Fit and finish

realsgy · 01-06-2016, 04:17 PM

I read it in several posts that people think the fit and finish of the F15 is better than other luxury models (e.g. look at this thread: http://f15.bimmerpost.com/forums/sho....php?t=1207271)

I wonder whether I am just unlucky, but I can't really say that about my car. For example:
- the cover around the drive mode / park sensor / HDC buttons is loose - the part that is towards the rear of the car can be pressed down almost a mm
- the chrome trim is loose in several places, most notably the chrome trim rearwards from the cup holders, the end towards the passenger seat can be pressed down about 1.5 mm
- driver's door trim flexes away from the door when you close the door using the handle
- passenger door handle leather trim is loose, moves as you grab it
- the eight programmable function buttons don't form a single curved surface, some of them seem tilted
- center console compartment cover creaks when you put pressure on it (happens a lot as it is an arm rest, after all)
- one of the mood lightning LED stripes on the back of the front seats is installed so that the one edge sticks out - you can see the lightstrip itself, not just the light
- etc.

These don't deduct from my enjoyment of the car, but a) I was surprised because this is not how I known BMWs or German cars in general, and b) let's not call this good fit and finish, it is not.

Line Drive · 01-06-2016, 06:13 PM

Hmm...I don't have any of those issues. If I had some of those issues, I would bring it back for warranty coverage.

42pilot · 01-06-2016, 08:01 PM

I told BMW my center arm rest squeaks when I lean on it and it rattles when I don't.

They said that was wear and tear. So I told them I would rate there service as below acceptable when BMW sends me the service survey. They say they are trying to fix it each time I take it for service, but nothing yet. The next time they promise it will be fixed or they will replace it.

sdalpha · 01-06-2016, 10:59 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by realsgy

I read it in several posts that people think the fit and finish of the F15 is better than other luxury models (e.g. look at this thread: http://f15.bimmerpost.com/forums/sho....php?t=1207271)

I wonder whether I am just unlucky, but I can't really say that about my car.

...

These don't deduct from my enjoyment of the car, but a) I was surprised because this is not how I known BMWs or German cars in general, and b) let's not call this good fit and finish, it is not.

If you read through that thread, you'll see my comments regarding this very thing. My post is post #38.

You're not unlucky, it's a problem that is traversing the brand. It's not just the "Made in USA" BMWs either, since it is also occurring on M cars, which are still built in Germany.

I agree with your final statement, its definitely not good fit and finish.

Kzang · 01-07-2016, 08:05 AM

I may be wrong, but I'm pretty sure the X5M/ X6M are built in SC along with the other X series.

r33_RGSport · 01-07-2016, 09:19 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Kzang

I may be wrong, but I'm pretty sure the X5M/ X6M are built in SC along with the other X series.

You are correct.

F25 X3
F26 X4
F15 X5
F16 X6
F85 X5M
F86 X6M

All are assembled in the USA. I believe majority of the parts also made in USA. The window sticker has more details on it.

sdalpha · 01-07-2016, 09:25 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Kzang

I may be wrong, but I'm pretty sure the X5M/ X6M are built in SC along with the other X series.

Ooh yeah, my mistake. It still doesn't detract from the fact that cars such as the M3, M5, and M6 are suffering from fit and finish build quality issues; which are cars with a final assembly point of Germany. On the other hand, the two 2016 7-series cars I looked at did have better fit and finish.

stewy604 · 01-07-2016, 09:31 AM

My center armrest / console squeaks as well, definitely makes it sound cheap. Other than a minor rattle in the tailgate (fixed myself), the fit and finish on my F15 is great, no other complaints.

Kzang · 01-07-2016, 10:11 AM

My F15 is 10 months old with approx. 6,500 miles on the odometer and so far there is only window/door creaking while going over bumps during warmer weather. This has also happened with my 5 series cars (built and assembled in Germany). Other than that everything is fine and none of the issues that the OP's listed.

BigKutta · 01-07-2016, 10:31 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Kzang

My F15 is 10 months old with approx. 6,500 miles on the odometer and so far there is only window/door creaking while going over bumps during warmer weather. This has also happened with my 5 series cars (built and assembled in Germany). Other than that everything is fine and none of the issues that the OP's listed.

