Has my suspension collapsed?
 

I have been experiencing the creaky rear suspension symptoms for a while, as per http://www.xoutpost.com/bmw-sav-forums/x5-e53-forum/63332-x5-making-squeaky-noise-rear-not-shock-2.html but this weekend I also noticed that my rear camber seems to be way off (Pics attached, I hope!)... any sugestions as to the possible causes? Rear wheels seem to be leaning in at the top (or out at the bottom) quite noticeably.

I suspect there may be some sort of problem with the rear air suspension. ('06 X5 3.0D self leveling air suspension (rear only)) but the vehicle still seems(?) to ride at the correct height. Just creaks (a lot), and now appears to have a bad camber angle. Is there some way to test the air suspension? It is the rear only self leveling type so I have no buttons on the dash to raise or lower it.

Attachment 35334

Attachment 35335

I am a long way from the nearest dealer (600km) so I am kind of hoping to have an idea of how bad this potentially is before I make arrangements to make the dreaded trip! Am I going to need to sell my house to pay for this;)

Ok I have read all the posts regarding the negative camber and I guess this camber may be the desired BMW spec... but I am convinced in my mind that this camber is way worse than I remember. My photography skills do not do justice to how extreme this negative camber seems to me! I have had friends ask if my car is ok after following me down the road, and other X5's that I have seen do not seem nearly as bad.

May be time for rear lower ball joints and upper control arms with an alignment, but would need your suspension inspected to be sure. You could just tell them you have a creaking in the rear suspension and think you are due for an alignment and they should give you an estimate on the work needed after they check it out.

Otherwise it is mainly a noise/tire wear issue but won't leave you stranded anywhere. So no need to lose any sleep.

BUMP... Did you solve your problems, if your still around here. Thnx