Questions Regarding a 2006 4.8is X5

[Petes540i6]

Greetings. A buddy of mine recently purchased a 2006 4.8is X5, it looks like Imola to me. I don't think he has ever owned a BMW before, and is to take it to a dealer on Monday for PA state inspection. It has 65K miles, and I suspect that it has not undergone Inspection II service. He is not a wrench-turner, but he would not be opposed to taking this thing to an indy in the future. He is understandably a bit concerned about the revenue about to leave his wallet.

He says that he hears a low speed squeak coming from the front, that he thinks might be shocks. Of course, it could be a number of things, but I am curious whether there are any aftermarket shocks that would be recommended for this vehicle. I am thinking Billsteins would likely be a good match for the sport suspension but wanted to hear what others with this vehicle thought.

Also, is there a list somewhere of common issues with this vehicle that someone could direct me to?

Thanks in advance.

[Qsilver7]

Hey Pete. ...before delving into shopping for front suspension parts...first determine if he has EHC II (front & rear (dual) air suspension). If they have this feature...there will be a switch to raise/lower the suspension on the left side of the steering wheel near the headlight switch. The X5 4.8is is similar to the e38 750iL or e39 M5...in that it usually is optioned out to the hilt as well as having the biggest, baddest engine offered for that model.

(CORRECTION: the 2004-up I6 have 6 spd manual trannys & V8s have 6 spd auto trannys (not 5 spd)

[tmvE39E53Z32TT]

You're so resourceful, Qsilver7

[dinan e39]

Quick, all 4.8is models had four corner air suspension.

[Qsilver7]

Quick, all 4.8is models had four corner air suspension.

Thanks...I'll have to add that tidbit to my mental rolodex for future references. I thought the ones imported here (by BMW NA) did but wasn't for certain that all 4.8is came that way since Europe gets to order things ala carte from the options list.

[Petes540i6]

Thanks for the comments. Much appreciated.