Is a used BMW X5 Diesel (E70) a DISASTER? Should You BUY one?

[@williamcraft1989]

One more super important thing to point out, if someone does buy one of these and doesn't plan on deleting it, it's Imperative that they use the proper motor oil. It has to be LL04 certified. These cars need low SAPS oil for the DFP system to function properly.

[@crackiswhack1993]

So glad you made a video about the x5 primary focus on e70 generation. Not much people on KZbin talk about the diesel variant. My wife and I are in the market for one of these and a video like this helps so much. Thanks!

[@FlyinGato]

Glad to help!

[@tauseef7061]

Did u end up buying one? how has the ownership been?

[@tokenfire111]

great video, fyi the extra cooler radiator on the front left is an additional engine water cooler, only the E70 diesel have it to handle high temps in hot environments while towing or going up steep hills, water only flows through it in those conditions

[@williamcraft1989]

There really isn't any good reason to change the head unit unless you have a 2011 or older without the Combox. I have a 2012, so it has the combox therefore I can stream music via Bluetooth. Supposedly BMW started this feature in 2011 but not all of them actually have it. I lucked up and bought 2012 as a one owner with 69k miles. Mine isn't a sport but it has some pretty rare features like the multi contour seats and Napa leather. I had a 2011 sport 35d and I cannot convey how much more I like my 2012. Another thing to look for when you buy one is what stereo it has. If you see a speaker in the middle of the dash then it has the high end stereo which comes with dual subs under the front seats. With regards to the android radio units available for these vehicles, they have Bluetooth but they DO NOT MAKE USE OF THE FACTORY FIBEROPTIC CONNECTION. They use the Aux port in the car and totally sound like garbage.

[@phr3ui559]

ok

[@phr3ui559]

@@williamcraft1989 what android radio units? are they aftermarket

[@undergroundlegend198]

Looks awesome,just bought a 3.0sd today, can't wait to modd it

[@Yosemite_Sam]

Man you should know from the smoke from the exhaust that it badly needs a new Positive Crankcase Ventilation valve which should be replaced every third or so service if it is a foam filter type. Replace with a vortex type and there will be NO smoke. A new air filter might also be required along with an Engine Gas Regulator valve clean. This is basic stuff. Reading the comments here us my take on those questions asked there... I have one of these an M57 diesel. They are a very good motor one of the best diesels out there AS LONG AS YOU HAVE IT PROPERLY SERVICED. Just changing the bloody oil and filter isn't servicing. If they blow smoke it is the PVC valve. Lift the oil cap and if it is pressurized it needs one. Probably needs 2 x $5 vacuum pump "O" ring seals as well to stop oil leaks at the front of the engine. The valve stem seals DO NOT give trouble. Neither do the injectors unless it has huge miles on it. Mine has 150,000 miles. The transmission is excellent. The engine gas regulator valve can easily be cleaned or even deleted. The Diesel Particulate filter in the exhaust can be cleaned but it is a mongrel to get out. Most people delete the thing if it gets clogged. If you are not a COMPETENT mechanical person don't even THINK about tinkering unless you are prepared to watch the how to do it KZbin videos. You will get into trouble. For the average owner the best advice is find a reputable independent BMW specialist. I never go to stealerships. Link to a typical how to do it KZbin video. This is what you are facing. Good luck. kzbin.info/www/bejne/nqa1gKqnj8eEl8U

[@FlyinGato]

I was testing the waters on X5 interest. When I released the video very few people were looking for X5 videos. Now, it’s gotten more popular, so I’ll invest more time and effort on my future X5 35d videos. I’m now up to 120k miles on mine

[@Bmwguy2011]

Hi, you’re super knowledgeable on Bmw diesel repair. Can you recommend a good delete/tune shop in the Midwest or west? I’m in colorado and imho we lack great Bmw mechanics. I’ve been going to Johnny (cat ninja) in Wichita for large items. But he doesn’t do tunes or deletes.Kassel is one of the great shops for sure.

[@Yosemite_Sam]

@@Bmwguy2011 Hi there John, I'm only knowledgeable enough to be dangerous but I live in Australia mate so I can't help. If you mean Engine Gas Regulator Valve or Diesel Particulate filter delete then there are KZbin videos on how to do them and the pros and cons of doing either job. If you are referring to catalytic converter delete then that is another matter altogether but in any case I don't know about Colorado. Cheers.

[@Bmwguy2011]

@@Yosemite_Sam you got it. I’m referring to everything you mentioned plus a chip upgrade-culminating in a 500,000 Mile engine running properly.

[@Globetrotter-1]

​​@@Yosemite_SamI never change the oil on my X5 diesel, nor change the filters, and I always avoid having services on it. The same with all my Mercedes and BMW vehicles. Just top up the oil and general maintenance, plus tyres when needed is all they ever require for daily use and high mileages.

[@miceinoz1181]

Can you repair ZF6 transmission? Can you do engine repairs? Do you have a good understanding of modern digital cars? If these are a yes, then you are the right person to own an older X5 (E53, E70 or E70 LCI). The only people who can afford to own one is either rich enough to provide their local BMW dealer with lots of money, or they can fix it themselves. I have an E53 diesel, an E70 35D, and now a 2012 LCI 30D Xdrive. I am about to pull the trans (and probably drop the front frame and engine out) because at 155,000 Km, it needs timing chains on the N57. Of course I will pull the manifold and clean the carbon from the EGR and intake system as well, (while you are here......). Carbon cleaning affects all diesels, so this will eventaully happen to us all. This is the type of maintenance I refer to.

[@gearhead8989]

Great great video! Now that it’s been a few years, would you consider doing a long term review? Mentioning any issues or problems you’ve encountered? As well as things that you’ve enjoyed etc?

[@brianx1808]

Really good 👍 to see you back with another Diesel. I can't wait for your Pro's and Con's for this one. I have a lot of questions about it: How is the transmission, some people complain about the shifter.? I see they have aftermarket Android and Apple head units, would you consider changing it.? I know you referred Castle for all the services and deletes, do you ever think that you will go to the dealership for any other reasons.? Great to have you, can't wait for the next video.

[@FlyinGato]

these are amazing video ideas, I'll work on answering all your questions

[@BenjAthletic]

Equipped with a zf 6hp transmission can handle up to 1000nwm of torque

[@miceinoz1181]

It seems the options you get with your US market cars is different to other markets. Here in Oz, if we get the factory towpack, you also get huge 20 inch low profile wheels, and these are runflats. Is your engine an M57 or N57? It looks like an M57 from the cover, but that is not decisive either it seems. Our LCI exhaust tips are oval, yours are the same as our older E70's. Options matter, and I have powered tailgate, HUD and steering wheel paddles. All our LCI models come in withe the ZF 8 speed, the 6 speed ended at pre-LCI 2010's here. My LCI does not have a spare wheel because it has the two extra rear seats. I hate that, but again this was the spec standard for all these X5's imported in to Australia, whether you like it or not. If you are impressed with yours, try driving the 40D. Bags more power.

[@makeitfuntv9768]

DPF deleted? sounds like it...

[@madcat-1964]

eleven years i drive this car, 2.0 diesel,204 hp , zero problem 210000km

[@passivehouseaustralia4406]

I have a bmw 2008 SD X5, do I recommend it to others no!, do I love it ..Sure! You have to be ready to sort it out constantly, I got mine cheap and put 6k into it in preventative maintenance... new injectors, replaced all the vac lines I could find, replaced thermostat that will stop your DPF regen if it runs too cold, replaced and siliconed up plenum shields that stop water getting on the Injectors from windscreen!! 100k Km later its been good in terms of main items but lots of little issues. Rear lights needed replacing due to overheat (not just bulbs but the wiring in the module), Park Brake is troublesome (now needs replacing), I have lost boost yesterday, so looking for vacuum line leak again. (its that or the Boost regulator solenoid)... so you get the picture. if your handy you can do the codes yourself (Bimmer tool on android is what I use) and fix the little stuff, but if not this car will drive you insane, and costly if you take it to the dealer for all the little issues. Just my two cents worth.

