http://www.xoutpost.com/bmw-sav-foru...0-minutes.html
This link will help answer all these questions as everyone has had one of these challenges. You can rebuild it yourself (clean, repack, and reboot) not too big of a challenge. I have a shop near me that has used the Rockauto shafts with no issues. As mentioned they are a cheap alternative. Remans that are rebuilt locally will last as long as the OE. Just plan on checking the boots on every oil change. Give them a longer life by spraying them down with some rubber protector as it will keep them flexible through the seasons.
My own I pulled the shafts, cleaned the joints, and then repacked them with new boots, as I had just a tear with no dirt, rust, water etc inside.
Good luck as this is not a big challenge. Just read the link and choose a path- Rebuild, replace, clean and reboot. Just depends on what you find inside.
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2005 X5 4.8IS
The
Blue ones are always FASTER....
Current Garage:
2005 X5 4.8is
2002 M5 TiSilver
2003 525iT
1998 528i
Former Garage Stable Highlights
2004 325XiT Sport
1973 De Tomaso Pantera, L Model
1970 Dodge Challenger T/A 4 sp Alpine White
1970 Dodge Challenger T/A 4 sp GoManGo Green
1971 Dart Sport, “Dart Light” package
1969 Road Runner 383
1968 Ply Barracuda 340S FB Sea-foam Green