BMW X5 reliability

On certain vehicles the Integrated Brake (IB) system may be impaired due to contamination between electrical contacts.

Fix: Vehicles that may be affected by contamination are required to have the vehicle’s software updated which can detect signal interference before it occurs. If symptoms are detected you should refrain from use of the vehicle and the affected Integrated Brake (IB) system component will be replaced.

Recalled models: X5 · 9,166 vehicles

On affected vehicles the starter motor may be overloaded due to repeated lengthy attempts to start the engine as the software based overload protection is not sufficient.

Fix: On affected vehicles improved software will be installed on the DME (engine starter motor electronics control unit)

Recalled models: X5 · 1 vehicles

On affected vehicles in the owner’s manual the maximum permissible limits of the vehicle regarding weight data/additional load values that are specified are stated too high

Fix: On affected vehicles an updated insert sheet will be added to the owner’s manual.

Recalled models: X5 · 585 vehicles

On affected vehicles the hall sensor in the driver and passenger front seat belt stalks may not have been correctly installed and it may indicate the seat belt is inserted correctly when it actually is not.

Fix: On affected vehicles the seat belt stalks will be tested and replaced if necessary.

Recalled models: X5 · 71 vehicles

On affected vehicles overtime the aluminium screws can loosen or break on the adjustable variable camshaft timing (VANOS) units potentially resulting in engine emergency mode being activated.

Fix: On affected vehicles the eight aluminium screws will be replaced if evidence of faulty screws is found then the VANOS adjustment unit will also be replaced.

Recalled models: X5 · 2 vehicles

On affected vehicles an unexpected loss of hydraulic brake assistance may occur and may result in a different pedal behaviour under specific conditions an extended braking distance may be experienced and ABS/Stability control may be impaired

Fix: On the affected vehicles the Integrated Brake System will be replaced

Recalled models: X5 · 1,833 vehicles

On affected vehicles ingress of transmission fluid may occur to the integrated transmission control unit within the mechatronic module

Fix: On affected vehicles the transmission mechatronic module will be replaced

Recalled models: X5 · 26 vehicles

On affected vehicles risk of potential flooding could have occurred leading to salt water ingress whilst parked in port awaiting shipping

Fix: The affected vehicles will be thoroughly checked cleaned and reworked as required

Recalled models: X5 · 197 vehicles

The driver and front passenger airbags may deploy with too much explosive force causing sharp metal fragments to be released into the cabin.

Fix: Replace the driver and front passenger airbags.

Recalled models: X5 · 44,407 vehicles

A possible degradation of airbag propellant tablets could lead to an over-aggressive combustion in the event the airbag is activated which may cause the inflator body to rupture.

Fix: On affected vehicles the drivers airbag module will be replaced.

Recalled models: X5 · 22,897 vehicles

Undetected EGR System leaks may cause thermal activity in the intake manifold.

Fix: The engine management control unit (DDE) will be programmed with improved software incorporating the latest OBD functionality.

Recalled models: X5 · 322,745 vehicles

The Exhaust Gas Recirculation cooler may leak over time and cause thermal incident.

Fix: On the affected vehicles the EGR cooler module will be replaced.

Recalled models: X5 · 319,399 vehicles

The HV batteries may fail due to impurities in the production process.

Fix: The affected high-voltage cell modules will be replaced

Recalled models: X5 PHEV · 411 vehicles

The oil filter line may come into contact with the brake line.

Fix: Install a modified rubber spacer and replace any brake lines showing signs of chafing.

Recalled models: X5 · 1 vehicles

The steering column shaft assembly may detach from the bottom double joint.

Fix: Check the bottom end of the steering shaft and if required resecure the shaft using a new screw.

Recalled models: X5 · 882 vehicles

It is possible that the brake pedal shaft could become detached from the pedal controls bearing mount.

Fix: On affected vehicles the brake pedal bearing shaft must be secured in the pedal controls with a roll pin.

Recalled models: X5 · 1,963 vehicles

The reinforcement ring (thimble) may not have been securely crimped onto the belt tensioner's steel cable.