My F10 creaks like crazy...all moonroof related

Jimmie48 · 01-07-2016, 10:53 AM

Door armrest creak, as posted in a video on this site, center armrest squeak with a heavy elbow, fan in rear ac kinda rattles sometimes, cheap plastic on door handle cracks/creaks, some of the issues Ive had.

Dennisr · 01-08-2016, 03:12 PM

I have issues also that I don't find acceptable for BMW standards. And I really am able to tell the difference between car brands and separate BMW models after owning 11 or 12 BMW's and now owning a 640D gran coupe besides the X5. I love the practical X5, but it's not my 6-er.

I don't want to step on anyone's toes, but this to me is US build quality. From all the American cars I know and experienced (ford, Chrysler, also owning a Jeep Wrangler JK not the best reference, I know

) they couldn't be compared to German build quality.

Ps. Also had a squeaky armrest and it annoyed the hell out of me driving the car home when I bought it. I did a little search where it came from. So, take a can with WD40 and spray some fluid with the little hose on the springs of the rest. These are out of side and located under the plastic rounding of the rest, visible when you open it.

Jimmie48 · 01-08-2016, 03:26 PM

yep I used the wd40 silicone lubricant and it worked for me also. If I could get rid of the squeaky door armrest I would be fine, but that will probably be a dealer trip

Ricsuaq · 01-08-2016, 07:39 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by stewy604

My center armrest / console squeaks as well, definitely makes it sound cheap. Other than a minor rattle in the tailgate (fixed myself), the fit and finish on my F15 is great, no other complaints.

Mine squeaks a bunch too. It drives me crazy.

artem123 · 01-08-2016, 08:54 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by stewy604

My center armrest / console squeaks as well, definitely makes it sound cheap. Other than a minor rattle in the tailgate (fixed myself), the fit and finish on my F15 is great, no other complaints.

Oh, man! What did you do to tailgate?! My is driving me insane.

42pilot · 01-08-2016, 11:33 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by artem123

Oh, man! What did you do to tailgate?! My is driving me insane.

I have the proper size torx bit for my ratchet and simply loosened, then tightened the bolts on the rear hatch guides (the plastic posts seen when the hatch is open, next to the rubber gaskets). I would bet the plastic posts moved a bit, but no more rattles. I also ensure my lower hatch clicks into place, on both sides when I close it. No more rattle.

Rene_Fonck · 01-09-2016, 12:01 AM

My center armrest / console squeaks as well...really pisses me off because its an expensive vehicle; none of my prior BMW's (5ers) had this issue.

1230vani · 01-09-2016, 05:42 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by 42pilot

I told BMW my center arm rest squeaks when I lean on it and it rattles when I don't.

They said that was wear and tear. So I told them I would rate there service as below acceptable when BMW sends me the service survey. They say they are trying to fix it each time I take it for service, but nothing yet. The next time they promise it will be fixed or they will replace it.

They fixed that issue for me, not sure how but i think they just greased it. I must say i was surprised they fixed all the squeeks and creeks in the car

1230vani · 01-09-2016, 05:43 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Rene_Fonck

My center armrest / console squeaks as well...really pisses me off because its an expensive vehicle; none of my prior BMW's (5ers) had this issue.

It is fixable, had the armrest and trunk making noises. Noise free now

artem123 · 01-09-2016, 09:24 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by 42pilot

I have the proper size torx bit for my ratchet and simply loosened, then tightened the bolts on the rear hatch guides (the plastic posts seen when the hatch is open, next to the rubber gaskets). I would bet the plastic posts moved a bit, but no more rattles. I also ensure my lower hatch clicks into place, on both sides when I close it. No more rattle.

Thank you.
This back gate rattle has appeared after about a month of ownership and became very annoying. Even my wife noticed it. After 4 visits to a dealer and hearing the same old song "it was lubricated and adjusted", i got extremely frustrated and called BMWNA, they send field engineer, and he did something that stopped the rattle for a good month- month and a halve, and now it is back again....

OP, i am totally agree with you about fit and finish quality of X cars. I was surprised to see it ( to say the least). Nothing "major" per say, but those small cracks, squeaks, misaligned panels, lack of paint on corners is a alarming. It screams poor craftsmanship, something for which German cars were legendary for.

BMW, are you listening?!?

