where the roads are salted, be sure you wash your undercarriage and wheel wells once a week to prevent problems. This is good maintenance for other problems too; brake lines, rust on frame/body, etc.

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2005 X5 4.4i Build 04/05 Maintenance/Build Log
Nav, Pano, Sport (Purchased 06/14 w/ 109,000 miles) (Sold 8/15 w/121,000 miles)

2006 X5 4.8is Build 11/05 Maintenance/Build Log
Nav, DSP, Pano, Running Boards, OEM Tow Hitch, Cold Weather Pckg (Purchased 08/15 w/ 90,500 miles)

2010 X5 35d Build 02/10
Nav, HiFi, 6 DVD, Sports Pckg, Cold Weather Pckg, HUD, CAS, Running Boards, Leather Dash, PDC, Pano (Purchased 03/17 w/ 136,120 miles)