Thank you!

oem hitch kit on its way!

Nice halo color! What bulbs are those?

Hello everyone, I just purchased a 2003 X5 4.6iS 2 weeks ago. Titanium Silver with charcoal interior, factory NAV, etc., etc. Loving it so far and learning lots here.

Thanks!

I just got my car and it has some AC Schnitzer floor mats .. :D

changed valve cover gaskets and spark plug tubes
check engine light is on, rough cammed out idle
110,000kms 4.8is

fixed engine light and rough running and rough idle
i mixed the 2 cam sensors on the back of the valve cover on the drivers side

towing package - only OE, nothing less... no drilling required but very involved process... it runs about $1000 installed from a dealer... any non-OE tow package will eventually kill the car.. unless you want it for the looks...

1. My oem hitch kit arrives next week if your still interested i will take pics and comment on the quality
2. Those leds when warmed up are normal

I am also going to order the OEM hitch and wiring kit form 4.6iS. My trailer has led tail lights, will this posse a problem?

Just curious, will a trailer with LED tail and running lights cause an issue with the OEM hitch kit (throw.codes, etc.)

Also, I want to add a deep cycle battery to my trailer and would like to charge it through the 7pin connector while driving. Is the center 'auxiliary pin' powered when connected? Is a battery isolator required?

On a side 'non X5 specific' question for all off you electronics here's, I want to run some 12v lights and electronics from the battery in the trailer through an inverter. Is it possible to have a smart charger connected to the battery (and plugged into 110v) and charging while the inverter is drawing from the battery at the same time?

The trailer would not be connected to the X5 during use.

Make a thread on this. No one is going to reply here.

I picked up a 2003 X5 4.6is in Emola Red the other day. My very 1st BMW. I've never been much of a car guy. Spent most of my years on motorcycles. So my cool car experiences are very limited. I had an 86 Mitsubishi Starion 4cy turbo years ago. That was 'almost' fun except for the fact that I was too young to afford the maintenance and bought the car with serious problems. So little fun there. It was a very long time before I bought a (then) old 94 Volvo 850 turbo wagon. I count that car as my first serious car. It had high miles but old lady driven and still tight. I absolutely love that car and may still own it long after the X5 is traded away. Those Sweeds really knew how to create leg room for the driver. But... my age is beginning to show and I no longer feel it is wise for me to bend so much just to get in and out of a car. Hence, the search for a truck or SUV. But... I had never had a muscle car. So there was that too. That... need. You know. Every guy needs to have at least one muscle car at some point, but sedans are no longer viable for me physically. The list of muscular SUVs and/or trucks narrowed quite quickly, especially when considering used prices versus new, etc, etc. Then there is the BMW badge. Would that gain me any 'respect'? Not looking for accolades. But respect is welcome. Would a Dodge get me respect from fellow white collar workers? Hmm. And so it was that I obtained a MONSTER/ROCKET/TANK/TOWTRUCK/RUBBEREATER/KNECKWHIPPER. I can't believe the thing can do all it can do and STILL tow 6,000 pounds. AND look like a Hot Wheelz dream machine. I'm shaking my head even now. LOL. A 4.8 may be in my future but I'm not sure I would really notice the difference. I just put around town with the occasional fire breathing burst. Another 1/2 a second off my 0-60 time is something I bout I would notice or appreciate. I'm very happy with the 4.6!!

Pics!! Sounds like a nice ride, congrats. The exhaust note is very addicting.... to the point that almost nothing else sounds good to me.

Pics soon! Oh yeah. The exhaust note is sweet music. Never had a muscle car before. It makes me want to 'enhance' the sound but I don't want to screw it up and make it sound cheap. Don't know anything about mufflers/pipes. I would prefer to have 4 chrome pipes sticking out the back instead of the two large pipes I have (with the two holes deeper inside). That's cool, but not 4 pipe batmobile cool. :D

Congrats on the X5! Yer gonna find it addicting :thumbup:
(sometimes I turn off the radio and just listen to the exhaust note lol)

The oval tips are a signature of the iS. I'd leave them.

I guess. But every suv has big oval pipes now it seems. Does't stand out much to me. And they seem to get dirty inside. Not sure I like that look too much. Personally, I would prefer 4 bright chrome pipes sticking out the back. The only people who would know the difference are BMW guys, and they are the last people on earth I would bother trying to impress. But thanks. I'll think about it.

haha. i've noticed my radio volume going from low, to lower, to OFF much of the time. Especially when I'm cruising around in 2nd gear (romp! romp!). heh

Funny thing is, the sound is not really that loud. A debagged 3.0 with new pipes and 20" wheels is going to impress almost as much just cruising around town. Now if I could just find a waaay to pump up the volume without screwing up the sound. Weeee!

Yes - PICS IMMEDIATELY PLEASE :) Welcome to the club. Got my '05 4.8is in September and I have NEVER been happier with a vehicle. I constantly get challenged wherever I go...and to see their faces when I blow off the line - lol - GOD I LOVE IT. I affectionately call her "THE BEAST"...and it totally rocks. HP / Torque is massive and I am picking up a B&B Exhaust upgrade to kick that all up a notch. ENJOY SQUIGGY!!

Finally got some pics!!!

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v2...pscbe81183.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v2...pse7ba102a.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v2...psd16a304d.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v2...ps03b97b8f.jpg

^Wow that looks pretty decent!
Could you post a profile shot, like in the avatar above you.
Also, are they powdercoated or plastidipped?

Vid of my xhaust no engine load,
takeoff vid coming soon, then u can hear the engine under load
X5 with x-pipe - YouTube

Ola!!!

http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/s...ab/photo-5.jpg


http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/s...ab/photo-4.jpg

LOVE IT!

