Mini-Rant: What has happened to our site?
 

I believe we've lost the welcoming feeling and spirit that used to be "X5world" and made it such a great place. I want to get back to when new members could post a question and would be greeted with a few links or nicely directed to the search option. Now they are basically belittled and blasted with screen shots pointing to the search button.

I'm not saying I don't want to pull my hair out when someone asks how to fix their rattle or when they ask if anyone else has a problem with their windows "getting stuck." But there's a way to nicely guide someone to the search function along with some links to former helpful threads related to their issue. Searching for terms like "oil" will find hundreds of related threads. No one wants to sit and comb through all of them to avoid being ridiculed.

There will always be newbies, there will always be reposts, there will always be people who are too lazy to use the search function. I found X5world by accident. I had never been a member of a forum or had any idea how they worked. Who cares if the question has been asked a bajillion times? This is a message board - a place where you can post your question and hope for an answer. It isn't the encyclopedia. If you are sick of giving the same answer, then I suggest moving on before blasting a new member. Having 5,000 posts doesn't make you God or someone who knows everything about X5s. It also doesn't give you the right to be a bully.

The board is growing by leaps and bounds and is a lot more active…the E53 forum especially. The repetitive questions will pop up more often and our frustrations will increase, but I hope we can continue to make every one of them feel just as welcome as we feel! We need to get back to what used to make X5world the place to be and set us apart from BimmerFest and RoadFly.

End of my rant.

Carry on.

:iagree:

Remember, X5world is the place where you come for the information but stay for the friendships.

Well said Michelle!!

Unfortunately its not only newbies that get "useless" replies

Amen - this is exactly why sometimes I feel reluctant to make a new thread or ask a question.

I fully agree M. Very well said:thumbup:

yeah its vice versa :thumbdown

Well said Michelle ... and thanks for bringing this up :thumbup:

:iagree:

and Amen again... I wish everyone here is like Twins, RR, MrBMW, Weasel, Essam, x5meister, JCL to name a few... check all their posts to see what i mean...

you think this is bad? go to b20vtec....like fresh meat with a pack of wolves

:iagree: with Michelle.

and before you know it you will be talking off line with new found friends..

Great Point Michelle - lets see how we do as a community to get back to the basics.

BTW - just a lil' over two months..... sorry for this brief Hijack! :nanana:

Rich

Very well said M.

I vote that this gets a sticky for a few weeks.

gotta have patience with people, both newbies and veterans of the forum. i often find myself wondering what to search for when searching for something about something. ??? i think that's what i meant.
people are often so unsure of themselves that they don't even know where to start, i sometimes bust stones but also offer some valid info on the post to get the ball rolling on their project or whatever info they are looking for. it's hard to resist the temptation of typing a smart alex comment or two, or three. epically when you feel the original poster didn't do any leg work to find the info him/herself.
i know i'm being redundant here, but i just wanted to get it out there that i will help in keeping this forum the greatest weath of friendly information on our beloved bimmers.:boogie:

I just want to say, that as a fairly new member, I have felt welcome to X5World. I always try to use the search feature, but that comes from previously being a member of a different car forum and seeing people "blasted" for asking any type of question.

I always try to help out and answer a post if I can, but a friendly reminder to use the search tool doesn't hurt either.

For the questions that I have had, I have received some friendly replies and answers, several coming through PM's.

Anyways, I just want to express my gratitude for making this site available to all of us, and also to all of the members who have helped me out with questions that I have had. :)

- A happy X5World member

I am one of those people too lazy to use search button. although i enjoy the interaction ;)

I promise to be nicer... :D ...

Thanks Michelle, the message is timely and well put.

:iagree:

thank you, very well said:thumbup:

Words of wisdom...

I really started to feel like I have real friends and enjoy reading your posts guys, so please let us not ruine the spirit!!

Long Live X5!!

btw, what do you think about X5 trans? ok ok just kidding :D

Michelle, I think this may have been posted before. Did you do a search before re-posting?

Just kidding!!! :lmao:

:iagree: with ///M.
I usurely try to anwser the question with all my best knowlege.
But when i see some thing like this....Example I know i can search but i'm too lazy to search.....Then i will give them the anwser is ....I'm too lazy to anwser too.:D

If that's the case, then just refrain from posting. I'm sure others that don't have a problem, will answer.

Great post, M. Thank you. :thumbup:

Having been part of many forums over the past 10+ years, and having been a moderator of a local heavy traffic motorcycle forum with 20k+ members, I must say this is a great reminder thread.

Yes, the beauty of online forums is that information stays available and accessible through search functions, and discussions can be brought back to life at a later date (be it a week, month or years later.) In fact, at work, we are now looking at exploiting forum format discussions to replace emails with, as emails only go to certain individuals and groups, and new members of those teams and/or new employees won't have access to that already discussed information. So yes, the search function is good, and it helps a lot.

But...

The life of every forum is its new members... seriously, old timers of the forum have seen it and been there/done that all, and if there were no new members joining in, the forum would soon turn into a deserted island with a few people starting unrelated threads here and there just to keep things going.

New members may bring up the same old questions, but the same old questions asked again and now, can and usually do bring other related discussions and topics into the discussion, with new contributions from others (also new to the forum) who may have found a better way of doing a mod or a fix or ...