Fix: Check the belt buckle and if necessary conduct replacement of the lower strap including belt tensioner.

Recalled models: X5 · 8 vehicles

The Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) Module could leak over time�and cause thermal incident.

Fix: The EGR cooler will be internally inspected with an endoscope and replaced if evidence of leaking is found.

Recalled models: X5 · 18,330 vehicles

Incorrect headrest rods may have been installed in the backrest of the second row of seats on the outer side.

Fix: On affected vehicles the outer headrest of the second seat row will be checked and replaced if necessary.

Recalled models: X5 · 35 vehicles

The Integrated Brake system hydraulic unit may have been produced incorrectly

Fix: Replace the Integrated Brake system hydraulic unit.

Recalled models: X5 · 139 vehicles

Some 22� Continental tyres were produced out of specification.

Fix: The tyres will be inspected for a specific DOT and mould number and will be replaced if found to be within the faulty range.

Recalled models: X5 · 4 vehicles

Leaking glycol coolant could create in combination with soot and oil sediments in the EGR module ignitable deposits.

Fix: The EGR cooler will be internally inspected with an endoscope and replaced if evidence of leaking is found.

Recalled models: X5 · 63,888 vehicles

The battery cables on the 48V starter generator may not have been sufficiently secured during the production process.

Fix: Check the screw connection of the 48V positive / negative battery cables on the starter generator and rework if necessary.

Recalled models: X5 · 388 vehicles

A possibility of impurities contained in the HV batteries may cause short circuit.

Fix: Testing of battery charge cycles and replacement of the HV cells where necessary.

Recalled models: X5 · 2,665 vehicles

To comply with the regulation an additional crash pad is required behind the auxiliary battery.

Fix: On the affected vehicles the crash pad will be retrofitted.

Recalled models: X5 · 97 vehicles

The front axle support (subframe) welding process has not been completed according to specifications.

Fix: Replace the front axle support.

Recalled models: X5 · 10 vehicles

In very rare cases welding beads were not always completely removed in the cleaning process during battery production.

Fix: Test and replace the High Voltage batteries if affected.

Recalled models: X5 · 871 vehicles

A starter bolt may have been installed incorrectly and become lost inside the transmission bell housing.

Fix: The starter motor will be removed and checked for a bolt that is adrift any damage found will be rectified.

Recalled models: X5 · 11 vehicles

The steering shaft bearing plate may not have been screwed on correctly.

Fix: On the affected vehicles the screw connection of the steering shaft bearing plate will be inspected and if necessary correctly attached or replaced.

Recalled models: X5 · 1 vehicles

The wheel bolts (left side) that may not have been tightened to specifications

Fix: On the affected vehicles all wheel bolts on the left side will be replaced and tightened to specifications.

Recalled models: X5 · 1 vehicles

The blower regulator wiring could be damaged increasing the risk of fire.

Fix: The connection of the blower-regulator will be checked and reworked and if necessary the blower regulator will be replaced.

Recalled models: X5 · 31,601 vehicles

An incorrect tightening torque of the fixing bolts of the left front seat.

Fix: Affected bolts will be checked and tightened with the correct torque; if necessary the bolt will be replaced.

Recalled models: X5 · 11 vehicles

The front drivers air bag may not deploy correctly on activation.

Fix: Check and replace the drivers front air bag if required.

Recalled models: X5 · 9 vehicles

The auxiliary water pump may short circuit causing a thermal incident.

Fix: The Auxiliary Water Pump of the affected vehicles will be replaced.

Recalled models: X5 · 5,866 vehicles

The power steering idler pulley may detach.

Fix: Replace the pulley securing bolt with an alternative component.

Recalled models: X5 · 21,123 vehicles

The EGR cooler may leakpresenting a fire risk

Fix: A visual inspection of the EGR cooler to check for leaks and excessive build-up of deposits. The EGR cooler will be replaced on all affected vehicles

Recalled models: X5 · 225,449 vehicles

The EGR cooler may leakpresenting a fire risk.

Fix: The EGR cooler will be replaced with an improved version.

Recalled models: X5 · 153,602 vehicles

Due to a fault at the vehicles assembly line some wheel bolts may not have been tightened to specification.

