Owners have filed 119 complaints
about the 2007 BMW X5 with NHTSA between 2016 and 2026.
The largest single group is the airbags.
Across this model's run it ranks 27 of 27 worst.
The letter says how bad. This says what kind — whether this year drew
an unusual number of complaints, unusually dangerous
ones, or failures that arrived unusually early.
The dashed ring is 50 — the national norm. Further out is worse.
Complaint volume — 35
Against the median year of the BMW X5. 50 means typical for this
model; 100 means roughly double.
Severity — 35
6.7% of these complaints
involved a crash, fire, injury or death, against a national rate of
9.7%.
Early failure — 14
8% of failures with a mileage on record happened under
36,000 miles, against a national rate of
29%.
Odometer readings owners gave when they filed. About half of all
complaints include one.
Under 1,000 miles
48.2%
25,000 – 49,999 miles
612.2%
75,000 – 99,999 miles
1632.7%
100,000 – 149,999 miles
1836.7%
150,000+ miles
510.2%
When owners complained
A spike years after the car went on sale usually means a part wearing
out on schedule across the whole fleet — the kind of pattern no single
owner can see from inside their own car.
Jun 2016peak 11Jan 2026
Recalls on the 2007 BMW X5
A complaint is one owner's allegation. A recall is the point at which
the manufacturer or a regulator agreed the defect is real and dangerous
enough to fix for free — however old the car is.
United States — NHTSA
20V017000
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2008-2013 128i and 135i Convertibles, 128i, 135i, and M Coupes, 2007-2010 X3 30si and X3 xDrive30i, 2013-2015 X1 sDrive28i, X1 xDrive28i and X1 xDrive35i, 2007-2013 328i, 328i xDrive, 335i, 335is, 335i xDrive and M3 Coupes, 2006-2011 328i, 328xi, 328i xDrive, 325i, 325xi, 330i, 330xi, 335i, 335xi, 335i xDrive and M3, 2009-2011 335D, 2006-2012 325xi, 328i, 328xi and 328i xDrive, 2010-2011 X6 ActiveHybrid, 2007-2013 328i, 335i, 335is, M3 Coupes, X5 30si, X5 xDrive30i, X5 xDrive35i, X5 48i, X5 xDrive48i, X5 xDrive50i and X5 M, 2009-2013 X5 xDrive35d and 2008-2014 X6 xDrive35i, X6 xDrive50i and X6M vehicles equipped with non-desiccated driver frontal air bag inflators containing phase stabilized ammonium nitrate (PSAN) that were used as interim remedy parts for previous Takata recalls. These inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, high temperatures, and high temperature cycling.
Risk: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
20V016000
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2009-2012 X5 xDrive35d, 2008-2012 X6 xDrive35i, X6 xDrive50i and X6 M, 2007-2012 X5 30si, X5 xDrive30i, X5 xDrive35i, X5 48i, X5 xDrive48i, X5 xDrive50i and X5 M and 2010-2011 X6 ActiveHybrid vehicles equipped with non-desiccated, passenger frontal air bag inflators containing phase stabilized ammonium nitrate (PSPI-2) propellant that were used as interim remedy parts for previous Takata recalls. These inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, high temperatures, and high temperature cycling.
Risk: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
19V017000
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2007-2013 X5 xDrive30i, X5 xDrive35i, X5 xDrive48i, X5 xDrive50i and X5 M vehicles, 2008-2014 X6 xDrive35i, X6 xDrive50i and X6 M vehicles, 2009-2013 X5 xDrive35d vehicles and 2010-2011 X6 ActiveHybrid vehicles. These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passenger frontal air bag, these inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.
Risk: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
18V030000
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2007-2013 X5 xDrive30i, X5 xDrive35i, X5 xDrive48i, X5 xDrive50i, X5 M, 2009-2010 X5 xDrive35d vehicles and 2009-2013 X6 xDrive35i, X6 xDrive50i, and X6 M vehicles ever registered in the states of Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands or "Zone A." BMW is also recalling certain 2007-2010 X5 xDrive30i, X5 xDrive35i, X5 xDrive48i, X5 xDrive50i, X5 M, X5 xDrive35d, X6 xDrive35i, X6 xDrive50i and X6M vehicles ever registered in the states of Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia or "Zone B." BMW is also recalling certain 2007-2009 X5 xDrive30i, X5 xdrive35i, X5 xDrive48i, X5 xDrive50i, X5 M, X5 xDrive35d, X6 xDrive35i, X6 xDrive50i and X6M vehicles ever registered in the states of AK, CO, CT, ID, IA, ME, MA, MI, MN, MT, NH, NY, ND, OR, RI, SD, UT, VT, WA, WI, and WY or "Zone C." These v
Risk: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
17V683000
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM:EMISSION CONTROL:CRANKCASE (PCV)
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2008-2011 128i and 2007-2011 328i, 328xi, 328i xDrive, 525i, 525xi, 528i, 528xi, 530i, 530xi, X3 3.0si, X3 xDrive30i, X5 xDrive30i, Z4 3.0i, Z4 3.0si and Z4 sDrive30i vehicles. The heater for the positive crankcase ventilation (PCV) valve may short circuit.