[@silversurfer9588]

What was the shop bill for the delete and all the fluid changes? I'm looking at a 2015 now for sale. Thanks for the video.

[@thetoughcookie3665]

Cool video. I have the first gen one, not gonna get rid of it ever :)

[@undergroundlegend198]

Bug-eye wrx in the background is the real deal

[@86media_]

i wouldnt recommend the diesel variant in california. diesel is 8$ a gallon and you cant delete the DPF

[@mechanicdudevlog8788]

I should probably make my own video of why you shouldn’t own one unless your an experienced DIYer or mechanic. After owning mine 4yrs now there is a list of potentially very expensive failures that will affect all of these cars at some point.

[@FlyinGato]

not a bad idea

[@johnweir9447]

Note: you can't remove the emissions equipment (legally) in many states. Also, the running boards are completely impractical if you aren't short....I'm over 6ft and they're really just in the way.

[@FlyinGato]

Yea, my solution was to buy land in a state with better governance and register my car there. As for the running boards, my wife being short and all, it works well for her.

[@johnweir9447]

@@FlyinGato As much as I despise my "state governance", I can understand *why* there are emissions requirements. The only reason certain states "get away" with having little to no restrictions is because the populations are so small.

[@mcplutt]

I don' like my running boards either. But I don't think they are easy to remove.

[@socberttrucker3598]

@@johnweir9447 my state Florida has the 3rd largest population of any state, and yet we have no emissions testing

[@jaredliftz]

I have the exact same car ! I love it it’s my baby I’ve had it for almost 2 years and I’ve only had to replace a glow plug module , and a blow fan . Expensive parts the blower fan is 1000$ shop cost , but I was lucky and got a used one out of a parts x5.

[@RiseAboveMyHaters]

I just got yesterday it has a boost leak is that expensive to fix ?

[@FlyinGato]

Boost leak is common, is not expensive to maintain

[@jaredliftz]

The nice steering wheel is a big one for me too!!

[@THETATTOOGARDENER83]

Only if your skint or have a poorly paid job If you’ve got your own business then it’s cheap to run 💪🏼

[@DrJuicyYusy]

I heard after deleting the smell gets bad? Have we noticed this? Also, it's kind of scary because diesel smoke is a big carcinogen...

[@talonpilot]

If it worries you, dont do it.

[@DrJuicyYusy]

@@talonpilot thank you for the valuable info.

[@FlyinGato]

Smell isn’t great, and I wouldn’t stand directly behind it when it’s on, otherwise it’s fine

[@mcplutt]

N57 or M57 engine? The engine cover is completely different from my 2013 N57.

[@c20letgsi]

Lift modell USA-M57, EUROPE LIFT MODELL -N57

[@FlyinGato]

M57, using the better CP3 fuel pump

[@xile321]

Would not recommend it to anyone who isnt willing to spend a ton of money and time on it. Currently dealing with getting rid of our 35d X5.

[@TheMrkaninja]

They are great if you delete all the emissions stuff, delete DPF, EGR, SCR, DEF and tune it accordingly. Currently 370k kms on my 2012 and it's been super low maintenance. 200k+ of that has been fully deleted. My cousin has a 2013 fully intact and has had it in the shop for all sorts of emissions related failures. Just pulled my intake manifold 2 months ago and still squeaky clean since the delete. When I got it the inside of manifold was caked with carbon and nastiness. Best vehicle I've owned.

[@raymacgregor8439]

Does deleting it and exhaust, effect the fuel mileage, if so how? Better or worse? Thanks for your response in advance.

[@FlyinGato]

Much better

[@mikloskiraly941]

enjoyed this video. Is the emission delete a DIY job? I am very mechanically inclined. I currently have a 2002 E53 3.0i sport with a manual transmission. 269548 miles on the clock. I am looking to purchase a diesel. Yours is the exact color combo I love.

