Engine whistle diagnosed - details

[EenyBear]

I originally posted about this here:
http://www.xoutpost.com/bmw-sav-foru...ak-squeal.html

reference - 2011 E70 X5 fully loaded, very low mileage, pristine, not abused, etc.

Because there now appears to be something specifically diagnosed and recognized by BMW NA as an issue, I thought I'd start a new thread.

For those that haven't heard this noise... lucky you. It sounds like three gophers whistling and is usually audible at cold idle and on rare occasions can be heard while driving. However, the seriously audible moment is immediately after the engine is shut off. The whistles are quite pronounced (loud and long).

I originally thought it might be belts/pulleys or alternator bearings. But it doesn't sound like metal on metal. It was more of a whistle and a whistle means air. So I thought i might be the manifold gasket, or a cracked tube, or something related to the turbos.

Several weeks ago, the otherwise mystified Dealer acknowledged the noise and tried to solve the issue by replacing the manifold gaskets. Best intentions. No complaints. But the noise did not go away. Alternator bearings seemed fine. Tubes, belts and pulleys too.

Then the Dealer said they received word from BMW NA that several engines out there need to have their front and rear crank bearings inspected and likely replaced due to a manufacturing defect. Based on presenting symptoms from several vehicles including X5s and X3s they suggest that this is the solution for me. I hope so.

Dealer ordered some special collection of parts and tools under instruction from BMW NA. Took the X5 in yesterday as the supplies have arrived after a considerable delay. So, my X5 is in for the warranty front and rear bearing replacement.

I have been unable to find the mystery service bulletin or find any other official reference to this sound/issue. I have seen a few posts asking about a whistling noise involving a wide range of X5s. This may be the reason.

Anybody want to discuss this?