Official 3.0 Diesel Engine Issues & Comments Thread
 

Hi
I posted a thread yesterday regarding a suggestion to open a sub section on x5 world for the 3.0D engine which we have in Europe.

Unfortunately we do get issues with this engine, sometimes posts by Diesel owners can be repetetive and can not get the required 3.0D help from the guys over in the states.

Within a short time of posting this idea, it had been moved to another section (suggestions -new ideas) and has had one reply (granted a positive one!).

My point is, most people only check the main forum on E53's and would not notice the moved thread.:confused:

Can a person who has the ability to move threads either move it back so it can be discussed and possibly be acted on, or pm me with the best way forward on creating a 3.0D forum within x5 world.:cool:

Thanks in advance.

I have raised the issue with the other moderators/admins of X5world.

My personal opinion is that we would then have to consider addressing each engine specifically, not just the diesel. While I sympathize with your situation I think that diligent use of the search function and original posts with clear post titles effectively provide those with 3.0d issues access to previous posts. I have been seeing more old posts being resurrected lately which tells me that the search function is working to help find previous posts on same topics.

Perhaps a compiled list of known or common 3.0d engine issues and solutions could be created and posted on the X5world homepage as an article for permanent reference. Hint, hint. :stickpoke:

That would be a move forward, good idea.

can moderators help with this possible solution?
 

Can anyone shed some light on how we can have the threads for 3.0D vehicles (regarding engine issues, tips and advice) at one easy reference point?

Here's a good example of how to promote a specific subject.
http://www.xoutpost.com/lounge/43455-...ighlight=pinoy

Just name it "The official Diesel thread"

If there's enough interest it may survive on it's own.

Any European, asian, eastern interest in a thread '3.0D issues and comments' to be posted as a thread that we can all refer to re this engine, not available in the USA.

Any comments would be welcome.

An excellent idea lets do this please:cool:

Richard

I have changed the thread title to the "Official 3.0 Diesel Engine Issues & Comments Thread". Hopefully it will become a vibrant thread and offer help to you lucky enough to have the 3.0d engine option.

thto: I turned this thread into the official one so that your original post shows the history of this thread. :thumbup:

boooo Give them a forum :D

What are the issues with the engine?

Thanks for the help guys. Let's make this thread as active as possible.

Well, keep checking this thread and you'll find out. :fishing:

Typical problems with 3.0D
 

Typical problems I have seen in my short time on X5 World are :

wont start usually down to an injector or injectors 'leaking back' (common problem);
wont start fuel rail pressure sensor;
wont start Cam sensor;
Wont start fuel pumps (any of 3)
Wont start fuel filter problem.

Problems with heater 'plugs'

Problems with aux ventilation (fitted as standard on European Diesel X5)

This is not an exhaustive list, however if anyone without a diesel tries to search for diesel problems you would spend a lot of time filtering them ot from everything else.

Is there a way we can retro link previous Diesel threads to this one now?

Many thanks

No issues with my E53 diesel engine as close to perfection as you can get IMHO well the new E70 3.0sd is better of course. It may not sound like the petrol V8 (only downside) but BMW diesel powered cars are probably the most capable vehicles in the world they provide a perfect balance between performance and economy. I get 28 -30mpg (UK gallon) on a two ton truck not bad eh and a 0-60 around 8 secs. For such an old girl none of the equivalent competitors can touch Q7, RR , VW, etc….

Richard

:thumbup: Great idea to have the 3D thread and a must to keep it active and current.

I drive an 02 E53 X5 3.0d and major repairs done so far :

1) FSR
2) auxilliary fan assembly
3) replace brake pads ( OEM brand)

Engine wise, just finished doing Inspection 2.

Major mod I did was replace exhaust to be like a 4.4/4.6 with tips exposed...:thumbup:

I have one question. I just upgraded my exhaust and installed exposed exhaust tips on my 02 E53 X5 3.0d. I painted my exhaust tips using high temp black spray paint. However, after a few days I noticed once the black exhaust smoke from the diesel exhaust mix with the high temp black paint, the paint starts to peel of slowly. Is there any other stronger high temp paint I should use or some precoating needed to spray to my exhaust tips before I apply the the black paint.....:dunno:

why do you want to paint your tips painted black, they are suppose to be chromed, to give that nice elegant touch to de the exhaust. Why would you paint it black when the diesel fumes can take care of that.

peake fault codes
 

Hi All

I am having some intermittent starting problems with my diesel x5.
Starts on the button every morning rain or shine, or whenever has not run for several hours.

At other times it can be problematic, sometimes taking 5-10 minutes to start after cranking every minute or so.

when driving, it is sweet and no lumpy idling.


I purchased a peake code reader and for those familiar with them, this is what I found.

From 'fc' (fault check mode) press 'go' and reader shows '52' then 'c' then 'ie' then '25' then returns to '--' (which I believe means no more codes found).

I understand this to be a code of ie25.

I cannot find this code anywhere in the accompanying peake booklet, do I need to convert it?

I suspect the starting issue is heat related on a resistor type / sensor item as when cold the car starts like a dream. Only when warm and used several times in the day do I get the problem.

Anyone help?

Thanks

Come on all you 3.0d owners. Help your fellow oil burners out. This thread is here for you guys. Make it happen!

Let me clarify that I did not paint the whole tips black. I was referring to the inside portion of the tip exhaust which I painted black. This is similar to the original AC Schnitzer tips design.:D

Service green bars
 

I have done 34k from new (now 2 years old) and I still have 2 green service bars (brake fluid square is up so that will need doing but was waiting to have it done with oil service). I am due to take the car to Europe and will do 2.0k or so in 10 days. Should I wait for bars to disappear before servicing, when can I expect the next service to be due (lights to go out) this will only be its 2nd ever service so what’s involved?

Thansk

Richard

Is regularly scheduled maintenance for eligible X5's free of charge in the UK? If so, my dealer would not perform the free service until the green lights were off and the service indicator was alight. They were more than happy to do it at my expense though.

Good question and yep your right "They are always more than happy to do it at my expense."

Hello,

After 2 years and 40000km no problems with the diesel engine (218 hp). With the autogearbox on the other hand ... . It has just been replaced at 35000 km. Anyone the same kind of experience with the gearbox matched to the diesel?

Gr

Had an autobox problem with my previous E46 330d. There was apparently a batch of 2002/2003 models that had GM manufactured trannies that didn't last...... ? After that ZF gearboxes were used and this alleviated the problem somewhat.
Never had a moments problem with my X5 3.0d except for an annoying and intermittent "check oil level" false warning since the last service.
Other than that I still feel amazed when I drive it. It always feels like I am driving someone else's car!! I can't believe I own it :D:D

:boogie: Love my X5

Re the starting problem I raised earlier in week
 

Re above:
The problem was cam sensor £76.00 inc VAT from stealer, 10 mins to fit.

OIL BREATHER SYSTEM

Parts no.s 11 to 15 on the link below

http://www.realoem.com/bmw/showparts...16&hg=11&fg=15


This is a crucial part of the engine that needs to be replaced periodically and is often overlooked and discarded by owners and dealers!
It is overlooked because of its built in location on the cylinder head!Unlike other common Oil Breather systems that have a hose from your Valve Cover to your Air Inlet pipe ,Bmws have a paper filter (oil separator) within a Capsule (breather) that has a channel .allowing filtration of oil back into your air inlet system.
This Filter(oil separator) has a tendency to clog up on higher mileage cars or cars with bad oils!I recommend changing this every 30,000 Kms .
The consequences of this clogging up completely are obvious!You engine cannot breath and it will blow out all the oil through the Dipstick,overheating and imminent engine seizure.
One occasion,one of my clients was lucky!His 3.0D was idling and stopped ,when I noticed loads of oil pouring out underneath the car!I opened the bonnet and the oil Dipstick was blown out and oil pouring out!We replaced the Breather system and car as new again..........

My oil breather system was checked in the stealereship when I had my Inspection 2 sevice.

Any recent problems for other X5 diesel owners ? :stickpoke

X5 3.0D Engine cover removal
 

I have a 2003 X5 3.0D X5 and have a CR chip sitting in my glove box to fix to it but cannot get at the connection on the common rail without removing the engine cover. Problem is the cover is very difficult to remove (couldn't do it).
Has anyone fitting one of these chips and how did you do it?
Did you do it without removing the engine cover, and how?
Has anyone removed their engine cover and how did you do it?