[@FlyinGato]

A lot of people diy it, it’s not that difficult, just need the ECU sent to Kassel Performance

[@jaredliftz]

And yes I need to delete mine still and straight pipe it

[@TreatsOnTheStreets]

After the delete is the exhaust loud inside the car? How is the sound while highway cruising?

[@FlyinGato]

I left the stock mufflers, sounds factory, with the windows up you don’t hear a difference

[@richw6690]

The M-Sport package has even nicer features ans seats.

[@mcplutt]

Any model can have the comfort seats.

[@richw6690]

@@mcplutt I was pointing out the M sport because he's pointing out the sport package. M sport I said have nicer features and seats. Among those features is a nicer steering wheel IMO.

[@mcplutt]

@@richw6690 Yes, I have the heated sports leather steering wheel. It's nice. And the comfort seats. But no sport or M-sport package. And no troublesome adaptive suspension and/or air suspension 🙂But active steering I have.

[@jason328d6]

How does it do in -Temps on start? Does it have an option for a block heater?

[@FlyinGato]

It doesn’t have a block heater, but it starts fine as long as the glow plugs and module are in good working order. They should be replaced at around 60-80k miles. I replaced mine.

[@hungrysurfer9471]

Does Alpina sell their XD3 in US ? It has a 350hp twin turbo version of your N57 diesel engine but only weighs 1900 kgs. Very comfortable, fuel efficient and fast. Can be tunned to 420hp with a bigger fuel pump and full emmision delete.

[@FlyinGato]

unfortunately it does not

[@hungrysurfer9471]

@@FlyinGato The used prices in Germany for 6 to 10 year old have collapsed with the weak economy. A high mileage car with 80,000 miles costs about 25 to 28,000. Then you subtract 19% sales export tax. Then 10% more to turn euro to dollors. The XD3 from 2013 to 17 will cost you $20,000 to $30,000

[@mileage_master]

Dang Gato, you’re in South Dakota!

[@FlyinGato]

Going to Florida next 👌🏼🤙

[@achilleastsakiris9430]

This is a great video. I was wondering, what mpg's are you getting after deleting and tuning? One kind of drawback of these X5's is that 3rd row seating was optional, too hard to find and not too usable. Very utilitarian though.

[@FlyinGato]

When my wife drives it, 29-30mpg, when I drive it it’s 27 every time, 14 mpg towing

[@DOHCtorJ]

Great to eat hot dogs and ice cream in. Got it, Thanks

[@FlyinGato]

It is, we just did this again yesterday!

[@lydellleopold5884]

Hey I was interested in getting this vehicle but, I’ve heard they come with a lot of problems. If I end up getting one I would most likely get a delete and tune. Any recommendations on where I can get that in NY?

[@FlyinGato]

Best place is in PA, Kassel performance

[@lydellleopold5884]

@@FlyinGato thanks for your reply are they affordable?

[@FlyinGato]

I would budget around 4 grand for all of the maintenance and the deletes and tune

[@lydellleopold5884]

@@FlyinGato I checked their website and I don’t see anything about deletes, just mostly software tune

[@FlyinGato]

They can’t publicize it for federal reasons, call em and tell them I sent you

[@vidalcollado2751]

Looking at a 2013 porsche cayenne deisel.It got less than 14k miles.Asking price of 34 thousand.

[@FlyinGato]

I prefer the X5 diesel, it's more "truck" like, but that's just my preference, the Cayenne is a SWEET SUV

[@geoffbell166]

About to look at one on Monday,2010.3.0 225kw 600nm,120Km on odometer, am I mad!?

[@FlyinGato]

I think we all are, but with the right maintenance these things are very reliable, and built like tanks

[@cyclonus01]

How many miles are on it now and have you had any major issues?

[@FlyinGato]

120k, tail light gaskets needed freshening up, HVAC fan replacement, and sunroof drains cleaned out. Outside of that, it has been perfect

[@fernandogadala-maria6749]

Hello congrats on your X5 diesel. I would like to buy one. What are the RPM in 6th gear at 70 mph ?

