Bmw X5 problems
The BMW X5 is a mid-size luxury crossover SUV produced by BMW. The X5 made its debut in 1999 as the E53 model. It was BMW's first SUV. At launch, it featured all-wheel drive and was available with either a manual or automatic gearbox. The second generation was launched in 2006, and was known internally as the E70. The E70 featured the torque-split capable xDrive all-wheel drive system mated to an automatic gearbox. In 2009, the X5 M performance variant was released as a 2010 model.
BMW marketed the X5 officially as a "Sports Activity Vehicle" (SAV), rather than an SUV, to indicate its on-road handling capability despite its large dimensions. The X5 signaled a shift away from the utilisation of body-on-frame construction, in favour of more modern monocoque chassis construction. Although the Mercedes-Benz M-Class was introduced more than a year prior to the X5, the X5 was the first to utilise a monocoque chassis. The M-Class used body-on-frame construction until its second generation.
The X5 is primarily manufactured in North America, at BMW Group Plant Spartanburg. Assembly operations also take place in Russia by Avtotor, along with operations in India, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Thailand. The X5 is also modified for armoured security versions, at the BMW de México Toluca plant.
The automaker's SAV series, which was started by the X5, has expanded with derivations of other number-series BMWs. This began in 2003 with the X3, and continued in 2008 with the X6 (which shares its platform with the X5).
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Bmw X5 model years
Common Bmw X5 problems
Based on the information from the sources provided, here are some common problems with the BMW X5 as reported by owners:
- Oil Leaks:
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- Problem: Common concerns include motor oil leaks due to gasket failures or issues with the oil filter housing and valve cover gaskets.
- Solution: Addressing oil leaks by inspecting and replacing gaskets and seals as needed, along with regular oil changes using high-quality oil.
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- Air Suspension Problems:
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- Problem: Issues related to the air suspension system have been reported.
- Solution: Seeking professional inspection and repair for air suspension problems to ensure proper functioning of this component.
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- Transmission and X Drive Issues:
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- Problem: Neglecting service for the xDrive All-Wheel Drive system and transmission fluid changes can lead to transmission problems.
- Solution: Regular fluid changes for the transmission and xDrive system are recommended to prevent issues and maintain the longevity of these components.
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- Front Control Arm Bushings Wear:
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- Problem: Owners have experienced a clunking noise from the front of the car and steering wheel wandering, indicating quick wear of front control arm bushings.
- Solution: Replacing the control arm bushings or arms to address this issue, which can be a relatively simple repair.
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- Driveshaft Spline Failure:
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- Problem: A metallic grinding noise from the front wheels can indicate driveshaft spline failure, especially in X5s that have been driven hard.
- Solution: Replacing the driveshaft or repairing the stripped-out portion with longer splines to resolve this issue.
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- Engine Timing Chain Issues:
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- Problem: Guide rails on the E53 X5s can deteriorate quickly, leading to timing chain skipping.
- Solution: Replacing the guide rails and potentially the timing chain to address the engine dropping out of phase issue.
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- Brake System Wear:
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- Problem: The BMW X5 is known for being tough on brake parts, leading to decreased brake effectiveness over time.
- Solution: Regularly checking and replacing brake components like callipers, brake pads, and discs to maintain brake performance.
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These common problems highlight the importance of regular maintenance and prompt attention to issues to ensure the BMW X5's optimal performance and longevity.
Is the BMW X5 a reliable car?
Common BMW X5 Problems. As with most luxury models, the BMW X5 isn't exactly a paragon of reliability. According to RepairPal, it has a reliability score of 2.0 out of 5.0, which is below average. Here are some of the most common problems with this luxury SUV.
What year is the BMW X5 the most reliable?
As mentioned, X5 models from 2016 onwards are great options in terms of reliability and value proposition – particularly the 2016, 2017, and 2021 X5 model years. These recent models have earned high marks, not just in reliability but overall performance and value for money as well.
Are BMW X5 expensive to maintain?
A BMW X5 will cost about $18,389 for maintenance and repairs during its first 10 years of service. This is more than the industry average for luxury SUV models by $2,675. There is also a 54.61% chance that a X5 will require a major repair during that time. This is 15.05% worse than similar vehicles in this segment.
