I've noticed my 4.8 has developed a bit of a heartbeat. It's inconsistent, but there's a rhythmic, or slow pulsing vibration coming from the drivetrain. I can feel it in the steering wheel at stop lights, and if I let off the break the car will inch forward in time to the pulse.

Any thoughts? It's weird but I'm seeing no symptoms of other problems.

Interesting.

I have noticed this recently too, '06 4.8is. car got about 150K.

Would like to hear opinions...

Also an '06 4.8, 95k. From what I've read on other forums it could be spark plug related but that feels off to me. It doesn't happen all the time and there's consistent power delivery. MAF maybe? I'm at a loss.

spark plug, eh? well, if that is the case, this is little blood... I am hoping to change the valve stem seals within next couple of months, and plugs along the coils are on the list. as well as the coolant pipe...

Could it be something else?

Mine has this as well. I was going to replace the 4 vanos solenoids and the IVM as a manner of maintenance to see if it improves. If not, I dread that it's the motor mounts... :(

Yeah, I thought about motor mounts too. I'm hoping that's not it though - my (wishful?) thinking is motor mounts shouldn't impact the crawl at idle I'm seeing. It moves forward in time with the pulses in vibration.

Is there a name for this behaviour?

like some other things in bimmers have names - trifeca, shark fin, kidney grill, angel eyes... If there is a name, then it would be easier to search other forums for ideas...

Yeah, I'm still doing the vanos solenoids, ivm, and a maf cleaning before even thinking about tackling the mounts. I'm fairly hopeful though from the other info I've read about those particular items fixing small idle issues and fluctuations. Maybe it's the optimist in me.:dunno:

@Terminator... I don't know if there is a coined vernacular for this particular problem, but I figured (and have used) a google search for n62 idle surge and n62 idle fluctuations as being fairly good.

Suggest more troubleshooting rather than chase with parts. No Codes?

Not a one, other than the recently developed thermostat fault code which will be remedied soon. :dunno:

I'm a preventative maintenance whore anyway so I throw perfectly good parts in the trash all the time. The added peace of mind I have while driving out of state or with the whole family makes it worth it to me to scatter a few known to fail parts at the issue.

Sort of sounds like intermediate levers. :dunno:

Yeah I've read about a few people adjusting those as well but with limited success. I might try that as well if the other solutions don't pan out. Thanks for reminding me. :thumbup:

If someone is looking for a really nice example 4.6iS: 2003 BMW X5 4.6is - Pre-Owned Inventory

Looks to have every option available: mtexture alcantara seats, tow hitch, retractable loading cargo floor, navigation, etc

No affiliation, just saw it surfing the web

No nav if it matters

The prices speak volumes about the differences between the 2 models they have in stock--An 03 4.6 and an 08 4.8 [emoji15]

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$20k is some pie in the sky price. Mine is three owners with a ton of work done 80k miles same options and I'd be lucky to get half that asking price.

Exactly

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I think it'll sell close to asking, just don't see them around anymore. Especially low mileage clean examples.

In late February I PASSED on a $20K/50K miles/'06 4.8iS LeMans/Beige (Prod 7/06) in Dallas, TX.

In March I picked up $15K/71K miles/'06 4.8iS Black/Black (Prod 3/06) in San Antonio, TX.

Probably just me. I live in Dallas but did not want to pay extra $5K for 20k miles less. I was also annoyed by the dealer overselling the X5M badges as if the car was an M car.

I am sure the 4.6iS will found a home because a guy from Colorado was harassing the Dallas dealer on the phone while I was test driving. lol

I was going to go look at that truck for a buddy in Houston. Glad to see it went to someone on the forums and will be well taken care of. :thumbup:

Oh man! How did he missed it. The truck was on and off the market since July 16.:yikes:

Was this one sold by a Land Rover dealer? I almost had that truck shipped from TX to Seattle.

No. Was very much family owned dealership.

He kept flip-flopping on wanting an e53. Had nothing to do with the truck. He is a sports car type of guy so he is leaning towards an f30 or possibly f10 (if I can talk him into it) over an SAV. He's a smaller guy (with no kids either) than I am as well so he finds coupes/sedans have plenty of room for him.

Found another E53 on Copart: '02 4.6is in Imola Red for $5k. Tow hook, weird thing on the hood, but mostly looks like it needs a wash and some maintenance.

https://www.copart.com/lot/24446067

Hey all!

I wanted to revert back to an issue I read on here but have not been able to get any feedback.

The issue is my 2006 4.8is, 139,xxx on the clock, is continually 'hunting' for gears. I have heard this could be a minimum valve lift issue (.3 or lower), and that raising the minimum valve lift to .7 (or at least above .3) can help solve this issue. It also had some rough starts in the very cold winter; 32 degrees or lower.

Can anyone provide some color on this issue if they have resolved it? Thank you!

What do you mean by hunting for gears? Do you mean the transmission seems to have a mind of its own--changing gears as in downshifting for no apparent reason?