BMWboy · 01-09-2016, 10:26 AM

For the armrests: in addition to WD40 or silicone spray, I stuck a few brown 1-inch felt pads (with peel-way adhesive on the back) to the bottom of both armrest sides. No more creaks or squeaks!

barcelona · 01-09-2016, 07:06 PM

^^^
hatch rattle: x3, post 54. I assume knobs are similar on x5. Also, after 1 year they ignore you unless you pay. It drove me nuts, I actually rode in the back to isolate the source. If it was me, I would go back until fixed fully, even if not 100% after 12 months they should be responsible for pre-existing condition.
http://x3.xbimmers.com/forums/showth...rattles&page=3

BMW survey: Importance is high to get 100% satisfaction. Picked up new x3 Friday, SA stresses verbally that he needs 100%, then a follow up text requesting the same. I will give 110% as he was excellent. But if below expectation then for sure rate below otherwise no improvement.

My 2014 x5 was one of the first, manufactured Nov 2013. Now only 8000km, no issues, yet.

01-06-2016, 04:17 PM	#1
realsgy Private First Class 56 Rep 145 Posts Drives: 2015 X5 35i Join Date: Jun 2015 Location: Seattle, WA iTrader: (0)	Fit and finish I read it in several posts that people think the fit and finish of the F15 is better than other luxury models (e.g. look at this thread: http://f15.bimmerpost.com/forums/sho....php?t=1207271) I wonder whether I am just unlucky, but I can't really say that about my car. For example: - the cover around the drive mode / park sensor / HDC buttons is loose - the part that is towards the rear of the car can be pressed down almost a mm - the chrome trim is loose in several places, most notably the chrome trim rearwards from the cup holders, the end towards the passenger seat can be pressed down about 1.5 mm - driver's door trim flexes away from the door when you close the door using the handle - passenger door handle leather trim is loose, moves as you grab it - the eight programmable function buttons don't form a single curved surface, some of them seem tilted - center console compartment cover creaks when you put pressure on it (happens a lot as it is an arm rest, after all) - one of the mood lightning LED stripes on the back of the front seats is installed so that the one edge sticks out - you can see the lightstrip itself, not just the light - etc. These don't deduct from my enjoyment of the car, but a) I was surprised because this is not how I known BMWs or German cars in general, and b) let's not call this good fit and finish, it is not.
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01-06-2016, 06:13 PM	#2
Line Drive Private First Class 99 Rep 194 Posts Drives: 2024 X5 50e Join Date: May 2014 Location: Northern Virginia iTrader: (0) Garage List 2024 BMW X5 50e [0.00]	Hmm...I don't have any of those issues. If I had some of those issues, I would bring it back for warranty coverage. __________________ Former: 2020 Volvo XC60, 2018 Volvo XC90 T8, 2016 X5 40e, Lexus RX 450h, Acura MDX First: 1963 Chevy Corvair (in 1984)
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01-06-2016, 08:01 PM	#3
42pilot Captain 593 Rep 710 Posts Drives: 2014 X5 35d MSport Join Date: May 2014 Location: GA iTrader: (0)	I told BMW my center arm rest squeaks when I lean on it and it rattles when I don't. They said that was wear and tear. So I told them I would rate there service as below acceptable when BMW sends me the service survey. They say they are trying to fix it each time I take it for service, but nothing yet. The next time they promise it will be fixed or they will replace it. __________________ Sold: 2014 X5 xDrive35d MSport
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01-07-2016, 08:05 AM	#5
Kzang Major General 3242 Rep 5,066 Posts Drives: 2015 X5 35i Msport SG Join Date: Jun 2009 Location: East Coast iTrader: (0)	I may be wrong, but I'm pretty sure the X5M/ X6M are built in SC along with the other X series. __________________ 2015 F15 X5 35i Msport Space Grey M Performance parts MPPK, MPE
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01-07-2016, 09:31 AM	#8
stewy604 Lieutenant Colonel 290 Rep 1,547 Posts Drives: 2014 BMW X5 xDrive 35d M Sport Join Date: May 2014 Location: Vancouver, B.C. iTrader: (0)	My center armrest / console squeaks as well, definitely makes it sound cheap. Other than a minor rattle in the tailgate (fixed myself), the fit and finish on my F15 is great, no other complaints. __________________ 2014 BMW X5 xDrive 35d M Sport Mineral White 2011 BMW 135i M Sport Space Grey 2007 Suzuki GSX-R 750
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		BMW X5 and X6 Forum (F15/F16) > BMW X5 (F15) and BMW X6 (F16) Forum > BMW X5 and X6 (F15/F16) Forum
Fit and finish

