Originally Posted by Netsurfr

I was pretty much ready to put an order for a leased X5M but after doing a bit of research on the car I'm having second thoughts...

1. I came across the paint chipping issue and seems to me the current solution is to install clearbra in the front & side areas of the car but this comes at the owners expense because BMW's 3M solution does not cover all the trouble areas. Second option is installing the new mud flaps which will look weird? I'm also wondering if I choose not to install the clearbra or mud flaps if BMW Financial will turn around and ding me for excessive wear if the paint is all chipped?

2. I also read about really bad brake squeals and seems like the standard dealer answer is "performance brakes" which I know is BS given my experience w/ other vehicles. I did come across a couple of post relating to a "repair kit" bmwna came out w/ (new pads it seems) but wonder if I'll have to fight the dealer to get them to do this if I end up w/ the same brake squeal problems others have?

Any thoughts/advice would be greatly appreciated!