By 'hunting' i mean, during acceleration it is rifling through the gears really rapidly, and also does not seem to be using the available torque in low RPMs so it will downshift. I can put more detail into this if you'd like.

Here is the original thread I was researching this on:
"I worked with this setting about 4 years ago. I wrote about it then. As noted here, it was set to ~.1 from the factory and my buddy with a GT1 set it to .3. For me, it completely removed a very rough issue on acceleration. A 'hunting' that felt a lot like the transmission was changing gears for no reason"

EDIT: acceleration does not feel "rough" for me, but really flying around the gears

https://xoutpost.com/bmw-sav-forums/...ot-tranny.html

Did you ever get to perform all of those maintenance items? Curious to hear if any made a difference.

I ordered solenoid seals and was going to pull mine to check the screens for debris and pop them back in. New ones are quite expensive.

Also read a lot about the ivm only a $99 part making a difference in low end performance.

Sorry richard. Have not done that maintenance yet. We've been driving the e70 primarily and I've only been putting about 150 miles a month on the E53 so the little hunting/vibrating hasn't been bothering me as much as it had when it was our primary vehicle.

I'm still anxious to try those parts though and see if they make a difference. Maybe I will soon after doing some needed maintenance on the e70 (glow plugs, module, and oil level sensor).

Just picked up this 2003 4.6is on Wednesday

http://oi64.tinypic.com/9giryd.jpg

Already ordered facelift amber tail lights and a few things to fix her up. Looking into lowering springs as well. Really enjoying it so far

Beautiful. Welcome to financial hell. :wow::D

Thanks. Al, right? I recognize you from my old E39 days and the Z3 section.

Hoping the X5 doesn't bankrupt me... I have to finish building my Z3 eventually! (The Z3's hide in the garage)

Yup, that’s right! I’ve still got both the Z3 and 2 E39s. We picked up our 4.8is 3 weeks ago and already down a transmission valve body and a window regulator. [emoji12][emoji15]. Still love it though. It’s a sickness. Haha. https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/201...bbd5630aee.jpg


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Congratulations! Looks good! How many miles on it?

congrats bro! looks real clean...

Clean looking ride for sure.

Man they look good in Estoril! And yes it definitely is a sickness :rofl: Masochism, I think they call it...

Mileage on this puppy is 215K miles. Just broken in!
You can find the build thread here if interested: https://xoutpost.com/bmw-sav-forums/...-6-thread.html

Thanks!


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what style wheels are those?

Hey that 4.8is wouldn't happen to have DI-NOC in carbon fiber over the wood trim would it?
That looks a lot like our old beast... We used to live in Jesey

No. The trim inside is pristine. 83k miles.


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Ok lol... We loved our 4.8is... Luxury, performance and that color!... But after 20k in repairs we had to say goodbye. We still miss it a lot.
Out of all the BMWs we've had over the years, That was our favorite.

Good luck and enjoy!

Thx!


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I would like to hear about any transmission repairs followers have had.

Bought my 4.6 new so know entire history.
119,000 miles on it.
Engine mods, not stock
Replaced the temp sensor at 117,000 miles.
Changed fluid and filter every 50,000 miles with ZF products.
Transmission operating normally.

Again, this is not a dig at you. You are asking to hear about any transmission woes/repairs:

I can chime in on my old 4.6is that i recently sold a few months ago. I did change transmission fluid and filter with ZF products and still experienced 2-1 downshift jerk when the vehicle got to normal operating temperature. Sport mode sometimes yielded a better experience. Even resetting and upgrading transmission software did not cure the issue. I did not dig any further.

Al in post #834 said transmission valve body & solenoid replacement

Pretty sure Pat changed his valve body & solenoids as well

There is no mention of you. This is a completely different thread. I am interested in the responses of the owners using the same criteria I posted. Would be great if you reposted it as a list of all the criteria/factors as I did. Won't prove anything but should be interesting.

I can tell you this, my 4.8iS with the 6 speed automatic had never had it's gearbox fluid changed by the previous (first) owner. It was shifting but not great when I bought it (81,427 miles) . Shortly after having the fluid changed, it started flaring and banging into gear setting off the trans fail safe message. After replacing the Valve Body and solenoids, it shifts like a new car.


*let it be said I never had a harsh 2-1 downshift.

Hi all. New to this forum and looking for your insight. I have a 2003 E53 X5 4.6iS with 65,6xx miles on it. Estoril Blue with Alcantra interior. I am the second owner (original owner was a family friend) and both of us have maintained her meticulously. Recently had its 60,000 miles check-up, new brakes, new tires and full detail. Car is in great condition with no maintenance needed to my knowledge. Thinking of selling and curious of what a fair price would be? I have read several forums/blogs and unable to find one with such low mileage to compare. Thanks in advance.

P.S. I only have this one photo on my phone.. can take more if anyone is interested.

Image:
https://ibb.co/fYt8Um

If you do want to sell, you might want to to something to the headlights as they do not scream meticulously maintained low mileage car.

As for the price, after 15 years, I don't really give any value to mileage on a car and certainly not low mileage as all rubber parts and gaskets have an age component in their durability.