Welcome Nipps ! How about posting some pics of your X5 ?

Hi Nipps

You need to take off the air intake , the central bit above the engine in the bulkhead.
There are threads on here showing you how to do it. It is quite easy.

One thing about putting a chip on, it will throw all sorts of errors when the 5 is tested on an analyser, OK when it running well, but a night mare if you are looking for a specific problem.

Mine had one on when I got it and the chip masked a cam sensor problem until I removed it. (thats how I know you need to take off the air intake.....).

Also I have not seen any difference in performance since taking the chip off!
Hope this helps.

here in Australia I know a few people have put on DPchips and they declared immediate performance gain.

mine 2004 x5 MY05 3.0D sport has almost 70000km on the clock. the engine is loud when the turbo is pushed running, but the over all performance is excellent with about 9L/100 km for city driving. there was a gasket problem which led to minor oil leak, but was easily fixed.

very happy x5 3.0D owner.

one complaint, the sport suspension is very stiff!!!

Hi,
The problem with quick finding what is problem is with the codereader fault code interpretation. If You use another tool (e.g. some OBD2 scanner with larger display or PC connected) You would find that the code is not ie25 but 1E25 and then after a short Inet search You would find it means "Überwachung Drehzahlgeber/Cam Shaft position sensor". I had the same issue on my 3.0D car from time I bought it but the problem (car won´t start) occured only when coolant temperature was exactly at the point when the gauge needle left the blue area. At first, without any diagnostic adapter, I thought it´s something to do with immobiliser that does not allow car to be started, but after reading all car´s fault memories I found this fault. About 82€ for the sensor solved the problem.

One more thing concerning to this 1E25 fault. If it is stored in Your DDE 4.0 fault memory, the DDE control unit falls into, let me say, "emergency" mode causing some parts of the engine to be switched off of operation:
-the turbocharger exhaust gas flaps are not operated
-the amount of fuel injected is limited to some value
-swirl flaps in mainfold are not operated and remain closed

and maybe some more restriction, for full list I should search WDS where the description is located. This all causes the engine to perform much worse with lower torque, lower max power, lower dynamic, higher fuel consumption all this causes poor performance of EGS (automatic gearbox control unit) shifting "few hundreds revs" later (e.g. at 4t instead of at 2,5t when trying to overtake etc.) I reckon that the overall performance of my 184HP M57 3.0D engine was limited to value somewhere around 100-120HP so It felt like You have a totally clogged air filter or pulled handbrake.

Do not forget to erase this fault from DDE for sure. I did it and then I thought I have a brand new car :D . Awesome power, huge torque. Of course I get used to it soon but the first impression from this change was very intense :thumbup: .

Cheers, Kamil

discovered some air intake whistling when I push the pedal (not too hard, around 2000rpm), it's x5 MY05 3.0D sport with almost 70000km on the clock, any opinions why it whistles? and the engine shakes when idle? is this typical diesel engine behavior or just something has got wrong?

Hi,
Hard to say remotely like this, when one do not see the car physically but there is a quick and maybe useful guide here:

This whistling can have several causes.
- One can be incorrectly sealed intake tubing a) sucking in the air between air filter and turbocharger, b) blowing out the presurized air between turbocharger and cylinder head.
- Another can be slightly bent turbocharger´s intake turbine flaps a) after unfiltered air with any contaminant entered into the turbocharger b) after taking improper care of turbocharger (immediately reving engine high when cold, stalling engine and not allowing it to cool down after high load or fast driving, etc) causing too big free play in TC axle sleeves and allowing then flaps to touch TC housing. Bent flaps rotating over 100 thousands RPMs create dull whistle.

The engine should not shake much when idling. If You put a glass with water on it it should not move or spill at all but You will see a small waves on water surface of course. Find the root cause of the imbalance, first check if the engine runs smooth (all cylinders operates) and check the engine (and the gearbox as well) rubber mounting (see http://www.realoem.com/bmw/showparts...76&hg=22&fg=05 #8). I had all of them damaged and it caused not big but quite uncomfortable vibrations during a drive and it shaked with a car heavily when I turn the engine off. Check vacuum hoses and electr. valve too (#11-17).

Good idea as well is to find a skilled friend that can help You locate and fix the problem. This "something is whistling there" remote fault finding can sometimes be totaly incorrect.

Cheers, Kamil

Thanks, Kamil.

Not sure if I can really locate the problem with my little mechanical knowledge. But it's good to learn what are the potentially causing problems. I would perhaps get a dealer the check it out if I can't figure out tonight. still have three years warranty to go. lol

You are welcome,

if the problem is causing the TC, it is good to have it replaced in warranty as new one costs about $2000 incl. VAT plus about a day of work and over 7 qt of Longlife-04 oil. I better bought refurbished from Germany (new parts inside, old just housing) for 1/4 price and replaced it over a weekend by myself. It is good to have BMW TIS to hand for torque values and working instruction as not all steps to follow are intuitive.

You usually never get the user guide with Car´s user guide how to drive with turbochargers. Some 3rd party autoalarms offer an option in setup for "turbo after-cooling" that lets the engine run for a minute or two (gearbox in neutral for manual or in "P" for automatic tranny) after key removal and car locking to allow TC to cool down. This option is not available with BMW antitheft car system as I know.

Kamil

Another Aussie found you guys cause my 04 30dsport is running like a dog and now wont start at all obd shows a million codes but the main one looks to be cam sensor by what I can take form others experiences the other codes are as a result.

Will change this and see what happens

Had the car since new done 190k ( live in the country ) never missed a beat till now first became hard to start then was ok then ran rough then ok then died completely after limping home one night when it just started losing power and sounded to be running on 2 cylinders

No issue mine has whistled from brand new asked the dealer this early in the peace but was assured all ok


Maaaaaate it's boosted bro!!!

190k!!!

maaaate, you do drive your car all day and all nights, don't ya?:rofl:

Loving the power of diesel and enjoying the ride.

Thanks for letting me know, mate, I have got used to the whistling and loved hearing it when overtaking:D

Hi, AussieX5,
bad cam shaft sensor (CSS) causes that the engine cannot start. Once the engine runs the signal from the CSS can be lost totally and the engine will not stop and runs smooth BUT next starts are then impossible with CSS signal lost. The rough engine run and engine stalling can cause bad crank shaft sensor. Be aware that not only the bad sensor can cause the fault code to appear. It can be just wiring harness problem and the sensor may be OK. Check all points for proper connection.

Find meaning of all OBD2 fault codes and use a common sense as well and that will help You find a root cause. :thumbup:

Thanks for that guys unfortunately she went on a flat bed this morning replaced the sensors waqnts to start but wont the guy replaced the fuel filter as well said it was blocked but I suspect there is a large quantity of air in the system now as he did not fill the filter before replacing it and when tested there was plenty of flow so far theres a thousand bucks spent and it's still not going ??? cleared all the codes and tried to start just showing low voltage code now as the battery is stuffed now fuel inject warning gone as is the cam code so what next ??

waiting on the dreaded phone call from syd diesel center as I sent it there being told they are the bees knees in modern d's

well see

AussieX5, to vent fuel system after fuel filter replacemnet it is enough to do this (according to BMW TIS):
- no need to fill the filter
- after filter replacement turn the ignition on for approx. 1 minute, the fuel pre-supply pump is activated and the fuel cooler and filter are filled with fuel and vented

If You run out of fuel, the Car user guide says:

- "... the diesel fuel delivery system should not be vented at normal circumstances even You ran out of fuel. If You are experiencing starting problems after this situation, activate the starter for approx 20 sec." (My translation to english)

The starter should sustain this long run at ease because there is another hint in the user´s guide for starting at very low ambient temperature:

- after glow symbol goes off, activate the starter for up to 40 sec until engine starts

Kamil

I have heard different versions about the reliability of X5 E53 and understand it should vary from case to case due to individual care of cars and other factors.

but in general, for 2004 3.0 Diesel sport Auto with 70,000 km on clock, with good care, how long should I expect to keep it until maintain/repair bill and breaking down start destroying the fun of having it? I still have 2 years 10 month factory warranty on the car.

