2005 x5 4.4 with new motor---some repair related questions

[kashmir]

I took my x5 for the first time to an Indie. Dealer had pointed out that I needed following repairs.
-replace front lower control arms/thrust arm bushings
-both front axles

Indie agreed with first one but he thought axles were fine. He suggested to replace only boots which are badly torn and are leaking grease. After taking my car for a drive he said, axles didnt need to be replaced as he couldnt hear any noise at turns.

---He thought my transmission wasnt running smooth and also suggested to replace brakes. He recommended changing transmission fluid. Dealer had left brakes in green zone.

I was surprised about his suggestion to replace brakes...(quote $1100 all oem for 4). I am pretty sure dealer would certainly have pointed this out. How can I tell when they are due for replacement ...how many mms from the metal?...

---should I go ahead with transmission fluid change? I know this is controversial.
--- what about his observation regarding not replacing axles.

BTW, I asked him to check price on new motor...it was whopping $24k on his quotation system... pretty exaggerated . nevertheless it was a good gift ..thank you BMWNA

[X5SND]

There's nothing wrong with changing just the CV boots provided you haven't been driving around with them long enough to allow sand/dirt to enter, as that will shorten the life of the joint. As your mech stated, they aren't making any noise...so a pair of boots (I'm assuming outers, as they take the brunt of abuse) would be fine.

For brakes, there is a minimum thickness stamped onto the rotor hat. Pads can be judged by a simple visual inspection. Unless you have a specific reason for going OEM on the rotors and pads, you can cut the cost down by using aftermarket parts as many here do. This forum contains tons of info regarding brands for pads and rotors floating around.


Good luck!

[ThaDannyP]

24k holy COW

[kashmir]

Originally Posted by X5SND

There's nothing wrong with changing just the CV boots provided you haven't been driving around with them long enough to allow sand/dirt to enter, as that will shorten the life of the joint. As your mech stated, they aren't making any noise...so a pair of boots (I'm assuming outers, as they take the brunt of abuse) would be fine.

For brakes, there is a minimum thickness stamped onto the rotor hat. Pads can be judged by a simple visual inspection. Unless you have a specific reason for going OEM on the rotors and pads, you can cut the cost down by using aftermarket parts as many here do. This forum contains tons of info regarding brands for pads and rotors floating around.


Good luck!

i see people using EBC/Akebonos pads...any recommendations on rotors
thanks

[kashmir]

Originally Posted by ThaDannyP

24k holy COW

i think that was totally bloated...bmw who worked on my x5 told me it was $10k..most likely that is their cost...not sure though

[X5SND]

Originally Posted by kashmir

i see people using EBC/Akebonos pads...any recommendations on rotors
thanks

I've been using Akebono ceramic pads since forever, and love em. As for rotors, I went with the Stoptech cryo sportstop drilled rotors available through tire rack. They have a coating on the hat and insides of the discs that prevent them from rusting.