[@FlyinGato]

Kind of high for a diesel, around 2500 rpms

[@fernandogadala-maria6749]

Hello thanks. I bought it. It is a European version and also 6 speed zf tranny but this version is doing less than 2000 RPM at 70 mph Must be the different specs for Europe

[@FlyinGato]

Yea most likely, I don’t mind the gearing, it’s better for towing

[@filesshared9431]

Did you do the delete yourself? I’m in CA, any recommendations?

[@FlyinGato]

Best recommendation is to move out of CA

[@filesshared9431]

@@FlyinGato lol for reals

[@mikemf250]

Did you sell your 335d??

[@FlyinGato]

definitely not, I'm keeping that thing forever

[@MorrisMadeit]

@FlyinGato are 2011 30d or 35d X5 reliable ?

[@FlyinGato]

Only if you delete the emissions systems

[@DenP448]

Looking to sell by any chance? :)

[@jeffreyrecord3108]

"It's HUGE" - She

[@Leo70780]

In aus it is illegal to remove the D.P.F. my cousin told me .

[@Bmwguy2011]

Hi, you’re super knowledgeable on Bmw diesel repair. Can you recommend a good delete/tune shop in the Midwest or west? I’m in colorado where we don’t have smog at all but imho we lack great Bmw mechanics. Kassel is one of the great shops for sure.

[@FlyinGato]

I would honestly just make a road trip to Kassel, visit the Amish!

[@Bmwguy2011]

@@FlyinGato sounds like wisdom for sure. I found a sweet one out East with under 130000 miles… never know. It lacks the towing package though; most do. Is there an official dealer one? Maybe I have the factory official one installed?

[@tenpins77]

What year ?

[@FlyinGato]

2011

[@Eros1995anfield]

What year is this?

[@FlyinGato]

2011

[@rj3075]

Inline 6 twin turbo was never in an x5.

[@FlyinGato]

But it is, my good sir, my X5 came from the factory with an inline 6 and two turbos

[@rj3075]

@@FlyinGato I stand corrected. My thoughts were on the gas inline 6 not diesel. My apologies. Great video and great car 👍🏽

[@billsmith5593]

The 2012 had duos turbos

[@minimax278]

排气管蓝色烟雾，烧机油严重

[@DrJuicyYusy]

I saw another YT mention the rear injectors go bad often and sometimes the board? Have we experienced this at all? If so, is it difficult to change the injectors? I'm hearing they're ~2.5k each 😳

[@vipurre]

I bought mine with inj 6 failing and causing a miss. Very easy to replace. Just need ISTA to code the injector in. Overall wasnt more than a 30 minute job, and the injector was 300 new.

[@ronklingspon9143]

Irresponsible to deconstruct the Def and particulate filtering system.

[@FlyinGato]

Only way the car works is without that stuff, otherwise it’s trash

[@luzaknaprawia4920]

👍

[@Bruno-my9uf]

If love your $$$ sell it !!!!!!!!!

[@Bruno-my9uf]

You will have a ton of problems all over !!!

[@captanstone]

totally ruined the sound of the car, get a truck fool

[@FlyinGato]

I think it sounds awesome

[@edgarbautista829]

Unfortunately can't delete any of the emissions where I'm at.

[@acidpork577]

I have 2009 X5 E70 for 12(twelve!!!) years. Current mileage 230K km. Yes, it breaks from time to time as any other cars, but I love it and going to keep it as long as it runs.

[@bobbonfardin1661]

I would prefer a diesel over a gas engine!!!!!

[@yeuemxuatdoi]

Removing/bypassing the diesel tanks? They're required for emission. I just have the tanks replaced. Cost me more than $3k on parts alone.

[@ka_razygaming1183]

Nobody cares about emissions. Delete and have a nice life.

[@Mijaycapri79]

M57 or N57?

[@FlyinGato]

M57