It was time for a bit of service to keep the X5 in top form, so for Christmas it was a trip to Autobahn BMW in Fort Worth for some goodies including:

> A new valve cover gasket (first time)
> New spark plugs (second time)
> New front tension struts (first time)
> New fuel sending units - both sides (first time)
> A new steering shaft double U-joint (first time)
> New heater hoses - the last originals in the cooling system (first time)
> A new expansion tank (second time)
> A new thermostat - warranty replacement (second time)
> New fan & A/C drive belts (third time)
> A new secondary air pump hose (first time)
> A coolant flush (third time)
> A brake fluid flush (eighth time)
> An oil/filter change (thirtieth time)
> And a CV boot inspection just for good luck!

Zac got me out the door for under $2900 and arranged for a beautiful black sapphire 5 series sedan as a loaner. I have to admit I love that comfort access option! The service tech said the engine looked as clean as a whistle inside with no evidence of sludge, varnish or condensation and he could barely detect any timing chain wear at all. I'm convinced my 25,000 miles per year is just about the right amount of driving!

The next oil change will probably include some new rear lower control arm bushings as the squeaks are starting to scare other drivers around me...

Happy New Year and more Happy Motoring to all

2002 X5 3.0 245,700 miles
2004 325i 109,000 miles