see this - engine failure at 68k
http://forums.bimmerforums.com/forum....php?t=1410461

see this - transmission issue with 5th gear on auto 545's
http://www.bimmerfest.com/forums/sho...d.php?t=401524

i've been researching the e60 545 for a while now and here's a short version of my check list:

1 - engine tick at start up
2 - transmission surge around 40-55 mph, 5th gear

i'm not sure if i read it on this site or another site but a guy with a 545 had the engine ticking noise, bmw ended up replacing the engine under warranty. before they replaced it, i believe he mentioned they tried out some different weight oils. read threads about people questioning the oil weight bmw recommends and the 14k oil service.