I can't answer that for you. I've never found the system necessary, but your use-case may steer you differently. As axgordon posted, he enjoys the system as he thought it was too stiff before the servotronic.

Did the X5 come with serotronic as an option? My 4.4i was nice and tight, but my 4.8is is a lot looser at low speeds. I was thinking it was just a different rack, but now I am wondering if I have servotronic. Personally, if it does have it... I wish it didn't. LOL. So again, like I said, it's going to depend on your use-case scenario and personal preferences. I prefer stiff steering.

It is my understanding that all 4.8 came with servotronic from the factory. very easy to check with BMW VIN checker - look for option 216. And I 100% agree that specific use case is main driving factor to consider this upgrade. I was OK with my regular rack until I tried servotronic and like it, but if not for my wife, I wood probably not to invest time and money to upgrade.

Thanx guys, both great points. I love the way my X5 steers, period. its razor sharp, goes exactly where I point it! I do suspect that I will need to replace my steering rack in the near future(slight leaks). So, this made me consider the servotronic option, both racks are the same price (from my local wrecker) and I have NCS Expert to do the necessary coding. so why not! as far as running large wheels and tire, I do have the 255/55r18's at the moment, and may go for the larger 20" wheels somewhere down the road. this would be a cool option in the quest to have "every single option ever available to any X5" lol. no , maybe not all, just the really cool and useful ones! :)
thanx again for the opinions.
:cool: