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: 2005
I've had the chance to test drive all the major players in the sport SUV category, and in my opinion, this one is the best for those who don't plan to drive off-road. It's important not to confuse this vehicle with the much more pedestrian 3.0, 4.4 or current 4.8 models. This is the 'M' of the SUV line, and the steering, suspension and brakes were all seriously massaged by either the M group or Alpina to make this vehicle handle and drive like no other truck to date. While the Porsche is impressive, its huge unsprung weight assures that it will never have the nimble, car-like feel of this vehicle.
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Vehicle year: 2004
With so many companies making SUVs, each one is entitled to their own vision when creating their model. The BMW X5 is an excellent vehicle in terms of build quality and luxury features. The interior is nicely laid out, with everything you would expect from BMW. When you drive this SUV, you'll notice how smooth it is. While it may not be the most exciting vehicle to drive, it still offers a comfortable ride. Living in Michigan, it's important to have an SUV that can handle bad weather. While the X5 may not be the best option for heavy snowfall, it still performs adequately. However, if you're looking for a more affordable option that performs better in these situations, the GMC Yukon is a great choice.
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Vehicle year: 2014
Terrific road car! The BMW X5 was significantly improved for 2014 and later models. The styling has evolved and the handling and performance are great, with better sound insulation. It may be a little thirsty, but it's versatile with useful storage. Some of the electronic controls take a while to learn and master, but once you get the hang of them, they're not too bad. Overall, it's a fantastic car!
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Vehicle year: 2018
The iDrive entertainment system is fantastic when it comes to user interface. This generation is perfect as it strikes the right balance between digital and analog details. The interior and exterior styling is understated, and the reason you get the X5 is for the engine! The V8 is incredibly smooth. The car is tuned more for comfort than sport, but if you get the M-Sport suspension, like I did, the handling is greatly improved. If you can find one with the Dynamic Handling Package, it takes handling to another level, but due to its complexity, the long-term cost of maintaining it could be pretty high. Overall, the X5 is an excellent combination of comfort, space, and handling. So far, it has been very reliable, although as some have pointed out, it does have body squeaks from plastic rubbing together in some places. However, this is really minor in an otherwise rock-solid SUV.
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Vehicle year: 2023
10 Month Update: February 2023. Total MPG is 43.4 to date. 40% City 60% Highway. Usual charge lasts 30-32 miles. Over the last 32 days, I drove 600 miles and only used 2.8 gallons of gas! The only problem I've had so far was with the GPS, due to a small leak around the shark fin antenna, but it was replaced under warranty. There are no rattles and the seats are extremely comfortable. The handling is great. I just saw that the price of the new X5 50e is $10,000 higher than my 10-month-old SUV and it doesn't appear to qualify for the $7500 tax credit, making the new one $17,500 more expensive! I love this vehicle. Original review: I get 30-33 miles on battery power alone. The interior is better looking and more comfortable than its peers. The in-line 6 is powerful yet gets good gas mileage. There's plenty of room behind the second-row seats. You can get an $8500 rebate from the federal government and BMCCA if you've been a member for at least 6 months. That's quite the deal while getting 50 mpge. Update 1: I've driven 6000 miles and have had zero problems or issues. The last tank full of gas lasted over 900 miles. About 40 percent is all electric and 60 percent is on gas. It's a great ride with power, comfort, and good mpg. Cons: the cost of 93 octane. I'm loving this SUV. UPDATE: I've had my SUV for 18 months and I love it. I'm getting 44+ mpge with 60% Highway and 40% City. It's a smooth ride with great seats that have a massage function. It's mostly reliable. I had to replace the antenna due to a water leak and the 48-volt and 12-volt batteries due to a defect, but both were done under warranty. We love this car. 2 Year Update: 45.5 mpg 55% City 45% Highway. 28,000 miles. I love the I6 and the great seats with massage function. It's mostly reliable. I'll probably replace the tires at 30,000 miles with non-run flats. The cost per mile on electric is 5.5 cents and on gas is 20.5 cents. As compared to the gas-only model, I've saved $11,000 (tax rebates $8200 gas savings $1800). It's quite the bargain.
Are you having problems with your Bmw X5?