My particular case is the blown off of the turbo, other than that, the engine runs great, lots of torque and hp's, and good enough mileage

How much did it cost you to replace your turbo ?

[quote=RichardPB]I have done 34k from new (now 2 years old) and I still have 2 green service bars (brake fluid square is up so that will need doing but was waiting to have it done with oil service). I am due to take the car to Europe and will do 2.0k or so in 10 days. Should I wait for bars to disappear before servicing, when can I expect the next service to be due (lights to go out) this will only be its 2nd ever service so what’s involved?

Thansk

Richard[/quote

I would definetly do the service before going to Europe. I had the same dilema in june- went through the whole Europe without any probs, but did the service beforehand despite it was not due yet by one green bar. From what I've been explained by the mechanic- the car calculates the time for service on the basis of 4 factors, but I don't remember which. Whatever they are, the last thing you want is your car starting showing you the service messages or anything like 'please contact the service', when you are in the middle of another country. Besides some funny insurance companies in UK will not cover your break down on German motorways even if you purchase such cover, they will only pay for towing from the end of the motorway to the garage up to certain amount in euros and for towing on motorway you would have to pay yourself. Just another reason for having service before such a long trip.
Rob:D

The only problem I have with my 3.0D is not the engine- the flat tyre sensor possibly, because every now and on it just goes off when driving on a wet motorway and none of the tyres are bad. I've been to 2 mechanics and none of them could find anything, just said the air pressure was wrong. Well, it was not, because I check it every couple of weeks. \the problem started after I had alloys replaced to 19'' with wider rear ones (285/55/19) so I suspect the boys have hit something there while placing them and the mechanics were just too lazy to check. I'm going to the third one soon. Willlet you know if he find anything.

strange I have factory 19" with 285's on the rear only had a light once with a flat reset once replaced no drama from there

Yep, should be like yours. they even told me how to correctly reset the thing- with the button pressed, then put the key to ignition and start the car and wait 'till it disappears. And what tyres have you got at the front? I have 255/55/19"- thought maybe it's because the rear are wider the sensor goes crazy, but I rather suspect the guys must have done something there 'cause they weren't gentle while placing those wheels at all...
Rob

yup same 255 55 19 something crook there matey should not be an issue even when I put 265 and 325 20''s never had a problem

My car doesn´t have those sensors but I undestand that they are placed inside the rim, in the back of the "airplug" (I don`t know the name in english), one for each individual tire, maybe when you changed your rims they weren`t placed in the new ones, or maybe their batteries are dead, cuase I also understand that they are battery opperated and transmit some sort of a radio frecuency

How much did it cost you to replace your turbo ? by BLUEAGLE

Actually I haven`t replaced it yet, I`m still waiting (and saving money), but it is around $2500 US, just parts,

No these sensors work on wheel rotation not in the tyre as the tyre looses preasure it becomes smaller in diameter and this is picked up by the sensor as the car drives

Rob,
Original equipment tyre size for staggered 19" wheels should be: front 255 50R 19, rear 285 45R 19.
The tyre pressure warning system is sensed through the same sensors used fo anti-lock braking (ALB). If the computer sees a difference in wheel speed, it will activate the tyre pressure warning. This difference in wheel speed could be caused by an under inflated tyre (low pressure causes reduced circumference and wheel turns faster in relation to others), it can also be caused by aquaplaning. The wheels will turn at different speeds when the car aquaplanes and the low tyre pressure warning will sense this difference and set the warning light.
The last set of tyres I had (Bridgestone Turanzas) were not too good at clearing water from under the tyres, and I experienced some aquaplaning. Can't remember if it put the TPW light on though.
Another side effect of aquaplaning is the effect it can have on the cruise control. CC also uses the ALB sensors for speed control. If you aquaplane with the CC engaged, the computer will sense the wheel speed reducing and pour in more diesel to regain the desired speed. This could be a little disconcerting seeing the speed decreasing and the rev's increasing.
If your problem only occurs in the wet, I would suspect aquaplaning and not a real fault.
Colin.

hi guys, i have a dec 04 3.0d sport x5,are any of you having problems with your panoramic sunroof.i have been told i need a new sunroof due to problems with the cassette cable , it would not close from the tilt position.you can shut the front 1 manually but not the rear 1.

Grrrrrrrr my truck has now been in the shop for a week and still no joy they are telling me high preassure fuel pump is the problem now I can just see the dollars racking up here I am not sure this is the gremlin as when I took the hose off and ran the pump it pumped at least a litre in a few seconds told them check the crank sensor but not sure if they have going to have to front down there now and do my naana with these guys

Sorry to hear about, Aussie X5.

Maybe it's worth to buy an extended warranty, I guess I will buy one sooner than later. I was quoted at a non-BMW dealer, where I bought the car, for AU$1500 at a dealer for Elite extended factory warranty, which is not from BMW. I didn't get it as I thought a BMW extended warranty would be better and BMW doesn't sell one as I didn't buy the car there. I am getting it now... although still not sure about the reputation of Elite warranty, guess it'll be better than nothing.

Anyone else knows Elite warranty?

my x5 before tinting the window the light upgrade, the diesel is a bit noisy but have got used to it. hate the exhaust smell
http://www.xoutpost.com/attachments/x...nt3changed.jpg

Aussie X5, I read your other posts about DP chip. Could it be caused by the chipping?

I am looking to get the DP chip and am convinced it will add noticeable performance improvement, but also worried about it bringing down reliability of engines or other parts as a by product.

How about HHO on x5 3.0d ?
Halp
I want to put in my x5 .
Posible ?

Mine 2002 3.0dA with 153 000 km just got out its inspection II last week, everything is allright except maybe the suspension wich start to be tired, I will change them for a full Bilstein kit this month.

Don't worry about a 70 000 km 3.0dA X5, it's just nearly new if you let it stock and fill the tank with a good quality diesel.

Chips Tuning is really hard for all the transmission because of the increase of torque, with the turbo because of pressure's increase and with the injection ramp because of the modification of the injection's time & pressure.

;o) Stf.

not me matey no chip in mine all bog stock

got the quote today 17000 dollars
and they did not check the crank sensor ahhhhhhhhg!!

I am gunna take a pill and lie down now before I kill some one

RDC - tire pressure monitoring
 

It depends which system have You in Your car installed to monitor tires´ underinflation or total failure. If You have a RDC - Tire pressure monitoring system (it is what victor2002 meant) see this, then there is an electronic pressure sensor (#4) in each tire valve that sends over radio freq 433MHz a pressure value to the RDC control module (#1) using RDC RECEPTION ANTENNA (#2) for each wheel.

See user´s guide for information: If the inflation pressure has dropped significantly over a long period of time (which is normal for any tire), the indicator lamp will come on with a yellow lamp. If there is a tire failure with loss of pressure, the indicator lamp comes on with a red lamp.

If there is other system than RDC, it can use different way to get underinflation info but RDC definetely uses radio transmitters in each wheel valve.

Kamil

Any other Aussie X5 3.0D owners who have experience with DP Chip? From what I have read in this forum on other threads (mostly dated in 2006), the performance improvements seem to be very attractive.

Can anyone tell me if the chip has been a reliable add in for the car as well? Many thanks in advance.

Not sure what the DP chip is but there is a firm in the u.k called superchips and lets just say the job they do in re-mapping the ecu has made a great difference, got a 3.0d 2004 e53 and it does move very well, considering they wiegh over 2 tonnes it is amazing. As long as you perform regular oil changes and use good quality stuff, then the engine should be able to tolerate the strain on it (superchips say they do extensive tests- I am sure they can jack up the bhp even more but would run risk of melting down engines!)

On a different note, does anyone know what colour coolant the diesels need?and if I can't go to bmw, is there any off the shelf stuff (mobil/texaco/esso that can actually be mixed safely with the orginal coolant in the car?just for top up purpsoses off course.

Yup I agree, I only gopt the warning when I had a fat nail in the tires, 3 times!

well it's been off the road for nearly five weeks now and the quote for repairs to the contaminated fuelo system 16700.0 at least it's cheaper than the the last time at 26000.00.

was wondering where I was going to pull this from to get my cay back then the mechanic gave me a clue.

