The BMW X5 is one of the best luxury SUVs on the market. This ride is spacious, luxurious, safe to drive, easy to handle, and comes with highly advanced technology. However, it’s also one of the least reliable BMW cars on the market. But what are the common problems that the BMW X5 has?
Some of the common problems that BMW X5 users should expect to encounter are engine overheating, engine misfire, clunking noise, transmission issues, engine stalling, wear and tear on door handles, creaking tailgate, loss of brake power, and unrestricted wind noise.
So, before you invest in the BMW X5, it is vital to know some of the issues that you might face along the way.
What are the common problems with the BMW X5?
1# Engine overheats
A common BMW problem is engine overheating. The BMW X5 is not an exception as it also experiences this issue, regardless of the model year. Engine overheating is usually caused by a water pump failure that can activate a second fan, which continues to run even when it is not required.
2# Engine stalls while driving
This is one of the BMW X5 biggest issues. However, it is more rampant with the 2011 BMW X5. Your car can stall while driving on the road, which is very painful and disgusting. Besides, most of the engines that stall are difficult to start. So, you may have to call a towing company to drop your car at a BMW service center for repair.
3# Engine misfires
Engine misfires are also common on the BMW X5. It is easier to tell if your engine is misfiring as you will notice the engine idling or producing a rattling sound. Typically, this is caused by a broken part on the intake actuator. Just replace the part to ensure that your car runs smoothly.
4# Transmission issues
Transmission issues can be noted in different BMW X5 models. For instance, the 2011 BMW X5 usually experiences a mechatronic sensor failure. If this happens, the car’s transmission won’t work as needed. On the other hand, the 2006 BMW X5 experiences slip between gears without any warning.
Last but not least, the 2012 BMW X5 can develop vibrations when its transfer case becomes outdated. All of these issues are connected to the transmission. Besides, repairing the transmission system is quite costly. Also, you will need to use specialized tools and an experienced BMW technician.
5# Wear and tear on door handles
Another common issue that most BMW X5 models experience is wearing and tearing on door handles. This is not just a problem for the BMW X5, but as well as other BMW models. The door handles jam after some time. They may seem operational but the door won’t open. Simply change the entire door locking system to rectify the issue.
6# Loss of brake power
After covering several miles, you may also notice some loss of brake power. Your car may start to take a long to brake. Even though this problem is common on BMW X5 models, it is more frequent on the BMW X5. Hence, if you’re losing brake power, you should inspect the brake pads, brake calipers, and brake discs. Next, replace the worn-out parts.
7# Clunking noise
As you drive your BMW X5, you may hear a clunking noise emerging from the front of the car. On top of that, you may feel the steering wheel wander as you drive. The main reason behind this is that the front arm bushings on the BMW X5 wear out faster. Therefore, you will have to replace the front arm bushings with new ones.
8# Creaking tailgate
A creaking tailgate is also another issue that BMW X5 owners should expect to encounter. When you hear this sound, there is a high chance that the rear-view camera is not working as well. This is usually caused by a faulty tailgate latch.
This issue is easy to fix as you will only be needed to replace the tailgate latch with a new one.
9# Unrestricted wind noise
When the door aperture seals fail, you will hear excessive wind noise coming through the doors and into the cabin. Note that the noise is more noticeable when you’re speeding. You will have to fix this by replacing the worn-out aperture seals.
FAQ
Which year model of BMW X5 should I avoid?
BMW X5 years to avoid: Surprisingly, most BMW X5 models have had issues. Nonetheless, the worst BMW X5 models to avoid are those manufactured in 2013 and 2017. These are the worst BMW X5 models. Besides, 2014, 2015, and 2016 BMW X5 models are not far off as well.
What is high mileage for BMW X5?
Since BMW X5 has the most issues among BMW models, this car doesn’t last very long. Nevertheless, if it is properly maintained, the BMW X5 can clock over 100,000 miles. So, if you desire to buy a used BMW X5, try as much as possible to stay away from one with more than 100k miles.
Is BMW X5 expensive to maintain?
Yes, the BMW X5 is expensive to maintain. Apart from BMW spare parts being costly, the BMW X5 also breaks down more frequently, making the cost of repair and maintenance to be high. What’s more, BMW service centers or certified BMW technicians charge a lot.
What is the most reliable BMW X5 model?
The most reliable BMW X5 model is the 2005 BMW X5. It is followed closely by the 2000 BMW X5, which is the first generation. These cars report fewer issues than other BMW models. On top of that, they have powerful engines and are solidly built.
Which year X5 is the best?