Risk: An electrical short can cause the parts within the PCV valve to melt, increasing the risk of a fire, even when the vehicle is not in use.
17V020000
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2012 X5 xDrive30i, X5 xDrive35i, X5 xDrive48i, X5 xDrive50i, X5 M, X6 xDrive35i, X6 xDrive50i, and X6 M vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands, or "Zone A." Additionally, unless included in "Zone A" above, BMW is recalling certain 2009 X5 xDrive30i, X5 xDrive35i, X5 xDrive48i, X5 xDrive50i, and X5 M vehicles, 2008-2009 X6 xDrive 35i, X6 xDrive50i, X6 M, and 2009 X5 xDrive35d vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia, or "Zone B." Additionally, unless included in "Zone A" or "Zone B" above, BMW is recalling certain 2007-2008 X5 xDrive30i, X5 xDrive35i, X5 xDrive48i, X5 xDrive50i and X5 M vehicles, and 2008 X6 xDrive35i, X6 xDrive50i, and X6 M vehicles originally sold, or ever registered in t
Risk: An inflator rupture may result in metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
16V746000
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain model year 2007-2011 BMW X5 3.0si, X5 4.8i, X5 M, X5 xDrive30i, X5 xDrive35i, X5 xDrive48i and X5 xDrive50i, 2008-2011 X6 x Drive35i, X6 xDrive50i and X6 M, 2010-2011 X6 ActiveHybrid, 535i xDrive Gran Turismo, 535i Gran Turismo, 550i xDrive Gran Turismo and 550i Gran Turismo, 2011-2012 528i, 535i, 535i xDrive, 550i and 550i xDrive and 2012 535i ActiveHybrid, 640i Convertible, 650i Convertible, 650i xDrive Convertible, 650i Coupe and 650i Coupe xDrive vehicles. The affected vehicles have in-tank fuel pumps that may have insufficiently crimped wire contacts.
Risk: The loose wires may cause the connector to melt, resulting in a fuel leak. Additionally, the fuel pump may stop working, possibly causing an engine stall and increase the risk of a crash.
16V364000
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain model year 2007-2011 X5 xDrive30i, X5 xDrive35i, X5 xDrive48i, X5 xDrive50i and X5M vehicles, 2009-2011 X5 xDrive35d vehicles, 2008-2011 X6 xDrive35i, X6 xDrive50i and X6 M vehicles, and 2010-2011 X6 ActiveHybrid vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands, or "Zone A." Additionally, unless included in "Zone A" above, BMW is recalling certain model year 2007-2008 X5 xDrive30i, X5 xDrive35i, X5 xDrive48i, X5 xDrive50i and X5M vehicles, and 2008 BMW X6 xDrive35i, X6 xDrive50i and X6 M vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia, or "Zone B." Vehicles of these model years and models that were not originally sold or ever registered in either Zones A or B are not subject to this safety recall. These ve
Risk: An inflator rupture may result in metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Canada — Transport Canada
Canada runs its own recall programme, and its campaigns do not
always mirror the American ones.
Recall 202209598,111 units in Canada
Engine
Issue: On certain vehicles equipped with an N52 or N52K 6-cylinder engine, a manufacturing problem could cause the PCV valve heater (blow-by heater) to short circuit and overheat. Note: This replaces Transport Canada recalls 2017-470 and 2019-170. Only vehicles equipped with an N52 or N52K engine require this repair. Safety Risk: An overheated engine PCV valve heater could create the risk of a fire, even while the vehicle is parked and turned off. Corrective Actions: BMW will notify owners by mail and instruct you to take your vehicle to a dealer to install a wire harness repair kit. BMW recommends that you should park your vehicle outdoors until the recall repairs have been completed.