Post some more angles...

I want to go Gloss black!!!

Will do...
yours looks awesome...

NICE :)

Havn't forgotten you but if it can only stop raining for me to wash the truck and have better pics lol

http://distilleryimage6.s3.amazonaws...0a1fb771_7.jpg

Got the spacers adjusted and height pretty much where I want it.

Things being done this weekend:
- ceramic pads
- xpipe
- intrax module
- roof rail delete

I've had the car about three months and am absolutely in love with it. I can't leave anything alone but my plan with this car is to stay OEM+ with the mods so there will be some more goodies coming in the spring but nothing to crazy.

the gloss looks nice!!!



how do u guys think saphire black metallic painted rims would look like

Personally I wouldn't go metallic but not saying it wouldn't look good. Its just one of those things you might have to try to see the real effect.

http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/s...ab/photo-6.jpg
http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/s...iogigab/b1.jpg
http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/s.../photo-3-1.jpg

changed front L corner PDC sensor,
did it in 45 min
wasnt bad
bumper is much easier to remove than i perviously thought


and also slacked the front left side thrust and lower control arm then retorqued it, due to when i changed the cv shaft i tightened the bushings when the suspension was extended, truck was lifted and work was done on a 2 post hoist,
today i retorqued with the vehicles full weight/ride height at level, put wood blocks under both front wheels

I think this is my first post, but I've been lurking for a little over 6 months and finally joined in December. I've always liked the 4.8is and have decided to purchse one in the near future, thanks largely in part to all the useful information on this forum. I really like the 4.8is in imola red, but have yet to find one for sale with the alcantara sport interior. It seems that 90% of the imola models have the comfort seats, which I despise. Did BMW sell the imola with alcantara? If so, what was the contrasting color (e.g.black and ____)? The lemans blue models i've seen are black and blue and the black models are black and white.

Thanks for your help, hopefully I'll be joining nthe x5 ranks soon.

The alcantara interior is hard to find regardless of exterior color. It all comes down to how the dealer/original owner ordered the car from BMW. As you can imagine, a "cloth" interior was not popular in a $70k BMW.

If you want the alcantara interior that bad, you'll have to wait to find one...

Thanks for the reply. As long as I know it's out there. I primarily just wanted to verify I wasn't looking for something that wasn't available.

Honestly I think the 4.6is is more commonly spec'ed with cloth interior. Here is a pic of a 4.8 w/ cloth.

http://www.mwerks.com/artman/uploads...8_interior.jpg

Did I mention I love mine? It was a huge selling point for me as well. Hope you can find one!

Perfect! That is exactly what I'm looking for. Just tell me where to book the flight to and I'll be there as soon as I can :D. To be honest, I'm not quite ready to purchase yet as I want to sell my Jeep first. I primarily wanted to know if it was out there because I have found every other color 4.8is with Alcantara, with the exception of Imola :banghead:.

Thanks for the input, I'll just keep looking and one day (hopefully sooner rather than later) I'll be able to post as an actual X5 owner.

Well this is a little sooner than I anticipated, but...

Any members/owners near Cincinnati, OH or more specifically Dayton, OH? I may have found the ideal combination between exterior color and interior but being in Seattle it's a little hard to put some eyes on the vehicle. If someone is nearby and wouldn't mind going for a test drive and giving a close eye, I would be eternally grateful and I would be more than happy to buy them dinner and a brew if everything works out and I end up flying out there to drive it home. If it isn't as advertised, I would still be more than happy to "buy" the dinner and brew through paypal for their time. Let me know through PM and I'll send you my phone number.

I do plan on doing an independent pre-purchase inspection through an indy shop that looks pretty good in Cincinnati, but was hoping a member might be able to test the waters before making that big of a commitment.

I'm also concerned about how harsh the road salts are on the underbody/chassis over there. Anybody have experience with this region and what I can expect? Or are the newer vehicles not as susceptible?

Thanks,

Micah

I have a 4.6is in imola with alcantara. The 4.8is with the same color combo is a rarity. Also, most of the 4.6is came with sport seats, once the 4.8is came out, most came with comfort seats.

Maybe you should consider a 4.6is. The M62 engine is easier to work on and you don't have to worry about the air suspension. You'll also save a bunch on the purchase price. Just my $.02...

I can't figure out whats wrong with the comfort seats. I think they are badass. All the different types of leather that are used. They way I Can practically lay down with my neck/shoulders propped up to drive.

They could use a little more side lumbar (sport) support but they are super comfortable and the leather is NICE, I love the sides how it has the more rough leather and then smooth in the center..

I was thinking of doing inserts but didnt think I could improve on the design without getting ricey.

Im coming from Recaro seats in a 06 Audi S4 too...

..."despise comfort seats"? That's the first I have hear of that. I tested both before I found mine and I loved the comfort seat adjustments SO MUCH that I waited over a year to find the right interior / exterior 4.8is color combo and the comfort seats was the deal breaker - wouldn't buy an X5 without them. Long trips are a breeze in these seats. Warmers / headrests / lumbar / etc. SOOOoooooo killer :thumbup: :thumbup: :thumbup:

Right??

+1. Not that I don't like sport seats, just don't care for them in the truck.

I had them in my 335i, which was fine. They certainly suited most of my daily driving (generally short trips with some decent fun mixed in where appropriate). On the 6.5 hour trip down to see the in-laws, not so much. I'm looking forward to much more comfortable road trips now.

Perhaps despise was too strong of a word, but that doesn't change the fact that I have no interest in a 4.8is with the comfort seats. I like the support the sport seats provide. The comfort seats are just too flat for my taste, perhaps I have to put on a few more miles before I can appreciate the comfort seats :D. I do plan to take it on spirited drives now and again when I won't be driving my e30 318is and I believe the local CCA chapter will allow it on the track. I only intend to take it once, just to get a feel for it and where it's limits are and then use it to tow the 318is on typical track days.