He said why are you not claiming insurance WTF but sure enough when I rang the insurance told them the problem they said sure we'll send an assessor out to my amazement they are covering the cost of repairs now I know why I chose NRMA just waiting for parts to arrive so I can get my wheels back Yipeeeeee!

Awosme!!!!

Good to know!

hope someone can help and maybe check their x5 but my 04 e53 3.0d sport, whilst probing around the engine bay I noticed the top radiator hose that goes to the expansion tank was warm and then got HOT. BUT the bottom hose was COLD, the car was idling for about 45 mins and neither the fan kicked in or the bottom hose heated up, so is my thermostat buggered?temp outside was 20C not too cold at all, should the fan have kicked in whilst idling for so long? or it being a diesel takes much longer?or is the rad in the diesel ultra efficient????

I drove it around all summer in sweltering heat and never noticed if the fan actually came on or not, but having said that wouldn't I have fried the engine by now if the coolant was not circulating/thermostat not opening?

any advice would be much appreciated

I'm the real AUSSIE-X5. The other is a new kid on the block with the same name written slightly different (confusing). If you haven't already fitted the DP chip box go for it! Make sure if your X is still in warranty to take it off at service time.

yeah sorry bout that the admin are making changes
I will be known as HSV8 from now on

:dunno:

Good man :thumbup:

Guys,

Did anyone of you X5 diesel owners do any mods on your exhaust ? Can you post some pics....:D

Yup would be great too, x5world is great but alot of the u.s cars are 4.4engines, in europe we have quite a few diesels, I have searched high and low on forums with no luck on specific questions I have about my 3.0d sport e53 2004...it's either there aren't that many issues with the diesels or all diesel owners are internetphobes and just take their cars to dealers when they have issues and do not bother checking out the web??....

For example got the question about the cracked coolant reservoir tank (seems very common on 4.4 and some 3.0l petrol cars) but want to know if it is an issue with the diesels too ????get no answers

Lovely idea! But why has the thread been moved elsewhere? As for myself I've got 3.0 2005. Have been owning it since a bit over a year, so far the only issue I had was the self leveling suspension sensor, which has been replaced within the warranty. Another issue is electric- the flat tyre sensor sometimes will go off out of the blue on wet motorway- since I've changed 17" to 19" wheels. People on forum told me it might be the tyres removing the water insufficiently. Otherwise I'm having great fun driving my car. But it's always good and useful to see what problems people get particualry with 3.0 diesels and how they solve them. I'll definetly visit this thread quite often.

Cheers for the reply matey, My 3.0d sport auto 2004 had the tire pressure message popped up 4 times and in all cases but one it was cos of a nail in the tire, it did it once for no reason but checked tires and they were fine, so there are some unexplained phenomena on these cars.

My turbo also seemed to go flat, lost the mass of power the car had, nearly got ripped off big time by the locals here (leave it in for a day or two) but the fix was so simple when I took it to a mechanic friend of my wife’s uncle! Look for the post solution to my sluggish 3.0d sport</SPAN> got pics there too.

Have a slight issue with mystery coolant loss and I am still monitoring that.

The usual ‘issue’ of rear wheels looking slanted inwards slightly at the top as you look at the rear of the car, found out this was normal and is the negative camber, basically meant the inside of my tires wore more as this was the surface that was in contact with the tarmac, and so had some of the camber ‘taken out’ so as contact is made with the rest of the surface area (been told no harm done to the car after reading heaps of posts, and no harm done to my wallet either as will prolong tire life).

Do get the mystery creaking noise in the back, not looked at that yet.

And get clunking noises from the front when going of uneven road surfaces, been told on the forums it is the sway bars, but haven’t had it checked out yet, and no idea if it is dangerous either.

Be great to get a diesel forum going, ok cheers fella

I drive a 3.0dA e53 for 4 years. It has actually 165 000 km and had two issues :

- a steering box changed for a new one at 90 000 km
- a transfer case changed for a new one at 120 000 km

Theses two issues where took under waranty by my BMW Dealer !

The engine run great without any oil consuption, all the electric/electronic equipment works fine (NAV, TV, HiFi, Webasto, Xenon, etc...) and I respect strictly the BMW maintenance plan in my BMW Dealer's workshop.

I asked for a Automatic gearbox Oil change at 120 000 km wich is not in the BMW maintenance plan and will ask for a preventive water pump + accessories belt change during the next oil service.

Before the X5 I had a 530d Sedan that my dealer took in exchange at 210 000 km.

3.0d Engine is really solid with a low diesel consumption, perfectly adapted to France where 80% of the gas price are constituted by taxes...

;o) Stf.

Thanks for the update, being diesel is good out here in cyprus too, but by god do we pay high road tax, the larger the engine the greater the tax 615 euros a year for a 3.0l car....i am hoping they put the tax on fuel instead rather than engine size....

I drive an 02 E3 X5 3.0d euro . Diesel price in the Philippines is cheaper than gas. I use my X5 as my daily driver. No major breakdowns except for replacement of FSR and auxilliary fan assembly....:thumbup:

Thanks for the reply....the more info we get on diesels the better.....

As a prospective 3.0D owner I would love to see a diesel forum. It woul d be nice to have all of the diesel related posts in one place.

I'm looking at selling my Boxster S and picking up a 54/05/55 plate X5 3.0D. There are a couple of things I'm concerned about:

Blown turbo seals? Saw a video of this on youtube and it looked horrific, I hate to think what fixing it would cost, I'm guessing new turbo/PCV/exhaust as a minimum?

Clunky ZG auto transmission. See to have been a lot of people complaining about the auto gearbox clunking and shunting the car when pulling away after slowing down for a roundabout. Quite a few have had the transmission fail.

I got a 2004 3.0d , ok so have had the negative camber 'issue' and the camber taken out to reduce tyre wear on the rear, I think i have the sway bar link clunking noise, and also a mystery coolant loss issue,had the odd shunt you mention twice in 6000miles of driving , car has 35000miles on it, and got the mystery creaking noises in the back that nearly all x5 owners mention...ok the turbo has got me thinking too although touch wood it is fine, but if i really wanted reliability i would have gone for a toyota rav or something?it's your call though

Is the negative camber an 'issue'? All X5s I've been stuck behind in traffic have had camber on the rears (bottom of tyre sticking out more than top). I think that's pretty normal on a lot of cars (my Boxster has it for sure) and I wouldn't have it taken out as it will effect handling in corners. It ensures that a maximum amount of tyre surface is in contact with the road while cornering. I wouldn't want to risk unexpectedly losing grip on a winding country road and ending up in a ditch.

I imagine sway bars, bushes and even rear shocks can all be changed at home pretty much so I'm not too bothered about that kind of thing. Vital components like the tranny, turbo and the main block are the things that worry me as we would be talking a few grand to replace them.

I had a 2001 3-Series Coupe a few years back (2.2 petrol), it had 100k on the clock and rapidly started to fall apart. In about 6 months I needed a new clutch (£1600 from BMW), Power Steering pump (£450 parts), Radiator (£180 parts), Thermostat (£50 parts), PCV and pipes (£100+). After all that I couldn't drive it without worrying about something else blowing up of dropping off. Fuel consumption was fine but the thing was drinking oil (1L every 1000-1500 miles) and even with a new clutch the gear change often felt a bit rough so I got rid of it before the gearbox disintegrated!

Do you remember when German engineering used to be rock solid and reliable? Doesn't seem to be the case with MB and BMW anymore although Audi and VW are still pretty good. I'm very happy with the Porsche in terms of reliability but I need something more practical and cheaper to run.

I've test driven a new style ML320, Toureg and RR Sport TD6 (TD8 is way over budget). The ML was way too soft and wobbly, the Toureg was gutless and the RR felt underpowered and was a little over my budget (tho the interior is lovely). Most of the Asian 4x4's look gay and also have ridiculously small engines and poor performance. I suppose I could consider a Land Cruiser or something like that but in that case I may as well consider a Discovery which in my opinion is just way too big for my needs.

Overall I like the X5 look and a 3.0D is perfect, I think after my previous BMW experience I'm just worried that it's going to fall apart after a year or two!

