Question about peeling trim
 

A couple days ago, I picked up a loaded 2008 X5. First BMW and I can say that this thing is an absolutely great vehicle.

The X5 is CPO, and I have one question. Right where the leather of the steering wheel meets the body of the T, the thin black rubber piece is peeling. I happen to drive with my left hand there, and have noticed in a couple days that just driving has removed some more of the rubber. This is exposing the black plastic underneath. I'm just wondering, is it safe to just remove this rubber covering from the whole wheel? I would doubt that this is covered under warranty since it's trim.

I had that same trim piece repaced under warranty.

some dealers will be nice enough to replace trim wear & tear items under warranty, but some have been declined... it can't hurt to argue about it being CPO too. I've had the steering wheel button area trim start to peel, and the light switch also. Both replaced. My left rear door wood trim had a crack for some unknown reason - also replaced.

If you don't mind my asking, since you're in Long Island, which dealer did it for you under warranty? Would be nice to have a backup in case the Westchester ones say no.

Yes it happened to mines too. It is covered. It was peeling on the steering wheel too.

This SHOULD have been replaced as part of the CPO inspection-

HOWEVER, the DEALER would be 'on the hook' for the cost of this, and this is why the CPO inspection is pretty much BS. Dealers just gussy the car up and foist it on a buyer who thinks it was some kind of refurbishing to exacting factory standards.

I'd have a discussion with your CA (salesman) and explain that this must have been missed, could he talk with the service folks- you'd like to get it fixed.

If you just go to service they usually deny warranty for trim/wear and tear- but if the CA puts a word in, especially if it was a fresh CPO and this oversight could turn ugly, they might decide to slip it by BMWNA...

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My 2007 had peeling trim on the steering wheel accent (alloy) and steering wheel (buttons) and I had both replaced under warranty but be prepared as others have said for some push back. As a side note. This is NOT covered under your CPO warranty

Sounds like a pretty common problem. I will take it to my service center this week and see what they say.

I also noticed that I have a gap between my rear bumper and my body, which again sounds like a pretty common problem with the X5. Have a funny feeling I may be driving a loaner for a day or two :)

Hassel BMW in Freeport. Rated among top 50 (or was it 25) in the country a couple years back and no other dealer around here can say that. BUT I'd think that you'd have the best chances with the people you bought it from. Good luck.