I still find myself answering questions on the other forum that I have answered many times before... but almost in each case, I find new information shared by others that added value to the discussion. I usually do a quick search here and there, and provide the search results to the person asking the question. Sometimes new people don't even know what terminology to use and what word they should do a search on!

And if I find myself totally burnt out by the 'stupid' questions that are being asked over and over again, I simply skip those threads, and leave it up to others to go chime in. It is better than my going in and posting a rude or pissed off sounding post.

It`s not allways easy to be a karma chameleon

This is definitely a great reminder to people why we are all here, and stay here.

I agree fully Michelle, great thread. I know I always look to see Weasels post to just about any thread because he is always very helpful and makes all of us feel welcomed on the site

:noadd: .....way 2 go M........:D Phil

Personally, I've always felt welcomed here at xoutpost.com. I've never has any issues with any of the members here. If a vehicle-related problem has been posted and I know the answer, I will gladly post my response.

Compared to other boards like bimmerfest.com :eek: or toadfly.org, this board is pretty laid back.

Daniel

Being relatively new everyone here that I have interacted with has been very kind! I have been the victim of the mrbmwx5 quote of "I'm too lazy to answer" but I took i as a joke. :stickpokeI enjoy the random humor and sarcasm throughout the forum, but sometimes I think users new and old take it the wrong way....
BTW....jealous! I wanna go!

I agree, i too sometimes feel uncomfortable starting new threads, i have been bashed couple of times not sure for what though.

But i love you guys, this is the best forum.

I'm relatively new to this forum. The post from Michelle is very good reminder.

I guess you can call me a car enthusiast and utilize forums (of cars I own) to learn and share information. It's a fantasic way to get information. Besides this forum, I visit BMW, Honda, Mini, Porsche, 4runner forums - so I've experienced several online communities.

I have to agree it could be a little more newbie-friendly/helpful. But that said, this is the best X5 board I've found.

:iagree: 100%. Let's keep the friendly atmosphere alive

I agree as well M.

Also - sometimes searching doesn't help, doesn't get you the exact answer you're looking for. I also agree, if you have no answer - leave it to the people that do.

Thanks Michelle,
:hug:

the people make a difference.
:huddle

Damn, and I'd been dying to use LMGTFY on somebody here :(

Oh well :rofl:

Also, just my $0.02. I do use the search button but I also like to ask as well. Many times it's better to actually talk to somebody that had the issue or that can provide information than just reading an old thread.

Thanks for posting that Michelle, my last post for help (posted after I did a search) got all of 0 responses....

I'll help ya! ;) Though you might not like the answers. :D :rofl: :rofl: :rofl:

Great reminder Michelle! I think that's why I didn't visit nor post as often as I did before; the atmosphere just got a bit hostile and negative. I remember when I stumbled across this forum after I got my X5 and it was fun to visit and see what was going on with other X5ers. Everyone was friendly with each other even if we didn't share the same point of view. Now it seems like there are quite a few "my sh*t don't stink, but yours does" posts whenever there is a disagreement. I know when membership grows, a forum changes. Ideally for the better and hopefully your thread will remind people that this is a place for friendships, not to antagonize someone b/c they're Republican or Democrat, a PC or a Mac, or even if they drive American or Japanese. Voice your opinion, but there's no need to belittle someone who doesn't share your opinion. I came across this post late and as I look through who has posted in this thread, I couldn't help but notice that some of the more vocal and opinionated members haven't said anything here. Just found that curious.

I totally agree with the intent of this thread. Nothing good can come from insulting/belittling anyone on this group, let alone new members. If they are posting in the "Off Topic" area...then they get what's coming as it is clearly known what goes on in there, no matter what the group. In my opinion, if someone posts within the "On Topic" area and is jumped on, as described in many of the previous posts, then there is a real problem. Certainly if there is a trend of "abuse" occurring by the same few members, no matter how long they have been here, the moderators should step in and discuss it offline with them. I have had to do this as a moderator myself more than once. Not doing anything will only hurt the integrity of the entire group in the end.

I think this General post to all members is a great way to let those people in question, and they know who they are, that others are watching and don't, perhaps, appreciate it. Not starting anything here, but it seems that most cyberspace "bullies" are not so rude in the real world but here can hide behind the virtual anonymity of the keyboard. Just my observations.....

Overall, this is a great group and I have learned a great deal here and have not been a "victim" of any hostility here at all. Then again, I know how to use the search feature..... :D

I've been on a huge off-topic forum since 2001 which gets replies to threads within 30 seconds of it being posted. There are numerous people from all walks of life and all types of personalities. If you're not defensive-minded making a post, you're in some trouble as some will surely jump on you.

I come to X5World expecting the exact opposite. I've only been here a year and the majority of responders and their attitude has always been positive. I hope it stays this way as it is a welcomed change. I have actually mentioned there how there are nicer boards to visit because of this place.

Well said M..!

I myself is still considered a newbie here but I'm staying for the friendships.. :thumbup:

And as for those people who get aggravated when someone repeats a question/topic, please do move on and nevermind the flamming..

:cool:

Spot on Michelle.:thumbup:

Hi Michelle, I'm a relatively-speaking newbie to this forum myself, and so far have found there to be an abundance of information available. Not only from the guys/gals' responses but in the database as a whole via the search facility.

ALL the points you have made are completey valid, and judging by the others' responses to your 'mini-rant' ;) this is echoed wholeheartedly by the forum members.

Although I always thank the guys/gals' who have helped in ANY amount I would like to take this opportunity to thank them again, and hope that maybe the info I pick up along the way during my ownership of my X5, along with this forum membership, I can share with others (new and 'old' members) will be able to help them as it has helped me.

Once again, thanks for bringing this particular topic of great interest to all our attentions. I personally feel that it needed to be said, as I too have experienced one or two of the 'do a search' brigade. Which I already had, but my particular interest was not contained in any of the areas covered, hence me posting the question...It was the same, but different if you know what I mean... :yawn: :stickpoke Sorry, I was even sending myself to sleep there...!

Anyhoo, good job Michelle. :thumbup:

Well said M!

OK, is it me or am I imagining things. Why is X5World now called xoutpost.com??? :confused:

Thanks Michelle. I've been away for a while, but then again, that's been the story of my life - I'm always the last to know! Anyway, the website looks great and after all, what's in a name! ;)

Right-on-girl! I've been around a little longer than most of you "youngsters" and I love young people; "kids" I call ya if your forty or younger. I am young-at-heart, keep fit and CURRENT but to my point.
People have always responded to my attitude and often were amazed at it. I was complimented on my youthful appearance, kindness, respect of others and enjoyment of their company.

Fairly recently I've noticed rude remarks, condescending attitudes and a disturbing cynicism amongst all age groups (I belong to a multitude of organizations.... not all but mostly civic). In one meeting just this week of an organization I have been a member of twenty-three years with an attendant good reputation in it I was publicly ridiculed for uttering conflicting dates contained in a statement I made. There were even verbal "assides" that I overheard but pretended not to have heard about my veracity, my truthfulness. THAT HURT, and again, I am experiencing more of this vociferous behavior. I've a friend who specializes in the mind and he tells me, pretty convincingly, that people are angry. I am NOT going to get into the "why" of it.

By your picture and what you've said here, you seem like a lovely young woman. If people are inclined to insult or be rude to you; you can only imagine how they react to an old-timer like me! I bet your smart too so of course you know that all you can do is focus on the "friendly" posts such as yours and the replies you've received. I've a pretty experienced base foundation to tell you that the rude people are on to other self-destructive activities.

Does this thread infer we can't bring back the Inane, Stupid & Easy Questions Thread? ;)
BR,mD

Hmmmmm.:noadd::tapping:

I have noticed a change also.

The rule should be if you do not have something positive to ad to a thread you should not post anything. Snide comments do nothing but clutter the forum for those who are looking for answers.

Some forums I have been on the Admins give warnings to those posting rude, unnecessary comments with repeated incidents causing the removal of the repeat offenders.

All in all the forum is excellent and it has saved me countless dollars!

Thanks to all who contribute.

Harley Monster

I'm obviously new here myself and have found this site, so far, to be most welcoming and very informative. I hope that it will remain this way, whether or not it is a direct result of Michele's wonderful post, or not.

Nobody likes to ask a question that they think is important to them and have somebody else take a cheap shot because they can or because they may feel entitled to do so due to their # of posts, seniority or whatever. I'm quite active on a reloading forum (no....that doesn't mean lighting up the bowl again....:yikes:) and there are so many newbies that need help there as on all forums. I feel fortunate to be able to mentor someone else and enjoy doing so. If a question has been asked a gazillion times and you don't want to deal with it.....don't. To give a negative/P'dO response takes as much time usually, as just offering up the answer needed in the first place.

This is a great site and I expect that I'll be visiting it more often as my '06, X5 Sport grows older with me. I'm assuming, by the initial post, that it has the potential to be even a better site. I'm all for it and will do my part to help make it so. Having said that......it may be quite awhile before I'm able to mentor those less informed about such stuff than I am......quite awhile:D.

See ya,

Ken

Ken, a class post. thanks............

Very well said! I agree that the search function is great but when you get a ton of responses it is sometimes easier to just post your question for quicker information even if it has been posted before. I find somtimes I can enter 15 different searches and not find what I need and post the question and someone will get me going in the right direction. Thanks for all of you that help!

Thanks for you mini-rant!!

I love x5world
 

I had an x5 about 2-3 years ago until I bought a 545. Last night I bought an older x5. In short, this forum rocks!

I'd like to add that since joining this forum last year I have gained a tremendous amount of information about my X5, and saved a great deal in repair costs. Although I have limited experience with the vehicle and have not been able to contribute back to forum I would like to thank all of you for providing such an invaluable service to the members.
Thank you all.
H.

Amen Michelle,

Unfortunately cyberspace is populated with frustrated Keith Oberman blowhard know-it-alls who feel a need to hide behind the wall of anominity in order to deal with their latent napoleon complex. I've been casually visiting this forum for three years and have enjoyed finding solutions to my X5 dilemmas, but it has been increasingly become more polluted. Back to basics would be nice, but unfortunately not realistic. :p:

M, you missed the obvious. Lack of NWS threads... or maybe thats just my premier membership ran out and I haven't gotten around to renewing it...

I agree though. I know I've been to busy, and even when here, I'm an OT junkie, but everyone can do their part :thumbup:

To the "newbies": This is a great site. When I joined, I didn't even have an X5, yet I was still just as welcome as someone with a garage full of them. Keep it classy, enjoy yourself and you will have a great time, if not, we'll have to ***** out your handle.

<<Noddy hugs Michelle>> n'awwwwwwwwwww ain't she lovely?! :D

Well said there Michelle!!!

I haven't exactly been an "avid poster" on the site to date, but when I have had something to ask or say, the search-button-police haven't collered me yet <<touches wood>>, but I do know through reading other posts and so on that these "types" do exist;

COME ON GUYS, YOU KNOW WHO YOU ARE ...SURELY YOU YOURSELVES HAVE HAD THE ODD 'HARMLESS' QUESTION TO POST AND HAVE BEEN SHOT DOWN??!! .....aaand it's not nice is it?! :stickpoke

(sorry for shouting folks)

But, it's a simple formula - keep the good forum spirit up, the word will spread and it will only get better and stronger! :thumbup:

what the ....
where's X5world?
i haven't logged in over a year or so lol Internet Brands take over or something??? (just assuming since they've bought forums left and right over the past couple years)
what's this xoutpost? :rofl:

http://www.xoutpost.com/off-topic/lo...d-members.html

thanks for the link,
i did like x5world better for the record ;)

I have a general question, I joined as a premier member, and i am looking to sell my X, where is the best place to post it. I see items for sale but not complete x5's. Thanks for the help..

SAV Items for Sale is the proper forum - BMW SAV Items for Sale - Xoutpost.com

Hi,
I'm pretty new to the group and my X, but while making a post earlier I found something that kind of goes along with the idea of being an anonymous a-hole. If you look at the emoticons there are some that are somewhat in poor taste (I'm really not a prude). "who cares" is a prime example.
This forum is a wonderful resource, but some do need to learn the difference between razzing someone and being a total jerk. Like Bambi taught us, "if you don't have something nice to say, don't say it at all." We can laugh at each other and joke, but there is a line that gets crossed.
Scott

New guy here too and new to BMW! This is a great forum and I hope to one day be a valuable contributor...

I have been a heavy user and contributor to other forums - such as thedieselstop, RV.net, iboats.com, mustang forums, etc for the past 10 years or so. Those forums too, all had the same issues talked about here and it used to drive me crazy that members would bitch and moan to posters asking that "same old question". I always said, that forums were a place to ask questions - even a repeated one. The fact is, EVERY question has been asked before. E V E R Y Q U E S T I O N!!! And they can all be answered by a "search".

The last thing you want is to turn an excellent site and resource into a "database".

So get over it. If you don't like that same old question, move on. Your wasting more time answering with, "use the search button", than just ignoring the post.

Wow, only my second post and I'm already talking crap! LOL!

Cheers
Chris

Exactly Roadfrog!

Not every member spends hours a day on this forum, most turn to this forum and others you mention only when they have a problem or question. Most experienced users do a Search before asking a question, but as I know from experience the search results don't always give you what you need...hence a repeat question.

The bottom line is that NO ONE should EVER be flamed on this or any other forum. The idea is to help others from your experience, not belittle someone because they do not have the experience you have.

If repeat questions bother you, like Roadfrog says, just skip them, but you might feel better about yourself if you helped the person asking the question. That would impress the rest of us more than to see you cop an arrogant attitude.

Absolutely, as a new person, I try to find an answer by using the search, and even then I still get attacked.

If you think about it, it's counterproductive. If experienced people attack the new people, new people will eventually stop posting and then what...you'll have a site full of experienced people who have no questions to answer!

New people come here to get answers because we are not experienced. If we had all of the answers then we wouldn't be here! :p:

You have made one post...when did you get "attacked"?

From the other side: yes, Search does not always work like Google.
Many of us answer the even obvious & inane questions, in combination with additional links
and/or pointing to Search for additional perspectives for the OP questioner.

From my perspective, perusing this Board a couple hrs a day, 7 days a week, the "attacks" are few and far between.

The whining in this thread is almost directly inverse proportional to the number of informative and helpful posts, by the poster,imo.
I have become ragged out lately, reading about the ragging; it's a great site with an eclectic group of very smart people from
very diverse backgrounds and cultures.

There is very little, on nearly any topic, that cannot draw a few reasonable answers, opins, ideas, on this Board, imo...

It is what it is, but if there is a better car board/general info board, a board where most hold most in high regard, and especially an
X/BMW info board, I have not found it in 10 years of cruising the web.
Good Luck to All,
mD

I just signed up to this forum in hopes to avoid BimmerFest. My experience with Bimmerfest and a couple of other forums is that they treat new people (or noobs as they call them) with very little patience.

Well, I think you will find this great collection of people to be very helpful! The most of us have plenty of patience and understanding... after all, that's why we're all here. :thumbup:

Look forward to it, already a great beginning!:thumbup:

I was a noob here at one point. I still consider myself a noob in collective and individual wealth of knowledge on this forum.

I can't believe I got stiffed by a member of this board for $25. I posted a thread last week looking for a 3 spoke wheel, the seller and I agreed on a price of $375, but then he turned around and sold it to someone else for $400. It's sad when people are simply out to make a profit rather than keeping the spirit of a board like this going. The sad part is, had he asked for more money I would have gladly paid it. Now I am stuck looking for an airbag to go with the sport wheel I bought from another member of the board.

Well said. :thumbup: I have seen far more threads where people have been helpful to newbies by answering questions that have been beaten to death by giving direct answers and/or posting links as well. Most of these questions could have typically been answered by using the search tab. On the flip side, there is nothing wrong with looking for more recent or additional opinions. I do get that.

I have also looked at numerous other BMW boards and this is by far the best around. Just my opinion, but if you have a lot to complain about with the majority of members here, then good luck anywhere else. I have only been part of this community since 2007 (lurker since 2006), so I can't say what it was like 5 years ago, but overall, it seems to be a very frielndly site as far as car forums go anyway.

Hi Michelle
 

I've been away for awhile. Might be in the market for an E53 X5 4.4 again. I thought I would stop by and see who is still around ;)

Joe, this is probably not the best heading to put this post under...This forum is still great and you are a great contributor...stick around.

I usually search, but sometimes searches are not effective especially if the keywords used are not what the solution includes. I'm sure some don't bother searching at all, but.. as a forum owner in another niche and as a member of several popular forums, I have always advocated that a forum is more a conversation than a knowlege base.

The same issues and questions will keep coming up. Usually this gives someone else a chance to respond rather than the old responder 6 months ago. Who knows, there may be a new view, a new technique or better information given the next time round. Sure the solution may not change, but perhaps someone has a twist or a way to save time and money doing it.

I just appreciate all those here willing to help. I've asked some pretty dumb questions but was always treated with respect and got the answers I needed.

I've been away for .... two years or so.. hostage to the housing / mortgage market.. what's going on here? Have the knowledgeable helpful moderators changed?

I am in NY now.. what have I missed?

The Board is run by first class owners/Admins, and the Mods are the same, meaning as good as they have always been.
The knowledge here is on par with any board of any kind, on the freakin web/planet, imo.

The "what oil to use" questions and the drive-by inane posts wear some of us out; esp. us old bastards that read this thing for a hobby...

Not to worry, we are all here to offer opins, ideas, help, and point reasonable posters toward reasonable links and data.

It's a board, so whining is expected, but it remains a thoroughly in-depth site for anything X5, BMW, cars, help, fixes,
life wonderments, etc., imo.
Glad you are back...

All of the above is simply my opin, as I/we try to be fair. :rofl:
GL,mD

I've never seen so many unlearned posts catered to as they are on this forum.

I use e39 forum on bimmerforums and m3forum.net. I can't even read this forum any more. It's like special ed over here where everyone is equal regardless how stupid they are.

Sometimes some harsh discipline is needed to keep the morale and general level of sophistication in a place like this. I think this thread has turned you all into fearful nanny's. baby sitting the ridiculous posters and spoonfeeding them answers that were given just 10 minutes before.

We're probably closing in on 100 duplicate well answered threads in the last couple months alone. What does that turn this place into? An unintelligent spam fest.

You know what happens when noobies get bashed for making duplicate posts? Over time something amazing happens. People start searching and post intelligent, original content to the forum. This improves the user experience for everyone.

So please, be yourselves here. yes you should obey the forum rules and not make unreasonable personal attacks but please, do what you have to do to preserve the forum and improve the user experience for everyone.

:iagree: ........ Glad to see someone is calling it like they see it. :thumbup:

I'm curious as to what level do you want to keep the morale of a forum at with harsh discipline? If it's up, how does harsh discipline do that? While I agree people should do a search before posting, the search function doesn't always yield what you're looking for, even if it's been asked a bunch of times. And in the grand scheme of things, is it really that big of a deal if a question is asked when the answer is just a search button away? We have to realize that not everyone is computer savvy and we should give them that benefit of the doubt. This may also be their first time visiting any forum, as it was for me when I joined, so maybe they're not aware of the search function just yet. And since it probably takes just as much time to reprimand someone for asking an answered questions as it does to answer the question, why not make the noobie feel welcome and just answer it? BTW, wasn't one of the reasons this forum was created was because the founders wanted a friendlier place to post and visit?

Just to clarify I don't believe anyone should bash/rag/insult/demean anyone
who ask for information But Kumbahya fever aside (I stole that Kumbahya thing). I believe MD has a point.

??? Why would it wear you out unless you actually go the trouble of reading that "duplicate post"? When I'm changing channels on the TV and I see a rerun, I change channels. I don't sit through it and fume.

Good advice provided that I love lucy isn't changing oil/transmission fluid/batteries/ and hunting for a dip stick on every channel........:rofl::rofl:

sorry if my rant offended anyone, I've just been frustrated with the forum lately. If everything on the front page is a rerun it does tend to wear on you.

:iagree: ...

No offense here. I thought you hit the nail on the head....

and, Roadfrog:
I'm not "bored"; it was an expression. For those of you that want to step up and respond to the dozens of repetitive "questions" posted here each week, feel free to add in. But, your analogy on "changing channels" will not provide much help for those "questions", as it seems you will be passing on them. Is no/few responses to the umptyseventh "what oil to use" question better than a couple of links and pointer toward the Search Tab?

Back at the Let'sAllHoldHandsRanch, it still takes the usual 2 dozenish here to respond with some info or links, or opins. If everyone is sitting back waiting to comment, not much will get answered or pointed in the right direction, imo.
BR,mD
[email protected]

I did'nt say I would pass on them...I was referring to those members that are bothered by repeat posts. Personally, they don't bother me. :dunno:

no offense taken...just wanted to know how disciplining people for posting an answered question would boost morale. I would think that it would lower morale and might make people less likely to want to visit the forum for fear of being reprimanded for not knowing forum etiquette. I'm with roadfrog in that I'm not bothered by repeat posts. It's a quick click back if it's a repeat.

