XSeries-forum

Hi all

I wonder what your thoughts are about this problem.

I noticed that my 2011 E70 40d was dripping onto my drive. Mentioned it at the first service 2 months ago at about 18,000 miles. Car was serviced (at Stratstone, Hull) and diagnosed with a gearbox leak. The car was booked in for a 2-day repair but I had to wait a month as they're short on loan cars (I need one for my job). I was told that, in the meantime, if the car developed a serious problem that "you can always call BMW Assist" which wasn't exactly reassuring. Car went for repair and all seemed well for a few days, but then the dripping recurred. Called dealer again; made a bit of a fuss so car booked in again just 5 days later. Now told the ongoing leak was due to "excess oil" which had now been cleaned up. That was 10 days ago but the leak continues but less than before. It's an oily substance that doesn't wash away but can be burned off with a butane weed wand.

Should I leave it a little longer? Call Stratstone again and give them another chance? Or call BMW UK HQ?

Thanks guys!

I'd certainly let BMW GB know - though on past experience they're useless and will just throw you back to the dealer!!

........and then I'd find another BMW Dealer!!

I got told my engine was overfilled with oil when the wheels were changed!! I politely pointed out to the service rep that as they serviced the car that would be their fault then.  He did have the decency to stay silent and to look embarrassed - especially as the engine does have a dipstick!!

Richard

Another dealer is probably my best bet. My partner has just bought a Mini coupe JCW from Mini/BMW dealer Sopers of Lincoln and their service was in a different league. It's just over an hour's drive so may be worth giving them a try... Thanks!

Sopers do seem to have a good rep. All the boys and girls on the Z4 forum highly recommend them for parts and are given good discounts and excellent service.

I used Sopers when the head office of the company I worked for was based in Lincoln - they were very reactive and as far as main dealers go, I thought quite good. They did some warranty work on my X. Better than recent experience at main dealer in Sutton Coldfield!

Thanks guys. Looks like Sopers will be getting my custom when I change the X5 for something new next year.

In the meantime I'm giving Stratstone a third attempt at fixing the leak; it's booked in for after the Bank Holiday...

Dealer diagnosed a leaking transfer box at their third attempt.
All fixed now and no more leaks noticed!

If you feel like some amusement ask them who will pay for the cleanup of the driveway!!

The stuff was burned off the drive using a butane weed wand.
Dealer wouldn't reimburse for the cost of the canisters but waived the £10/day that they charge for a loan car on each occasion: a total of 5 days - so £50!
Personally I think that was the least they could do...