New x3 owner

[Daz4020]

Hello all, I've just purchased a 2005 x3 3.0d 4x4 automatic, with 170k on the clock and a full service history. I've always had 4x4s before but mostly jap and Land Rover. Are there any pointers anyone can give me on maintainance tips and areas to keep an eye on for smooth running?

many thanks Darren

[Greydog]

Morning Darren

Welcome to the Forum and Happy Easter

First make sure the gearbox has been serviced with the car it should have been serviced every 100k kilometres. I would use only the correct ZF long life Fluid and filters if you are DIY or find a ZF specialist near you. 

The rest is straight forward maintenance, fluids, oils, filters not forgetting diffs, transfer case etc. A couple of websites that will help www.realoem.com a BMW online parts list put the last 7 digits of your Vin in the search box it will bring up your model. It will make sure if your buying stuff it will fit. Then www.newtis.info a BMW Technical Information site the same information as used by Dealers. Get a BMW specific code reader if you are a home mechanic.

The only thing to watch for is if your car has a staggered set up (wider rear wheels/tyres) are that the tyres are matched. BMW and many other makers have recommended Tyre suppliers BMW used * rated tyres particularlyon the staggered set up. Badly matched tyres will damage the transfer box pretty quickly. A square set up (same size front and rear) is more forgiving though I would still stick with the same make all round.

Enjoy

Dave