Because it provides many luxuries, the 2016 BMW X5 model has a strong reputation with consumers. This model has had only one recall, and it is extremely reliable. 2016 is a popular model, with very few complaints.
The years with the most problems?
- 2005 BMW X5
- 2008 BMW X5
- 2009 BMW X5
- 2012 BMW X5
- 2013 BMW X5
- 2014 BMW X5
What are the 2005 BMW X5 problems?
According to Repairpal some of the most common problems for the troubled year 2005 is, Oil Leaks From Engine Area, Water Pump May Develop Coolant Leak, Coolant Loss and Window Fails to Open or Close. You might occasionally hear of a vehicle issue that is so common in one year that it makes you decide to avoid that year. BMW X5 is such a year.
What are the 2008 BMW X5 problems?
The main concern is the water seepage into the SUV’s interior. The report states that the water flooded the electrics and wasn’t sufficiently drained from the drain tubes. This will cost around $10,000 to fix. We found that this problem was caused by one report from Car Complaints. You can take it as far as you want.
What are the 2009 BMW X5 problems?
There are a few problems with the vehicle, such as oil leaks or melting brake lights.
According to various automotive forums, although it only has two complaints from Car Complaints about the oil leaks, they are quite common. One user reported two oil leaks. The dealership claimed that the problem was due to faulty timing covers and alternator brackets. He requested $5,000.
The melting taillights are another problem with the X5 year. This can cause warning lights to appear in your dash, which is a serious safety hazard.
What are the 2012 BMW X5 problems?
One owner reported that the vehicle vibrates when it turns. This is most likely a transmission problem. According to the X5 owner BMW wanted to replace its transfer case and requested $4,000 after the 20% dealer coverage.
The 2012 X5 has brake light problems, just like the 2009 model. Water damage to the rear brake light assembly can lead to corrosion of the LED contacts.
What are the 2013 BMW X5 problems?
Consumer Reports gives the 2013 BMW X5 a poor 1 out 5 reliability rating. This makes it one of the most dangerous BMW X5 years. The 2013 BMW X5 has too many problems spots that are in red.
Numerous owners reported problems with the fuel system in their 2013 X5. One owner claimed that the fuel pump had failed, and the fuel system was left with particles. Others reported that the fuel pump failed and had to be replaced because of stalling or loss of power.
This X5 year is a prime example of oil leaking. Many users claim that their SUV is either too oily, leaking everywhere, or both.
What are the 2014 BMW X5 problems?
The 2014 BMW X5 doesn’t fare much better in the second year. Consumer Reports gave the 2014 BMW X5 another 1/5 reliability score.
Consumer Reports has a list of owners who complained about the 2014 X5’s body integrity. One user complained of water leaks from the roof, which drains to the driver’s side-floor floor. Many people also complained about annoying rattles and squeaks in the vehicle, which they claimed is unacceptable for a luxury model.
Consumer Reports also gave a 1 out 5 rating to the fuel system, suspension, engine minor, major, and electrical system.
Is BMW X5 35i reliable?
The N55 35i and X5 models are the most reliable. The N55 engine is still a reliable engine, with the exception of a few oil leaks and cooling system problems. BMW’s N20 engine is not without fault. However, it is a strong motor.
2017 bmw x5 xdrive35d reliability
Consumer Reports also rated 2017 X5 5/5 for reliability. There are no reports about brake squeaking or a faulty climate system for the 2017 BMW X5. You can buy the 2017 BMW X5 as used.
Why is the check engine light on?
A Check Engine Light can be caused by a damaged oxygen sensor, defective head gasket, malfunctioning fuel injection system, dirty airflow sensor, faulty emissions control parts, and defective spark plugs.
Does the BMW X5 have transmission problems?
Owners report issues with the shifting mechanism when they drive their X5 long distances or for long commutes. Owners complain when the car doesn’t shift into higher gears. This happens most often when the X5 reaches speeds of 50 mph.
What does transmission malfunction mean on BMW X5?
The most common problem that causes a BMW transmission malfunction is low transmission fluid level. The vehicle may initially drive well but then go into limp mode. Faulty valve body – This is a common problem.
Video: 10-Year Ownership Of My BMW X5 – Long Term issues and problems
Bottom line
The BMW X5 is the least reliable BMW model on the market. This car may be an excellent SUV for off-roaders, but it also has a torn of issues. Some of the issues that you should expect during the ownership of the X5 are Engine overheating, engine misfire, transmission issues, engine stalling, wear and tear on door handles, creaking tailgate, loss of brake power, and much more.
All in all, the BMW X5 is a wonderful car and it’s very practical. On top of that, it’s luxurious, safe, and pleasant to drive.
