Second Hand BMW X5 Bonnet Strut

Yes, all generations of the BMW X5 use gas-filled bonnet struts (also called bonnet support struts or bonnet lifters) to hold the bonnet open - there is no manual prop rod on any variant. This applies regardless of engine, trim level or drivetrain, so every X5 from the original E53 onwards has these struts fitted as standard.

Both a 2005 and a 2008 X5 fall within the E53 generation (1999-2006) and E53 facelift / E70 generation overlap - specifically, the E53 ran to 2006 and the E70 ran from 2006 to 2013, so a 2005 car is an E53 and a 2008 car is an E70, meaning they are different generations. Bonnet struts from an E53 are very unlikely to cross over to an E70 given the entirely different front-end structure, so you should search for the correct generation for your car. Always confirm the part number with the breaker against your exact registration before purchasing.

The E70 generation ran from 2006 to 2013, with a facelift arriving in 2010 that updated the lights, grille and front bumper. The bonnet itself and its mounting points did not change significantly at the facelift, but whether the struts themselves interchange across the pre-facelift and post-facelift E70 is something you should confirm with the breaker against your registration rather than assume. A breaker will be able to check the part number against your reg to make sure you get the correct unit.

No - the E70 (2006-2013) and F15 (2013-2018) are entirely separate generations with different bonnets, hinges and front-end structures, so their bonnet struts are not interchangeable. Make sure you tell the breaker which generation you have, ideally providing your registration so they can confirm the exact part. The F15 also received a facelift in 2018 when it became the G05, which is a further separate generation.

No - trim level does not affect which bonnet strut you need on any generation of the X5, as the bonnet, hinges and strut mounting points are identical across SE, xLine, M Sport and other trim variants within the same generation. You may find cosmetic differences in the engine bay on higher-spec or M Performance variants, but the strut itself is the same part. Focus your search on matching the correct generation (E53, E70, F15 or G05) rather than the trim level.

Engine choice makes no difference to bonnet strut fitment on the BMW X5 - the bonnet and its support struts are shared across all petrol, diesel and hybrid engine variants within the same generation. Whether you have a six-cylinder, V8 or the M50d, the strut fitting is determined solely by the generation and whether your car is pre- or post-facelift. Confirm the generation against your registration with the breaker and they will be able to supply the right part.