n00b alert

[TronixGT]

Hello all,
I just thought I'd drop a hello before I started posting my n00b questions in all your threads. I just picked up a 2013 X5 xDrive50i about 3 weeks ago which is in immaculate shape. Only issues I can spot were scratches on the NAV system screen and slightly rusty rotors. Everyone I've shown it to so far thought it was brand new. This is my second BMW. Previously I leased a 1996 M5 for a year. I'm coming from mostly the Subaru/Lexus/Toyota world where all of my vehicles have been pretty heavily modified. I've always done all of the work myself..from powdercoating parts to full out stage 4 turbo systems. So I'm eager to dive in, however reluctant due to lack of bimmer knowledge. That's why I'm here, searching thread after thread looking for your answers and hoping maybe I can learn something to share with you along the way.

I'm not looking to do as drastic upgrades as I have done on my other vehicles, but I still want to get her up to my "standards".

My first impression was overall pretty good, but my god the turbo lag was absolutely killing me. I actually had serious second thoughts after about a week. But I don't give up easy. I stopped by here and quickly learned that it wasn't entirely turbo lag I was dealing with, but the VERY slow drive-by-wire throttle system. I bought the Speedbuster pedalapp, just installed it and WOW. it makes all the difference in the world. It suddenly became the fun car I envisioned. So now with that issue solved, the next one came up... I can't hear it! I really want to hear that TT V8 at least a little! So next i'm going to tackle the exhaust. I plan to tow a fishing boat on occasions so I need to get the wiring set up for it asap as well.

Already bought (installing now):
Drilled black zinc rotors/new pads.
Red paint kit for calipers
Interior LED light set.
LED turn signals
Misc interior trim pieces.
10.25" Android Screen.
BMW Trailer lighting wiring harness
Carly coder
Black window trim tape
Front lip spoiler
Speedbuster pedalapp


Plans:
Exhaust: Quad tips, muffler delete, X Pipe
Tune: Speedbuster or Racechip
Cover reflectors
Eibach Pro or H&R 1.2" drop
Different side skirts??

Here is a "before" pic from dealership. I'll get a new pic after I get a couple of things installed and it stops raining long enough to wash it.

Any advice is appreciated. See you in the threads!

[pdX5M]

Looks clean man - welcome to the forum!

[boneca]

welcome!

[Sophisticated Redneck]

Looks super clean! I have a 12 50i myself. Installing new Downpipes, new turbos right now. Xpipe and cut-outs are next, then custom intake and then jb4. 600hp or bust! (I have 145k on the clock so very well might be bust lol)

[pdX5M]

As far as you planning different side skirts I think removing the running boards would freshen it up a bit. Also some M low profile roof rails would be nice 👌🏼

[ryansbmw]

If you haven’t already bought Carly, skip on it and get BimmerGeeks Protool instead. It can do everything Carly can do plus much more.

[TronixGT]

Originally Posted by Sophisticated Redneck

Looks super clean! I have a 12 50i myself. Installing new Downpipes, new turbos right now. Xpipe and cut-outs are next, then custom intake and then jb4. 600hp or bust! (I have 145k on the clock so very well might be bust lol)

That's encouraging though. mine is at 72k. I was a little worried it would make it to 100k after reading some of the valve seal issue threads.

[TronixGT]

Originally Posted by pdX5M

As far as you planning different side skirts I think removing the running boards would freshen it up a bit. Also some M low profile roof rails would be nice 👌🏼

I agree. I just need to find what I can replace them with.

[pdX5M]

Originally Posted by ryansbmw

If you haven't already bought Carly, skip on it and get BimmerGeeks Protool instead. It can do everything Carly can do plus much more.

+1

Edit: another huge plus is no annual subscription fee.

[TronixGT]

Originally Posted by ryansbmw

If you haven’t already bought Carly, skip on it and get BimmerGeeks Protool instead. It can do everything Carly can do plus much more.

Bah! Too late. I've already recoded several things with it. What am I missing out on with the Protool? If I need it I can always sell the Carly.

[pdX5M]

Originally Posted by TronixGT

I agree. I just need to find what I can replace them with.

There is a set of sideskirts in the classifieds for $100.

[Papogator24]

Welcome. IÂ’m a noob as well and thatÂ’s a clean looking car. Congrats.

[Sophisticated Redneck]

Originally Posted by TronixGT

I agree. I just need to find what I can replace them with.

Get the Aero Kit with the side skirts/rocker panels! I put it in mine recently and love it. I have yet to see another X5 in person with the Aero side skirts, I had to import them from Germany as its pretty rare in the states.