You might be able to get a small premium if your car is truly flawless but the headlights are not a good sign.

Not sure on forum rules about this stuff (not sure this is in right thread) but that description is too vague as are pics to determine price. As someone in area (noVa) with a cc of your vehicle also a 2 owner but lower miles I'd be curious on others input but with 1 pic and no maintenance history it will be tough for anyone to put value on the vehicle.

Very fair - I will add more information later today. Thank you both for your feedback. As for the headlights - there is a translucent 3M bra on the headlights, hood, front bumper and side mirrors that has unfortunately discolored through the years. I will have to remove that so it shows better...

^What he said. Has the cooling system been refurbed?

But I'd guess you could get somewhere around $12000 for it. Might take awhile to sell though. E53's can be had anywhere from $3000 up to $15000 and the majority of shoppers looking for one will want to pay less than $10000.

The 4.6 is kinda rare and Estoril blue is popular color. Since it has been in the family you should have a complete history which is hard to find. Also a two owner 4.6 is worth a premium.

I suggest you make a list of 4.6s for sale nationwide from cars.com auto trader etc. and get a range of prices. I would pay special attention to the condition of the interiors as compared with yours. Vehicles for sale within 200 miles will have a greater effect on how you can price.

Price to be able to negotiate and high enough so you don't have seller's remorse and see what happens. I checked cars.com and this is what I found. https://www.cars.com/for-sale/search...20142&zc=75068

I made the decision to sell today. Pretty sad about it, all things considered.

https://xoutpost.com/classifieds/bmw...ml#post1123719

^Hope you get as much as possible. Nice truck and definitely more maintenance/care than most. GLWS.

Thanks. :) My biggest concern is making sure it goes to someone who will appreciate and care for it. I’m not going to make my money back (never planned to). I’ll get some satisfaction knowing someone else appreciates as much as I do.

^It will have to really. That alternator seal is going to eat up some labor time... or cost some money to fix. That, plus the power steering pump, and you're looking at a sizeable bill or garage time.

It will definitely go to an enthusiast... it may take some time to sell unfortunately though as only they are going to see it for what it's worth. Either way, fingers crossed for you.

It's nontrivial for sure. The indy I go to quoted about $2k for both, obviously less for a DIY mechanic. The way I see it I'm in no rush to sell (I store it at work, just need to keep the battery alive) and I have flexibility on price for the right buyer. Worst case scenario really is I hold on to an under-used car that I love a little while longer.

Did you ever post details and pics of this beast anywhere?

4.8iS Vs Cayenne S 5th Gear (UK)

In case you were wondering which would win...



The BM is the same colour as mine :p:

Thanks. Got to share with my brother in law for bragging rights



Garage:
E53 4.4i M62 born 2003-03-04 [SOLD]
E53 4.8iS N62s born 2006-03-16
E90 325i N52 born 2006-03-28 [TOTALED]
F30 328i N20 born 2012-09-06

Even if the 4.8 had lost it would certainly have looked better doing it.

Loved it!

That was a great video! Never saw it before, had a good feels all over again.

New 4.8is owner
 

I've been drooling over the 4.8is X5s for years. Finally broke down [aka convinced the wife lol http://s1.bimmerfest.com/forums/images/smilies/n98.gif] and bought one as a gift to myself for my 40th birthday.

2006 4.8is with only 74k miles. In pretty good shape with most of the usual issues already addressed. It's been a blast so far and fingers crossed I don't have to take any trips to the stealership anytime soon! http://s1.bimmerfest.com/forums/imag...es/tongue3.gif

Congratulations fishhouse4 and welcome in the circle. Funny enough I also got mine 2 weeks shy of my 40th last year and it had 72K miles. I really wanted a silver one but was not available then with my specs.
Have seen one on cars.com with same mileage in Chicago is that you?



Garage:
E53 4.4i M62 born 2003-03-04 [SOLD]
E53 4.8iS N62s born 2006-03-16
E90 325i N52 born 2006-03-28 [TOTALED]
F30 328i N20 born 2012-09-06

Thanks man. Yea I saw that one as well - they must be twins. But it was little too far and expensive for me. Ironically found mine right across the street from a private party here in Richmond, VA.

Superb! Enjoy the drive.



Garage:
E53 4.4i M62 born 2003-03-04 [SOLD]
E53 4.8iS N62s born 2006-03-16
E90 325i N52 born 2006-03-28 [TOTALED]
F30 328i N20 born 2012-09-06

Man 4.8is in TiSi is so nice...Congrats on purchase. Good mileage too

:thumbup: Just posted on your 4.8is registry thread!

Nice find. Congratulations!

How can i post pics in the comment people ? 🤔

First BMW since selling my E38 in 2015, an '06 4.8iS:

https://s15.postimg.cc/a5irs0sln/IMG_6650.jpg

https://s15.postimg.cc/6yo88cxuz/IMG_6957.jpg

https://s15.postimg.cc/fgxocooy3/IMG_6947.jpg

Wow Very nice combo burninator!:thumbup:

:thumbup: Welcome! Looks beautiful.

