It would help if we knew what kind of X5 you had. Braking system is similar, but different sub models have different identical failures.

With that said, the description is a little confusing. The brake fluid smell... Does it smell like it is burning or just as if you opened a fresh container? Brake fluid has a very faint odor. Since the X was sitting for a long period of time, it may be beneficial flush the brake system and get fresh fluid in the system, especially if its been over 2 years, but as you mentioned it has a good track record... unless you did it yourself, do it again. Also may be beneficial to remove the calipers and inspect the dust boots on all of the calipers. The wheel that was not rotating freely, it could be a sticky caliper, or could be a binding wheel bearing, or binding axle... for them to say it was a sticky caliper and not look into it further was irresponsible.

As far as the vibration in the steering wheel... it sounds like you have a bit of a rough idle going on, if I am understanding your statement right. Is the steering wheel itself only shaking or is it the whole car? Need a little bit more information on that. We know it doesnt vibrate once the car is in motion, which eliminates suspension. It could be motor mounts, but with such a heavy car, you will feel a "SLAM" when you take off from a stop.

As far as brake lines... if you are not losing a high amount of fluid or getting a spongy pedal... chances are your lines are fine. Do a visual inspection... but a busted line is very noticeable.

So get back to us with more info.

__________________

2011 E70 50i M Sport