Tools
 

Has anyone posted a list of tools needed to work on the X5? I seem to get into a job and find I don't have the right tool so I make some other tool work to my frustration. I bought a metric tool kit, torx socket, tool drawers, etc etc but wanted to see if anyone had a complete list so people can slowly build up their toolbox.

It's difficult to compile one. We are all at different skill levels. Every time I tackle a new job, I always find myself ordering a new tool. Some you need and some can be substituted. Such as a brake job on these guys, Many people recommend using a special brake tool to push the pistons back in. I just use a quick release 8" c-clamp and push the piston in.

If you feel you are able to get deep in an engine and basically take one apart, then you may want to invest in the cam timing tools and such.

But to compile a list, it is hard to do. From the sounds of it, it sounds like you have most of everything you need on there. Only other things I can suggest are a set of Bolt Extractors. So when you have a rounded off bolt, you can use a bolt extractor to grab onto the stripped head and take that sucker out. Saves a lot of time and frustration. Breaker bars and some galvanized pipe. I work on my X alone and sometimes I just don't have enough strength to get bolts out or they are frozen on and 3 cans of PB Blaster just wont do. Using a breaker bar and pipe really adds torque to the bolt. Maybe a pair of mechanic picks. It sounds as though with the set you have, you can complete most of the tasks on the X.

Hope that helps.

Fan clutch wrench and water pump holder.
OBDII scanner/code reader

I'll add more when I remember

TORQUE WRENCHES and Bentley manual!!! Many repairs will end in disaster (snapped fastener heads/stripped threads/broken aluminum and plastic parts) if you do do not have the wrenches or disregard torque specs.

I've got ratchets, sockets, wrenches, allen and torx bits. Most "special" tools can be substituted. A punched out allen bit and a adjustable wrench substitute for BMW's special bit, a c-clamp for their pusher, etc..

Variety helps too as I've needed multiple sockets of the same size so I either use a wrench or a similar SAE socket.

Edit: Looking at my tool chest, what SlickGT1 listed below is on the mark.

A rubber mallet and mini-sledge has come in handy. Various pieces of wood and wedges have also helped dislodge items.
Extensions and flex joints are a must to get into tight spaces, such as work for thrust arms
Torque wrenches are a given.
Plastic pry tools have paid for themselves over and over working on the interior.
I have a stubby tool set with a screwdriver with interchangeable heads and ratchet that I use for interior work.
A recent addition is a LED headlamp as you can't always get light underneath the car.
A good supply of chemicals and greases helps too. Brake cleaner, PB Blaster, WD40, brake grease, anti-seize and just synthetic lube has been quite useful.
Paper towels and work gloves to keep yourself from getting too dirty. Rubber gloves when working with greases.

Essential tools. Everyone should have if you are a man.
1. Beer opener, but any solid item will work.
Magnetic pick up tool. Assorted sizes. One with led tip has been my go to lately. You want the telescoping ones.
2. Assorted length sockets.
3. Assorted length/ size ratchets.
4. Assorted length extensions 3/8ths.
5. Torque wrench. I personally have 3 sizes. 1 decent one is a must. Make sure it is stored in the relaxed position. At zero.
6. A minimum of 3 elbow joints. You can buy a set of 3 different sizes.
7. Set of reducers and a set of enlargers. So that you can fit that 3/8" socket onto a 1/2 Wrench. A must especially since most of your sockets are probably 3/8.
8. Trim tools. A cheap plastic set. And a metal set. Trust me, all plastic sets eventually deform or break. But you still need them, so concider them semi-disposable.
9. Torx and e-Torx sockets.
10. Crow foot sockets, flared and square. Rare tool for me, but sometimes a must.
11. Combo wrenches. I like open end on one side and closed on the other. Same size both ends. When you need more leverage, you can connect 2 wrenches and gain that much length.
12. Press if you have the space.
13. Propane torch.
14. 5lb mini sledge. 3lb if you are frail. Lol.
15. Pick set. Metal.
16. Breaker wrench. A must. This does not ratchet. The bigger you can buy the better, but make sure your jack handle fits over it as well for that extra length. If you don't have a floor jack, get a pipe to fit over it.

For the BMW X line. Four ramps are worth their weight in gold. Getting the X up on all 4 and then you can do whatever you want under there. Love that. That's when the wheels can stay on. You still need a jack and jack stands. Of you are limited on space, go for the jack and stands. Ramps are a luxury.

I'll add more later.

great thanks. I bought a Tite - Reach Extension Wrench - 3/8 in drive as it is a must for removing the mass air flow butterfly. For removing the oil separator. Thanks for all the suggestions!
Anyone know where I can find a way to make my sockets magnetic? I keep dropping the window regulator bolt when putting it in.

Stick a magnet onto your socket. Another tip would be to put a piece of electrical tape over your bold, then stick the socket over it; the bolt shouldn't fall out anymore.

I do the tape trick using painters tape but does not work all that well. They must make a magnet that clips to any socket or ext.

Yes the do. Socket magnets. External and internal.