Good luck! ;)

Thanks, guys!

Welcome! Like the color.

love the look!

Air suspension isssue 2 Axel BMW X5 4.8is
 

Hi all, new here.... can anyone please help me resolve my problem...
One of my air bags blow on me the other day on the rear so I changed both the rear bags... now it’s like a scared cat, I’ve got inpa but it’s not letting out in the inputs on lowering or lifting suspension as it stops me after typing in the...
Example -11.....etc
See pic below

Woot! Officially bought an 05 4.8iS in Imola Red with 117k miles!

Now to ship it from CA to NY, can't wait!!!!


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Can’t wait to see it.


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Congratulations!

Thanks! Couple things that were done by PO (It's technically an 1 owner car, as it was passed on from parent to son) and got all the service history and the following were performed by BMW dealer:

1. Valley Pan Cover & gaskets due to a coolant leak in 2015

2. New Transmission in 2015 (BMW Tech says internal failure) so they replaced the entire thing as they don't do "rebuilds"

3. New Vacuum pump and oil pressure switch, due do an oil leak, again they don't replace the gaskets only, to "rebuild"

4. Alternator bracket gasket with some hoses on the surrounding area due to a leak back in in July of 2017.

5. Alignment by dealer in 2017, this was after dealer actually installed Arnott suspension bags, never knew dealers allowed outsourced parts.

6. And many regular maintenance stuff up to date.

Shows no signs of smoke after extended idle so I think pretty much all the major headache maintenance has been dealt with by the PO through the dealership.

I plan on maintaining it myself as I've always have, fix it up cosmetically (broken, worn, missing trims here and there), keep it clean and drive!

Oh, I think the first "mod" I will do is the 90*C Thermostat to keep things cooler.

Hi all...long time lurker but first time poster.

I'd like to be added to the register.

Le56863

2005 4.8
219,000km

Sapphire black exterior

Black nappa interior

Im located in New Zealand...down the bottom of the South island in a city called Invercargill .

I'm thinking unless someone is driving a 4.8 in Antarctica that I have the world's southern most 4.8 e53.

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Haha.. I'm thinking you could well be right! :bustingup

(I'm in Dunedin, btw...) :D

Congrats! Geez that thing has had most of the usual major stuff taken care of....great find. Cross your fingers you don't have to deal with valve stems!

Good to see another kiwi on here....especially one so close to home...iv only had her just over a year and have been slowly working through the usual issues...door handle carriers etc...do you know of or could recommend a good place to get parts..??...

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Had mine (3.0d not 4.8iS) over three years - done more than a few of the regulars items. Have sourced parts from all over

For suspension bushes etc. I use alleuroparts in Snells Beach (https://www.alleuroparts.co.nz/) - great deals on Meyle HD stuff. They are on TradeMe also...

Milland on TradeMe (here in Dunedin) has consumables and there are plenty of great Aussie suppliers on eBay also.

:thumbup:

Cheers for the local places to get parts. If gotten parts from all over...ebay ...australia...but have found service a bit crap...like wrong parts sent etc.
Iv been lucky with a local Indy mechanic that specilises in bmw...every time I talk to them the know exactly what I'm on about...and being a two minute drive from my house also helps.

Just took the beast on a 1600km trip up to Christchurch to take the kids to Disney on ice..then home via the hot springs at lake tekapo then Queenstown.
It ran like a champ the whole way.
They really are awsome long distance machines.

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What do you guys all use for coding?

I have the Carly app with their OBD2 adapter and has been very use full for coding and diagnostics on my e70. Even offered transmission adaptation reset.

Checking on their website it supports the e53 but not as many features as it did on my e70.


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I looked into Carly and several similar apps - found that they either didn't work for my 4.8is OR I just wasn't confident they would do everything I might want to do.

On the flip side INPA, DIS, NCSExpert, etc looked too complicated and/or sourcing the download was a bit sketchy.

I opted for PA Soft with the BMW Scanner 1.4.0 tool from xcar360.com. I read that this was a easier software to use - but still powerful enough to read errors, code, etc. Seemed like the perfect happy medium. Cost less then $20 USD shipped from China. Showed up in a week or two.

The BMW Scanner 1.4.0 OBDII tool and cable arrived as expected. The PA Soft software had to be downloaded from their site and installed on an old PC laptop. Took a few tries and some research on a few forum posts to get it configured correctly with my USB ports (since I don't use Win 7 the software was built for). But eventually got it all setup.

I've used it this last week to turn off my DRLs, code my temp gauge to be more accurate and to disable/enable several other convenience features. Plenty of other users, posts and tutorials floating around for help. Overall it's worked great and no complaints.

Lovely view in the driveway today. https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/201...9ac28dca7b.jpg


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It sure is amancuso. It sure is. :thumbup: :drool:

Awesome car and truck!

My new to me '06 4.8.

Clean! Which Michelins are those? The new A/S3 NSpecs?

Nice!

