X5 on the Dalton Highway in March - am I nuts?

[rh71]

I would be very hesitant to take a randomly-reliable car such as a BMW through such places.

[brian5]

Originally Posted by rh71

I would be very hesitant to take a randomly-reliable car such as a BMW through such places.

[Bayerische E53]

As for your windshield concerns...

Invisible Windshield Protection Films by ClearPlex®

Wonderful product.

[zx45]

my best advice, if you want a troublefree trip: Go whit an FJ CRUISER.

[Sylvan Lake V35]

Get your windshield replaced in Canada on your way back, it's very common to replace them here so windshields are not very expensive clear plex is usually more expensive than a new windshield....what are you doing in Prudoe? Times would have to be very tough for me to end up back there. You will be the Only BMW there it was pretty much all F250s when up was there last. you should look into tire chains and a CB radio as well so you know what is coming on the hills on the Dalton ie wide loads ect.

[rh71]

cousin recently replaced her 328i windshield at a canadian Speedy for over $400. It's still a lot. And they have tons of new development = rock chips.

[finn1969]

I have friends stationed at Wainwright in Fairbanks and that weather is no joke; especially this time of year. Unless you have a real reason to do this or are familiar with the elements, I would question your decision.

I can't imagine having car trouble and being stranded in -40 degree temps in a vehicle that is inoperable. I hope you have a good reason to do this and are prepared for the worst.

[wigner]

Wow, I hesitate to drive down even San Diego with my wife's X5.
a beautiful place though.

[EenyBear]

Fascinating idea.

Is it for the drive itself or to say you did it in an X5? I'm not judging, just asking. Both perspectives are valid depending on your motivation.

Frankly, if you are appropriately prepared ... and ready to film or photo-essay your adventure ... you might even get sponsorship from BMW. Or they would tell you quietly to choose another vehicle. That would be the litmus test for me.

If you are dead set on trying, ask BMW to put their money where their mouth is vis a vis this video:
BMW X5 and X6 off-road driving videos

Net cost alternative: you could take the $20,000 in inevitable damage/depreciation to the X5 and buy an F250 in Bellingham before crossing the border and then sell it on the way back down. Might cost a few thousand overall. Probably less than the inevitable damage to a stock X5. Just like buying/selling a used VW van to tour Europe.

Anything is possible, but I'm fairly confident a stock X5 just isn't the vehicle of choice (normally) for anything north of Whistler. The urban suspension and lack of a true 4x4 immediately come to the top of the list.

Just to clarify what may be required, google "off road BMW X5" and witness the carnage.

Best of luck either way and keep us posted. If you go, you re going to learn things worth sharing and we'll be grateful for the insights and information.

Ian

[teffi71]

Thank you for all your feedback!

Scott, you really changed my mind! The Dempster it is now! And the ice road!

I have posted the same question also here:
Expedition Portal
X5 on the Dalton Highway in March - am I nuts? - Bimmerfest - BMW Forums

I am currently contacting BMW North America and Germany to see what they think about such a trip.
Depending on BMW's feedback, I might change the vehicle to a Toyota Tacoma or FJ Cruiser.
Once, it is a go, I will let you know and post from the road whereever wifi will be available ;o)

Thanks again for the great feedback!