Vibration problem. (Engine mount issue solved)
 

I hate to do it but I may have to take this issue to the dealer unless someone has experienced this issue. This is not hard to explain but may be hard to diagnosis. Note the differences between the morning first start and after the X warms up.

1 In the morning, Idle speed with compressor off, vehicle in drive, sitting still not driving, steering wheel vibrates like a message chair. Step on accelerator vibration goes away but not completely.

2 In the morning, Idle speed with compressor on, vehicle in drive, sitting still not driving, vibration much less but still evident. Step on accelerator vibration goes away

3 After the X warms up Idle speed with compressor off, Sitting still with vehicle in drive, steering vibration less but very evident. Step on accelerator vibration goes away

4 After the X warms up Idle speed with compressor on Sitting still with vehicle in drive, vibration hardly evident.

Any thoughts. :dunno:

Engine mounts? They become more pliant when warmed up?

:iagree:

Have someone rev the engine up and down while you look at the engine. Does it rock from side to side? If it does your engine mounts are shot.

I have the same exact situation too.............but really engine mounts?

I had similar issue and it was engine mounts. So check them out.

OKAY WILL DO.:dunno:

:iagree: Classic symptoms

As the rubber cushion deteriorates the ability of Noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH) isolation goes away. The noise will increase to a "BUZZ" noise as everything gets worse. This is why they are made from rubber.

If you would like to experience true NVH, try a V8 american '60 vintage with solid mounts or a elephant ear mounts for a hemi application. You can even feel the alternator and water pump bearings spinning. The starter engagement feels like it is attached to your right leg.:wow:
http://i427.photobucket.com/albums/p...ps1052f8b8.jpg

I changed my engine mounts because of a similar vibration issue that you describe. I have to tell you I was shocked in the difference in noise isolation quality when I changed my engine mounts. I have 106K on my 4.6is X5. If you have original mounts I would not hesitate in getting this changed. These X's are sensitive to noise vibration.

Oh and I understand why you may be a little hesitant in wanting to change the engine mounts. Its not an easy job and a little more labor involved than the standard engine mount change.

The engine in these X5's may not rock side to side even with a deteriorated engine mounts. Mine had deteriorated mounts and still held the engine upon revving but the vibration noted in the car was killing me (that little resonance felt through the steering wheel). Changed the engine mounts and like magic the vibration disappeared.

I'm going to jump on the engine mount band wagon... and mine @ 108k is on my list of things to do. I've got the tell tale signs of vibration through the steering wheel.

Will probably change trans mounts as well as a matter of completeness.