:rofl:
Na fella it won't tip over on corners, but I am sure it depends on how far you push it on corners???as for old german technology yup first car was a 1978 audi lovely, and next a 1983 merc 190e, was a tank SOLID...I have scanned bundles of posts on here fella and most people say water pump needs replacing at 50k miles, the rad expansion tank is useless and cheap prone to cracking, but the issue is that most posts are by v8 owners, not sure how good if at all 3.0d are compared.....?I think you are plagued by the same bug as me with the difference being you don't have a an x5 yet, been told to cross bridges as I get to them, but just cannot change my mentality and I freak out reading the stories...just for peace of mind before shipping my tank out to cyprus I spoke to BMW techinicians etc as couldn't locate the engine number and they all said it is a good car...it does go well, and I have been assured that getting superchips too 'tune' it makes it super to drive.

I get you point about the porsche, but i had the same issue too, wanted a more practical motor, Japanese well they are reliable as we know despite lacking in aesthetics although honda comes closet to european car finishes I think, I am going to see how the x5 3.0d behaves, any serious issues will post em here. I dont think it will fall apart, it is built well, but stuf like removing air filters is a nightmare according to posts here! all these little things really get on my nerves, but do you not buy a car because of these flaws???if my 1977 220d mercs engine never died on me I would have stuck with that :rofl: out here, at least spares are cheap and plentiful believe it or not. I have also checked u.k x5 sites but to be frank most knowlede is found on this site and the people are very helpful....good luck

Water pump issue sounds serious considering I'll probably be buying something in the 40k-60k miles range. AFAIK a water pump failing can do some serious damage to the entire engine through overheating?

It's probably the case that most X5 3.0Ds are solid and will plough on through to 200k before they fall apart. I guess it's the nature of Internet forums that you only really hear about the problems, horror stories etc. I think I'll put the Porsche up for sale and see if I can get a reasonable price for it (resale prices have plummeted in the last 8 months). If I sell that then I'll have to decide on something or be stuck without a car :)

What are peoples opinions on the best way to buy an X5? Usually I'd look at private sales and auctions for the best value, however I'm a bit worried about buying without a Warranty! BMW Approved are way overpriced which would only leave independent used car sellers offering a warranty. Generally I would want to steer clear of used car dealers as you know they are only buying cars privately or from auctions and then selling on at a mark up. I went down to BigMotoringWorld a couple of months ago as they always have a good stock of X5s. They were unloading some cars they had brought from auction at the time -- one which they were putting out on display made the most awful squealing/grinding noise as it was being reversed. They didn't take any notice of it and I'm sure they would have sold it to someone like that!

Has anyone brought an aftermarket warranty for a car they've brought privately or from auction? Are they worth the paper they're printed on?

Water pump is serious yes, but alot of the posts on here I read mention they swap it out as routine, haven't searched the forum for symptoms of a faulty water pump so not sure if they just 'go' no warning, or if they make any sounds, but yeah you are right it may lead to overheating, I got 35k on mine, and today the temp out here is 27.5 c, summers hit 40C! so I am concerned too, but like I said don't really wanna get rid of the car on the basis of a what if this happens and what if that happens?

sorry I can't help ya on warranties etc, I bought private, and the only thing I did miss was the low coolant level in the expansion tank, they guy had his own garage that services his road laying trucks etc and hr agreed to let me get in under a pit and check anything out i wanted...thing is the guy was honest was clueless about cars and said if anything does need changin you the computer tells you! brake pad sensors played up at the time he had them sorted....ok c ya

First bad news for you, driving a X5 after a BoxsterS will be as cool as driving a smoothing-iron !

Second bad news, only the Range Sport and the X5 have a pleasant interior comparable to the Porsche.

The toughest might be the Toyota, but the driving experience will really be an "experience" for you !

The BMWdealer's bills are much cheaper than the Porche's one, don't worry... ;)

;o) Stf.

Yeah tho the Boxster isn't as great as you'd think. Sure it's lovely on a sunny afternoon in the countryside but it's hell to drive in the city with huge pot holes, traffic jams etc. I remember when I first had the Boxster I couldn't believe how much power/acceleration it had on tap, you soon get used to it though and then it just becomes another car. Better to have one as a second car but I can't afford to run two at the moment and don't want an old banger of a daily drive.

Porsche haven't been too bad in terms of servicing costs, it's the other things they try to sting you with. I had a Major service (40k) at Xmas which cost me £500, not bad.

After the service they recommended new tyres all round (because one on the rear was a different brand and unevenly worn) at £1400 for the set, new discs and pads on the front at £700, brake fluid flush at £250 and a new climate control unit at £450 because there is a little bit of coffee damage to the display.

I had the rear tyres replaced elsewhere for £250 (and I recouped £100 by selling the tyre which was still only half worn on eBay). I brought the new discs/pads/sensors etc for the front brakes, plus new brake fluid for £300 and did all of that myself in an afternoon (means £650 labour if I had let Porsche do this!). They would have tried to make £2800 out of me when I put everything straight for £450! :yikes:

Point being I guess that I won't get the Stealers to replace or fix something I am perfectly capable of doing myself because you know they'll milk it for all they can. It's the catastrophic failures which happen without any warning that scare me! :wow:

That's why Porsche are scary ! Especially early 2.5 boxsters, 996 & 997 ! (brooooaaaa, broooooaaaaa, POUF-pschhhhhhhhh !) :D
(Last one I've seen was a 997S with 3000km on the clock, 2 weeks ago during a trackday...it really sucks :( )

I've drove the 986 Boxster S (but I prefer my Elise... ;) ) and it's one on my favorite Porsche because of the weight repartition compared to a 9XX (except the 964RS that I love) and the sound of the flat 6 when the top is open.

As a daily car in London, I can easily understand you. The best choice might be...... an e-bike !

Just have a test drive beetween the RangeSport the X5 and a Lexus RX400h to make your decision....

;o) Stf.

Have you checked other forums on what touareg or audi owners say about their 4x4s?? I haven't read of many catastrophic failures on the x5 diesels yet, I suppose do a routine check to see if coolant is up to par as is the oil level, and to be frank it is rare for any vehicle not to have any problem whatsover in it's lifetime, my wifes window mechanism on her 318 i packed in after 45k miles, turned out to be because of crappy quality plastic just gave way under the pressue of the spring at the end of the wires the roll up the window....thing is the n42 engine it has is so sweet.

I must confess the days of simplicity in most cars are gone now, and suppose it is a price we pay literally for all the extra luxuries, the more technology the more can go wrong, but I am sure the safer the cars too, see if you can find the right balance and you will be fine.....I drive the x5 but on my way home everyday I see a toyota landcruiser (1980's) model, and wish I had that too but wife says noooo...and wallet says no as well...gonna start using my moped to work as ironically enough moped owners do not give a damn about cars drivers and before you know it you have a broken wing mirror etc.

Anyway let us know if you find and x5 diesel owner expert or stats on how they rate please????

Looking at WhatCar owners reviews the X5 3.0D gets an average rating of 1/2 out of 5. Almost every review of the diesel model has a complaint about transmission or turbo failure. It's not just one or two of them either, there are pages and pages with many 'worst car I ever brought' horror stories. This is what's putting me off.

Out of interest, anyone running B30 in their X? How about B100; anyone made the leap yet?

Don't get one, I wouldn't have if I had read the reviews on the site

I know, scary.

But now I've brainwashed myself, I really want one and have eliminated all other potentials in favour of the X. The petrol models just won't do either.

They've got me by the balls!

Personally I wouldn't, I checked most sites like parkers etc etc prior to buying and they only gave a low level review of what to look out for, transmission or turbo failure was not on the list......to be frank I don't remember if anything was on the list, cos I am worse than you and would have been put off instantly! having said that it maybe a case of a few dud 3.0d and not all of them?I iwsh I new some bmw mechanics to see if the 3.0d do come in regular but alas I do not

Yes it could just be that one in every few thousand were duds and the people who had them are the only ones bothering to go online and share their experience. In a few of the out of warranty cases it looks like BMW have given a 50% discount on replacement tranny which does kind of suggest that there's a manufacturing defect. Where people are reporting bad lurches but not total tranny failure they are telling them 'thats just how they drive'. I wonder whether many aftermarket warranties would cover this or whether they would class it as wear and tear.

