Andy,
I agree that the noise is quite loud for a BMW.This is why i took it back to the dealer.In theory it should not make this noise when the temperature is mild or upwards,so hopefully we should not hear it for much of the year?.I would appreciate it if you could keep me informed of how you get on with the replacement parts from your dealer.I think that the problem with the BMW X5 is that it is so good, that when you get any problem at all it really stands out.I have an intermittant creaking from the panoramic sunroof that is driving me crazy at the moment.Ive lubricated everything i can find around the area but to no avail.The dealer says come in and demonstrate the fault,which i will do,but i know he is going to think,"oh no,weve got a nutter here",which i will find embarrassing,so i am trying to fix it myself.Anyway enjoy the car,as we are certainly doing even with a couple of teething problems,egards, SIMON.