Damn, I just can't seem to catch up!! :D

Congrats!!

Outstanding Wally! I have been hoping to see a post like this one.
MIne is a 2000 X5 4.4i. Lucky to get it in great shape with all Dealer/Warrantee maintenance by-the-book. Been doing the 100K mainteneance in affordable chunks.

I did just change the trans oil & filter - getting some quirkiness when the fluid is cold, less when its warm. I have owned & operated many automatic transmissions over the years. Never had one be so fussy about a fresh dose of premium grade fluid :dunno: ($15/quart) & a nice new filter. So, thought I would search for Transmission posts to see what is out there.

I too have benefitted greatly from this site; so went "Premier" this year to say thanks to Webmasters & Moderators who manage this great resource.

Best to you Walley...:thumbup:

Skidmark X5

ARE YOU A SORCERER OR SOME SHYT? IM AT 86K AND HAVE WAY TOO MANY PROBLEMS IN MY OPINION.CAN YOU TOSS ME SOME OF THAT MAGIC?yes the caps were necessary

i have the same X5 but its an 02.same color and rims though.since u have 300k of experience can you list of problems,fixes, and mods?

BMW World - M54 Engine

The M54 is the most reliable BMW engine ever built. Here's why:

• The camshaft chain drive and the V-belt drive are maintenance-free and designed for the life of the engine.
• Valve clearances are kept consistent throughout the entire running life of the engine by a self-adjusting hydraulic valve clearance mechanism. There is no need to adjust valve clearances, ever.
• There is no need to reset the clutch since it is self-adjusting.
• The air filters and spark plugs only have to be replaced after 100,000 km or 62,000 miles.
• The oil in the transmission and final drive is a lifetime filling not requiring any replacement.
• There is no need for any particular running-in service.
• The BMW Service Interval Indicator informs the driver of the remaining distance until the next oil change. You no longer have to change the oil after a fixed, rigid mileage.
• The engine is able to adjust automatically to all fuel grades between 87 and 98 octane.
• Anti-knock control automatically adjusts the engine's running conditions to the respective fuel grade and quality.
• Please note that the engine's maximum output is only achieved when running on 98 octane premium fuel.

Bet that might be some new info for some people, definitely was for me

if you believe that you will believe anything .

Wally - I missed this when you posted in November...Belated Congratz!!!

Rich:thumbup:

Thanks Rich,

I am getting the transmission rebuilt and then we will keep running, but she will get to rest a little bit more now. I was waiting for the transmission to die before I could go get the car I really wanted....the mighty M5. I went and test drove two last week and I have been infected. I am planning on picking up a 08 on Monday if all goes well. I am going to keep the X and use her as a detox treatment for Horsepower addiction.

Congrats Wally. Good luck with the M. Hope it is as good to you as the X.

Wally, is the new vehicle going to get the same use as the X5 did? If so, that is a lot of fuel, and a lot of fuel stops. Pretty limited range. I got very close to an 08 M5, but went with the 535 instead due to the fuel consumption and range issues. Good luck whatever you get!