Fix: On the affected vehicles the wheel bolts will be replaced.

Recalled models: X5 · 19 vehicles

It has been identified that the bolt that connects the ground cable from the wiring harness of the Digital Motor Electronics (DME) to the engine block may not have been tightened/torqued to the correct specification. This can lead to an under voltage supply which can trigger a reset of the DME. This can result in the engine cutting out or depending on vehicle speed to restart/turn on the engine once the reset has been completed.

Fix: Recall all affected vehicles to check and if required retorque the bolt for the ground cable on the engine block.

Recalled models: X5 · 1 vehicles

The electrical contact of the Electronic Control Unit (ECU) of the Electric Power Steering (EPS) is not sufficiently robust over the service life of the vehicle. As a result the power steering support may fail possibly leading to disconcerting driving situation for the driver. Additionally in a few cases a localised thermal event cannot be excluded.

Fix: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected and replace the steering gear (EPS).

Recalled models: X5 · 41 vehicles

The driver's air bag inflator may rupture during deployment. Metal shards may pass through the air bag material and cause injury to occupants.

Fix: On affected vehicles replace air bag and inflator assemblies.

Recalled models: X5 · 218,559 vehicles

For the left hand rear comfort seat the bracket to which the seat belt buckle is mounted may not be correctly positioned. The incorrect positioning causes incorrect welding of the bracket to the seat frame. If a collision occurs the welding for the bracket may weaken / fail leading to increased risk for the passenger in that seat.

Fix: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected and replace the seat frame for the left hand rear comfort seat.

Recalled models: X5 · 5 vehicles

The screws retaining the variable camshaft timing (VANOS) housing may loosen and under certain circumstances the heads may break off. This can lead to the VANOS leaking oil internally and adversely affect the valve timing adjustment. If found to deviating from targeted data the engine emergency mode will be activated. This will be indicated by a distinct change in engine running. The orange engine management warning lamp and a check message; On vehicles with N51/N52 engines this will appear at ignition recycle on N55 engine it will display immediately.

Fix: Repalce bolted connection of the VANOS adjustment unit

Recalled models: X5 · 2,967 vehicles

It is possible that vehicles fitted with Automatic Soft-Closure Feature (SCA) rear doors may have an issue with out of tolerance on the SCA mechanism which can result in the deactivation of the child locks when they are activated. This could result in a child unintentionally opening the door and exiting the vehicle. The driver is informed that the rear door is open by a warning on the instrument panel and an acoustic (noise) warning.

Fix: Recall all affected vehicles to check the locks and replace them if required.

Recalled models: X5 · 131 vehicles

Due to a fault with an internal connection within the Fuel Filter Heater (FFH) it is possible that during temperatures below freezing the FFH can remain permanently activated. This will normally cause the FFH to overheat which will result in the inability to start the vehicle due to a flat battery. This can occur even when the ignition is turned off. However in extreme cases it could cause a vehicle fire.

Fix: Recall all affected vehicles to replace the FFH.

Recalled models: X5 · 21,502 vehicles

Brake performance may be affected as a result of oil contamination of the brake servo. The servo membrane could over a period of time soften and fail causing lower levels of servo assistance for the brakes.

Fix: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected to replace the vacuum hose and fit a non-return valve (oil stop) between the booster and servo. Where necessary the servo and master cylinder will be replaced.

Recalled models: X5 · 759 vehicles

The power steering pump drive belt tensioner pulley securing bolt may fail which will lead to the loss of power steering assistance and the necessity for the driver to supply additional input to steering the vehicle.

Fix: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected to replace the steering pump drive belt tensioner pulley securing bolt with a more robust version.

Recalled models: X5 · 22,737 vehicles

The power steering box housing may not be machined to the correct specification. This could cause an over pressurisation of bellows due to the insecurity of a snap ring and result in a sudden loss of hydraulic pressure. Oil will then be sprayed onto hot engine components and may ignite.

Fix: Affected vehicles will be recalled to have the steering box replaced.