Like you say it would be nice to have an insiders view, ideally a BMW mechanic.

Edit:

The TSB at the bottom of this forum is interesting, the TSB is for the 5/6-series but they apparently use the same gearbox.

This thread is also interesting, tallking about the same gearbox.

JBF the threads were good, like I said in the 1 year I have drive then X I have had the thump feeling twice, once when I slowed approached a roundabout and then hit the gas violently and another time when I slowed at lights and then did the same, it is unnerving but as long as it does no damage then I can live with it, besides I have no other option I really do not want to splash out on a gearbox at 35km miles ! JBF for me the car is the best I have owned so far, and anyone driving it is amazed, if you get superchips to ‘ tinker ‘ with it, you will take off!!! .

Your best bet is to go for a test drive, and like you say most people who do go online do so to reports issues and not praise their cars, tricky one really, Japanese are reliable but doubt they have the same handling….. compromises have to be made, the more you scan sites the more you will become confused, reason I went for the x5 was the torque of the diesel the 30mpg town driving, the fact that I can park on the very high kerbs out here which you cannot risk for example with an M3 , and the space it has for passengers…..

Having said all that I suppose if like some of the unlucky lot on whatcar site you will just be happy to see the back of it and be happy with driving a Suzuki vitara! I was considering a rav and other japanses cars, but the interiors were pants, tooooo plasticky, and since I have been used to audi Mercedes and saab, I just could not make the jump to something inferior in terms of interior….will keep ya posted on my x5 ‘features’ hope it goes well for you, take your time on deciding, what about lexus in black?they look good…

Yes I think I'm just going to proceed with caution and make sure I test drive the car well. Like you my last 4-5 cars have been German and I can't see myself buying anything else. American cars like Ford and Vauxhall are 'ok' if you only want a car to get you from A to B but they lack the style of a German car. As you said, Asian cars are a bit plastic inside and they also tend to be a little ugly. People either love them or hate them. Most of the Asian on-road 4x4 look like people carriers withthe suspension raised by an inch or two! I like Lexus saloons but the RX is ugly ugly ugly, I'd rather have a Kia Sorento or even a Shogun.

I'll just have to be careful, look at a few X's and make sure that if there's anything that doesn't seem quite right then just walk away. I'll also investigate aftermarket warranties and will consider BMW Approved Used as I may be able to beat the dealers down a bit given not many people are buying cars right now.

All hinges on me being able to sell the Porsche. That might be quite difficult at the moment. I've had it advertised for a few days and no enquiries. :(

Edit:

That said I've just had someone call who wants to look at it Tomorrow. Had better get out and wax it while there's a break in the rain!

Yeah that sounds like the best thing to do, since I bough mine a year ago they have dropped a couple of grand, so go for a dealer approved one for peace of mind, the only time I have driven Japanese cars is whilst renting abroad, and had great fun with a shogun off road, but yup they are plastic inside…..good luck with the sale of your Porsche, always been my dream car but only minus is practicality and I suppose service costs, always loved the old 928 but was told despite prices being in reach spare parts are a nightmare to source and so is their price, the 944 is the only easy to maintain ‘old’ Porsche, slightly off the point, the other good looking 4x4 are the new land rovers they look very mean….well take your time keep us posted

forget my last comment, the 'new' land rover I am talking about is a concept car I have found out

Tesco warranty actually looks quite good. It's provided by Car Care Plan who also supply many of the manufacturer's extended warranties. Quoted £419/yr to cover an X5 3.0D.

That is good, no such thing out here in cyprus, I already get ripped off on road tax, it costs 600 euros nearly £600! plus another 500 for insurance! and that was one thing I never checked out before getting the x5 over here, above 2.2litre engines the road tax rockets, very annoying!anyway gave the x5 a wash this weekend and it gleams, love the car but just not the best to drive about this busy town, my moped helmet is coming out soon....

Yes, I've been doing some research and have read the policy document etc. The only concern is that they have a clause specifying that they will not pay out for repairs if the claims inspector thinks the condition is pre-existing to the start of warranty cover.

Last night I read a very long thread of an Audi driver who had his head gasket blow shortly after taking out a Tesco warranty (including wear and tear). Audi stripped down the top end (at his cost, to be repaid by the warranty company if the claim was paid out), confirmed gasket failure and recommended replacement, head skim etc. Cost was about £1300 including the strip down. The warranty inspector said the cylinder was 'too clean' and that he suspected the gasket had failed before the warranty started. Tesco wouldn't pay out and he had to foot the bill himself. This is despite the Audi engineers insisting that the car was just serviced and failure had only just occurred, they disagreed with the inspectors opinion and said it was not unreasonable for the cylinder to be clean that quickly.

Difficult. The owner didn't attempt to get the SMMT or Financial Ombudsman involved which apparently helps a lot in cases like this.

It leaves me wondering if the X5 started to lurch, whether they would reasonably be able to claim it was pre-existing. I'm assuming that before making a claim the issue would be raised with BMW, diagnostics, software updates etc. In cases where software updates haven't stopped lurching the only other option I've seen discussed is tranny replacement which seems to have fixed the problem. You can bet at £4500 any warranty company will try to wriggle out of paying out initially. I wonder how helpful BMW would be in backing up a claim.

Your road tax is expensive! Over here it's based on CO2 output and the top band is £400 (yep my Boxster is in that group). Cars registered before 04/2006 drop down one group, that's why I'm looking at a pre-06 plate X5; the tax is only £200. Insurance isn't cheap here, my car is Group 19 (out of 20) and with 11 years driving and no claims or tickets I paid £900 last year plus £130 compulsory tracker subscription. With 17-mpg on premium unleaded from the Boxster, hopefully a diesel X5 will be a bit cheaper to run!

Tracker not compulsory out here and if it does get stolen and ends up in the north of the island that is it! there is no formal recognition of the north by anyone or any country and so the insurance company cannot pursue it, people have been shot for lowering the flag of the 'other side' and the shooter caught on camera and they still cannot get hold of the killer! so getting back an x5 no chance,Politics.

Anyway if you are going for the petrol there should be no lurch issue eh?like I said twice in a year for me and no idea if it damages the transmission a tad worring but I am going to try and enjoy having the car instead of worrying, and people do envy it alas, got keyed at the garage after I was in a small accident, couldn't make any sort of claim as didn't have photos of all the panles before taken it to the garage! and the damage assessor who checked the car didn't take pics of the whole car , just the damaged part before and after so i didnt have a leg to stand on! so I have had my share of nightmare with the x5...diesel 28-30mpg is a plus though, or just get a toyota rav, one of the old ones that last forever and upgrade the interior:rofl:

check this link out too, not sure how good he is


Car review: BMW X5 E53 SUV (2000 - 2007)

I have someone coming to put down a deposit on my Porsche tonight :bawling:

Going to see if I can test drive an X5 (3.0D) this afternoon at the local BMW independent dealer.

Well done fella, the x5 3.0d is good, sod all the rubbish press, at the moment I am driving it and not worrying too much, it made me sick worrying too much, life is too short, good luck, also be aware that if you get the ecu re-map the thing will fly…..will cost ya around 500 pounds, supposedly increases fuel economy etc and horsepower http://www.superchips.co.uk/ , if you were out in Cyprus would gladly let you test drive my 3.0d so you could make a more informed decision, all in all it is great

(p.s I am not a superchip salesman )

Well it was a beautiful day so I made the most of still having a soft-top and drove down to a large independent BMW supermarket which always has 10-20 X5's in stock.

There were two that caught my eye; a late 2004 in Titanium Silver with Black leather and a 2005 in Black with Sand Beige leather. Both had approx. 60k miles on the clock, both were 3.0d Sport.

Personally I think Titanium Silver with privacy glass and running boards looks very nice from the outside. I was disappointed with how tatty the interior was. It was dirty, smelt funny and the seats showed quite a lot of wear. The carpet in the rear was worn to the lining by the doors and there were water marks visible as mats had clearly never been used. This one didn't have NAV and there was a line of pixels flickering in and out on the radio display. Definitely not interested :wow:

I had concerns about the Black one after taking a walk around and noticing the rear passenger side wheel arch trim had some pretty deep scuffs with traces of white and blue paint. The rear quarter showed a lot of buff marks where it had obviously been freshly polished. Of more concern was that the rear door didn't seem to be lined up correctly as it stuck out a little too much. Looking down the side of the car I would have said the door was aligned but the rear quarter panel had been compressed inwards slightly in a low speed bump against something big like a pillar, wall or truck.

