2006 X5 4.4i Vibration issues after tons of CPO warranty work

[dmkaplan]

Hi Guys! Newbie here to the BMW world in general and definitely to the X5. We have had an MDX in the past and I replaced my AWD Volvo S60 with the SAV.

We purchased a:

2006 CPO X5 4.4i Executive Package, Sports Package (ZCY), DSP Radio, Titanium Silver on Dakota Leather, 19" Rims.

Anyway, I would like your input. I purchased the vehicle CPO in October 2010. About 10 days after I had it, the check engine light came on. Took it to the dealer. They run the codes - DME 29CF, 29D2, 29D3, 29CC. They then reset the system, tell me that it misfired due to "unfavourable ambient conditions" and sent me on my way.

1 week later, Check engine light comes on; take it back to the dealer. Run the codes: DME 29CE, 29CF, 29D0, 29D2, 29D3, 29D4, 29CC.
All cyl missfire.


Following warranty work performed: Vent value cover 1-4 replaced, new value cover and pipes


3 days after they drop off the vehicle to my office: Check engine light again. Now vehicle running rough and cylinder 1 & 2 misfiring.

Following work performed:

CCV replaced on bank 2;
Ignition Coil 1 and 2 replaced
New Spark plugs

Three days later... Check engine light again. vehicle running rough and the vehicle hesitates and lurches while in 1st gear (i.e. while driving in a parking lot). It also intermittently shifts very hard into third. This issue occurs with mild throttle.

Plus there were additional small issues that were annoying me:

1. The vehicle vibrates when idling in gear. This was intermittent but does >50% of the time.


2. Adaptive headlight not working

3. The steering wheel squeaks when turned left or right. This is a high pitches squeak/rubbing sound.
4. The hydraulic trunk lift is not working properly.

5. There were some paint issues that were not addressed during the CPO.

So after I send a letter to the dealership owner and to BMW Canada CEO; they take back the truck for 4 weeks give me a 2011 X5 loaner and perform the following service:

- L Front Headlight and Adaptive Headlamp Module replaced
- Service Bulletin for rubbing sound from steering column
- Replaced both gas shocks of tailgate
- fix the fact that Bank 1 CAN sensor disconnected
- replaced transmission gasket set, rings and rings

- replace Intermediate levers and rocker arms replaced
- Alternator solenoid valve replaced and seized alternator mountings
- Repainted lower tailgate and both rear quarter panels and repaired (lower tailgate)


Now, the truck runs fine except for the following remaining issue: The vehicle vibrates when idling in gear. This is intermittent but does >50% of the time, especially when it is cold. I also notice that the blower fan RPM for the heater/AC drops when the car is decelerating and downshifts from 3rd to 2nd.

Is this normal for an 2006 X5 4.4i or do I send it back to the dealer?

This is a great vehicle but I can't believe that they sent the vehicle CPO out the door in the manner they did. In my mind, this vehicle has NOT "passed the same rigorous inspections and quality controls that new BMWs go through," and is not "fully equipped with peace of mind." (To quote the BMW Canada CPO website)

FYI - the CPO manager and the sales guy have since left the dealership.

Sorry for the long post but any help here would be most appreciated. Clearly, this the X5 is a much more complex vehicle than the Mazda Miata that I fix myself!

[dlennard]

I have had almost all the problems you have had except the paint. I bought a 2006 4.4 x5 sport CPO with 18,000 miles about 2 years ago and it has the engine vibration, headlight not coming on, steering wheel squeak, hesitates and lurch, and does not downshift when turning slow corners. The car has been to the dealer several times and they did fix the steering wheel and headlight and replaced the levers, alternator, and turned up the idle. The car still vibrates 50% of the time at idle, does not downshift when turning corners, hesitates and lurches in first gear, engine has ticking sound and the engine does not have the deep sound any more it sounds like compressed air is coming out the exhaust. I will be taking it back to the dealer again but don't have much faith in the work they do.
I don't have any answers for you just wanted you to know you are not alone and look forward to getting help from other members.

[NotreDame05]

I have an x5 4.4 06 and live in Minnesota. The thing has major problems starting in cold weather. I should have purchased a ford escort - at least i'd know the thing would start fine. This vehicle is going to be a money pit.

[amalouf]

I have the exact same problems. Just had the spark plugs changed but vibration at idle persists. Will probably need intermediate levers. These cars are unbelievably unreliable but so great to drive.

[dmkaplan]

I forgot to add that the lurching forward in 1st was fixed by adjusting the minimum vakvenlift to .3mm. The vibration still persists, I was just out for a short trip for the wife and it was actually worse. I may go to another dealer here in Toronto to see if they have a suggestion. I wonder if it is an electrical issue rather than a tranny issue given that it seems to worsen with increased electrical load (eg. Seat heater, rear defrost).

The vehicle has 90,000kms.

[jst2878]

Intermediate levers and software updates for tranny and what not

[NotreDame05]

Do you think if I install an oil pan heater pad this would take care of the issue?

My 328is has been sitting for 2 weeks outside in 5-15 degree (F) weather and starts on a dime with no issues. Damn 4.4i POS engine.

[dmkaplan]

Just an update. BMW Canada has asked me to take it to another dealer (i.e. not the one I purchased it at). They looked at it today. It needs a new transfer case. On back-order from Germany. Will arrive in 2 weeks. Will update everyone one it is installed!

[dpgx5]

which dealer was it

[dragoncoach]

Originally Posted by dmkaplan

Just an update. BMW Canada has asked me to take it to another dealer (i.e. not the one I purchased it at). They looked at it today. It needs a new transfer case. On back-order from Germany. Will arrive in 2 weeks. Will update everyone one it is installed!

That says a lot about the selling dealer. If BMW Canada recommended you take the X to another dealer, it's telling you the dealership is basically not meeting their standards or has lots of complaints. Hopefully, all will be resolved when the new transfer case is installed.