Recalled models: X5 · 5 vehicles

Some engines are fitted with an additional water pump for the turbo charger. In some circumstances a crack may develop which then leads to melting of the plug connections and the housing. Further heat development may then lead to scorch damage. In exceptional cases such overheating can lead to smouldering of the water pump. If smouldering occurs an engine compartment fire and vehicle fire cannot be excluded.

Fix: The water pump will be replaced for a new more robust version.

Recalled models: X5 · 21 vehicles

Due to the ingress of moisture it is possible that a short circuit can occur in the additional coolant pump for the exhaust turbocharger. The driver will be informed of the issue by a warning message on the display in the instrument panel. If not addressed it is possible for further heat build up in the pump which may cause the plug connection and housing to melt and in extreme cases a localised fire in the engine compartment or vehicle.

Fix: Recall all affected vehicles for the replacement of the additional coolant pump.

Recalled models: X5 · 557 vehicles

Moisture may enter the fuel filter heater at an electrical connection. Should this occur it can cause a discharge of the battery causing non starting of the vehicle. Also if it occurs whilst the vehicle is in motion it could result in a fire when the vehicle is left unattended.

Fix: Recall all affected vehicles and replace the fuel filter heater.

Recalled models: X5 · 21,923 vehicles

Due to a manufacturing defect which causes premature wear of the fuel pump commutator it is possible that the engine might cut out whilst driving.

Fix: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected to replace the fuel pump.

Recalled models: X5 · 4 vehicles

It has been identified that during the manufacturing process cracks may have formed in the area of the brake disc body. Subsequent surface treatment means that any such crack will not be detectable at a later date. Should a crack have formed this may cause the brake disc to fail whilst the vehicle is in motion causing the affected brake to become inoperative.

Fix: Recalled vehicles will have the rear axle brake discs checked for the affected production date. The brake discs will be checked if necessary.

Recalled models: X5 · 53 vehicles

The front air bags may trigger unnecessarily and the possibility of occupant injury cannot be excluded.

Fix: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected to recode the air bag control unit.

Recalled models: X5 · 6,240 vehicles

If a brake fluid leak occurs the brake fluid low level warning may be given too late.

Fix: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected to check the serial number of the brake servo and where necessary replace the cap for the expansion tank which includes the warning switch.

Recalled models: X5 · 1,887 vehicles

It has been identified that in the event of a situation which requires activation of the driver's seat belt tensioner. The possibility exists that due to an unfavourable pulse within the seatbelt buckle tensioner mechanism the buckle may open inadvertently.

Fix: Recalled vehicles will have the relevant electronic control units reprogrammed.

Recalled models: X5 · 1,606 vehicles

The bearings of the high pressure fuel injector pump may fail after a short travelled distance (approximately 3000 to 6000 miles) This leads to a total failure of the engine's fuel supply which results in the engine stalling.

Fix: Recall likely to be affected vehicles and replace the fuel injector pump.

Recalled models: X5 · 697 vehicles

Due to a hardware fault within the digital engine electronic control unit the possibility exists that the unit could fail completely resulting in loss of engine power.

Fix: Recall likely to be affected vehicles and replace the control unit with a quality assured item.

Recalled models: X5 · 231 vehicles

It is possible that the reinforcement ring in the front seat belt tensioner has not been securely crimped onto the belt tensioner's steel cable. This connection could give in the event of a severe collision and could work loose in extreme cases.

Fix: Check the production date on both front seat belt tensioners and replace if they fall within the affected production period.

Recalled models: X5 · 445 vehicles

The securing grommet for the front brake hose onto the suspension strut may become detached. In this situation it is possible that the hose could rub against the inside of the front tyre causing consequential damage to the hose. In extreme cases brake fluid could leak causing loss of braking action on the front axle.

Fix: The repair will involve fitting a securing clip to the hose and grommet and checking the hose for damage.

Recalled models: X5 · 9,090 vehicles

The brake pedal mounting shaft may have been incorrectly manufactured. In this situation the bush may become loose and in very extreme situations the brake pedal can become detached.

Fix: Check the brake pedal shaft in the bearing mount and secure it with a new roll pin.

Recalled models: X5 · 1,971 vehicles