Ignoring that, the interior was clean and relatively intact apart from the steering wheel trim peeling off around the buttons. The Sand Beige was nice but I think without privacy glass it made the cabin too bright. It had NAV with TV which worked although the TV reception was awful; is that normal? I had a poke around in the boot and looked in the area around the spare wheel. It was dripping wet with condensation. The the entire area was wet to touch although there was no standing water at the bottom. Still not good with most of the electrics living in there. It did make me wonder whether the damage to the rear could be due to flooding!

Despite these issues I still took it out for a test drive, just to get a feel for the car and see if I could detect any lurching. When I turned the ignition on the message 'check brake linings' flashed up on the dash. I pretended not to notice but was obviously not impressed. I was impressed by how quietly the engine runs and how smooth the ride is. There were a couple of roundabouts on the test route and I couldn't detect any kind of lurch despite trying. Obviously after just getting out of a 2 seat roadster it felt like driving a tank but I had a similar feeling when I got in to the Cayenne I had on courtesy last year. It soon wore off once I got used to the different driving position.

So overall it was a bit of a disappointing day. The quality of cars available, at least from that particular outlet seem quite poor. I'm now less concerned about 'the lurch' and think a lot of it may be down to drivers being too aggressive and not taking in to account that they are driving a 2.5 ton truck with a TD engine (lag) and automatic transmission (more lag).

Sorry for the mammoth post but I wanted to share my experience so far. I'm still a little sad at the thought of not being able to drop the top and go for a drive 'just for fun'. There were a few nice Z4's on display which caught my eye :rolleyes:

I went to another used car supermarket a few days ago. They had a couple of 3.0d X5's coming in stock soon but only had a 3.0i on display. I still had a good look around it and took a test drive to get a feel for the driving position etc. The interior was again very tatty despite only having covered 35k miles. I think this is a characteristic of all cars in these places as they are mostly ex company cars brought from auction. The steering wheel trim was peeling which I saw on both the previous X5's I looked at. I'll look to buy privately or from a small independent dealer (then I'll be covered for 6 months for any major failures under the sale of goods act).

Before taking a test drive I spent a while sitting in the car and getting a feel for it. Something I noticed about the driving position; the arm rest seems to be quite a long way back, even when slid to the forward position. If I tried to rest my elbow on it, the side of the sport seat really dug in under my arm. Not sure if this is due to me setting up the seat position in a strange way or whether other people under 6ft notice it too? In a 4x4 I don't want to be laying back in the seat, I want to have a more upright position so I can see what's going on around me.

On the test drive I was actually very impressed with the performance of the 3.0i engine, it was responsive and not underpowered as I had imagined it to be. I didn't notice the armrest position while driving but it was only a short urban route. With no lurching issue that does make the 3.0i tempting but after doing a little research they are no cheaper to buy and would cost me an extra £800+ in fuel cost despite the higher price of diesel.

The 3 hour round trip through central London did help me to come to terms with selling the Boxster. After hours of sitting in traffic and being buffeted around over bumps I had an aching left knee and my back needed a good stretch! On the topic of seats I don't think the X5 is sporty enough to benefit from sport seats, remembering that the sport seats in my old E46 coupe were exactly the same as the E53 sport seats I wouldn't mind finding one with the comfort seat option. Apparently BMW ran out of comfort seats for the E70 because so many of the E53 owners trading up to an E70 ordered that option. My back would certainly appreciate it if I could find a car with them.

Giving some last minute consideration to buying a soft-top rather than a 4x4 I test drove a 2005 Audi A4 Convertible yesterday. It was a nice car but having the roof down just wasn't the same without two seats and the roar of a tuned 6-cyl engine. The X5 it is.

Typically just as I'm seriously looking to buy it seems prices are either going up or supply is slowing down right now. There don't seem to be half as many available for under £18k as a couple of weeks ago. Guess I'll have to get used to not having a car for a while.

The analogue TV reception is average unless you are in a good signal area, and the Freeview Digital TV one can be much worse!! Not exactly a great TV antenna fitted!! I have an '05 3.0D Auto with almost all the toys and it does suffer from Digital TV reception issues, as does tother half's E46 Convertible so from that I would say that yes it's a common issue. Not really a problem in my view as I don't tend to use it that much.

The E46 has Sports Seats and the E53 has Comfort Seats - which I much prefer being 6'4" so I know what you mean.

Good luck with finding a good E53 in a private sale. There must be more than a few around now as all of the dealers around here are full of them so prices must be low.

Hi guys. My X5 is 04 E53 3.0D with 50K+ mileage, regularly serviced by the Dealer. Brought it recently to the Dealer to have the a/c checked (no cool air coming out of the vents). Was told aux fan and compressor needed to be replaced! Anyone had the same experience? What could have caused them to break down this early? Where can I get these at a reasonable price? Dealer (Makati, Philippines) quotes PHP42,486 (USD 885) for the aux fan, PHP 86,441 (USD 1,800) for the compressor. Thanks.

Blue_Eagle,

I drive an 02 E53 X5 3.0d and had the same problem. I went to my BMW dealer and they found out that I had to replace my FSR ( final stage resistor) and auxilliary fan assembly. Get a second opinion from another stealership before you make your final decisio. Shoot me a pm so we can exchange info...

To all X5 diesel owners,

I drive an 02 E53 X5 3.0d model and I have encountered my first engine trouble after 7 years. My stealership has diagnosed some unusual noise in my diesel engine whether it be idle or I do some sudden acceleration.

The culprit is a part called a " vibration damper" that is somehow attached to the crankshaft. Mileage of my X5 is about 45k kms. I just want ask you guys if you have encountered such problem and at what mileage ? I almost fell of my seat when the stealership gave me the cost of the part to be replaced. A whopping USD530.00 + labor, tax..etc....:yikes:

Feel free to share your comments..........:dunno:

Blueagle,

Thanks for your inputs. Pls. check your pm.

No pm from you. Please resend...:dunno:

Schizophrenic?

Nope..2 totally different persons using the same username....:D

:) funny, both from Philippines too!

hi all i have a 2001 3.0d sport and the other day it would,nt rev past 4k so i changed the fuel filter and it was fine for a few days but now its started not reving past 3.5 to 4k again please help thanks paul

I have the oem 4.8is mufflers/tips fitted and the inside paint on one tip has also peeled off.So ,even happens with Bmw tips.
Just sand it down.degrease it and apply some "wurth" black HT spray and you are sorted.:thumbup:

Had the same false"check oil level warning!The oil level was between the lower and higher marks,so no reason for it to throw a light:dunno:

Do you have any warning messages on the OBC?
Hook the X5 to a diagnostic machine and read the codes.It could be a number of things!
What part of UK are you from?I can recommend someone in the Gloucestershire area...

hi thanks for the fast reply and no to the obc and im from the sheffield area ...

Hi guys ! Any more problems I should be aware of for 2002 X5 diesel models ?

Where would I even begin to start... Have had two new turbos in the last 12 months! :dunno:

jbf,

Care to share your story why you changed 2 turbos in 12 months ?

air filter
 

can anyone help with a write up on how to change the air filter on an 05 3.0d x5, there used to be one on the x5drivers site, i searched here but didn't find anything, also photos would be helpful.

i cant work out how to get the back two screws out of the engine cower (shroud)

any help appreciated

Ewen

http://www.Xoutpost.com/bmw-sav-forums/x5-e53-forum/8228-replacement-air-filter-3-0-diesel-new-post.html
this is one link and i am sure there are others, been told it is is a nightmare to change, stupid bmw why couldn't they make it easier?


let us know how you get on, the rear two screw of the engine cover do not come out, loosen them enough and then gently pull engine cover towards you

thanks for that, yes that was what i had previously seen, i,m going to give it a go and see if i can follow the instructions, pictures would be helpfully
i to can not understand why it needs to be so hard

regards

Ewen

BMW seems to think that it's a life-time item. Not good if you drive in dust a lot of the time.

Where did you read the above?

