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: 2023
You previously owned a 2020 x5 40i, which is a beautiful SUV and the nicest vehicle you've ever owned, until now. Congratulations on your new 2023 x5 M50i with the heated front and rear seats and armrest, heated steering wheel, Bowers and Wilkins diamond surround sound, and front massaging seats. It sounds like such an amazing upgrade! You even feel like you could live in it! I'm glad to hear that the idrive has been improved in your opinion and that the suspension is a little sportier and more connected to the road. I hope you have a great time taking it on a road trip!
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Vehicle year: 2022
I've driven almost 10,000 miles and have only used two tanks of gas! I usually get 32 electric miles per charge and plug in at home, with the ability to charge at work. My commute is 21 miles each way, which is perfect. I love that it keeps track of electric miles vs gas miles. The car handles great and is a beast in gas mode. The interior is comfortable (I had a Range Rover Sport before) and the info system is easy to use. The large display is nice. The only negative is the hand gestures - if you grab your drink or use your hands when talking, you can accidentally trigger the volume or mute. I LOVE the cargo area in the back with the drop-down gate - no more things falling out when lifting the hatch.
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Vehicle year: 2012
Since 2012, I have owned my BMW X5. I got it new and, other than the free regular service, I have never had any problems with the car. It's really fun to drive, although the navigation system could use some improvement.
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Vehicle year: 2011
Owning this vehicle is an excellent choice, especially if it's still under warranty. I personally love the diesel version as it's cheaper to operate and provides better mileage (24.6mpg) compared to the premium gas version. The car is easy to get in and out of, very comfortable, and offers great visibility and performance. It's also reliable for at least the first 6-7 years (up to 70,000 miles). However, there were a couple of nuisance issues prior to the warranty expiration, such as the leather seat and cracked woodgrain trim. After hitting the 70,000 mile mark, repairs started to get expensive. To avoid this, it's best to get out of it before 70,000 miles while you can still get a decent trade-in or private sale. Another option is to get a third-party extended warranty before the problems start. It's worth noting that BMWs have a lot of sensors, so your Check Engine light may come on frequently - especially during cold weather. Despite this, I highly recommend this vehicle.
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Vehicle year: 2001
Hey there! If you're in the market for a BMW, this 2001 X5 is definitely worth considering. Sure, it's not brand new or even fairly new, but for $3500, you're getting a lot of quality, luxury, and safety features. Plus, the AWD alone makes it worth the price tag. I personally own one and it runs great - even better than my 2007 Lincoln Navigator! While there may be a few small issues here and there, I've never seen an SUV that performs as well as this BMW X5. And trust me, I come from a family that knows their luxury and sports cars. Even if you're not tech-savvy, this vehicle is easy to learn and has all the features you need. The horsepower is impressive for an SUV and the gas mileage is great too. I've had mine for 6 months now and I don't want to drive anything else. Give it a chance and see how it feels - it's definitely worth fixing any small issues. Thank you BMW for making such a reliable SUV! Best of luck to everyone.
Are you having problems with your Bmw X5?
Johnpaul Feeney 2025-07-08
Vehicle year: 2009
This car was great the first 3 years I owned it. However, in year 4 and 5, I experienced some issues and in year 5+, it became downright maddening. Since the warranty expired, I had to replace several parts, which cost me around $5000-7000 per year on average. These parts included IBS sensors and cables (twice), alternator, batteries/brakes (only normal wear and tear repair I have had to make), and catalytic converter. It's surprising that I had to replace all these parts when the car has only 30k miles on it! Despite these issues, I must say that the service I received was really disappointing (but maybe it's just my area). I heard from various sources that there was a lot of local turnover and some challenges in the dealer/manufacturer relationship, and that was certainly reflected in the service levels I experienced.
Jimmy Wuckert 2025-07-06
Vehicle year: 2011
I purchased this vehicle with only 9K miles on it, but unfortunately, it has not been the most reliable car I have ever owned. It is my wife's SUV, and within a month of owning it and driving around a thousand miles, the low oil light indicator turned on. Although there were still another 10k miles until the next oil change, I decided to do an additional oil change at my expense since BMW refused to do one for me. A few thousand miles later, while driving to Austin for the weekend from Houston, the low oil light came back on again. I took it back to the dealer, and they added over 2 quarts of oil. When I asked them why the oil consumption was so high, they told me it was normal. A month or two later, the Aux. Pump went out, but luckily, it was still under warranty, and I was given a brand new loaner car for three weeks while they fixed it. After a few months without any issues, the high battery consumption light came on. They replaced the battery and a couple of modules, and the vehicle was returned to me within a couple of days. However, a few months later, the battery light came back on again, and I had to take it back to the dealer. They kept the vehicle for over a month this time, saying they couldn't find the issue, but when they finally did, it turned out to be a right front door handle that would not function properly. I was happy to get the vehicle back, but then I received a letter from BMW about a big campaign (another word for a recall) and was asked to bring the vehicle in to the dealer. They told me that it would stay in the shop for a couple of weeks since it was a big campaign for the injector, vacuum system, etc. So, once again, they kept the vehicle at the dealer for a month. Although I am beginning to get aggravated with the vehicle, I have decided to keep it since it is a very nice SUV, M-packaged with all the bells and whistles.About two weeks ago, my family and I decided to take a road trip to California for spring break. Unfortunately, we experienced some car trouble between Bakersfield and San Jose, which put a damper on our vacation and resulted in an unexpected repair bill of over $2000. The starter and coils went out, which is surprising considering the car only had a little over 30K miles. While I am a big fan of BMW and have owned several models including the 135i, (2) 335i, and x5 3.0, I would caution against purchasing the X5 50i.
Lindsey Tremblay 2025-07-05
Vehicle year: 2005
When purchasing a BMW, it is important to ensure that it meets the highest standards of quality. Unfortunately, in this case, the vehicle did not meet those standards. Despite being certified, the car experienced several issues within a short period of time, including brake pad wear, warning lights, and a broken mirror motor. While these issues are disappointing, it is important to remember that they do not reflect the quality of all BMW vehicles. We recommend seeking a replacement vehicle that meets your expectations and needs. Thank you for considering BMW for your automotive needs.
Connor Mante 2025-07-04
Vehicle year: 2011
The X5 is a beautiful car, but like any other car, it has its flaws. Unfortunately, the navigation system is not up to par and doesn't provide accurate directions. Additionally, the car did not come with a DVD to update the system, and purchasing one from the dealer can be quite expensive. The ride is firm, and some may find the seat bottoms on the active ventilated seats to be hard and unsupportive. However, there are ways to make them more comfortable, such as purchasing a seat cushion. The driver's seat can also get quite warm, which may not be ideal for everyone. Finally, the diesel transmission can be a bit rough when starting out, but this is a minor issue. Overall, the X5 is a great car, and we hope to address these issues in future models. We apologize for any negative experiences you may have had at a BMW dealership and hope to improve our customer service in the future.
Triston Bailey 2025-07-04
Vehicle year: 2004
When I purchased my 2004 X5 4.4 three years ago, I was relieved that I had opted for an extended warranty. Prior to buying the car, I made sure to have it inspected by a BMW dealership, which cost me $100. At that time, there were no issues found. Unfortunately, within the first six months, I had to replace all the seals for the transfer case, which cost me $3,300. After a year, the car started blowing white smoke from the exhaust, which is a common issue with this model. I took it in for an oil change and diagnosis, and the repair shop found three small pieces from the oil pan. They informed me that I needed a new oil pump, which is another common issue with the 4.4 engine, and cost $3,000. They also told me that the valve guides, which are known to wear out prematurely and cause the engine to burn oil, needed to be replaced. This was another common issue with the 4.4 engine, and cost $7,000. Although my extended warranty provider refused to pay for repairs that totaled more than the value of the vehicle, I ended up paying $4,000 out of pocket. Unfortunately, after only six months since the rebuild, the engine is now leaking oil all over the driveway. In total, I paid $22,000 for repairs and the extended warranty. My advice to anyone looking to buy a car is to avoid purchasing a BMW X5 with over 100,000 miles on it. I am now in the market for a 4Runner.