Quick reply. The data app is torque. I’m using an ODBLINX adapter for faster response times. It’s on an Android tablet. Same tablet I’ll use ALFAODB to change body control module functions on my Ram. The Ram requires a gateway module bypass.

My 3.0i had temp warnings for being too cold. The thermostat was stuck open. A Hella thermostat was used. No warnings pop even running at the lower cooler temps. The Hella is stock temp rated. I guess it runs cooler than stock set point. The 158,811 mile M54 runs great.

Which OBDLink adapter did you choose? I've got two OBDLink LX adapters, which work pretty good on my 2001 X5 and 1998-2009 GM vehicles, but might not be the best for later models. There are several alternatives I might eventually replace or supplement them with https://www.obdlink.com/products/

The LX was mid-range cost when I bought them in 2016, as a way to use their OBDLink Android app (the app only works with their adapters) as the backup I sometimes use to check the veracity of the Torque Pro app. And, the LX can be left plugged-in full-time, and won't drain the battery. The only problems I've had using the LX are

• 1) failure to connect, if there are other bluetooth devices nearby (like the radio, which constantly interfered with the pairing process, solved by turning-off the radio's bluetooth), and
• 2) sometimes the firmware updates were wonky, making the LX not work correctly for awhile, so I used my old BAFX adapter (bought in 2013), until the LX corrected itself (usually within a day)

. Since the last time I had the bad update problem, I no longer update their firmware (not needed, no new car!).

I also am considering buying their MX+ adapter, since it'll enhance "advanced Ford & GM vehicle networks (MS-CAN and SW-CAN)" accessing the brand-specific OBD data on the GM cars I own, but not sure about the old X5. If I owned a newer BMW, they have the CX adapter, which is "optimized for best experience with the BimmerCode car coding app", but my old 2001 X5 isn't covered by the Bimmercode app, AFAIK. And, lastly the SX adapter/cable, which would not require the bluetooth-pairing method at all, but directly connects to a Windows laptop or Android device, is faster, and also might add more features. But, at present, I'll be using my LX adapter(s), or my OHP INPA OBD2 Cable for 1999-2007 BMW's (K-LINE INTERFACE,with FTDI chip), when I need the laptop out there.

I’m using the OBDLink MX+. It the only one fast enough for my Ram network. My brother also used it on my niece’s 08 Nitro. So far, no issues connecting with four different vehicles.

CapeX5,
I need to make a correction. I was thinking about another part. The thermostat replacement is Mahl/Clevite. 5600+ miles on it and no codes. It's rated at 97C.

Lost my only diamond key and bought a new one yesterday at the dealership, not bad $240ish. It should arrive on Thursday.Yaya!

Edit: just received a phone call that it is in today!

Changed the inner & outer CV boots, front outer track rod end, new front brake caliper seals & dust boot, pistons were in good order so just gave them a bit of a wet 400grit paper on the exposed top minor corrosion. New front brake rotors, new front brake pads. Thought I was done, went to turn all the wheels, rear brake disc backing plate had decided it would be a good time to let go of the handbrake shoe assembly.

“E53’s, the gift that keeps on giving…”

New one ordered, fit. Job’s a good ‘un…. or so I thought…
Washed the car… “now would be a good time to have random water penetration” the E53 thought….

“E53’s, the gift that keeps on giving…”

Now left with self levelling suspension error on the dash and a weird buzzer coming from somewhere near the FSR location when the ignition goes off until the car goes to sleep.
Cue several nights laying in bed wide open eyes problem solving instead of sleeping.

I can hear the E53 mocking me from the driveway… “think you can spanner me…???? Let me throw some random electrical gremlins your way…. deal with that now…???!!!?”

It’s found my Kryponite….

Haha

Great write up for the fixes and new problems.

Eyes wide open at night problem solving, we've all been there lol

Made a practice garage test fit for two vehicles. My C10 and X5 both fit. The X5 will be garaged for a coolant system refresh.

Would I need access to the right engine side for a system refresh?

Actually, you might be OK. All the heater hoses as well as the aux pump are on the left side of the engine, IIRC.

Completed a rount trip to Toronto, ordered adjustable rear upper control arms
 

We did a round trip to Toronto, ON and covered about 1200 miles in total. Pleased that the X5 ran perfect, only complaint was the loud squeal from my rear brakes on initial application. They are quiet at full brake pressure. On return I took them apart and checked that all is well. Lubed the back of the pads and chamfered the edges slightly. Improved things but the kids had about a 90 mile drive yesterday and this morning the noise is back. I will chamfer the pad edges a bit more next. Anyone have some suggestions what else to try?

I am tired of fighting the rear alignment, it refuses to adjust camber to less than 2.3. Toe is zeroed out pretty well but the winter tires are showing more wear on the inner shoulders than I like, not terrible but not perfect either. I want camber to be about 1 degree. The alignment guys recommended adjustable bushings for the inner lower arm but I haven't found any that I like. So, instead ordered adjustable upper control arms from Silver Project. It will take a week or two, I guess, before they arrive. Not sure about the poly bushings but I guess it will improve wheel control. Let's see how that goes....