How many miles will an X5 BMW last?
How many miles do BMW models last? A BMW can last 150-200,000 miles with proper care and if you drive the national average of 13,500 miles per year, you can expect to drive your BMW for 10-15 years according to MotorAsk.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Bmw X5 years
We have researched Bmw problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Bmw X5 cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Bmw X5 model years:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Bmw X5 model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Bmw X5 years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Bmw X5 car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Bmw X5 , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Air bags problems
- Engine problems
- Electrical system problems
- Power train problems
- Service brakes problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Bmw X5 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by X5 model years
A total of 91 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by X5 model years
There were a total of 132 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by X5 model years
There were a total of 93 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with deaths by X5 model years
There were a total of 3 complaints that resulted in a death. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 2434 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Bmw X5 . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Bmw X5 vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Bmw X5 2016
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-25
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-25
- VIN: 5UXKT0C57G0
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: The contact owns a 2016 BMW X5. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V608000 (Engine and Engine Cooling, Electrical System) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
Bmw X5 2024
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-24
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-24
- VIN: 5UX23EU06R9
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
- Summary: The contact owns a 2024 BMW X5. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V104000 (Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Service Brakes, Hydraulic); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
Bmw X5 2024
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-07
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-23
- VIN: 5UX23EU07R9
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
- Summary: The contact owns a 2024 BMW X5. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V104000 (ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC), SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC); however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.
Bmw X5 2017
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-19
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-23
- VIN: 5UXKR2C59H0
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: Radiator Fan assembly connection corroded and water pump failing due to connector exposed to liquid
Bmw X5 2016
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-21
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-22
- VIN: 5UXKR6C5XG0
- Components: POWER TRAIN,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: Fuel injectors, transfer case prop shaft
Bmw X5 2024
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-12
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-20
- VIN: 5UX23EU0XR9
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: I had a situation where the vehicle brakes were not effective on the freeway and had severe vibration while hitting the pedal, I had to almost pump the brakes to come to a complete stop. the car had no warnings and the dealership was notified, they claimed there is an open recall for the braking system and the remedy is unavailable.
Bmw X5 2020
- Date Of Incident: 2024-05-27
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-19
- VIN: 5UXCR6C01L9
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: [XXX] my engine started stopped working even several times of trying the SUV didn’t star I took it to BMW Braman Miami center to fix the problem I was charged $3,997.18 since it wasn’t a recap of the engine starter yet I called my advisor Nasser Darwich for the recall reimburse after I get the letter from BMW USA & he told me it was no reimbursement INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Bmw X5 2024
- Date Of Incident: 2024-02-12
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-18
- VIN: 5UX43EU05R9
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
- Summary: The contact owns a 2024 BMW X5. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V104000 (ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC), SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC). However, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
Bmw X5 2024
- Date Of Incident: 2024-02-12
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-18
- VIN: 5UX13EU08R9
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
- Summary: The contact owns a 2024 BMW X5. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V104000 (ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC), SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
Bmw X5 2024
- Date Of Incident: 2023-08-23
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-17
- VIN: 5UX23EU07R9
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: IT HAS BEEN ALMOST A YEAR AND REMEDY STILL UNAVAILABLE. DEALER HAS NO FIX FROM BMW. WHY IS THIS TAKING SO LONG. [XXX] [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Bmw X5 2024
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-17
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-17
- VIN: 5UX23EU02R9
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
- Summary: The contact owns a 2024 BMW X5. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V104000(Electronic Stability Control(ESC), Service Brakes, Hydraulic); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
Bmw X5 2024
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-17
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-17
- VIN: 5UX13EU09R9
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
- Summary: The contact owns a 2024 BMW X5. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V104000(ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL, SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC); however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The local dealer was contacted and it was confirmed that the part was not available. The contact stated that the manufacturer exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced the failure. The VIN tool confirms parts not available.
Bmw X5 2024
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-07
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-17
- VIN: 5UX13EU06R9
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
- Summary: The contact owns a 2024 BMW X5. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V104000 (ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC), SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC) however, the part to do the repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.
Bmw X5 2006
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-17
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-17
- VIN: 5UXFA13526L
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: The contact owns a 2006 BMW X5. The contact stated that while depressing the accelerator pedal, the vehicle hesitated to increase in speed. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a certified mechanic who suggested that the failure was possibly related to a power train failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was aware of the failure and confirmed the VIN was not included in NHTSA Campaign Number: 05V504000 (Power Train). The manufacturer referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline to file a safety complaint. The failure mileage was 274,000.
Bmw X5 2024
- Date Of Incident: 2023-09-05
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-16
- VIN: 5UX23EU02R9
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: DSC unit continually draining battery. Had to take it to get serviced 3x within 6 months of purchase as new. Had to replace battery and DSC unit multiple times
Latest 5 recalls Bmw X5
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 181 recalls for different components of the Bmw X5.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Bmw X5 2024
- Report Received Date: 2024-10-02
- Manufacturer: BMW of North America, LLC
- Components: ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
- Summary: BMW of North America, LLC. (BMW) is recalling certain 2023-2024 X1, X5, X6, X7, XM, 530i, i5, 740i, 760i, i7, and 750e vehicles. Please see the recall report for a complete list of models and model years. The integrated brake (IB) system may malfunction and result in a loss of power brake assist or cause the Antilock Brake (ABS) and Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) systems to not function properly.
- Consequence: A loss of power brake assist can extend the distance required to stop the vehicle. Additionally, malfunctioning ABS and/or DSC systems can cause a loss of vehicle control. Either of these scenarios can increase the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the integrated brake module, free of charge. Interim owner notification letters notifying owners of the safety risk are expected to be mailed November 22, 2024. Second letters will be mailed once the parts are available. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417. Vehicles in this recall were previously repaired under recall number 24V-104 and will need to have the new remedy completed.
- Model: Bmw X5 2024
- Report Received Date: 2024-09-18
- Manufacturer: BMW of North America, LLC
- Components: ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC):CONTROL MODULE
- Summary: BMW of North America (BMW) is recalling certain 2023-2024 X1, 2024-2025 X5, 2025 X6, 2023-2025 X7, 740i, 760i, 2024 XM, 530i, 540i, i7, 750e, X2, 2024-2025 i5, 2024 Rolls Royce Spectre, 2025 MINI Countryman S ALL4, JCW Countryman ALL4, and 2025 MINI Hardtop 2 Door (Cooper, Cooper S) vehicles. Please refer to the recall report for the complete list of models. The welds in the servomotor of the integrated brake control module may break, causing a loss of power brake assist and rear brake function. In addition, the Antilock Brake System (ABS) and Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) system may not function.
- Consequence: A loss of brake power assist or rear brake function can result in extended stopping distance. A loss of ABS or DSC can cause a loss of vehicle handling and control. Either of these scenarios can increase the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the integrated brake system, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed November 8, 2024. Owners can contact BMW Customer Service at 1-800-525-7417.
- Model: Bmw X5 2016
- Report Received Date: 2024-08-13
- Manufacturer: BMW of North America, LLC
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:COOLING SYSTEM:PUMP
- Summary: BMW of North America, LLC. (BMW) is recalling certain 2012-2015 X1 sDrive28i, X1 xDrive28i, 2012-2016 Z4 sDrive28i, 528i, 528i xDrive, 328i, 328xi, 2016-2018 X5 xdrive 40e, 2014-2016 228i, 228xi, 428i, 428i xDrive, 328xi Gran Turismo, 2013-2017 X3 sDrive28i, X3 xDrive28i, 2015-2018 X4 xDrive28i, 2015-2016 428xi vehicles. An improperly sealed electrical connector on the water pump may be exposed to water and short circuit.
- Consequence: An electrical short increases the risk of a fire.
- Remedy: Dealers will inspect and replace the water pump and plug connector as necessary, and install a protective shield, free of charge. A letter informing owners of the safety risk was mailed October 11, 2024. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed October 4, 2024. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
- Model: Bmw X5 2017
- Report Received Date: 2024-08-13
- Manufacturer: BMW of North America, LLC
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:COOLING SYSTEM:PUMP
- Summary: BMW of North America, LLC. (BMW) is recalling certain 2012-2015 X1 sDrive28i, X1 xDrive28i, 2012-2016 Z4 sDrive28i, 528i, 528i xDrive, 328i, 328xi, 2016-2018 X5 xdrive 40e, 2014-2016 228i, 228xi, 428i, 428i xDrive, 328xi Gran Turismo, 2013-2017 X3 sDrive28i, X3 xDrive28i, 2015-2018 X4 xDrive28i, 2015-2016 428xi vehicles. An improperly sealed electrical connector on the water pump may be exposed to water and short circuit.
- Consequence: An electrical short increases the risk of a fire.
- Remedy: Dealers will inspect and replace the water pump and plug connector as necessary, and install a protective shield, free of charge. A letter informing owners of the safety risk was mailed October 11, 2024. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed October 4, 2024. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
- Model: Bmw X5 2018
- Report Received Date: 2024-08-13
- Manufacturer: BMW of North America, LLC
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:COOLING SYSTEM:PUMP
- Summary: BMW of North America, LLC. (BMW) is recalling certain 2012-2015 X1 sDrive28i, X1 xDrive28i, 2012-2016 Z4 sDrive28i, 528i, 528i xDrive, 328i, 328xi, 2016-2018 X5 xdrive 40e, 2014-2016 228i, 228xi, 428i, 428i xDrive, 328xi Gran Turismo, 2013-2017 X3 sDrive28i, X3 xDrive28i, 2015-2018 X4 xDrive28i, 2015-2016 428xi vehicles. An improperly sealed electrical connector on the water pump may be exposed to water and short circuit.
- Consequence: An electrical short increases the risk of a fire.
- Remedy: Dealers will inspect and replace the water pump and plug connector as necessary, and install a protective shield, free of charge. A letter informing owners of the safety risk was mailed October 11, 2024. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed October 4, 2024. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
Latest negative Bmw X5 car reviews
Latest positive Bmw X5 car reviews
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Vehicle year: 2004
Best ride you've ever had! It's great for off-road hunting and snow skiing, and it's pulled a number of vehicles out of snowbanks. You won't even need to chain up, even if requirements are up. It's also great in the mountains. You can even drive at 110 MPH for 5 hours and still be comfortable. Of course, there was no traffic and you could see at least 2 miles ahead. You've even used it to tow a utility trailer and didn't notice a difference.
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Vehicle year: 2000
You have taken great care of this car! It has already clocked 120000 miles and has only required regular maintenance. The transfer case/transaxle was replaced at around 75000 miles, which wasn't covered under complete warranty. However, BMW shared the cost even though strict maintenance had been documented. At 117000 miles, you installed a new alternator at a great deal of 350.00, compared to the 750.00 that BMW wanted. You even did the labor yourself! It's clear that you take great pride in your work as a car repairer and keep very good maintenance schedules on your own vehicles.
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Vehicle year: 2006
I really like this vehicle. It handles well, has a comfortable ride, a great sound system, and lots of extra features. While the fuel efficiency of 14.8 around town is not the best, it's not bad considering the V6. The only minor issues are the narrowness of the front windshield, which creates a blindspot when going around curves, and the fact that the back window does not open. However, these are minor issues when considering the overall performance, handling, and satisfaction of this ride!
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Vehicle year: 2012
Congratulations on your new BMW! I'm glad to hear that you're enjoying it so far. It sounds like you did your research and made a great choice. The IDrive system can be a bit tricky at first, but it's great to hear that you've found it relatively easy to learn. It's also good to know that the X5 strikes a good balance between sporty handling and interior space. Thanks for sharing your experience!
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Vehicle year: 2023
This car is absolutely stunning both inside and out. It has a smooth ride and impressive acceleration. The electric mode is perfect for city driving, while the V6 Sport mode is great for weekend adventures. I am thoroughly enjoying driving this car! It is also very practical for our needs, as we can easily stay within the 30 mile electric range for our in-town trips. On a recent trip to North Carolina, we were unable to charge the car, but it handled the mountainous terrain with ease. The only minor issue I have noticed is the wide door sill, which can be a bit challenging to keep clean. Overall, I am extremely happy with this purchase.
Are you having problems with your Bmw X5?
Dwight Kirlin 2025-08-20
Vehicle year: 2008
My 2008 X5 3.0 is a car that I have a love-hate relationship with. It's one of my absolute favorite cars, with amazing styling and a simple yet extremely well-built interior. The inline 6 engine provides smooth power, and the handling is like that of a sports car. However, it has been the least reliable car I have ever owned, by a long shot. Despite this, I still enjoyed the car and did all the necessary repairs. I would highly recommend owning one with a warranty, and even better, having another car to drive while it's in the shop. You'll need it.
Ernie Lindgren 2025-08-19
Vehicle year: 2021
Hello! I hope this message finds you well. I wanted to share my experience with my BMW X5 M50i that I purchased on December 24, 2020. Unfortunately, I have had some electronic issues with the car and it has been in the dealer's shop more than four times. I have been having some trouble with BMW's customer service, as they have not been very cooperative and have been asking for more time to fix the issues. I am currently seeking legal assistance to help resolve this matter. I hope we can find a solution soon. Thank you for your time.
Darron Jacobs 2025-08-17
Vehicle year: 2021
I bought my BMW brand new in December 2020, but unfortunately, I have already had to take it in for three repairs since March 2021. One of the issues was a known defect with the window regulator, which failed on the passenger side front window within the first week of owning the car. BMW was able to switch out the part with one from my loaner car, as there was a long wait for a factory part. About a month later, I received a tire pressure monitor failure warning and had to take the car in for repairs again. Just two days ago, I received the same warning, but this time for a different wheel. It's frustrating to have had to deal with three repairs already, especially since I have driven fewer than 2,500 miles. I sometimes wonder if I should have gone with my original choice of a Mercedes GLE.
Talon Gleichner 2025-08-17
Vehicle year: 2012
I recently purchased a used BMW with 58k miles on it. Unfortunately, on the first day, the battery died and I had to take it to the BMW dealer for repairs. The total cost for labor, parts, and programming was $475. However, the dealer I bought the car from (not a BMW dealer) reimbursed me for the full amount, which was a relief. Two months later, the engine overheated and I had to tow the car to the dealer for repairs. The water pump, thermostat, and coolant needed to be flushed, along with some other maintenance tasks. The total cost for these repairs, including alignment, was $2500. I was able to negotiate a discount and got the bill down to $1978. Although I was disappointed with the quality of the BMW, I decided to purchase an extended warranty for 5 years/100k miles, which covers almost everything, including the engine, turbocharger, transmission, brakes, drive axle, steering, gaskets, seals, electrical, and A/C. The warranty cost $3700 plus tax, which came to a total of $4000. I'm hoping this will give me peace of mind and prevent any future costly repairs. Have any other BMW owners had similar experiences? I found an article online that suggests BMWs are not as reliable as Japanese cars, with most problems occurring in the electrical and cooling systems. However, I still enjoy driving my BMW, but my Honda feels just as good, if not better.The car is priced at half the cost of a brand new BMW. However, there have been some issues with the car. Two years ago, there was a valve cover gasket leak which was fixed by the dealer under warranty. Recently, the car has been at the BMW service for an oil leak from the oil pan. The warranty will cover some parts, but others will cost around $2000 out of pocket. Despite these issues, the car has been running fine since 2021. In January 2023, the water pump needed to be changed for the third time in 10 years. Overall, it has been a bit of a troublesome car. However, it is important to note that the car has been running fine since 2021.
Elias Lowe 2025-08-14
Vehicle year: 2013
Hi there! I recently purchased a 2013 BMW X5 5.0i xDrive with the N64 Engine. Unfortunately, I've had a couple of issues with it. Specifically, I've noticed excessive exhaust smoke due to oil leaking through the valve guides, as well as oil leaks from the upper oil pan. These problems started at 48,000 miles and I now have 53,000 miles. When I reached out to BMW Service, they informed me that they couldn't repair the problems because the vehicle was out of warranty. The BMW Dealer Service quoted me $8,000 for the value guide repair and $3,200 for the upper oil pan repair, which seems like a lot for a low mileage vehicle. I believe that vehicles with this low of mileage should not be leaking or burning oil for any reason, and I think this is a design flaw in BMW's engineering that they should address. What do you think?