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: 2016
This is my third X5 and I must say, it just keeps getting better! The 2016 model with the 5.0 V-8 is an absolute rocket and handles like a dream. I use it as my daily driver and business car, and it rides like the 5 series. On weekends, I use it to pull my fishing boat and it does the job perfectly. It's a performance machine, so don't expect exceptional mileage. When I drive on the interstate at 70-75 mph, the mileage is around 23, but around town, it's 16-17 due to all the starting and stopping. It's a heavy machine, so you should expect it. My last 2012 model was the diesel one, and I got 20 mpg in town and 26 mpg on the highway. Amazingly, I got 12.5 mpg while pulling a boat 950 miles to Florida! Although I liked the diesel, I wanted a change. As a gear head who owns a Corvette, I enjoy performance and handling. You really cannot compare this to another V6 SUV. This V-8 with 440 hp can run with the Porsche SUV for 25k less!
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Vehicle year: 2022
Currently driving 75% in the city and 25% on the highway. This SUV is extremely comfortable and with almost 400 HP on tap, it's really quick! The Harmon Kardon sound system is fantastic and the driver and passenger seats have a massage feature that is to die for. The sport seats fit like a glove and I love the heated/cooled features found in the luxury seating package. With $7500 back on Federal taxes, this is the least expensive X5. I absolutely love it!
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Vehicle year: 2020
I'm not entirely sure where some people are coming up with the low reviews, or if they even own an X5. We've had ours for two months now and it's been an absolute pleasure to drive - comfortable, smooth, powerful, and engaging. I have a 25-mile commute each way, and we recently took it on a 1500-mile round trip to pick up my daughter from school, and we were thoroughly satisfied with its performance. As a tech guy, I love all the gadgets in this car, and I've had no issues with CarPlay or any of the electronics so far. I was considering the M50i version, and while I'm sure I would have loved the V8 on the occasional times I would have stomped on it, the straight 6 with a 0-60 time around 5 seconds is still very satisfying for a vehicle this size. It was also much more affordable from an initial price and ongoing gas mileage standpoint. We've been averaging about 22mpg in mixed driving and saw 25 mpg on our long trip. This is our second BMW X vehicle, and we wouldn't hesitate to buy another one in the future.
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Vehicle year: 2006
This is my second BMW and my first second-hand car. I absolutely love the V8 in this bad boy! I just wanted to share my experience with the X5 - it's been two years and 44,000 km and the car has been absolutely solid. I get great mileage on the car, around 600-650 km a tank, even with my mix of highway and city driving. So if you're considering the X5 but worried about reliability, don't be! I highly recommend it - no disappointments!
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Vehicle year: 2007
I must say, this is one of the best handling SUVs (or SAV according to BMW) I've driven, and it's only equalled by the new MDX. What sets the X5 apart from the MDX are the tangible and intangible qualities of a BMW, such as its exceptional handling, quiet cabin, solid build, the satisfying growl of the engine, great styling, and the admiring looks you get on the street. We loaded the car up with lots of toys, and I hope it's as reliable as their airtight 4-yr maintenance program. The only areas that could use some improvement are the unnecessarily complex iDrive and limited legroom in the 3rd row.
Are you having problems with your Bmw X5?
Luigi Abbott 2025-04-19
Vehicle year: 2006
The BMW X5 is a great SUV when it's new. However, as it ages, it may experience some problems, both big and small. It's important to keep up with maintenance to avoid any issues. Some common problems include a cooling system leak and a faulty airbag sensor located below the driver's seat. In the event of an accident, this sensor may fail and prevent the airbag from deploying. Repairs can be quite costly, so it's important to keep this in mind. Overall, it's a good idea to take care of your BMW X5 to ensure it stays in top condition.
Haley Treutel 2025-04-18
Vehicle year: 2001
The X5 has unfortunately experienced some recurring issues, including fuel sensor and fuel pump problems. However, the current issue seems to be unrelated. Additionally, there have been some workmanship issues such as the rear hatch popping open, window seals falling off, and interior light popping out of the fixture. Despite these challenges, it's important to note that the X5 has received a 'Worst' rating from Consumer Reports as a used vehicle.
Brice Rodriguez 2025-04-18
Vehicle year: 2019
I purchased a car in 2019 with only 6,000 miles on it. The handling and power are great, and the seats are comfortable. I am currently averaging 25mpg. The cabin is so quiet that it feels like the phone and microphone are off, which they are as the system appears to be broken. Unfortunately, the brakes were squeaking and now they smell like they are burning with any moderate braking. Additionally, the car will not recognize the key fob sometimes unless I hold it right up against the dash. Once it's running, I can walk away with the key, and sometimes it decides to stay on. The rear hatch has opened on its own twice now, but it doesn't want to open when I do the foot kick thing. Lastly, it surges like crazy in Comfort mode. Despite these issues, I am hopeful that I can turn this $62,000 lemon into lemonade!
Nathanael Swift 2025-04-18
Vehicle year: 2012
I purchased my 2012 BMW X-5 SUV brand new from South Motors BMW in November of 2011. Although I love the car, the way it drives, and the quality of the exterior and interior, it has unfortunately given me a lot of problems. With 78,000 miles on it, I have had to fix many seals in an attempt to stop the oil leaks, but it still leaks oil. Just yesterday, I had another engine light come on at 11:30pm while coming home. Over the last 12 months, my insurance company has paid over $11,000 in repairs and I have paid about $2,300. I am wondering if anyone else has had this issue. Despite my love for the car, it is just not reliable and I am not sure how much more I can take. Is there a solution to this problem?
Coty Hauck 2025-04-17
Vehicle year: 2007
I purchased a 2007 X5 with 84,000 miles in March 2019 for $10,000 before taxes. Unfortunately, I have had to spend quite a bit on repairs. Right off the bat, I had to spend $4,000 on repairs. Then in 2020, I had to replace the sunroof which cost $1000+. I also had to replace coils 1 & 5, the valve cover, and the rear axle which cost $5,000 in total. Additionally, I had to replace the rear brake light which melted the entire unit and cost around $400. I also had to replace the rear air spring, rear air bag, front tie rod, TPMS malfunction, catalytic converter, and the heated layer on the side mirror melted. The passenger handle leather also disintegrated and leaves black residue on your hand every time you close the door. The rear air only lets out heat on one side, the other is cold. Furthermore, 2 cigarette ports stopped working (no phone charger) and the blower motor is fading in and out. Honestly, the repairs just don't stop and it's wildly disheartening when you've spent your whole life thinking BMW signified luxury and quality. I wouldn't recommend it at all unless you have money to burn. On the bright side, it has AWD and a subwoofer.