Now the steering wheel is dead still (in park or drive) and the SAV is remarkably smoother. I'm just amazed at how computer software can make mechanicals run more in-sync than replacing hard parts. Now only time will tell if I'm ok with stalling.

Not driving or riding in any other vehicle these past 3 months; I didn't realize how spoiled I had become with the X5. I'm sure the 3-series is made light weight on purpose to keep it faster and sportier, but gee, thin doors and roof pilars even the steerng wheel was thinner and bumpy ride. You're so close to the ground, I had to look up at a honda civic next to me. The X5 really is a heavy sherman tank that's very nimble. I really missed the bass and DSP surround sound in the stereo system. I'm shocked that BMW would put such a plain business cd stereo system in any of their cars unless the individual just listens to the news or motivational pep talk cds. I know a lot of you are crazy over the dark wood, but the dark wood in this vehicle was almost black and you couldn't see a hint of wood grain at all which made it look like plastic. I still think the 3-Series is a beautiful car but when I got ready to step back into my X5, I was so much more appreciative of the X5 right down to the massive bracket hinges on the doors. I really feel safe in the X5.