Sounds like the classic case of the FSR final stage resistor. There are tons on threads on here about that, and if you want to be sure thats it before buying the part you can pull it out and check it.

The old style one has big fat cooling fins and if it is failing would have a raised line on the epoxy near the plug from the burnt circuit in it. Here's a pic of the old style



And a pic of the new style updated part.

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X5 pics

RIP 4.6is.....

2003 4.6is