Now onto my next question regarding the typical transmission problems. I'm looking at 2 different 4.8's both requiring a flight to pick up so I'll have to rely on a pre-purchase inspection prior to purchase and won't be able to test drive it myself to feel out the transmission. One has 106k and the other 81k, it doesn't appear either has had the transmission replaced (although I still have a couple more calls to make to verify for sure). What's the likelihood I'd be replacing the transmission in the very near future on either one? It looks like they both had maintenance conscious owners, but I want to know if I need to be planning to spend another several thousand if I decide to buy. From some research on here, it looks like either one should be due anytime now. Does that seem reasonable to assume even if they shift fine now?

Thanks for your insight

At either 81k or 106k, a transmission replacement should at least be on your mind. If either are showing signs of the trans slipping, you likely have a couple thousand miles until complete failure.

Tell your PPI place to give a lot of attention to the transmission. I would have them hammer on the car to really give it some torque input.

There are guys with 150+k on the original trans, so it's possible to have them hold on that long. I would think driving style has a lot to do with it. Any BMW with 100k in true highway miles should not need a new transmission.

Thank you, this is exactly the information I was looking for.

^ This gives me hope as I really don't want to go through dealing with transmission issues right after purchasing a car, but do understand it wouldn't be unlikely.

Thanks again.

14.77 in the 1/4 mile my first time on the track

xpipe and k&n filter only performance mods

Proud new member of the 4.8is owners club here - thanks to Xoutpost! After finding a couple duds I came across one on here listed by 525iT_Feen (an excellent person to deal with and a true automotive enthusiast). Although I wasn't initially interested in comfort seats I felt an enthusiast owned vehicle with a well documented and proactive maintenance history was much more important. After 3,000+ miles, the comfort seats are pretty nice and it's not like this is going to be a track rat, although I do wish there was a little more bolstering for the moments of spirited driving. The drive back was a blast with great weather for the majority of the trip from Boston to Seattle in 5 days. Here's a photo of it in my driveway after cleaning off the 3,000 miles worth of bugs and road grime.:D

I'm still learning the nuances of this vehicle, but it's been great so far. I'm looking forward to many miles of driving enjoyment in this X5.

Boston to Seattle... very nice!!! A lesser man would have had it shipped :)

Welcome and enjoy.

Glad to hear Olek's car went to a good home! That vehicle was worth the price, low miles, great maintenance history, enthusiast owned, excellent! I would have loved to take it off his hands but too rich for my blood, enjoy and looking forward to seeing you on the boards!

So I just purchased a 2005 4.8is with 57k on it, blue on white and im scared about owning this thing. lol. I love the truck and all, but coming on these forum makes it seems everyone has serious issues, especially with the 4.8. `

Right now the tranny and everything is good shift smooth. engine quiet. rides noce. no problems. but being a previous owner of a e39, I know what a pain these machines can be. but still its my dream SU/AV.

Any comforting words? lol

I'm glad Micah bought it. It will definitely live out the rest of its life in great hands. I ended up giving up on the AMG as I accepted that I really am a die hard BMW guy. Picked up an 08 Monaco blue and tan/black, one owner, 750i Sport. I'll be lurking around here.

New Owner X5 4.8is
 

Hello X5 4.8is fans.

I own one and just found that this site exists. Picked it up back in December 2012 with 42,000. LeMans Blue offwhite leather with black carpets, and the standard wood trim. Garaged whole life, one of many cars. No nicks, dents, tears, etc.

Joins my herd of BMWs..M5 and a 528i. No issues after a PPI and the seller repairing all issues found. NAV Head (pixiles), Trans slectorshart leak, VC boots spliting, etc.

It took me two weeks of night time detailing to get everything clean and up to my standards of detailing; washed, clayed, three coats of wax, tooth brushed all the interior, leather treatment, etc, etc,etc. Fliuds changed, filters, etc. It now has the clean look. I always smile with non car people think clean = new car.

Only issue is the wheels, as the fronts have the "never cleaned properly" acid pitting from brake dust. Any suggestions for wheel refinshing?

Ran up to Philly with approx other BMWs last month on the Philly Cheese Steak run. Could keep up with the front runners with no issues. Wideopen gear changes cleaned out the carbon and still provided 27MPG at 80+ on the 250 mile trip.

Looking forward to all the information available on this site.

I was enjoying the great spark plug debate on one of the links. Having worked for Champion Spark Plugs way back, I could see the misinformation on plugs still is around. :stickpoke

Wish I had some. I bought a really low mileage 4.6 is last November. Figured I'd avoid some of the common issues for a little while. No such luck. Still love the thing and I'm not sure what I would rather have in the $20k range as a daily driver.

welcome to the forum... as we say, no pictures, then it didn't happen!!! lol...

very nice specimen indeed, based on what you said... and 27 mpg - are you sure about the number? mine is at 17-18 on good days... my wife's 335ix is at 22 mpg... mostly highway driving, up and down on I-95 - granted, sometimes (most of the times!!) the traffic at local wal-mart parking is moving faster than the I-95 ... lol...

Gas mileage....hot topic every few years or so.

My MPG is based on the onboard computer calulations. Have not done a match up of physical vs indicated.

Sold off my 2001 Jeep Grand Cherokee LTD inline six that would do 21 MPG if baby footed on the HWY, stuff like decrease throttle pressure up hills, slow exceleration, etc. Fresh oil and filters. Upgraded to K&N intake tube with filter. The hard take offs and cold starts suck more fuel than a steady foot at 75MPH. According to the onboard 56 MPH is the prime fuel spot on a flat surface. (drag issues?) Once again only computer indicated. Not going to go down the SAE calibrated 2 gal seperate fuel tank method, as we are not doing EPA testing on this site, I hope :rolleyes:

Around town it gets some 14-18mpg.

