BMW X5 Common Problems and Solutions
Clunking Noise
Problem:
You can hear a clunking noise coming from the front of the car and feel the steering wheel wandering while driving.
Solution:
The X5's front control arm bushings wear out quickly. You will need to replace either the control arm bushings from our parts list or the entire arms. However, removing the worn components and fitting the new ones is very straightforward.
Difficulty level
Control Arm
Grinding Noise From Front Wheels
Problem:
You can hear a metallic grinding noise from the front wheels when they are turning.
Solution:
This issue is common in X5s driven hard and results from a failure of the driveshaft spline. You can cut away the stripped section and weld on a new part with longer splines. However, it is usually much easier and more cost-effective to order a new driveshaft from our store and replace the entire unit.
Difficulty level
Driveshaft
Engine Skip (E53 Models)
Problem:
The engine frequently drops out of phase.
Solution:
On the E53 X5s, the guide rails can deteriorate very quickly, which causes the timing chain to skip. To fix the issue, you'll need to order replacement guide rails from us, and you might also need to replace the timing chain if it has stretched or been damaged.
Difficulty level
Timing Chain
Loss of Brake Power
Problem:
The brakes are no longer as efficient as they once were.
Solution:
This is a common problem that every car can experience, but it is especially frequent on the BMW X5 because it is known for being very hard on its brake components. If you're losing brake effectiveness, check the callipers, brake pads, and brake discs. You can easily order the necessary brake parts from our parts list and replace them yourself very quickly.
Difficulty level
Rough Idling and Stalling
Problem:
The X5 idles roughly and sometimes stalls. The 'fill coolant' light is on, even after you've just filled it with coolant.
Solution:
You have a leak in your coolant system. Usually, this issue involves the inlet manifolds, which will need replacing. Check your inlet manifolds and order a replacement from us if you see obvious signs of damage. If the inlet manifolds appear fine, inspect the entire coolant system for the damaged section that needs replacing.
Difficulty level
Door Handles (SUV Models)
Problem:
The door handles lift, but the door will not open.
Solution:
Unfortunately, this isn't a simple fix. You'll need to replace the entire door opening and locking mechanism. That will require some specialised tools that most drivers do not own. If you have them, you can order the parts you need directly from our store.
Difficulty level
Door Lock Mechanism
Stalling and Jerky Driving
Problem:
The car frequently stalls, sometimes jerks while driving, and is occasionally hard to start.
Solution:
There's a good chance that your air mass flow sensor is faulty. Fortunately, sensors are very affordable when purchased from us and are easy to install.
Difficulty level
Air Flow Mass Sensor
Creaking Tailgate
Problem:
You can hear a creaking noise from the tailgate, and the rear-view camera has ceased functioning.
Solution:
You won't need to replace the tailgate in this case. The issue is usually caused by a faulty tailgate latch, which you can find a replacement for on our parts list. Fit the new latch, and both problems will be fixed.
Difficulty level
Stalling Problem
Problem:
The car sometimes stalls and refuses to restart. Occasionally, the warning lights on the dashboard come on.
Solution:
This can happen, but it's quite rare. Usually, it's a complete engine failure, which means you must replace the entire engine. You can order an affordable replacement from us and install it yourself.
Difficulty level
Engine misfiring
Problem:
Are you experiencing engine misfiring on your X5? This is most noticeable when the engine is idling, and you may also hear a rattling sound coming from the engine. This issue is caused by a broken component on the intake actuator.
Solution:
You can replace this unit to resolve the issue. Watch the video below to see how you can do this yourself, and save money in the process.
Difficulty level
Excessive wind noise
Problem:
Can you hear a lot of wind noise coming through the doors and into the cabin, especially at high speeds? If so, this is caused by deteriorating door aperture seals.
Solution:
You will need to replace the door aperture seals to resolve the issue. We can assist you in finding replacement door aperture seals at very low prices.
Difficulty level
Electric handbrake problem
Problem:
If you notice that the handbrake is not releasing as smoothly as it used to, it is a common issue with the X5. This problem is caused by a software failure, which leads to the handbrake actuator failing, resulting in the handbrake sticking.
Solution:
You will need to update the software to fix the problem. BMW should cover this under warranty; otherwise, you will be responsible for the repair costs.
Difficulty level
Automatic gearbox leaking oil
Problem:
The gearbox plug sleeve seal is known to fail, leading to transmission oil leaks from this area. If you notice the gearbox oil level is dropping, this is most likely the cause.
Solution:
Replacing the gearbox plug sleeve seal will stop the oil leak. Watch the video below to see how to change this seal and stop the leak.
Difficulty level
Seat Belt Restraint
Problem:
The seat belts do not lock into place when you move forwards, increasing the risk of injury in the event of a collision.
Solution:
The seat belt pre-tensioner is faulty. You can browse our list of X5 parts and order a replacement that you can easily fit yourself.
Difficulty level
Child Safety Lock Malfunction
Problem:
The child safety lock malfunctions, allowing the rear doors to be opened from the inside.
Solution:
If your car was manufactured in 2014, it is likely due to a faulty soft-close door that needs replacing. If your X5 was built in any other year, it may simply be a matter of replacing the locking mechanism, which you can easily order from us.
Difficulty level
Door Lock Mechanism