X5 Buyers Guide - Finding VIN Tags and vechicle check etc?

[storminmike]

We're off to look at another Facelift 3.0d X5 tommorow

Credit check/accident check is clear and I'm compiling a physical check list to look at

Top of the list is VIN number location and cross reference. Apart from the Windscreen and a sticky on the tower where else should I check?

The credit check came back with the engine number but what use is that and where can I find it?

Other Checks of the top of my head
CVs
Rear Subframe bushes>spirited drive away (clunks)
Gearbox - forward reverse kick down
PDCs
Window Electrics
AC
Bushes Visual
Pad Depth
Disc condition
Braking in a straight line no shuddering or swerving
Handbrake (number of clicks and holding power)
Aircon pixels
Radio pixels
CD Changer operation
OIl colour
Under bonnet crash damage
Wash functions (front/rear/headlights)
Interior/Exterior Lighting
Tyres>Feathering>wear>kerbing
Straight panels
Boot upper tailgate release button(s)
Spare present
MOT Check when VIN NUmber obtained

Missed anything?

[X5Sport]

If you can get the VIN then you can also do a spec check - that way you'll know exactly what the car was built with.

Engine number is located behind the oil filter body. It's stamped on the engine block with very small numbers and you need a small flashlight to read the numbers.

From memory, try this lot.........

Check all the electrics work - everything!
All speakers.
Wipers (and blade condition)
Mirrors (if electrochromic then shine bright torch on the interior mirror when the lights are on to see if they all dim.
Heated Rear Window
Heated mirrors - if electro chromatic also look for colour changes and that they move correctly, including reverse dip on near side.
Heated Seats - front and rear
If electric seats then full range of adjustment on all buttons, both sides. Include rear if fitted.
All warning lights
Use 'Check Control' - it's on one of the binnacle buttons, but can't remember which now - for warning messages
When driving it, check ABS operation.
All function on the radio/nav/TV etc
Air con front and rear through full temp range, both sides and rear if 4-zone
Sunroof - any odd noises or 'popping'? Full range of movement available.
Look in the boot at the spare for condition & pressure, and for any signs of water under the boot floor
All glass for chips & cracks
Tax disc matches Reg No
All hardware installed in left boot cubby
Bluetooth functions
Nav disc
Any sign of leaks
Coolant Level
PAS Fluid Level
Tow bar hardware if fitted - and two keys
Tools, including the wheel lock tool
First Aid kit - under passenger seat
Warning Triangle
Condition of door seals all round - I had a drivers door one replaced under warranty
Two ignition keys and both work, plus Valet key
Single pixel tell tale lit in the binnacle - tells you of tampering
Alarm

[storminmike]

Superb...thanks for that

Single pixel tell tale lit in the binnacle - tells you of tampering....Never heard of that one but great if it has.

Wheel lock...mine was in the toolkit but I'm never sure where it should be. Th e36 had a specific hole in a holder

Any ideas on where any more VIN numbers are (if any) apart from the tower, windscreen and as you say Tax disc

[X5Sport]

I only remember two locations on mine.

I had the movable load floor on my E53 and there was a slot under it that the wheel nut tool went in.

Just thought of on other thing - the divider net. I never unpacked mine, but it should be there along with the tonneau cover for the aft section.

Did we do seatbelts, condition of the belts and securing of all 5.
Centre Armrest, and Ski bag - if fitted.

[storminmike]

[quote=""X5Sport""]I only remember two locations on mine.

I had the movable load floor on my E53 and there was a slot under it that the wheel nut tool went in.

Just thought of on other thing - the divider net. I never unpacked mine, but it should be there along with the tonneau cover for the aft section.

Did we do seatbelts, condition of the belts and securing of all 5.
Centre Armrest, and Ski bag - if fitted.[/quote]

I've got one of them nets....at least I think it is.....never opened it.....covered in boot junk

Might trade it for some X5 toy some day if it has demand...I'll never use it


Thanks anyway...one hell of a check list. Might send it to the wife's phone by mail as a checklist
Some are obvious but in the heat of sales pressure it's worth having this list

[X5Sport]

Happy to help......have fun