Didn't read it. I just assumed because BMW has made it so hard to replace. And there doesn't seem to be a provision in their scheduled service roster to replace it but I may be wrong.

ah ok ta for both replies

common part to break down for diesels as mentioned by a part supplier. changed ours at almost 100,000 kms on the odo

Where do i even begin?

turbocharger failure, oil level sensor failure, oil separator failure, etc.

mine is a 2004 with 3.0d with 64000 km, had inner tire wear at rear not changed suspension parts as nobody can tell me for sure if that is a fix, also pixels on radio display console etc vanish in winter, ok in summer! mmm mystery coolant leak, fixed itself, aircon needed filling just recently for the first time,ahmmmm and the rear shunt jolt feeling due to auto gearbox issues seems to be common too, having said that it has been a lobng while since it has happened,,,,,,

I have a 2005 3.0d with 70,000km. Brilliant so far except a very minor leak from a power steering hose. And it gets driven hard, most of the time on crap, rough as hell roads including gravel, dirt, mud etc. Still feels tight as a drum and goes like an express train.

hey fraser, is it a sport? is that your x5 in the profile pic?i need the higher profile tires and alloys soon, but not too sure how well it will do with the air suspension it has at rear, hmmmmmm

No. Non-sport. That's a friend's car in the pic, me driving. Same as mine except I have the ten-spoke (130 style) 17s not the 5-spoke (57 style) 17s. I also have Pirelli Scorpion ATRs. Pic was taken with the OEM Michelins, would you believe!

I see, great

Hi´,
Could you enlighten us please!Maybe we can help!
We also have a member here that replaced 2 turbos and both times it was down to mechanics/dealer bloody incompetence and NOT an issue at all with the 3.0 X5 turbo Diesel

Come on ,its not that bad!
1.Turbocharger failure x4 in your case,is human error NOT a car issue .
2.Oil separator failure?What can fail with this ?Its a consumable item,in this case a paper filter,which will obviously block if you dont replace it or you use bad quality oils.
3.Oil sensor failure.Well ,I will admit that it did give me a false reading once but still there 7 years after,so no big deal.

I never trust the sensors anyhow, always before a long journey especially i check oil and coolant......

X5 STALL and ENGINE START UP PROBLEM
 

hi guys! i have a '03 3.0 diesel and i'm very happy with it until about a month ago. night time, while on my way to the city travelling at around 60mph, i heard a BEEP and computer showed FUEL INJECTION SYSTEM followed by the engine stalling. fuel gauge level was a little above a quarter tank. as per advice of BMW mechanics, i added some 5 liters of diesel but it still wouldn't start. on monday, computer diagnostics showed that it wasnt getting enough pressure from something in the fuel system. they checked everything and after 2 days, they told me that air probably went inside the fuel pump or something and that caused the stall. they released it to me and asked me to keep observing it especially when fuel level hits below half coz they're thinking that gauge or floaters might also be the culprits. i've had it 4 times almost empty tank and had no problem until 6 days ago. it cranks but just wouldnt start. now they tell me that its absolutely the primary fuel pump that needs to be replaced (part# 16126756157). it's a bit disappointing coz i feel they're not really sure. it's quite expensive so i would just like to hear any comments from you guys before i have it done. thank you and more BMW power!

You are right in thinking that they are not sure what they are doing.
Their first suspicion were the incorrect reading of gauges/floaters!Tell me something,when you filled up with 5 ltrs,did the gauge mark up?

Do you know what error code displayed in the diagnostics scan?FUEL INJECTION SYSTEM can be a number of things!If you say it was a low pressure issue in the rail,the first thing to be replaced would be your fuel filter and then the rail pressure sensor,which is a common fault on this engine!Only then should you check the rest of the fuel system like the injectors and the pump as the last resort as it is the most expensive.
Did they replace the fuel pressure sensor?
The injectors can easily be checked for resistance with a digimeter and this would eliminate the electrical side of them.Same with the pressure sensor.
Please have the wiring to the injectors checked as this sometimes comes loose due to heat...
This is about all that is Fuel injection related.

Was there anything done to your car just prior to you having this problem?Did you have you car re-mapped,for example?

thanks for promptly replying and i will try to answer your questions to the best of my understanding of the diagnostics. yeah, gauge went up when i filled it with 5 ltrs. error i believe was the rail pressure as you have mentioned. they also said that when they checked the "other fuel tank" it was empty. they said something like transfer of fuel. the 2nd time i brought it to them when it didn't start, according to them, all other components were fine like gauge, floater, fuel filters, injectors and i'm assuming they passed the GT1 test. they haven't replaced any sensors. nothing was done to the vehicle prior to all of this. i will suggest to them your opinions. i will appreciate if you have more inputs. thanks again.

i just got off the phone with the mechanic and accdg to him the primary fuel pump really needs to be replaced. there's power in it but motor wont run. he said to check the fuel filter, high pressure pump, rail pressure and injectors is quite irrelevant since circulation starts from the primary pump, though they are all fine including the sensors as per him. but the thing is, after replacing the pump and it still acts up, they'd need to diagnose the other said components. is this correct in you opinion?

rrgroup,

Good to hear a fellow member from the Philippines. Are you a member of any BMW car club in the Philippines ? There are several guys from the Philippines who also own X5 3.0d diesel trucks who are members of this forum..

Which BMW stealership did you go to ?

Well if they are sure the pump has power but wont turn,then its faulty and MUST be replaced!This is the right thing to do.
Only after the pump is working 100% will it provide the necessary flow of fuel to injectors ,so they are right also to say that these have to be checked.Without the pump ,they will not be able to check the rest of the fuel system after the pump.
What they are really saying is that they are not sure if the rest is ok.
I am sorry but after what you said ,they dont seem very trustworthy,especially as they also told you the fault could be a bad gauge reading and you run out of petrol,yet when you filled up with 5 ltrs,the gauge went up...
Also ,its weird why they would say you need to run the car with over 1/4 tank full....

You just need to be sure that they are telling you the truth about the pump being faulty!Go there and identify the pump and mark it if you can and then demand they give you the old pump.

Good luck but be weary,ok:thumbup:

Hi there buddy. Good to see you here too kabayan. No i'm not a member of any bmw club. I dont think i can squeeze it in my already hectic sked. Anyway, there's such a forum. Got to impress a lot of people including my wife with the DIY tips. :thumbup:

I really appreciate the inputs and it made me understand more. So as not to put the dealership in a bad light, i believe the mechanics are trustworthy enough. I just dont know if they're diligent and persevering enough to really scrutinize. But as you said, they're on track.

Thank you and more power! :thumbup:

Which stealership did you bring your X5 for repair ?

W

this air in the system thing i thought could not happen to the newer technology cars?as of yet have not had fuel pump issues....so cant comment unfortunately...have got camber issues and cannot get rid of them but that is another story

How often do you guys change oil in your diesel X5 ? What type of diesel oil do you use ? fully or semi synthetic ?

Diesel systems are 'self-bleeding' and air in the system will be removed from the fuel system by normal use. There is another check before replacing the pump, and that is to ensure that e fuel pump relay is OK. The relay is above the glovebox and is the one nearest the firewall.

Relay in position 1 in the attached. As it's only $14 US, it's worth a try.

RealOEM.com * BMW E53 X5 3.0d Relay positioning, behind glove box

Mine went three months ago and the pump would not run.

hi all, this is a bump for this thread.

i have a 3.0d facelift 2005 now with 96000 km and am loving it, in the nearly 12 months ive owned it and the 33000 km ive done i have had no real problems at all

i have some cosmetic repairs to the front seats ( replaced the foam bases) and the dealer replaced the steering rack under warranty, it had a very slight amount of play

otherwise a fantastic car so far

Replace DDE/ECU
 

Hi,

2005 X5 3.0D. 55,0000 miles Owned from new, full main dealer service history. Recent intermittant errors, fuel injection system / transfail safe. Either would not start or would start and run perfectly. Full and lengthy diagnosis by indy and then main dealer tracked to BUS errors traced to DDE. Finally replaced very costly DDE (Engine management unit). I have the old one by my desk.

Picked up today, and so far....it's back to normal but it will need a good thrash to teach the new unit who is boss!

See "3.0D Replace ECU" in the main forum for all the gory details.