My 2003 X3 4.4 - Suggestions Welcomed

[alexpdx]

Hey Everyone,

I've been creeping on the forum for a few days now but thought it was as good of a time as any to throw up my first post. (Some great write-ups and rides on here BTW!)

I purchased this 2003 X5 4.4 approximately two weeks ago, and since then its been been pretty solid. It has 149,000 miles, but it was purchased at a reasonable price.

I have a strong desire to do some upgrades and modifications. Anything to make the car look or perform better. My budget is around $1000-$1500.

Completed thus far:
-Clear side markers (not pictured)
-Black grill (not pictured)
-Auxiliary Input Retrofit Kit (ordered)
-Clear tail lights to replace the amber (ordered)
-All-Weather Floor Mats (ordered)
-Tires (now wishing I hadn't and instead bought new rims)

Possibly in the works:
-DEPO angel headlamps
-M3 Tri-Colored steering wheel
-OEM Aluminum running boards
-YOUR SUGGESTIONS


So that was the fun stuff. I welcome your suggestions.

Now...

Issues with the X5 thus far:

(1) Putting the car in reverse causes the passenger side mirror to aim downwards, and then I'd say 20% of the time it doesn't return to it original position after putting the car in drive. (Found writeup by member "bulk", will attempt to degrease it this weekend. Thanks!)

(2) The 6-Disk CD changer in the back had a jammed cassette. I read a lot of posts here about it, couldn't unjam it and ended up buying a used one on ebay. It arrives later this week... hope it works.

(3) 10% of the time accelerating the car from a complete stop causes the car to slightly kick/jerk for 1/10th of a second and then engages. I feel like this happens more often after I've driven for a few minutes. I thought I was going crazy but my wife noticed it too. Any idea what expensive fix I am looking at with this one?

Thanks!