Love the romp that these SAV beasts provide. Really enjoyed the ride, handling and appearance these have over the
competitors. Nice day only daily driver for me as I have a Mini van for wet weather that is expendable and a M5 for Sunday morning blasts through the twisties. Each have their intended purposes.

Finally be able to post in here with pictures. Our new-to-us 06 DINAN 4.8iS

http://i300.photobucket.com/albums/n...ps6d0cd5a4.png

http://i300.photobucket.com/albums/n...psc2f07706.jpg

http://i300.photobucket.com/albums/n...ps20532c39.jpg

http://i300.photobucket.com/albums/n...psc47efd9b.jpg

Looks good man!

BEAUTIFUL, tmv! Thanks for sharing the pix! Got plans for any mods?

BTW, you might wanna get that windshield washer tank checked... looks like it's leaking quite a bit... :bustingup

^I'll swap my HRE wheels over from the 3.0i, LED AE bulbs, maybe LED taillights (not sure yet), roof rails delete, window visors, lowered by DIS and some coding.
I thought that was the coolant leak, windshield washer tank is such a relief :rofl: :bustingup

That's what happens when you have a rear coolant manifold gasket flipped around backwards and you're filling the engine with coolant. It all goes right out the back. (You can reverse it and still have all three bolts hold it lol....)

:o

2002 x5 4.6is
 

Hey Guys:

New Xoutpost member here...longtime BMWCCA member. I recently purchased a new to me, 2002 x5 4.6is. I searched for some time to find a super clean titanium silver with the black cloth interior combination. This particular 4.6 has a verified 30k miles on the odometer.

I would like to take a moment to personally thank everyone here in the community for all of the great insights and information which helped me immensely in my research.

I made my first (and likely only) mod which was to replace the steering wheel with an e46 m3 steering wheel with the tri-color stitch...a perfect compliment to the interior.

I thought I would share with all of you some pics I took recently.

Flickr Link to the Pics:

2002 BMW x5 4.6is - a set on Flickr

Enjoy and thanks again!

:xoutpost:
Nice find. Is that an E39 M5 in the other pic? Love it.
Where in WA? I used to live in Seattle for 16 yrs.

thanks
 

Thanks TMV...yes there is an e39 M5 Stablemate ;)...I see an e39 in your pic as well!

30k miles on the 4.6? Good find. I think you're crazy for owning 2 V8 BMWs though :)

certifiable ;)

Bumping this thread for the hell of it, bought my 4.6is about a month ago and I haven't been able to drive it due to a faulty ABS module. I should get the re-man unit installed tomorrow and test out Sport Mode!

Future things I'm already thinking about:

Snow tires: I have all seasons on the OEM 20s. How capable is the X5 on snow with these on? Do most folks run dedicated snows?

Exhaust: probably going to do the X pipe as my first mod. Any reason not to?

Power: New intake? MAF? Chip?

bump

How much snow do you get where you live? OEM summer performance 20s are not good on snow. I have dedicated 19s with snow tires.

Exhaust: search the threads on X-pipe.. on 4.6is its not as effective as 4.8is.

I had 4.6iS in Moscow on mandated winter tires - i had 18" Pirelly Ice and Snow, with a scorpion picture on them... kept up with the locals... well... left most of them in the snowdust behind!!! lol... the 20" - not good in snow;)

Seeing that you live in Bellevue, WA, you should be fine with the all-season. We barely had any snow overthere during my 16yrs stay.
X-pipe sounds good. If I didn't have Dinan on mine, I would go that route too.
BMW did a good job getting as much power as they can from the engine. Aftermarket stuff won't gain much. S/C is the best bang for the buck, IMO.

Post some pics of your ride.

The tires on the 20s are all-seasons and not summers, I'm going to be making at least 2 trips over the pass to Eastern WA during winter and I will be in some snow.

Exhaust mods are never "effective" other than making more noise. From Youtube vids it seems to make quite a bit more rasp than stock. I'm used to quite a bit of rasp from my MCoupes exhaust and I think the X5 could be a bit louder on WOT.

Does it add much drone at cruising speeds?

Tubi's don't drone. No rasp either. Might have picked up a little power with them. Definitely lost weight.

Look into the Magnaflow dual in dual out resonator with built in X-pipe. I have a x-pipe by Dr. Gas but unsure if I want to install it.

Glad to see a member that's in my neighborhood!:thumbup: Although mine is a 4.8, it has the x-pipe with the resonators deleted and it sounds great, especially at WOT. The sweet spot is right around 3k rpms but no drone in my rig at all. I get compliments all the time with people asking what aftermarket exhaust I have. I often work in the Bellevue area and could meet up with you sometime if you wanted to give it a listen/test drive - just shoot me a pm if you're interested.

In response to your question about snow tires. I would guess with all seasons you should be fine, especially going over I-90. I have a ski cabin near Stevens on Hwy 2 and purchased a dedicated winter tire setup since I plan on being in the mountains 4+ days a week. My Continental DWS's seem to handle 3-5 inches of slush just fine as I test drove them when we had the early snow fall in the end of September and had trouble getting the DSC to kick in (it should be noted it was early enough to not have any compact snow or ice below the slush). I haven't mounted up the snow tires for a comparison yet. See attached photo - my dog approves of the snow holding capabilities as well;)

- Micah

No snow here, just fall color :D
http://i300.photobucket.com/albums/n...psaa3d777b.png

Great pic!