Very nice sidneyJ. Wish my imola was that clean.

Mine is at 95K miles. Love driving the thirsty machine.

Al - you need some of those updated wheel roundels!

Sorry for the delay! Yes....exactly that set! I think the "Nspec" that I'm assuming you're referring to is on Tire Racks offering of this tire and I found out the "Nspec" is Porsche's term for their OEM tire offering. That's what I was told anyway when I called Tire Rack. Nonetheless so far they seem like a great tire. More miles will tell.

Leaving Dallas Cars and Coffee. Start about about 7:25 minutes in if you only want to see a 4.6. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=va-ETYmtpt8&t=379s

Official X5 4.6is & 4.8is Thread
 

Hello everyone.

I just wanted to introduce myself as a newest member on Xoutpost. I am currently a E39 M5 owner but a couple months ago I added a 2002 BMW E53 4.6is X5 sitting at 176,xxx miles. Previous owner was a diplomat and had it for 10 years so a lot of work has been done to the vehicle at a BMW Dealership. The x5 drives fantastic but it will need some work. This is more of a project car to me so not sure if I’m planning on keeping it long but we’ll see how it goes.

- Bone stock except no navigation
- Upgraded 20’ Style Wheels
- Towing Package

Here are some pictures of the X5. I haven’t gotten a chance to take decent pictures or give it a detail yet but will post more in the future.

Enjoy.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/201...aa63660c1d.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/201...5792d18552.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/201...e01018c95f.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/201...f6547ad471.jpg


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Man...that black is gorgeous. Welcome! :thumbup:

Welcome. It's kind of odd to see someone "upgrade" to 4.8iS style 168s considering everyone thinks the 5 spoke 4.6iS wheels are the bees knees.

It really is when its nicely cleaned up!

Hey Al!

Yes, I would take the 5 spoke wheels but oh well. I will deal with these in the meantime. It could use a refinish badly.

Welcome to fellow member of Ashburn hood and owner of the same vehicles I have as well. Good choices!

Nice! You live in the Ashburn area as well? My cars would love to meet yours.


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Welcome and congratulations!

Yes for over 20 years.

My m5 is 03 and x5 is estoril. Id say I'd see you on the roads but as some folks here who will remain nameless can attest that doesnt happen very often if ever.

Thank you!

Wow! Hopefully I do see you on the road sometimes. I drive a 00 M5 in Titanium Silver Metallic. I drive all over the place so you might have seen me.

Next time Im turning some wrenches at the the house with another BMW addict Ill drop you a line to stop over if your in town

Sounds great! :thumbup:

The problem is, I can't bring 2 cars can I. LOL

Hi everyone. New guy here. Just joined the Outpost today. I’ve had my 2006 4.8is for 4 days now and it’s been a blast everyday. It’s LeMans Blue, all stock, 132k on the clock. I used to own a 2002 3.0 that felt like a slug and burned way too much gas and was just way to slow. So it was sold with thoughts of one day in the future getting a 4.6is. Well that time came sooner than expected and when the wife graciously gives the thumbs up and actually encourages it, who am I to say no? I’m loving it though, the power alone is enough for me, having not had a v8 attached to my throttle pedal in many many years. I’m still in that , let me look outside the window again to make sure that’s really my X in the driveway” phase. I’ve had a few muscle cars in my days but this is something else. Well don’t want to ramble anymore about what you already know. Just wanted to say hello from Cocoa Beach Florida!

Welcome!

Great find and great color.

Looks familiar, where did you purchase this from? CA or CO?

Maybe not at the same time

Thanks!

Kissimmee, Florida.

Any of my fellow 4.6/4.8is brethren looking for a rolling cargo cover?

Did the 4.6is come in Lemans Blue as well? hmm

Nope, Estoril for the 4.6 changed to Le Mans for the 4.8.

Here’s mine, had it for about 2 months and needs a lot of TLC:
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/201...33605b388c.jpg

Originally took this picture to fight a missing front plate ticket because the car came from a state that didn’t require one.

I was waiting for the oem plate holder to arrive.

Facelift plate holder is double the price of post lol


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[emoji33] mine is sitting in a pile of junk in the garage. [emoji857]


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I flew to Miami and bought Schwaggen's 2003 Dinan superhcharged 4.6iS on Wednesday morning and drove it straight back to Denver. I pulled in my garage before midnight on Thursday night. 2,100 miles in two days!

https://i.postimg.cc/G3TH0LBj/rear-mo.jpg

Awesome. Did you go look st Shane's in VA? :D

I just bought a 2002 4.6is S3 also, but chose to ship it. Arrives the 23rd.
107k on the clock. Titanium silver over black.

FYI - I reached out to Vortech, as Im sure you have the same V2 blower that I have. The basic rebuild is $399. Also, they do not recommend operation in below freezing temps unless you have an engine heater or store it in a climate controlled garage.

In considering the rarity of the Dinan X5s in the 4.6 realm im considering the rebuild in the spring and timing chain guides. It'd be a nightmare to have the blower shred and blow metal into the engine. So I figured, blower first then work towards guides preventatively.