Wow! I was gone for six months. I had to replace the engine in my 01 X5....I was so pissed at the ride that I wanted it to dissapear not to mention the SES light that stayed on until this week.....ugh talk about frustrating. Anywho so the board has changed admins/owners? whatever.....I would have ditched my rig long ago were it not for this board and all the time and $$$ it has saved me. I drive a rare 01 with a manual tranmission 115k on th OD but 77k on the replaced engine. Perhaps a suggestion is in order here.....the origins of this board were to exchange information and need for knowledge....somewhere before me a lot of posts turned to "look how cool I am stuff".....now I read that members are being dissed for asking repeat questions? really? ...my suggestion is to split the board into two sections...tech help/repair/purchase inquires and "hey man check out my new bling section"...that way those of differing needs will be less inclined to cross paths in a negative way. I personally don't care how shiny your door handles are and you proably don't want to read my rants about engineering issues......just a suggestion from an appreciative member who has been absent for a while.......I need this board and its expertise if I am to stay a Beemer driver. Hate to think anyone is wasting their time dissing others for their lack of expertise or knowledge of how it works......we were all newbies and stupid once....just because you might be quicker on the uptake don't make it right to diss anyone. You wouldn't do it in person so don't do it here.

I agree wholeheartedly. Well put.

No offense taken by me for sure.

We like to joke around about the rerun questions.
Sometimes it's pretty entertaining.

Perhaps a few FAQ stickies at the top of the Forum
pages would help to answer some of the more frequently
asked questions.

I am just thankful we dont really have any snobby, "the way my BMW looks is the only way a BMW should look" guys here.

Just a thought of mine after reading some posts on bimmerforums E39 section.

Actually...there is one odd member here that comes to mind but i assume his issue is more of a personality disorder :dunno:

So, what kind of oil should I use in my X5?...just kidding. :)

Amen.

The increasing snarkiness of some member answers and general overuse of sarcasm to respond to questions is really degrading the quality of this forum. Sure, a sense of humor is important, but honestly, it gets tiresome with so much noise muddying the information people really want to read about. I have seen some genuinely helpful members who point out a link or two or kindly suggest searching, but they are becoming few and far between.

I agree with NRA0707.

When this thread first started I ws hopeful we would see a change in attitude, but that has not happened.

I, like many members, do not have the time to be a constant reader of this forum or any other; however, I find this forum to be priceless when I have a problem with my 100,000 + mile X5.

I always search for my answers and then I can not always find them using various search terms.

When reading the "snarky" answers of some who post here I feel sorry for the poor guy that was simply asking for advice.

This forum belongs to all of the members, not just a select few.

Everyone, think about what you write and if you can't say something nice just move to the next thread.

Remember, you were new once too and you did not have all the answers either...help these guys out.

Just wanted to say that I'm a new member and I really do feel welcome!!!

Thank You!!!

On all forums you will get a few idiots flaming others cause they had a bad day at the office but there isn't much of that here which is great...

I'm a Co-Admin of a large forum (Mobile phone related) and it's great to see another forum embrassing the same ideas we have...

It has encouraged me to post and try to help others, i'm no tech but I have a great BMW mechanic and have owned BMW's for 7 years now, (so that means I have had my fair share of problems) :) if I can help others I will...

I commend the work of all the mods and admins for creating such a user friendly forum and environment...

There are a few on this forum who roost over it like it's their own personal soapbox. If there's any doubt about how they've reached quadruple-digit post numbers, it's because of their tendency to lecture everyone and to enforce rules they didn't create. In all honesty, it's a lot of hot air. Anything and everything is fair game, but the volume of garbage posts is growing; not only by newbs, but responses and counter replies from unofficial forum lords about using search or how the OP was too lazy is equally as bothersome. I can bet if you search their post history, there are more times they berate a newb than something of substance. It's about quality, not quantity! To those who are genuinely helpful, I commend you. To those who contribute great mod DIYs and interesting tips, you guys (and gals) are great. To those who welcome new Xoutpost members, you make this forum better. To the techs who provide great insight to forum queries, your knowledge is invaluable.

I'm belaboring the point, but PLEASE, remember when you post, not many want to read your stream of consciousness. Think about your post and if it is malicious, think again about posting it.

I think you are all missing an important point.

This website will change no matter how you try to delay it. It is simply a matter of economics.

When this site was new, so was the X5. And new means expensive. And expensive generally means older people own it.

The upshot of the above is that in general - when the site was newer - you would not have many people who are interested in "modding", "Ghetto-Blasting", "Road Racing", and many of the other things that go along with a older owner class.

But now, the car, and the site IS older, and with that comes vehicles that are older and cheeper and therefore more accessible to the younger crowd; and with that comes not only the topics that are irritating to older members, but also the repeated questions that are one of the hallmarks of the younger crowd - they don't see the need (as do older folks) to search when it is just as easy to ask the question and get an instant answer. I'm not sure I blame them. Lately, when I read the same questions being asked over and over, I just ignore them. I know someone will politely tell them to search, someone will rudely tell them to search, and someone will answer the question.

I think that when a site is full of all the same poeple as this site probably was long ago (older, more affluent, more likely white and republican) you will more likely have similar views and there won't be too much strife. But as time passes and the demographics of the owners change - and the politics of the owners change, you will have more conflicting opinions.

It's just a matter of economics and time.