Recall 202001011 units in Canada
Airbag
Issue: This recall is for certain vehicles that had an airbag inflator replaced as a part of an earlier recall campaign. This recall provides a final repair. Long-term exposure to high absolute humidity and temperature, combined with high temperature cycling, may eventually degrade the propellant contained in the passenger-front airbag. This could cause the airbag to deploy with more force than normal. If the airbag inflator ruptures, fragments could be propelled toward vehicle occupants or cause damage to the airbag assembly, preventing its proper function. Safety Risk: If the vehicle is involved in a crash requiring an airbag deployment, the airbag inflator could rupture and create a risk of injury. Corrective Actions: Owners will be notified by mail and instructed to take their vehicle to a dealer to inspect the passenger-front airbag module. The passenger-front airbag module will be replaced as necessary. Note: The Canadian climate results in the propellant degrading slowly. This recall is being conducted as a precaution to address future risk. It is expected that all airbag inflators will be replaced before their function would be affected.
Recall 202000847 units in Canada
Airbag
Issue: This recall is for certain vehicles that had an airbag inflator replaced as a part of an earlier recall campaign. This recall provides a final repair. Long-term exposure to high absolute humidity and temperature, combined with high temperature cycling, may eventually degrade the propellant contained in the driver-front airbag. This could cause the airbag to deploy with more force than normal. If the airbag inflator ruptures, fragments could be propelled toward vehicle occupants or cause damage to the airbag assembly, preventing its proper function. Safety Risk: If the vehicle is involved in a crash requiring an airbag deployment, the airbag inflator could rupture and create a risk of injury. Corrective Actions: Owners will be notified by mail and instructed to take their vehicle to a dealer to inspect the driver-front airbag inflator. The driver-front airbag module or inflator will be replaced as necessary. Note: The Canadian climate results in the propellant degrading slowly. This recall is being conducted as a precaution to address future risk. It is expected that all airbag inflators will be replaced before their function would be affected.
Recall 201901820,532 units in Canada
Airbag
Issue: On certain vehicles, long-term exposure to high absolute humidity and temperature, combined with high temperature cycling, may eventually degrade the propellant contained in the passenger-front airbag. This could cause the airbag to deploy with more force than normal. If the airbag inflator ruptures, fragments could be propelled toward vehicle occupants or cause damage to the airbag assembly, preventing its proper function. Safety Risk: If the vehicle is involved in a crash requiring an airbag deployment, the airbag inflator could rupture and create a risk of injury. Corrective Action: Owners will be notified by mail and instructed to take their vehicle to a dealer to have the passenger-front airbag module replaced. Note: The Canadian climate results in the propellant degrading slowly. This recall is being conducted as a precaution to address future risk. It is expected that all airbag inflators will be replaced before their function would be affected.
Recall 201747079,616 units in Canada
Engine
On certain vehicles equipped with the N52 6-cylinder engine, an electrical short could occur in the PCV valve heater due to manufacturing irregularities. If this occurs, the surrounding plastics could overheat, melt and potentially cause a fire, which could increase the risk of injury and/or damage to property. Correction: Dealers will replace the PCV valve heater.
Recall 20170167,671 units in Canada
Airbag
On certain vehicles, long-term exposure to high absolute humidity and temperature, combined with high temperature cycling, could eventually degrade the propellant contained in the passenger frontal airbag. This could cause the airbag to deploy with more force than normal. As a result, if the vehicle were involved in a collision that warrants airbag deployment, fragments could be propelled toward vehicle occupants, and the airbag assembly could be damaged, preventing proper function. These issues could increase the risk of injury. Correction: Dealers will replace the passenger frontal airbag module or inflator. Note: Canadian climate results in the propellant degrading slowly. The recall is being conducted as a precaution to address future risk, and is expected to replace airbag inflators before their function would be affected.
Recall 201650516,663 units in Canada
Fuel System
On certain vehicles, the wires going to the in-tank fuel pump may not have been crimped correctly. An incorrect crimp could increase the resistance of the circuit which could cause the contact pin to heat and melt the surrounding plastic. This could potentially cause the fuel pump to stop working causing the vehicle to stall without warning, increasing the risk of a crash causing injury and/or damage to property. Also, in a very rare case, a fuel leak combined with an external ignition source, could increase the risk of fire causing injury and/or damage to property. Correction: Dealers will replace the fuel delivery module.