I hope you have a great experience with yours! Im looking forward to getting my claws on mine and start changing fluids. The owner as changed oil on mine every 5k since new. Ill have to research what best practice is with the oil going through the SC, but am curious what you think.

The other route blower wise is to upgrade to a V3, which is sealed. Downside (to me) is its quiet. I prefer the whistle and whine. :)

We should start a X5 S3 thread and post up what all we're doing with these unique rides.

Congratulations! I bet that was a nice trip with all that supercharged muscle on hand. That says a lot about how well kept your X is and a huge sigh of relief I'm sure, to be able to jump in a new used vehicle and make a trip like that off the jump! I'm still a little nervous about taking mine 6 hours away, :stickpoke although I don't doubt for a minute she would make it. Just me I guess. She looks great! How much power do you think she's making? :thumbup:

Finally removed the centre resanator and replaced it with a h pipe.

Love the sound...have been pissing about since I got the beast about doing this....should have done it two years ago.

Cost $185 ...time...two hours...

Big thanks to magoo mufflers in Invercargill; New Zealand .

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Pics/ audio?

Not sure, but I'd love to get it on a dyno at some point.

It's been at my shop for the last few weeks having some gaskets replaced and the supercharger has been shipped off to Vortech for rebuild. Hopefully their turnaround time isn't too bad.

At least you got to drive yours a stretch. I maybe put 25 miles on mine before paperweight mode. No word from Vortech yet. :(

I might slide underneath it and change the oil over the weekend, so at least that will be done so there's fresh juice for the unit once re-installed.

Might get a couple of the pipes powder coated while it's apart...

G'day to all from Sydney.

Picked up my new (to me) X5 4.8iS just over a month ago. I've driven for nearly 10k km since then and absolutely love it.

2005 model year, with 202k km on the odometer, so she's been around the block a few times (but still less than average km/year). Exterior there are a couple of minor scratches and stone chips, interior is immaculate, except for the drivers seat (to be expected).

Mechanically it's quite good, smooth engine, a couple of issues with the transmission (maybe the slipping people talk about, but only in 5th gear at low throttle). Airbags were all replaced in the last year, front suspension replaced at the same time, and I was given the rear suspension components.

Absolutely love this car. The engine note on the overrun is glorious. Handling is very good for a vehicle of this size. This car just loves to go long distances...

Hope to have this for many years.

PS As soon as I work out how to post pics, I will add them.

Welcome!

Cheers bcredliner

Welcome! This site is great as I can't even tell you how much they've helped me and my ride. Also I have a 2005 4.8iS in Alpine white, what color do you have? Post your ViN on the 4.8iS register if you haven't yet.

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Not affiliated but an estoril 4.8is is rare

BMW of Eugene -ps - 2004 BMW X5 4.8is

Damn, that is rare indeed! 4-owners, clean car fax and looks like the last owner took it to BMW for service. I’m not into Estoril, but somebody should grab that beast!

Good find:thumbup:

Made 17 days after mine. This one has the Cream Beige interior and light poplar trim vs. the black and nussbaum in mine. The black grilles and wheels make the car look smaller though. :dunno:

Another Estoril but a 3.0i
https://www.cars.com/vehicledetail/d...1730/overview/

This has to be very rare

That dealer isn’t too far from me. They’re known for selling hoopties.


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LOL Al, yeah most indy's are crap. Low miles though

Anyone looking for an Estoril 4.8iS? My clone is for sale in Massachusetts.

https://www.cargurus.com/Cars/invent...ting=233160958

Sweet!! Good price as well. No real options though, no sliding cargo tray, no heated steering wheel, no tow hitch, no running boards

Couple gems on the web these days, this and the low mileage 4.6iS

Jon, I'd say the Estoril + 4.8is overcomes those short comings. Mine doesn't have running boards and heated steering wheel. I added the latter.

I paid more 1.5 yrs ago, but California car.

I could be mistaken but I don't believe the tow hitch and running boards were options. They were add ons the dealer offered as an accessory. At least I've never seen those two items offered from the factory as an option.

Options/Accessory same difference to me. They were offered at time of purchase and highly desirable items nowadays when people are looking to purchase. Not deal breakers but 'nice to have'

I'd snag it if I had some cash laying around

2003 4.6IS.
https://i.imgur.com/OKD5Oj7h.jpg
https://i.imgur.com/m60beC6h.jpg
http://i1126.photobucket.com/albums/...0170212038.jpg

Magnificent Blue colour, your 4.6is looks fantastic, although I’m not sure the M badges suit, especially the ones on the side ...
Edit: I just noticed you’ve already mentioned the badges:
“Pardon the M badges. The previous owner was a bit of a ricer, although he had a lambo.“

I know it's not an iS but this 4.4 I randomly found looks to be nice!

https://miami.craigslist.org/pbc/cto...841793833.html

Local find: https://www.mercedesbenzoftysonscorn...fa93506le83792

Looks pretty good from the pictures, minus the high miles its a 2 owner vehicle. Tow hitch, rear sliding cargo tray, heated steering wheel

Highish mileage is worrisome without a service history. But on the bright side, it's got the uber rare 3 speed manual transmission. :rofl:

That 4.4i looked nice though.