No apologies for being one of those posters with an addiction; I have been around on this board, and its previous iterations, for a long time.
And, I have a lot of posts, as I am:
-a retired bum
-have time on my hands to read/post here
-care about giving and receiving good info
-usually try to point the poster toward that good info, with
knowledge or opins or links, or a combo

As for the possibility that any of us might be blogging, boring, doing our best JamesJoyce stream of consciousness posting, or generally plugging up the forums with "posts", so what. It's a freakin fourm on the net, though one of the more informative, friendly car oriented forums I've read, and one of the best/most interesting Boards for good info and opins on nearly any topic, imo.

Whether there are "board lords" here is subject to opin; most boards I've perused have posters that might fit that description. There is however, a loose, but quite informed group of core posters, and there is also an eclectic group whom have met several times at meets, both public and private. That group, much like most of the core posters, have some serious regard and respect for each other, even when we have different points of view or,
disagree.

Posting per se, or post count is of no consequence, imo...offering something of some value on any topic, is. The Board remains as good as the quality of info, ideas and thoughtful opinions. For those that enjoy it or, get something from it, good. For those that drive by, or complain without adding something of value, that is your prerogative. And, like cars, art, "taste", etc., beauty & quality lie in the eye of the reader.
It is what it is.

Good Luck, Ol'Uncle mD

GASP! OMG - Juan......A republican :yikes: :rofl:

There are a few of us who may be surprised to find out we are Republicans. :rofl:

Guess there is some point to this, but I don't get it. Do you think this site - especially in older days was more democrat than republican?

Juan will.

The point is, we are a diverse bunch. We always were. Young and old. Democrat and Republican. White, Asian, African American, Hispanic. We just got along. And still do.

The point is that while used X5s have become cheaper as they age, they do become more accessible to younger owners, or at least those younger owners who buy their own vehicles as opposed to those who were given them. It is just that to classify any owners by race, voting tendencies, or any other classification seems silly. I don't remember filling out a voting card when I bought my X5, and if you want to take it one step further, it is called X5World, and most of the world doesn't have a Republican party.

Don't want to answer the question? that's OK.

My point was that the people here at the begining probably had more in common and were more of a homogenous group - dispute it if you like, but that was probably the case; and now it is changing so there will be less harmony of thought. There will be more differing opinions and there will be more discord.

I think you got an answer to your question.

Check the join dates, it all started on this site in March 2005. I was here with MD and others. We came across from two previous sites, known as the refugees at the time.

Homogenous? I don"t think so. There is discord when there is a lack of respect, either for other posters or for the community itself. It is harder to keep the spirit going with more members, but I don't think it has much to do with how US members vote in presidential elections, or the colour of their skin, as you suggested.

So, you don't think that New BMW owners as a class can be describes as part of a particular socio-economic group?

I answered it. We had 16 year olds back then and 65 year olds, so age isn't an issue. The difference is respect, the "me" factor and the need for immediate gratification.

Just my 2 cents

Yes, you had 16 year olds. What percentage of the population were 16 and what percent 65? Did 16 year olds make up 50 percent of the members? Or were they only 10 percent or 1%.

If you search :stickpoke.... you'll find there was a poll on age. :rofl:

The point that you're missing is the group was always diverse. All races and all ages; teens, twenties, thirties, forties, fifties, sixties. The diversity isn't the issue. It's the other things I mentioned.

:iagree: Dang it "L". I really do love a woman who get's it!!!! ;)

Off topic
 

No. Economic class, easier to do, given the cost of entry.

However, it is a moot point, since there is no particular parallel between members of this site and broader BMW purchaser demographics. Heck, this site doesn't even make people fill in their birthdates or actual locations when they join, let alone their political affiliations.

Well and truly off -topic now, so perhaps this should be moved to a different thread.

If a mod wants to move this, I have no problem with it.

But how do you know there is no particular parallel between members of this site and broader BMW purchaser demographics - especially if it has not been tested? Just because there is no tested link, doesn't mean there is no link.

But as you say, this is off topic.

My only point before this derailment was that as the demographics of this site are broadened, the opinion range will broaded and there will be strife (or discord, or whatever we want to label it). It is inevitable because your (general - not you specific) definition of respect is not the same as it is in every other socio or economic class. And that causes a good percentage of the conflicts.

:iagree: ... absolfreakinlutely!

Since we have segued to this point, one only has to peruse the XOutpost Meets Forum and view pics of any meet: it looks like the UN lunch crowd
in terms of race/age, etc.

V & I initially and ongoing, love the diversity: we enjoy hanging out at meets, public & private, with people generally younger than we are,
and of a multitude of backgrounds, skin color, etc. That, almost by itself, makes it very enjoyable and interesting for us.

Back at the Tossing Aerosol Cans Into the Campfire, what piques my occasional interest in this thread, is the predictable recurring post(s),
by any given poster, (with a couple dozen entries), offering little of any info or "value", but feels compelled to post a comment about
Use the Search Tab response, or some of us are meanies or, the Board had bullies, ad nauseum.

For those of you with constructive criticism or cogent comments, good; for those with simply complaints, please point out a "better Board",
on any subject.
GL, mD

:bow:

:bow: :bow:

You old guys love me :rofl:

:hug:

Who you callin "OLD"
Don't make me come out there... ;)

There was a :hug: after old

Come on, dinner is on me.

Hey, I'm middle aged for another 23 days. Even us middle-aged-but-soon-to-be-old guys love you!

