Harsh ride on x5 any way to soften it?

I'm considering a new x5 i was lucky to have a loaner for about 6 days it was a 2012 35d with the normal suspension.
The at first seemed firm but tolerable the tire pressure was set at 34 psi front and back.
I looked in the door jam and the recommended tire pressure was 34 front and 42 or 43 rear i can't remember exactly.
So after adjusting the to proper inflation the ride got pretty harsh and i did not get a chance to lower the rear tire pressure i would love to get one but it was way to harsh

Maybe changing the run flats to regular tires might help i would love to hear your comments

Thank you

I hear these comments a lot, however i have driven a wide range of vehicles and luv the ride of the x5 even on the RFTs. If u want the ride of a cadillac then buy a cadillac, changing the tires will help a little.

The suspension is stiffer, this is how BMW has been able to destroy every competitor on the skid tests.

Good luck,

Test out a few vehicles and buy what feels the best for you,

cheers,

Originally Posted by Cscott

I'm considering a new x5 i was lucky to have a loaner for about 6 days it was a 2012 35d with the normal suspension.
The at first seemed firm but tolerable the tire pressure was set at 34 psi front and back.
I looked in the door jam and the recommended tire pressure was 34 front and 42 or 43 rear i can't remember exactly.
So after adjusting the to proper inflation the ride got pretty harsh and i did not get a chance to lower the rear tire pressure i would love to get one but it was way to harsh

Maybe changing the run flats to regular tires might help i would love to hear your comments

Thank you

Options:

1. Ditch the runflats;
2. Order Adaptive Drive
3. Ditch the runflats and order Adaptive Drive.

Originally Posted by Cscott

I'm considering a new x5 i was lucky to have a loaner for about 6 days it was a 2012 35d with the normal suspension.
The at first seemed firm but tolerable the tire pressure was set at 34 psi front and back.
I looked in the door jam and the recommended tire pressure was 34 front and 42 or 43 rear i can't remember exactly.
So after adjusting the to proper inflation the ride got pretty harsh and i did not get a chance to lower the rear tire pressure i would love to get one but it was way to harsh

Maybe changing the run flats to regular tires might help i would love to hear your comments

Thank you

Inflation pressures are 32 front and 36 rear, pressures would only be increased if driving
at high speeds over 100 mph ( not likely around here ) or 3 passengers in rear and a full load of cargo.

1. RFTs will be harser
2. What size rims???larger rims/lower sidewalls generally increase harshness. This can be significant.
3. The max rear pressure is only to achieve maximum loading...I always titrate tire pressures to achieve best handling and tire wear based on how I am using the car. Definitely not 42.

A

Originally Posted by Jim E.

Options:

1. Ditch the runflats;
2. Order Adaptive Drive
3. Ditch the runflats and order Adaptive Drive.

I agree with Jim's comments... Additionally, look at wheel sizes. If "harsh" ride bothers you, avoid the 20-inch rims, and maybe even the 19-inch rims too. Stick with the 18's, order the Space Saver Spare, and switch out the tires for non RFT.

Originally Posted by Matt_UKTX

I agree with Jim's comments... Additionally, look at wheel sizes. If "harsh" ride bothers you, avoid the 20-inch rims, and maybe even the 19-inch rims too. Stick with the 18's, order the Space Saver Spare, and switch out the tires for non RFT.

I should have also mentioned different size tires too.

I have the OE Dunlop 20's and AD. The ride is not harsh for me but it is sporty. When I switch out to the 19" Pirelli Scorpion RFT snow tire, I do notice a softer (more compliant) ride. So there is a difference just going down one rim size. When my Dunlops wear out, I will probably go to Continental standard (not RFT) so I can't comment on that but based on some reviews, they are softer yet not to mention the reduction of a total of 30lbs of unsprung and rotating mass.

Just an additional point of reference for you.

Originally Posted by Jim E.

I should have also mentioned different size tires too.

I have the OE Dunlop 20's and AD. The ride is not harsh for me but it is sporty. When I switch out to the 19" Pirelli Scorpion RFT snow tire, I do notice a softer (more compliant) ride. So there is a difference just going down one rim size. When my Dunlops wear out, I will probably go to Continental standard (not RFT) so I can't comment on that but based on some reviews, they are softer yet not to mention the reduction of a total of 30lbs of unsprung and rotating mass.

Just an additional point of reference for you.

Be careful with the Conti DWS. I had them for a couple of weeks and they caused my car to pull to the right. A few other forum members complained about the same thing - could be a bad batch. Anyway, I went with the Michelin Latitude Tour HP's. They are great, and closer to OEM style.

Originally Posted by Matt_UKTX

Be careful with the Conti DWS. I had them for a couple of weeks and they caused my car to pull to the right. A few other forum members complained about the same thing - could be a bad batch. Anyway, I went with the Micheline Latitude Tour HP's. They are great, and closer to OEM style.

thanks for the heads up!

Thanks Guys i will probably go for another test drive and i also heard in spring you can get a good deal on x5's

Originally Posted by Cscott

Thanks Guys i will probably go for another test drive and i also heard in spring you can get a good deal on x5's

They will be running deals now and then but if you like it then just buy it... I got my X5 below $8K from MSRP.

Originally Posted by Cscott

Thanks Guys i will probably go for another test drive and i also heard in spring you can get a good deal on x5's

Standard pricing is $500 to $1000 over invoice as shown on www.bmwconfig.com. This is BEFORE any rebates/incentives (such as Eco Credit, Nav Credit, Owner Loyalty, etc.) are applied. So, when all said and done, you can be below invoice factoring in the incentives.

Don't be confused into negotiating off MSRP. The formula should always be:

BMWConfig.com Invoice Price + Dealer Profit ($500 to $1000) - Incentives/Rebates = Purchase Price.

Good luck

If we decide to change to a regular tire and ditch the run flats...where do we put a spare? It has a storage compartment under the rear cargo area, but that does not look large enough to store a spare tire. Can a compact donut be used on an X5? Seems like the vehicle would be too large for a donut.

They do have a Compact Spare available for the X5... E-bay would be your best bet.

Good luck,
ak

Do what BMW does on the M3..***** a small compressor and get a couple of bottles of Slime. Make sure you size the Slime for your tire sizes. Stick that in your storage box...and you're done. I've heard nothing but success stories with Slime. I carry it in my X5M. Ive done so in previous vehicles.

I think the BMW ride is sporty and controlled, not harsh. If you want soft, buy american but it won't be as fun to drive.

2012 with 20 inch ...Changed to Vredestein With compact spare.. Ride is very much improved and handling is like a sports car... this tire is amazing. Have a set ordered for my 2011 Vette...Don't know about wear. I have almost 6000 miles and they still look new....