How difficult is it to remove the front and rear lower spoilers? Mine need to be painted as with time and age, they need a refresh.

Here's my 2002 4.6is Supercharged...after 4 months of working through challenges, its finally on the road.

https://oi37.photobucket.com/albums/...psjnndvvvm.jpg

https://oi37.photobucket.com/albums/...pswzekmsav.jpg

On the 4.8i the bottom front spoiler is part of the bumper sort of. It can be separated but all the screws are on the back so the bumper has to come off.

The rear you need to pop off the ends and couple screws holding them and some tabs on the bottom.

Uber rare undercarriage piece in the for sale section

From the North!

Welcome, nice BSM!

I love the color blue and the look of the E53. I have a very very high mileage e39 with the M62 that I'm ready to move on from. Seems like the 4.8 is going to give me the closest experience to what I've been used to in my E39. Can anybody speak to their experience with oil leaks I've been reading about on these engines in much older posts please?
My budget takes me into the very early years of the F15'S but I'm reading about problems with the E70 V8's and don't want to exhaust my budget on an F15 if those problems were carried forward into the F15'S. Obviously newer with lowest miles is best but I'm not sure if I'm going to enjoy a similar experience as I would with the 4.8 given I love the power and feel of my E39. Any thoughts?


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I've owned E39 M5 (S62), E53 4.6iS (M62) and now a 4.8iS (N62). I would agree that you will have a very similar experience moving from an E39 to E53. Both are great chassis' and provide you with that analog experience. 4.8iS can be notorious for suspension woes (self leveling, 4 corner air ride), valve stem seal issues (but this common on all N62 as well so E70 included). I wouldn't say the 4.8iS is any worse than an E39 in terms of maintenance. The power and feel of the 4.8iS is great!

If you go with a 4.8is E53 it will have the same N62 V8 that is in the E70's. They share the same problems. Valve stem seals, alternator bracket seal leak, coolant crossover pipe, etc. I have no experience with the F15 V8's but I think the E70 V8 is the last generation V8 (in terms of complexity) that I will own. Unless I hit the lotto. The N62, while complex, is serviceable. The E53 is very E39 like... both in drive and interior so it should feel like home to you.

Edit: CleanisFast beat me to it. :thumbup:

LOL Thanks guys! I'm being steered towards the N55 but it's a 6 cylinder Turbo. I just don't know if I could live with that... I know maintenance wise it's probably a no brainer versus of these V8's. I guess one of the considerations is at what point do these problems started occurring in the 4.8? I mean finding one with low miles would be a needle in a haystack, and even then the owner would probably want E70 money...

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Depends on your definition of low mileage. There was a board member here who scored one with uber low miles but he definitely shelled out big bucks for it. They typically float around $8-12k for decent examples. For better examples with decently low miles I would say $15-18k.

I am of the mind that I would much rather buy a well maintained higher mileage vehicle than a lower mileage vehicle that has not had major maintenance done yet. But opinions vary on that. The main benefit of a lower mileage vehicle is the body is typically in better shape cosmetically. But mechanically, they can often be in worse shape due to still being on the almost 15 year old OE parts. What you are going to be willing to pay (or should pay) is going to depend heavily on the particular vehicle. I overpaid for mine because of all the Dinan stuff it had on it. Paid $15k @ 90,000 miles. Has treated me fairly well but have spend $4000 on it in parts over 3.5 years. :dunno: Your value proposition will be a personal one. :thumbup:

Respectable insight. Much appreciated.

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Estoril for sale on eBay: https://www.ebay.com/itm/254225983743?ul_noapp=true

I drove an e39 540i M-Sport with the six-speed manual and legit GF VIN code (only around 1000 imported to North America for the one-off year of 2003). Recently I picked up a 2006 4.8is. Aside from the obvious difference in the transmissions, the overall feel of these two respective vehicles are very close.

For how much this thing weighs, I am impressed at how capable it is with cornering and acceleration (especially in sport mode). The brakes leave a bit to desire. Driving position is taking me a bit to get used to with these comfort seats as all my prior BMW’s have had sport seats but this is moreso a personal issue and not a blight on fuction or design.

The engine bay has tons of room. Getting in there is easy compared to my e39. The front cabin area has much more room but eh, ones a car ones a truck. Rear cabin room is about the same. The cabin layout is very close to the e39 and aside from a few options my M Sport didn’t have, familiarity is there. Same ol’ tape deck, folding nav screen, dsp; all the same.

Visibility is enhanced because your driving position is elevated higher from the road surface and your FOV is better while blind spots are reduced. The park sensors are a great option and I am glad BMW put the passenger side tilt mirror in this model. The 4.8is is a big vehicle but since you’re coming from an e39, you will be fine.

