XSeries-forum

I know that this is a particular problem with X5s, but I am thinking that I should be prepared to replace bits if I take the X for a laser set up - what parts should have in reserve, just a pair of rear swing arms and replacement bushes?  My X is a 4.8 and has done around 85000 miles now. Also, what replacement bushes are recommended?

Condor, I'm pretty sure you're Midlands based. If so, take a trip over to Aline in Dudley (http://www.alineyourcar.co.uk) for your alignment.

Kev charges very sensible money, does a good job and will inform you if any bits need changing
Be warned though they operate a while you wait system and it can be quite busy

Max

Thanks for that, its not too far a journey. Given others have had such hassles with the swing bar bolts, though, I thought I might go prepared.....

As preparation spray the rear cam bolts and front steering arms with penetrating fluid, or get someone else to do it if you cant.
Contrary to BMW who just want you to change the whole swing arm, the rear swing arms can have the inner bushes replaced (Lemforder make them OEM quality I am told) at a 1/3 the price of a single swing arm for both sides. All other bushes are readily available, though at 85k I wouldn't have though the inner bushes have gone but you never know.
I had this done on the last X5 as I was getting rear tyre wear while towing the horse box mileage was around 100k, we changed rear sub-frame bushes (4), inner swing arm bushes (4), spherical bushes (2), and upper control arms. The whole job was just over £600 carried out by a local BMW specialist and transformed the car.