01-07-2016, 10:11 AM	#9
Kzang Major General 3242 Rep 5,066 Posts Drives: 2015 X5 35i Msport SG Join Date: Jun 2009 Location: East Coast iTrader: (0)	My F15 is 10 months old with approx. 6,500 miles on the odometer and so far there is only window/door creaking while going over bumps during warmer weather. This has also happened with my 5 series cars (built and assembled in Germany). Other than that everything is fine and none of the issues that the OP's listed. __________________ 2015 F15 X5 35i Msport Space Grey M Performance parts MPPK, MPE
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01-07-2016, 10:53 AM	#11
Jimmie48 Private 12 Rep 86 Posts Drives: 2014 X5 Xdrive35D Join Date: Oct 2015 Location: Dallas iTrader: (0)	Door armrest creak, as posted in a video on this site, center armrest squeak with a heavy elbow, fan in rear ac kinda rattles sometimes, cheap plastic on door handle cracks/creaks, some of the issues Ive had.
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01-08-2016, 03:12 PM	#12
Dennisr Private 28 Rep 64 Posts Drives: 640D Gran Coupe Join Date: Apr 2014 Location: Belgium iTrader: (0)	I have issues also that I don't find acceptable for BMW standards. And I really am able to tell the difference between car brands and separate BMW models after owning 11 or 12 BMW's and now owning a 640D gran coupe besides the X5. I love the practical X5, but it's not my 6-er. I don't want to step on anyone's toes, but this to me is US build quality. From all the American cars I know and experienced (ford, Chrysler, also owning a Jeep Wrangler JK not the best reference, I know ) they couldn't be compared to German build quality. Ps. Also had a squeaky armrest and it annoyed the hell out of me driving the car home when I bought it. I did a little search where it came from. So, take a can with WD40 and spray some fluid with the little hose on the springs of the rest. These are out of side and located under the plastic rounding of the rest, visible when you open it. Last edited by Dennisr; 01-08-2016 at 03:21 PM..
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01-08-2016, 03:26 PM	#13
Jimmie48 Private 12 Rep 86 Posts Drives: 2014 X5 Xdrive35D Join Date: Oct 2015 Location: Dallas iTrader: (0)	yep I used the wd40 silicone lubricant and it worked for me also. If I could get rid of the squeaky door armrest I would be fine, but that will probably be a dealer trip
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01-09-2016, 12:01 AM	#17
Rene_Fonck Private First Class 39 Rep 108 Posts Drives: 16 BMW X5 35d Join Date: Dec 2013 Location: Seattle, WA iTrader: (0)	My center armrest / console squeaks as well...really pisses me off because its an expensive vehicle; none of my prior BMW's (5ers) had this issue.
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01-09-2016, 10:26 AM	#21
BMWboy There is No Chance Unless You Take One 25 Rep 39 Posts Drives: 2014 X5 50i M Sport Join Date: Apr 2014 Location: DFW iTrader: (0)	For the armrests: in addition to WD40 or silicone spray, I stuck a few brown 1-inch felt pads (with peel-way adhesive on the back) to the bottom of both armrest sides. No more creaks or squeaks! __________________ RIP: 2013 M6 Convertible, 2011 750Li, 2009 750i, 2008 Mini Clubman - and more other makes and models than I can count!
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01-09-2016, 07:06 PM	#22
barcelona Major 271 Rep 1,417 Posts Drives: X Join Date: Jul 2013 Location: Toronto iTrader: (0)	^^^ hatch rattle: x3, post 54. I assume knobs are similar on x5. Also, after 1 year they ignore you unless you pay. It drove me nuts, I actually rode in the back to isolate the source. If it was me, I would go back until fixed fully, even if not 100% after 12 months they should be responsible for pre-existing condition. http://x3.xbimmers.com/forums/showth...rattles&page=3 BMW survey: Importance is high to get 100% satisfaction. Picked up new x3 Friday, SA stresses verbally that he needs 100%, then a follow up text requesting the same. I will give 110% as he was excellent. But if below expectation then for sure rate below otherwise no improvement. My 2014 x5 was one of the first, manufactured Nov 2013. Now only 8000km, no issues, yet.
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