Decently rare color combo on this 4.8is. Seems pretty fairly priced if the mechanicals are in fair shape. No affiliation, just an FYI to anyone looking. LeMans blue over truffle sport leather (can't tell if nappa or dakota leather).

https://houston.craigslist.org/cto/d...890256988.html

https://images.craigslist.org/00f0f_...p_1200x900.jpg

https://images.craigslist.org/00M0M_...Q_1200x900.jpg

Silver 2005 4.8 for sale. Rockledge, Florida
 

https://www.bavarianautocenter.com/2...L_29328449.veh

Silver 2005 4.8is for sale near my new house. I’ve only stopped and peeked inside once while they were closed. Looks to be in very good condition overall.

Great color combo. Have not seen that one before.

Picked this 4.8is up yesterday with the full Aerodynamic kit (pictures truly do not do it justice)... the 4.6is sadly blew it's motor beyond repair many moons ago

http://i65.tinypic.com/1z6tkwo.jpg

Looks good!

Some don't like the aero kit. I'm not one of them.
Looking good .

Wow. I have to say it only looks great on a black car. I love it more pics.

Thanks guys - I am a big fan of the aero kit myself, and think it just looks phenomenal on the black sapphire metallic

http://i67.tinypic.com/2qvfw2r.jpg

I also have a build thread here which I'll be updating with more pictures and stuff: https://xoutpost.com/bmw-sav-forums/...ml#post1165620 :thumbup:

Now I know what I will be looking for. That’s the first time I like it.

Just got back from picking up this minty Imola / Creambeige from Seattle-land. Really enjoying the air suspension, although the power isn’t as visceral as our M5
https://i.imgur.com/fUEI4oC.jpg

^Nice pickup Nate. Clean imolas are tough to find.

PSA for anyone interested. 2004 4.8is black over black 84k miles aero kit for sale on Ebay. No affiliation and on the higher side @ $12800 but if it's the right truck for you... probably not easy to find. I'm sure they would take less as well.

https://www.ebay.com/itm/2004-BMW-X5...on=3000%7C2500

https://photohosting.azureedge.net/v...4LE81632-1.jpg

https://photohosting.azureedge.net/v...4LE81632-4.jpg

Congrats! I've had a 4.6is for about 7 years now and to be honest, after the 1st year I have rarely punched the gas. Probably subconsciously worried about the cost of premature wear and the cost of gas. But it sure looks good! heh. I still catch people taking photos after I detail it. :D

I punch it on mine every once in a while. It's nice to stretch it's legs.

If ya got it use it. Been doing that for 118,000+ miles.

I'm more of a punch it through a corner/around a sweeper guy... LOVE getting on the loud pedal then... very satisfying to see the true engineering in it...

It was a thrill driving the I-90 northern passes through Washington and Montana for this exact reason. Big downhill sweeps, the truck was on rails, confident and comfortable while slinging 5000# around.


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I punch it every time I take it out. She loves it even still at 95k miles

From a stoplight, down an on ramp, long sweeping curves, curvy country road, doesn't matter. Engine, transmission and suspension are all modded. Much more fun than our X5M.

Selling our Dinan supercharged 4.6iS: https://xoutpost.com/classifieds/bmw...ercharged.html

https://i.postimg.cc/pT1Ys5cQ/IMG-4624.jpg

Very nice!!!

[emoji848] If I talked bad about it would you be so fed up with it you'd just let me have it?[emoji6]

Can't seem to find the begging emoji...[emoji1787]

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Let me get back to you on that :rofl:

It was worth a shot....[emoji6]

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2005 X5 4.8is - Is this worth pursuing?
 

2005 X5 4.8is
82,000 mi.
$7,100.00
No problems listed. Looks clean. Is the money right?

Is this worth pursuing?

Suggest you visit cars.com or autotrader.com and search similar vehicles within 250 miles as prices can vary by your location. Best practice is to never buy a used car out of warranty unless it has a great documented history of maintenance and you have a PPI done. At 82,000 miles I would want to know if the suspension has been rebuilt as that is likely something that would need to be done in 20-30,000 miles, perhaps more perhaps less. I don't think anyone that is not a DIYer should buy a car that is 15 years old, too much risk that repairs will quickly exceed the purchase price. However, lots of people do and beat the odds.

bcredliner
I checked the sites. Price seems a little on the low side. Is there a lot of difference in the DIY for a 4.8 vs 4.4?

The major problem with the 4.8 is the valve seals. Other than that, the usual oil leaks.

Thanks. It looks like the valve stem seal replacement is a bit of a bear!

If I remember right, about $6k at the dealership

A PPI at a well recommended independent shop specializing in BMWs is more critical, if that is possible, when price is on the low side, need to know why. It may be cosmetic but, as mentioned, it is not unusual that valve seals are leaking in that mileage range. There are some differences but other than valve seal issue I don't view as more complex than a 4.4.

I believe valve seals affect the 4.4 and 4.8 equally. I know my 4.4i smoked just as my 4.8is does. Can't think of anything that differentiates one vs. the other as being more maintenance heavy. They are both high maintenance girlfriends.