:luv:

Another thread taken over by me :thumbup:

Were there any complaints in this thread about hijacks :whistle:

i dunno, the worst bantering I have seen on here is child's play compared to on R3Vlimited... you make a typo or misquote something and you get eaten alive.

YOU ARE RIGHT!!
 

I ONCE HAD A REAL JERKOFF TELL ME NOT TO WRITE IN CAPITAL LETTERS
WELL I HOPE HE GETS A LIFE .

^ if you are actually offended by it, then please dont be negative in your complaint about it

WHAT , I CAN`T HEAR YOU , CAN YOU SAY IT LOUDER .
and by the way it was not me in case anyone was wondering .
caps are easier to read on a small screen , maybe the complainer has a 100 inch HD screen .

AND A PAIR OF THESE

WHO ASKED YOU?
 

I WAS NOT OFFENDED AT ALL.
JUST MAKING A STATEMENT.
MY LIFE DOES NOT REVOLVE AROUND CORRECTING MEMBERS POSTS
BUT JUST DRIVING MY SICK-ASS X5'S PLEASE DON'T HATE:nanana:
THANK-YOU AND GOODNIGHT:thumbup:

:wow: YOU HAVE SOME ISSUES THAT I DON'T THINK THAT THIS FORUM WILL BE ABLE TO HELP WITH. I SUGGEST SEEKING PROFESSIONAL HELP.

wait, youre the guy that was at the meet with those two X5s that were very heavily modded? the white and blue one?

In all honesty, all caps is pretty annoying. Also, were you referring to the thread where you asked if someone had their facts straight when you were the one that was mistaken?

:rolleyes:

I'd rather not fight on a forum. I may be wrong, let's examine the facts further before we all get bent out of shape

OMG...... a fight in the "can't we all get along thread":wow:
What has happened to the "What has happened to our site thread"????? :dunno:

That actually made me laugh out loud! :rofl:

:D

animosity

Hello,I'm new here, only a few posts in the past. It is nice to see people getting along. Quick question (since this place is friendly) I have a DIY short article to add regarding an FSR. Is there any special place to do this in the forum? Or do I just start another thread? Thankyou in advance.

There are plenty of DIY's on here, but it may have to be put in the "tips and tricks" section by the mods. Best bet is to start a new thread and it can be made into a DIY article if they want to. Either way, the info is on here it will surely be help to people in the future.

Ok, Thankyou for the info Weasel. I will give it a try.

Well said Michelle.

All i know is this site and most of the stand up people here have kept me from making some real stupid choices for my X and i want to say thank you to all who has contributed to help an enthusiast like myself. THANKS XOUTPOST!

You are awesome! I've been a member for almost two years and because of some of the things you've mentioned I must say I normally don't log in I just browse to keep myself "in the loop", but since reading your post and the other positive responses, I see there are many within the community that are still here for the love of sharing all things BMW.

...Thanks Michelle.

Thanks Michelle, search function is a tool I haven't used as of yet will need to look into it. I am yet a newbie but have been a car owner for 40 yrs so I have turned a wrench or two, yet I too might need a tip or two and might even ask a "dumb" question. Remember to reply as if you know and love that fellows X5!

Hello everyone. A long time ago, you would select which SAV you have on the home page, which I believe led you to a page with maintenance instructions/tips broken down into sections. Am I mistaken, or what happened to that?

Disregard. I was just looking for a way to update my account settings to be notified when my post was responded to and found "How to's" at the top bar of the screen.

I'm here, I have a 2005... :thumbup:

Please use the Mini-Rant button located in menu bar!
 

Dont forget that the people who be-little usually you have a miserable life.


;)

automobile repair
 

i think maybe you do not need to send your car to garage.
with a professional tool, you can fix your car by yourself.
it is said this tool is multi-function and suit for most types of the cars.
hope it will help you X431 X-431 Diagun

Escapee from XBimmers.com
 

Can't tell you how happy I am to have found this forum after the crappy treatment I got from the self-absorbed E70 crowd at XBimmers.com. I look forward to enjoying the kind of experience Michelle suggests here.

Nice words, Michelle.

Chris, Brazil

This is a great site. I've gotten a few condescending, snobby remarks. But for the most part I have been treated very well here and have learned a lot. Different times in the middle of a repair, I've gotten on here and within an hour had someone offering instructions to get through my issue.

Thanks Michelle for bringing it up !! I was an active member from 2005 until 2008 as I sold my X5 in 2008. I learnt a lot and also thanks a ton to Jeff (UCrewX5) to come to my rescue in person as I was in Detroit before. I have bought an X5 again just a month ago and guess what - this site is becoming an obsession again.... I check it almost every hour for any new update...... I agree with Jeff and this site's slogan.... We come here for information and stay for friendships...

I see that leg humping happens at every forum :p

This site is awsome and some of the pros here deserve a medal for sticking with it giving very, very, well informed advice!

I used to be an avid Rennlist member and MBworld reader but the kids grew too big for the carrera. Now I find this site to be much more versatile and much better technical info.

Well Said!
 

:iagree: Well said Michelle!!
Our site is such an invaluable resource and it can be even better if we share our experiences and information willingly.
There's nothing wrong with sharing a direct link to spares parts or info on an inherent problem without even being asked. All the better........
BTW, I have used 4wheelsautoparts.com and found their service to be excellent.
Thanks for the rant :iagree:

Bawahahahahahahaha! :rofl: