X5 Shopping

whaler · #1 12-11-2010, 03:16 PM

I'm in the market for an E53 4.8L X5. I just test drove a nice one, 2004 with 75K miles. I have a question on a problem I noted. When I braked when on the highway over 65 mph, both front tires displayed a very bad shimmy, shaking the steering wheel almost violently. It is not noticable at lower speeds. But it is very, very evident braking above 65. I'm thinking it could be ball joints or rotors. Any ideas? BTW, any thoughts on buying one with 75K miles?

JCL · #2 12-11-2010, 03:21 PM

It could be brakes, but IMO it is more likely to be something loose in the suspension, set off by braking. First thing to check would be the control arm bushings. Lots of posts on this topic if you do a search.

whaler · #3 12-11-2010, 03:33 PM

Thanks. Did a search and there is definitely valuable info on the subject. Could be something minor. They'll let me take it to my mechanic, so I'll get a definite answer then.

EGZ5 · #4 12-11-2010, 04:23 PM

Do yourself a favor and forget the X5 unless you're prepared to fix something every other week at an extremely high cost.

diyanich · #5 12-11-2010, 05:01 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by EGZ5

Do yourself a favor and forget the X5 unless you're prepared to fix something every other week at an extremely high cost.

Hey

,your bad experience doesn't necessarily apply to everyone else

Fraser · #6 12-11-2010, 06:45 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by diyanich

Hey

,your bad experience doesn't necessarily apply to everyone else

My X has been reliable and cheap to run. It's never been near the dealer except for regular services.

Quicksilver · #7 12-11-2010, 06:58 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by diyanich

Hey

,your bad experience doesn't necessarily apply to everyone else

Naz24 · #8 12-12-2010, 02:55 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Fraser

BMW has sold more than a million X5s world wide. If the X was an inherent failure, then the world would know about it. The fact that the E53 has a better resale value (at least here) than just about anything in its class (especially first-generation MLs) is testament to its integrity. It may not be as well built as other BMWs (even those built in South Africa) but it is not a dud. Simple as that. As they say, "you are entitled to your own opinion, but not your own facts".

Agreed again. I think that the X5 is a great car. With some simple preventative maintenance and knowledge (provided by us) you will be great.

EGZ5 · #9 12-12-2010, 02:29 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Naz24

Agreed again. I think that the X5 is a great car. With some simple preventative maintenance and knowledge (provided by us) you will be great.

great at what?

joeboch348 · #10 12-12-2010, 02:42 PM

i agree with diyanich , go buy cayenne or something else. i bought my 02 4.4 new. ive babied it, it has just 90k on it now and the list of repairs is longer than a pornstar's schlong! $6000 tranny @ 75k miles. window regulators, alternators, front end work, steering colomn motors. ac units, water pumps now the sunroof casette is leaking. ruined the radio, cd changer, nav unit, ride control unit, tow package unit and battery. this is a $5000+ bill. (why put the electronics in the lowest part of the vehicle?) My local bimmer stealer is horrible, (i have to drive 40 miles to the next one)so ask owners around you how yours is. otherwise i love the X5 lol it's like marriage, when it's good its good when it's bad......