^Thanks

Nice pic! Yeah I'm only gonna be making 2+ trips over I-90 and then potentially some snow in the "lowlands". Nice to know some All-Seasons will get me through.

I think the X-pipe mod on the 4.8 will sound a bit different on the 4.6, since the mod is not reversible I'm a little hesitant.

http://forums.bimmerforums.com/forum...5&d=1384212655

Pictures from some of my car club members done this weekend

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/13/11/12/y2a4yzy5.jpg
http://img.tapatalk.com/d/13/11/12/meza3eru.jpg
http://img.tapatalk.com/d/13/11/12/y3ujypeq.jpg
http://img.tapatalk.com/d/13/11/12/e7uhesu7.jpg
http://img.tapatalk.com/d/13/11/12/guhysada.jpg
http://img.tapatalk.com/d/13/11/12/padymy7e.jpg

Nice "clown shoe" fuz9, but the fog lights make it SOOO 1990's

Fog lights were from PO, they holes drilled in the front bumper cover and it's wired up really nicely in the engine bay. :dunno:

If I ever find the NLA AC Schnitzer Fog lights I'll switch em out.

Hi guys! Been a while since I've posted....my red lady is getting some TLC this weekend. Its got the saggy butt problem and the right kidney grille somehow fell out. Looks like it blow its nose too hard. Lol! Got new rear air bags and both kidney grilles (sold as a pair) ordered and hopefully delivering today. Going to do both valve covers too.....

In mid-November, my wife's father passed (cancer) and she flew up a day before to say goodbye. My daugter and I drove up to Anacortes, WA from Dallas, TX. We took my 4.8 and drove 2700 in 34 hours with a 3 hour wait in Wyoming to have snow plows clear and sand I-80 just before going into Utah. Truck did great ....but, did get a ticket in Pendleton, OR....82 in a 65 on I-82 on the way to hit I-90 towards Seattle.
Beautiful drive up and back down.
Coming home it took all 3 of us 38 hours for a total of 5500 miles +/- in 7 days. So, I told the wife.....this Saturday is all about my truck and nothing else. People thought we were insane trying to drive up there but, I trusted my 4.8 and it did great.

im going to be needing new tires soon, what brand do you guys recommend.
I got already 46,000kms out of my toyo proxies
I probably get another 10,000km out of them

-who has ran different brands of tires?
verdsteiners?
continental dws?

If you see some light snow, DWS are a great and highly recommended tire.

Vredsteins are summers and you won't get the tread life you got out of our toyos.

If you really loved your toyos, why not just get another set?

Only some light snow in the PNW, Conti DWS should be great. I think they are OE tires on the "iS"

i want to try something new.
temps are usualy -3 to 8C in winter time
than up to 30C summer time
i do 90% highway driving and the toyos are loud.
i have had balancing/hop issues with these tires since i hit a pothole i wile ago.
only get about 3-6 days snow a year, i love driving in the snow, and plan to never buy snow tires or need them

I posted this earlier regarding my X5 4.8is tire change. The tire option was an interesting change.. I do not drive her in snow or ice except when caught out at a meeting. As I have other vehicles as snow plows. In the Wash DC area we only get a dusting with sleet mixed in.

Posted earlier.......

Gave my X5 a birthday present and a Christmas present... New Shoes and socks too.

New front wheels from BMW
Reconditioned rear wheels (Steam Rollers) Man those wheels are BIG!
Michelins from Tirerack.com

Reasons for the change: Front wheels had never been properly cleaned by the "detail dept" at the dealer where this one was serviced for its first 6 years, too pitted, and one wheel had a crack that extended into the bead area. The rear wheels condition was one small curb rash and a some scratching on the areas between the spokes.

Details:

Front wheels 20x9.5 PN 36116766068 cost $474.15ea
Rear wheels 20x10.5, Reconditioned cost $150ea
Tires 275/40 fronts, 315/35 rear Michelin Latitude Tour HP $356 front and $378 for the steam rollers in the rear
New chrome ring center caps
New BMW valve stem with those little stainless caps

Those who are in the Wash DC area, I will recommend leveraging Gary Martin MotorSports in Alexandria, VA for wheel reconditioning. National Wheel Repairs out of Fredericksburg (handles most of the BMW dealer work in No VA) comes by and picks up and returns the wheels in better than new look and appearance. Takes a while but they are cleaned, hand finished, painted, clear coated, and baked so the finish can handle those who use a car washes after driving 3 hrs. No, I do mine by hand when the wheel is COLD to the touch ONLY.

All these images are at 7:30 am this morning just after installing the wheels.

Follow up note: After a 150 miles run to make sure all is OK, here is my report. There is NO tire noise compared to the OE Michelins Latitude Diamaris, which had been over inflated in the rear when I purchased the vehicle 1 year ago, so there were some abnormal wear patterns. Rear tires had 6,000 mile on them and the center rib was down to the wear indicators. You have to love dealers and owners who do not double check common details, oil level, tire pressure, etc, etc. Now I have to do something about the OE brake pad dust...BMW uses carbon for pad material to provide that cold bite that everyone talks about. Great cold bite but that dust!

This X5 has 48K on her now...

I recommend Bridgestone Dueler Non-RFT.

Why no runflats?

Runflats are heavy as hell and stiff as balls.

I'm with RB on the Conti DWS, if you only face occasional light snow. Very nice dry highway ride/performance; quiet; fine wet performance and light snow; good longevity. My seller mounted DWS's on my E53 before I bought it - which I took as another sign that they knew what they were doing. I had a set of DWS on a benz SLK that performed great in slushy wet snow on a trip up north a couple years back ......

thank you for your response, I will be buying DWS's when the time comes...