Misael Brown 2025-09-10
Vehicle year: 2007
I purchased this 07 truck used with 89k miles from a local Lexus dealer and it came with a 3 months/3k miles warranty. I was pleased with the warranty as it gave me confidence that the car would be reliable. The car looks great and is cosmetically flawless for an 07 truck. It even came with 3rd row seats and a 2nd row entertainment dvd center. Although I've owned 3 bmw sedans in the past and loved them, I did notice a few things in the first 3 months of owning this truck. The power steering was a bit heavy and the 3rd row seat is extremely tight with leg room, but at least it has one. I was disappointed to find out that there was no spare tire with the 3rd row option and no jack either. Unfortunately, once the 3 months passed, the problems began. It has been a continuous stream of issues that never seem to end. I've owned this truck for a year now and put on less than 5k miles on it and it's time to get rid of it before it becomes more of a money pit. There's something about the yaw control that makes the vehicle jerk during take off from a dead stop when the car is still cold in the first 30 mins of driving it. The passenger AC/heater vent motor grinds inside the dash when turning or making a right turn. Now the passenger climate control only blows warm air even when the AC is in full blast but the driver side blows cold. The air suspension deflates overnight and you can hear the pump running when you first open the door to inflate it and level the rear of the car. Now it deflates after it sat for about 2-3 hours. The driver passenger LED tail light went out and unfortunately, there's no way to fix it, but replace the whole tail light assembly. The dvd navigation takes a long time to load and it gets really warm. The rear camera clarity is poor and at night it was unusable. Lastly, it started leaking oil and I came to find out that the head gasket needed to be replaced.While replacing the head gasket, I had to replace the brittle breather hose as well, since it was guaranteed to break when removing the head gasket. Unfortunately, the truck never ran the same since then. It has a rough idle when it's cold for about 30 seconds, but then it's fine. Now, the water pump is out and it's recommended to replace the thermostat while it's being fixed. The water pump is a plastic electric design and the thermostat is also enclosed in a plastic housing assembly. The location of the water pump and thermostat is difficult to access, as you have to remove the wheels and wheel well to give a little more room to get to it. The cost of the water pump is $560, the thermostat is $170, and there are 3 magnesium mounting bolts that need to be replaced and cannot be reused. The labor cost is 3.5 hours at $175/hour. The right stage two brake light keeps coming on, even though I've replaced all the bulbs, and it still comes on intermittently. Lastly, the truck goes to neutral from the drive position when you just start moving from a complete stop in the middle of the street while the engine is still running. You cannot just throw it back into drive; you need to press the brake pedal, turn it off, and restart the car to put it back in drive. This has happened 3 to 4 times so far when my wife was driving it, and it's a huge safety issue. Other drivers don't know that your car just stopped in neutral position, and they might rear-end you. I called BMW, but they said that this is the first time they are hearing about it, even though hundreds of others online are experiencing the same problems with this safety issue. On the bright side, the truck looks great! It's easy to do your own oil change and filter, and there have been no issues with minor problems. Every feature works with no issues, including heated seats, power windows, mirrors, locks, sunroof, and more. It's so sad to have to get rid of this beautiful truck, but unfortunately, I can't afford to deal with these major problems with only less than 5k miles in a year.
Tobin Conroy 2025-09-09
Vehicle year: 2020
After only a little over 4,000 miles, the right wheel began making a very loud sound. I took it to the dealership and they discovered that my vehicle had bad bar-rings. Additionally, the entire dashboard technology system had gone out, causing all of the functions to disappear, the heads up to stop working, the driver assistance (PDC) to be non-functional, and there was absolutely NO volume! However, the dealership assured me that they fixed it, but unfortunately, many more technology features were missing. As a loyal customer who has owned three X5s (2010, 2017, and now 2020), I was disappointed with my recent purchase and the issues I encountered.
Jacques O'Conner 2025-09-08
Vehicle year: 2012
I faced several issues with my X5, including a failed dashboard within 3 months, state inspection failure within 12 months, tire problems with no support from BMW, a failed driver-side door that wouldn't work with keyless entry, and an engine malfunction that caused my car to suddenly stop on the highway. Additionally, I received a low battery message after only 16 months. These experiences have left me disappointed with the quality of the vehicle and the level of customer care provided by BMW.
Braden Smitham 2025-09-03
Vehicle year: 2013
The engine of my X5 with approximately 4000 miles malfunctioned while driving on the highway, emitting a strong burning electrical smell. Despite contacting BMW/Assist, I was disappointed with the quality of service provided. It took multiple calls, two tow trucks, and 4.5 hours to finally arrive home. In comparison, GM/OnStar, Ford MySync, or AAA offer exceptional service. BMW roadside assistance failed to meet my expectations and made several mistakes during my SOS call. I would advise avoiding BMW Assist if you are seeking reliable assistance. Despite the free 4-year service, it is meaningless if they cannot provide adequate support.
Kraig Torp 2025-09-01
Vehicle year: 2008
I have a curious observation to share: my BMW, which some may consider obsolete, still drives better than many new cars. I have only kept up with the most basic maintenance, such as brakes and tires. I must say, the safety of this car is exceptional, not mediocre. Although we bought it new, it has only been driven a little over 80K miles due to having two other cars, a pandemic, and two road bikes. The X5 is a heavy car, which produces a refined ride that is top-notch. You won't get that kind of ride from a Volvo or Subaru! We did have to replace the 'smart cable' from the battery to the front end of the car a couple of years ago, which cost $800. Recently, we had to replace the alternator, which was an $1,800 experience. It is crucial to keep the electrical system working perfectly; otherwise, the car just stops wherever it is, which can be a calamity. We do have one chronic engine oil leak, which is the right side timing cover gasket (on the big V8), but we have learned to live with some ooze to the garage floor since it would cost almost $4,000 to repair. It's simply not worth the $4K to replace it if the oil consumption is only 1 quart a year! The main issue at this point is the passenger front seat pressure sensor for the SRS system, which costs upwards of $2K to fix and does almost nothing. It was a child protection feature when it worked, but it failed after only 14 years of almost zero use. We have no kids, and the car is/was driven solo 95% of the time, so we just ignore the display startup warning and dash idiot lights. The front passenger seatbelt works just fine, of course. Who cares about the airbag in the event it won't deploy (and we're not even sure about that)? The Bridgestone Dueler run-flats remain nearly as good as the original Dunlops, but prices continue to climb. The OEM spec tires (20' RF W-rated) run $1,900 at Discount Tire. Even though we only put less than 5,000 miles per year on this car, we are only getting maybe 3 years out of every 4-tire replacement because Arizona summers dry out tires long before the minimum tread depth appears.Exterior and interior look almost as good as new, except for the driver's seat leather which is starting to show some wear. Overall, the interior is holding up well after 15 years - it's even better than my friend's 5-year-old Outback! I plan on keeping this car for at least 100,000 miles, and as long as there are no major repairs needed, I'm hoping for a few more years of trouble-free driving with just the cost of gas and insurance. So far, everything is looking good!