Newbie repair list

[bwhitworth]

Bought my first X5 3.0 (and first BMW) at an auction a few weeks ago. It's an '06 with 137k on the clock. Seems really tight and well taken care of. Drives great. But, I wanted to take it to a mechanic to see if there's any pressing issues. I trust him pretty well. He used to work on my Volvo XC90 (doesn't even compare to the X5). Here's the list of things he came up with:

Lower radiator hose and fan switch leaking - $226.00

Power Steering pressure hose from pump to rack leaking - $414.00

Power steering suction hose reservoir to pump leaking - $172.00

Power steering hose from reservoir to cooler leaking - $258.00

Vanos oil line leaking - $158.80

Left front axle outer boot split. Recommend replacing axle - $1164.00

Tension struts on front suspension - $633.65

So, my questions are

1) Which of these are actually pressing issues? I know PS hoses can tend to seep with age. I know some will say just do it all, but I'm not sure I'm ready to dump another 3k into this car.

2) I've done some work on my cars in the past, but never a German car. I'm a little intimidated by the BMW. Any repairs that I should just absolutely stay away from myself whether on this list or not. (I know it's hard to know not knowing my skill level)

3) Are his prices fair?

Any help appreciated. So far I've found this site to be awesome.

Thanks.

[bcredliner]

Before I did anything I would clean the engine and power steering with engine cleaner and get all the oil and fluid off and see where it returns.

As long a the power steering fluid is full and there isn't a puddle on the ground every morning I would not consider it an urgent issue.

If there is a coolant leak once the engine is up to operating temp you should be able to see how much and where the leak is. Coolant leaks are a critical issue as low coolant can cause engine damage from overheating and some leaks are indications a hose it about to split which will leave you stranded and can cause engine damage very quickly.

I would top off the oil after the engine is clean to determine if the leak is there and how bad it is.

Unless the axle is making noises indicating bearings are gone, I might just have the boot and lube replaced. Since you don't know how long it has been that way there is a better chance the axle does need to be replaced. I would want to see if there is any lube left in the boot. If it is dry or I see any rust I would replace it.

Bad suspensions parts change alignment. Usually the rest of the suspension is also worn if those parts haven't already been replaced. I would want to know how bad the problem is. Out of alignment specs will cause tire wear. If it can be properly aligned I would not call it an urgent issue.

I would make sure to resolve the cooling system issues ASAP. If the other hoses look the same same age, the best practice is to replace all coolant hoses, and some replace the water pump at the same time. I don't necessarily replace the water pump but I do inspect it very closely for telltale signs of any leaking.

As far as costs, it depends the local cost per labor hour and what brand parts the Indy is quoting so it is difficult to comment on the costs.

[X5SND]

B pretty much nailed it. Only thing I'll add is about the Vanos oil line. If the line is leaking where the crimp is it'll have to be replaced...but other than that I'd throw some new washers on it and snug it up. It uses bolts that go through the fitting on the end to supply oil...so if they're loose they'll all but certainly leak. May be able to fix it with the $0.30 washers instead of a $150 line.

[bwhitworth]

Thanks for the input. You've said pretty much what I was thinking. I don't see any need to do the PS lines yet. I think I'll get the leaking coolant stuff fixed and see what I can find out about the vanos line and see where we go from there.

[Brandon002]

1165 bucks to replace a front axle?

I suggest finding a new mechanic. That price is outrageous. Labor should run around 250-350 and the part around 100-300.

You can get axles anywhere from 100-300 bucks depending on where you shop and the brand of axle you want. Installation is straight forward for anyone with even limited mechanical skill.

[Brandon002]

1165 bucks to replace a front axle?

I suggest finding a new mechanic. That price is outrageous. Labor should run around 250-350 and the part around 100-300.

You can get axles anywhere from 100-300 bucks depending on where you shop and the brand of axle you want. Installation is straight forward for anyone with even limited mechanical skill.

[bcredliner]

Originally Posted by Brandon002

1165 bucks to replace a front axle?

I suggest finding a new mechanic. That price is outrageous. Labor should run around 250-350 and the part around 100-300.

You can get axles anywhere from 100-300 bucks depending on where you shop and the brand of axle you want. Installation is straight forward for anyone with even limited mechanical skill.

How did you get a copy of the detail of Indy's quote?

DIY---replacing the axle--great idea, wish I had thought of that, what a fabulous way to eliminate BMW intimidation.

Keep up the good work!

[RFaber]

I repaired my front cv axle boot for around $20 in parts! i suspect he gave you a quote to replace the front axles AND the Diff!!!!
I would question him on that quote! alot of the stuff seems like things you could do yourself with a reasonable level of mechanical ability (and you tube! or this forum!!)

[Brandon002]

Originally Posted by bcredliner

How did you get a copy of the detail of Indy's quote?

DIY---replacing the axle--great idea, wish I had thought of that, what a fabulous way to eliminate BMW intimidation.

Keep up the good work!

What?

[StephenVA]

BCredliner nailed it on what is pressing now, what needs attention, and what are the steps to determine what is actually leaking and how much. At that mileage the list is short so you are OK with a few DIY projects. Search the forum and the projects will not seem so overwhelming. The inspection and next steps outlined for you on the outer axle boot is spot on. I did mine in 2 hrs with no issues what so ever all due to the efforts and knowledge on this form. My investment was $40 for an OE boot and a few tools to lock down the boot clamp. Search for "CV Boot replaced in 20 minutes" and you will find all you need. Some of us took longer to do the job as we are "Challenged". Or maybe we wanted a cleaner end result.....

Add the normal preventive maintenance items that should be done as a process to prevent future issues. Examples: All fluids front and rear diff, brake fluid, antifreeze (BMW only fluid), plugs, valve cover seals, filters air and HVAC. There is a whole range of topics that can sort this area out for you. Just use the search tool.
There is a lot of DIY in the "How To" sections on the top of this page that can make your life easier. Your 3.0L is the easiest one to maintain so enjoy.
To help with your understanding of the X5 go to Exploded Parts view at Penske Parts - Technical Diagrams & Parts Catalog There are lots of vendors who can provide the parts you need to complete the jobs.

Welcome to the family of BMW's greatest SAV. Keep posting on your adventures of ownership.