And I can also agree. My x has dws mounted on it. Love them for all of those reasons

Just installed new front lower forward/tensoin arm poly bushings and new oem balljoints in knuckle
- truck brakes, handles, feels way more responsive
Also tranny oil sleeve and filter and new oil because stealership sid this job and broke the lock that holds the oil sleeve and the mechanic that worked on it musta been the biggest idiot in the world and the pan gasket was leeking a bit
- shifts smoother now and no leek

Why don't you buy a square set so that tires are cheaper? 275 40 all around sounds more economical. Maybe put wheel spacers in the rear for the look.


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how much cheaper?if i could i would go with 370/30/20 in the back and move the 315's on the front haha..275 with spacers in the back doesnt look right IMO..its like a shoe box running on oreo's... my 2c

That is if you ate buying a dedicaded set of wheels and tires for winter...


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Rims are cheaper that are smaller and the tires too. Mounting also decreases at 40 series and up not to mention the worry that someone at the tire store messing up your tires/wheels. Again, i am talking adout saving the staggeres set for summer and run smaller width in the snow.


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scott,my bad..i thought youre talking about summer's(didnt read the previous post)..

My 4.8is
 

Taken on a trip to Edinburgh recently
http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y15...psd0aa7f7a.jpg

Some different angles
http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y15...ps02a1521f.jpg

http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y15...psb5c31057.jpg

http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y15...psecf0a055.jpg

http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y15...ps08bd73e2.jpg

They are MK Motorsports in staggered setup with 9x20 fronts and 10.5x20 rears.
I'm running 20mm spacers up front and 30mm rears to give the stance. They also help with the next upgrade...

The standard brakes aren't too bad:
http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y15...ps5db7d9bd.jpg

But after a fresh coat of Ferrari Red I had these bad boys fitted:
http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y15...ps54a6808c.jpg

http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y15...ps71ddad21.jpg

8 pot fronts with 405mm floating discs:
http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y15...psc8a76c6f.jpg

6 pot rears with 380mm floating discs:
http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y15...psf5a7adaf.jpg

They really fill the alloys and combination of brakes and rims is spot on for me:
http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y15...pscda590aa.jpg

http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y15...ps3711c5ae.jpg

http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y15...psf208243c.jpg

To say they stop well is a true understatement. They are phenomenal.
Hope you like.

Also running KW V3 Coilovers and a custom magnaflow exhaust a long with a whole bunch of other mods.

Wow thats sexy

Thanks. A lot of time and effort have gone into her. But pleased with the results.

I'm on about my 6th set of wheels though lol

^And $$$ too ;). Sweet ride. It sure looks different with the trim painted.

I do dread to think of the running total so far…lol

Quit e a few were very unsure when I said I going to colour code it all and do the running boards gloss black but the finished product is truly stunning. Certainly gets a lot of attention (for the right reasons I may add lol).

Couple updated shots of my 4.8is.
http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b4...407_195042.jpg


http://http://i16.photobucket.com/al...406_182622.jpg

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b4...406_182622.jpg
http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b4...407_191117.jpg


http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b4...20/unnamed.jpg

Well I'm a long time lurker, thought I would say hi! Just moved to California from Seattle. So happy the X stays clean for more that a day here! :thumbup:

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/04/30/myme8a4y.jpghttp://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/04/30/ety8u5y5.jpg
New wheels dub x10 multi piece

Oem sizing

Dyam, those are lush. Would be interested to know how much buddy as I'm trying to source my 7th set of rims to clear the brakes and be lighter if poss. But needs to suit the X still.

Did look at OZ Superturismo Dakar but unsure on the look.

retail is around 5 grand US$ for 20inchers

Cheers.

Can't justify that much at the mo though.

"Baller" wheels :thumbup:

i paid 1500 Canadian with the tires
front is brand new diamaries
rear is runflats from a 2009

Stunning buy at that price.

new owner here :DAttachment 63270Attachment 63271

OHHH

Imola Red!!! :thumbup:

Very nice imola red;)
Any Interior shots?
That hood plastic guard has to go IMO
Also, running boards would complete the look;)
Enjoy it!

The will come off this weekend.. I will take pics this weekend

bolt size for rear brakes
 

I couldn't find it via search. I'm doing a R&R of rear brakes next weekend 1st time on this car, and want to make sure I've got all I need. What is the socket/allen/torx size I need to pull off the pads and rotors on 4.8is?

Official X5 4.6is & 4.8is Thread
 

Alright. Allow myself to introduce...myself.

First time BMW owner and I love this thing. I'm not taking too many photos yet because it still needs some detailing and I'm catching up on maintenance and tweaking/fixing this and that, but here's a quick photo just after getting new tires.

http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/14...5fc338643b.jpg

.......more to come...

2005 X5 4.8iS :: Imola Red w/ LeMans interior

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Welcome. :)

Looking sharp!spray some tire shine on them;)

Newbie here...

Hi all, just picked up 05 4.8is & just love it!

Have done a little detailing already, I spent half a day cleaning the interior, which was already pretty good condition, now in much better condition (leather clean & feed etc). Had to detail 3 cars on the weekend so will get back to the X5's exterior this weekend.

Loving the V8 rumble, its totally intoxicating & I wonder why it's taken me so long to get another eight in my garage after nearly 20 years of owning BMW straight six cars.

Welcome, I just brought home an '05 4.8is about 7 weeks ago!

Hi,

I am considering purchase of a 2006 4.8is. Previously I've driven a 2001 3.0i so I am familiar with the X5 but not with this engine, transmission and setup.

I tend to be a long-term owner (think 10yrs+) and can do most DIY (no suspension work/airtools)

I would be buying used (c50-60k miles) from a non-brand dealer (so I can pull service history but I don't know the previous owners)

Is this a great or a really bad idea? Is the engine reliable? The tranny and the xdrive system?

