X 5 - 'self level susp inactive' - Big problems?

[Ade07]

Was looking at getting an X5, the one in question is coming up at a local car auction and on the dash it's displaying the message 'self level susp inactive'. Is this why it's maybe been placed into the auction?

Is this likely to be a major problem and an expensive fix?

Cheers

[roofer]

It can be a problem, but usually a sensor if someone has slung the spare wheel in hard. It will need a good indie to sort it though. Budget 500 and bid accordingly.

[Ade07]

Thanks for advice, will budget accordingly

[Fox-]

Sounds like an E53 - it'll be a trade-in the dealer doesnt want anything to do with. Perhaps becuase of the suspension fault, perhaps it hides further problems. Thats the trouble with complex cars at auction.

[Ade07]

It's a 2003 model, 3.0 diesel with 130k on the clock. I was thinking a low bid might buy it due to the mileage and suspension problem. Might be safer to stay away?

[sprinter11]

Does the car look like its dropped? If not then possibly sensor

If it looks lower on 1 side then the air bag suspension has failed
About £370 a corner from BMW

[Ade07]

No, it actually looks ok as it seems to be sitting just right, no sign of any dropping.

[8Tech]

Could be the module, thats real big money, around a grand I believe. This was on my X5 with 4 airbag suspension though. Its highly unlikely a 3.0d will have front airbag suspension though.

At auction, I would deduct 1000.00 if you dont know why. The seller obviously knows the cost and feels its better to sell as-is rather than fix it and that does not sound like a cheap sensor.