2008 X5 3.0 Pre-cat O2 sensor replacement

[BMW Maniac]

Haven't found any info and only one video on Youtube.

Looking at realOEM, I can see that the wire loom for both sensors is over 1000 mm! So, I'm guessing that both run along top of the engine with the wiring harness and that both connectors are only accessible from under the car?

[BMW Maniac]

I thought I would update this thread....wasn't too bad. Do this at your own risk!

Tools need:
-Jack with jack stands
-8mm socket
-10mm socket
-E8 torx (inverted) socket
-O2 sensor special tool
-flat head screw driver

1) Jack up the car on the driver's side and use a jack to secure vehicle
2) Remove the underpanel that runs along the driver's side.
*the BMW engineer who designed this, should be shot*
*the BMW engineer who designed the O2 sensor connector placement, should be shot*
-there are a ton of 8mm screws holding the panel and 3 or so 10mm caps. Yes, you have to remove this panel.
3) Shine an light up towards the engine and you'll see both O2 sensor connections. One O2 sensor cord is gray, the other is black (*BMW engineer trying to redeem themselves)
4) REPLACE ONE AT A TIME....I REPEAT, REPLACE ONE AT A TIME. DO NOT DISCONNECT BOTH. You don't want to mix up bank 1 with sensor 1 with the bank 2 sensor 1 plug.....
5) The O2 sensor plug has a "press" latch....press and separate the sensor (did I mention only do 1????)
6) Open the hood and remove the intake, MAF sensor plug
7) Using screw driver, remove the engine harness from the mount
8) Feel behind the engine and you should feel both x O2 harnesses. Pull the black or grey, whichever you unplugged
9) Follow it back to the O2 sensor.
10) There is a metal bracket to keep the wiring safe. It has 2 x E8 torx (male) screws. Remove it.
11) Use your O2 sensor tool and remove O2 sensors.....

Not really *tough, but more like just a pain in the butt. Make sure you install the sensor fully, then route the cable back to the plug. Go underneath, connect and THEN disconnect 2nd sensor and replace.