Will I need to replace the spleen into the transaxel system and CV joints like the pre-facelife system?

Any advice greatly appreciated here! Its random but this is a mid-life crisis car and is battling a used Audi S6 or S8 for my money

Cheers!

Blue smoke!

Everything else, while annoying and costs a lot of time and money, is not a car killer

Hi Werewolf,

We have had ours for 3 weeks now & love it... I tossed up between an RS6 Audi & the 4.8is but ended up going for the BMW as it is the the devil I know. Like any used Euro they will have/get issues & the important thing to remember is first & foremost is that it was an expensive car to buy when new & just because the car itself has done a lot of depreciation in value, the parts to keep em on the road have not! In Aus my 4.8is was 165k on the road when new and yes for those in other countries we do get royally screwed on the new car prices over here....

I've known a lot of guys over the years that have fallen into the trap of not being able to afford to maintain their car, so understand & respect the budget you will have available to keep one on the road.

Some simple rules
1. do a thorough pre purchase inspection,
2. know the history or run like hell,
3. if you buy it, make sure you have a budget to maintain it, otherwise the relationship could go south on you in a hurry

I'm really liking the ride height of the silver and black X5, anyone know what suspension they're on?

Factory air with a little coding to get it lower than normal.

What you guys coding with INPA?

I am. Inpa, NCS and DIS. DIS has failed me yet again. But it could be a fault of my shitty laptop.

Thanks, looking to buy the software from EBAY with cable $75.

There is a recent thread on here about software. Search that. It comes from Romania and is only $35. I was able to get INPA and DIS working on my windows 7 64 bit laptop. I tried using INPA to lower mine, but it gave me a bunch of issues and then used DIS.

My new to me 2003 4.6is
I hate all SUV's but I love this thing. Only BMW could build a driving machine like this. Great steering, brakes, road feel, fast, responsive. Pre- I drive, pre Bangle... Awesome.

^^^ Imola 4.6 is gorgeous!

Thanks, I love it. I will do a few tweaks but bone stock its good.
My daughter likes it too!

So...Imola owners...

What interior trim and finish was 'stock' on the Imola 4.8is?

Mine has Alcantara seats (which I love) and LeMans blue trim (which I don't love).

Curious what these typically came with, and where I could find replacements. Not into the carbon fiber look. Not planning to paint them myself. Just thinking.

Thrillcat, if interested, ill trade you my dark poplar wood for the lemans.I have a lemans blue 4.8 so i think it would look ok.I was on the hunt for the longest time for a set of piano black trim but I gave up and thought about painting my trim but thats not gonna happen anytime soon...
Let me know;)

Four.8 interesting offer. Ill have to think about it. My trim a has one small hairline crack near the AC that I'd need to send you a photo of, but it also makes me nervous about the value after removal, as it could easily get worse upon removal.

But I'll think about it and send you a photo. I think I'm leaning toward dark poplar or the silver/brushed metal to replace.

ya let me know i can send you pics as well.
Regardless what you choose, it will look better than lemans blue on imola red haha.
The silver trim would go very good with your seats as well.

Just did a resonator delete in stainless straight pipe: I was hoping for more but it is a noticeable improvement in sound. I will have to do the $1100 Billy Boat rear system to get more sound.

Hello,

Relatively new member in the X5 family with a 4.8is. Unfortunately, don't have any fancy pictures like you guys yet, right now I only dug up a quick snap when I was washing the love of my life (don't tell my girlfriend!!) :rofl:

http://i60.tinypic.com/novoyp.png

What are you editing your pictures with?Lightroom?
Care to share the camera/lens combo?just curious;)

Patriks, welcome ! Your 4.8is is looking good and it's just 3 months older than mine;)

Edit: If possible,if I'm not asking too much, please take a side shot so I can see those running boards on lemans with the crossbars on...

Dang that is still and always will be clean!

I may be adding a 4.8is to the stable soon :cool:, so maybe one day i will post some pics in this thread XD

Thanks! How long have you had yours for?

Unfortunately, I'm in another country right now and probably won't be back with my car for a couple of months :( I'll try to dig up some pictures, but I don't think I have any with the crossbars on, I only got them recently and had them on the car for barely 2 months before taking them off for the winter.

Picture was taken with Nikon D700, 28-70mm F2.8 lense.
I shoot in RAW, then edit with Lightroom and PShop.

Didn't know you're on here too, Daniel. Get it! :thumbup:

u guys have any pictures of X's with 4.8is kits in other colors than the factory red, blue, black, an silver?

Those are the ONLY available colors for US market. However, check this out.
Sterling Gray 4.4i
http://www.xoutpost.com/bmw-sav-foru...etup-pics.html
http://i1109.photobucket.com/albums/...lecx5/Car4.jpg
And this one in Bangladesh.
http://www.xoutpost.com/attachments/...-4.8iskit1.jpg

I saw that thread earlier that's what gave me the idea to ask. I also found a white one, looks like it's from over seas

May not be "mine", but I need to post here once! Of the few times it gets driven I seem to be behind the wheel... Can't let myself get addicted to it!

The ride is far more comfortable than the 4.4 and loves 85 cruising. Just a few little OEM toys and spacers, nothing special for this one :)

Washing is a pain though, hopefully Adams polish fixes that.

http://i924.photobucket.com/albums/a...psa24e9858.jpg

Hey neighbor! My crossbars are a little different than Patriks and I have the box on top in this pic, but here's one I have from the other day. Probably not the best quality, but hopefully it's what you're looking for.

^Gloss blk wheels don't look too bad on LMB

Looks good, D.

Installed a bluetooth module from a 2005 x5
Now i can pair my iphone5s
It works good!!!

Just bought this one over the weekend. I'm loving it.

Congrats and welcome to the forum.

:thumbup:

welcome aboard!!!

Thanks guys. I'm new to the BMW world but have spent lots of time on forums in the past. I hope to gain lots of knowledge from this site.

Congrats, ScoobyDooBMW

IMOLA :thumbup::thumbup: <3333333333

Looks niiiiiice.

I noticed yours before I started posting. I can tell there's lots to do even though these are loaded out. First thing I want to do is be able to use my phone with Bluetooth.

Mine had factory Bluetooth when I bought it and all paperwork, so it was easy for me to find the code and pair them. But it's the old, original Bluetooth tech, so it doesn't sound very good on either end compared to the Jeep Commander my X replaced. But I'm also rarely on the phone, so it's not a big deal for me.

Good point - to pair your phone you need the code in the back of the 'Telephone' booklet which you hopefully received in your drivers manual pack... is there some way to reset this if you didn't get that part of the manual?

Also I notice running boards seem rare in US variants while most of the 4.8iS here in the Middle East do come with them. Great for stamping the sand off your shoes to keep it out of the carpets!

http://www.e-bigs.net/BMW/X5close.jpg

If you don't have the card with the bluetooth code in your glovebox/owner's manual, you can get it off the actual unit in the rear left corner of the vehicle, low behind the cover panels. That's how I found mine. I vaguely recall someone posted photos of the location here.

I got this fixed a couple of months ago. I had to buy a Bluetooth module from an '05. My '04 didn't have it. I was the version right before they offered Bluetooth. I had the assist so everything was there. I bought the module plugged it in and paired it. Had to use the code that was on the module. Works like a champ. I'm happy with it. As has been stated, it's not as good as the current Bluetooth but it's ok.

I've been through a few mobile handsets with varying degrees of pairing success too - my new BlackBerry seems to be the best at picking it up (must have a list of codes which tell the phone that the Bluetooth is paring with a car's wireless); nightmare one was the Sony Ericsson; I had to turn the engine off to get it to connect!

Anyway - super looking condition there, Scoob - how many miles?

91,3xx as she sits right now. It needs a few things. VCG and motor mounts. Other than that, I can't complain.

I just blew the head gasket on my super-charged 2002 4.6. Anyone know of a good high-performance head gasket replacement that I can use in the rebuild??? Thanks in advance!!!

I'd also like to know for future needs that I can't do myself.

There is a shop the local CCA recommends that's by the Galleria area. Never used them but my friend's parents whom use to have BMW's have used that shop with "much success".

I have never heard of anything better than OE.

My 4.6 is also modded and I have had no issues. What are your HP and TQ numbers? You have both a super charger and a turbo on your 4.6?

Jacks Transmissions in Colorado does amazing rebuilds. This would be the only shop that id trust with my M5 anyway but they also do M62's

E39 S62 Engine Rebuild &ndash; Jacks Transmissions

1. How much boost / what diameter crank and SC pulleys?
2. What brand / model of SC?
3. Use OEM gaskets and OEM head bolts.
4. Recommend VAC Motorsports for motor build.

Curious to see a pic of your aftercooler / SC charge pipe routing.

1. Good you have had no problems. I have.
2. HP & TQ. God only knows. Have not had it on a dyno.
3. Super and turbo chargers together? That doesn't work. Where did that come from?

1. About 10 lbs full throttle. SC pulley is about 0.75 smaller than stock.
2. Same as yours.
3. There's gotta be something better. I'll contact GPower... they seem to have their feces consolidated on this issue.
4. I always rebuild my own stuff. That way, it's right.

Copper wire on O-ringed block with bored OEM MLS would be the route I'd take for improved sealing.

Let us know what G-Power recommends.

Impressive thread linked at Jack's site on his M5 S62? rebuild. A good guy to know in Colorado Springs ......

3. That is the reason I asked. It came from your signature list of what you have done to it.

You have the Dinan Supercharger kit? That kit takes the 4.6 to 451 HP and 439 TQ.

At 10 psi with the new SI impeller he's making low 500's. With that gearing it must have been sick while it lasted lol.

Warbucks, can you hook a fellow SC'er up with a photo of your pipe / cooler routing?

Post some pictures of the engine and cooler and headers, please.

Interested in pics too.

New member to Xoutpost, figured I'd check in with the X folks. 2002 Imola 4.6is. Alcantara/Leather interior. PO broke the timing chain so she had to be rebuilt.

http://i1179.photobucket.com/albums/...ps0184415a.jpg

http://i1179.photobucket.com/albums/...ps946e8f6a.jpg

http://i1179.photobucket.com/albums/...ps9f539748.jpg

I have some gremlins, but will start a separate thread on the issues.

Nice and Welcome!

Love the matching red trims!

That red e34 wouldn't happen to be the mint one that was for sale in Atlanta a year or two ago for some ridiculously cheap amount because the dealer had no idea, would it?

EFFING HOT IMOLA ON IMOLA AND ALCANTARA!

I don't believe so. I got it via private sale, albeit about 2 years ago...

I was just curious. Nice little collection you have there. Congrats on the 4.6

Thanks doc. The goal being to just have a decent and affordable stable.

^How much is the total investment now? I remember you pick it up for $2500.
How's the speaker sound mounting on the carpet? :jk: :bustingup

I'm in at $6775.00 inclusive of the AC compressor I had to buy, and the gas to gas it up.

With fresh guides, tensioners, etc I'd say you are in extremely good shape!

Guys, 4.6 Schwartz on red partout. No affiliation. Engine and trans are good. I saw this same car for sale about 2 months ago on cl. This guy bought it to part out. Nuts

BMW E53 X5 OEM PARTS

I'd kill for that interior :(

Lol. I'm sure you would.