Recall 2016142104,151 units in Canada
Airbag
On certain vehicles, the driver frontal airbag inflator could produce excessive internal pressure during airbag deployment. Increased pressure may cause the inflator to rupture, which could allow fragments to be propelled toward vehicle occupants, increasing the risk of injury. This could also damage the airbag module, which could prevent proper deployment. Failure of the airbag to fully deploy during a crash (where deployment is warranted) could increase the risk of personal injury to the seat occupant. Correction: Dealers will replace the front driver air bag inflator or air bag module, depending on the vehicle model.
Reports where the owner recorded a crash, a fire, an injury or a death.
Rogersville, MOCrash2 injured
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
Unintended acceleration with loss of braking effectiveness. We hit a tree head on going at least 50 by the time we struck it. The vehicle was inspected before we bought it and we only bought it 3 days before the accident occurred. The check engine light came on that afternoon and we were going to get it checked out on Monday.
NHTSA complaint #11439687 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Rogersville, MOCrash2 injured
SERVICE BRAKES
Unintended acceleration with loss of braking effectiveness. We hit a tree head on going at least 50 by the time we struck it. The vehicle was inspected before we bought it and we only bought it 3 days before the accident occurred. The check engine light came on that afternoon and we were going to get it checked out on Monday.
NHTSA complaint #11439687 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 142,000 milesGreensboro, NCFire
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
WATER LEAKING IN FRONT RIGHT FLOOR BOARD CAUSE SHORT IN ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, ALSO LEAKING IN REAR AT BATTERY AREA. DEALER HAS ADVISED THIS ALSO CAUSED THE SHORT IN THE ALTERNATOR AND BATTERY. IF BMW HAS BEEN SUED BECAUSE OF SUN ROOFS LEAKING BEFORE. MY CAR DIED IN A RAIN STORM AND IN HEAVY TRAFFIC CAUSING GREAT DANGER TO THE PASSENGERS. BMW SHOULD BE FORCED TO REPAIR THESE VEHICLES BEFORE SOMEONE IS INJURED OR KILLED. AND STOP ACTING LIKE THEY HAVE NEVER HEARD OF THIS PROBLEM BEFORE.
NHTSA complaint #11310803 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Fayetteville, NCFire
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
MY HUSBAND WAS DRIVING DOWN THE ROAD ALL OF A SUDDEN HE COULDN'T STOP AND ALSO, CAR CAUGHT ON FIRE. CALLED AND THERE'S SO RECALL IT SHOULD BE BECAUSE MY HUSBAND COULD HAVE DIED
NHTSA complaint #11118569 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Fayetteville, NCFire
ENGINE
MY HUSBAND WAS DRIVING DOWN THE ROAD ALL OF A SUDDEN HE COULDN'T STOP AND ALSO, CAR CAUGHT ON FIRE. CALLED AND THERE'S SO RECALL IT SHOULD BE BECAUSE MY HUSBAND COULD HAVE DIED
NHTSA complaint #11118569 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Fayetteville, NCFire
SERVICE BRAKES
MY HUSBAND WAS DRIVING DOWN THE ROAD ALL OF A SUDDEN HE COULDN'T STOP AND ALSO, CAR CAUGHT ON FIRE. CALLED AND THERE'S SO RECALL IT SHOULD BE BECAUSE MY HUSBAND COULD HAVE DIED
NHTSA complaint #11118569 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The most recent complaints
In the owners' own words, exactly as filed with NHTSA.
Columbus, OH
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
The contact owns a 2007 BMW X5. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, there was an abnormal sound coming from the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to the dealer for an inspection. While the dealer was inspecting the ABS and struts, the contact was informed that the PCV valve was damaged. The ABS was repaired. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 17V683000 (ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING). The contact stated that the repair was not completed. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and informed the contact that, per their records, the recall repair was completed in 2021. The failure mileage was unknown.
NHTSA complaint #11712234 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 112,000 milesDistrict Heights, MD
STEERING
The contact owns a 2007 BMW X5. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle lost power steering functionality. The contact used force to pull over to the side of the road. The messages "Active Steering Inactive" and "Change of Steering Wheel and 4WD Malfunction" were displayed. The braking system warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, where it was diagnosed and determined that the foot module had failed. The foot pedal was replaced; however, the failure persisted. The vehicle was taken back to the dealer three times. The contact stated that on a separate occasion, the vehicle failed to accelerate as intended while depressing the accelerator pedal and the vehicle stalled. The vehicle was taken back to the dealer, where it was diagnosed with an unknown failure. The cooling system was replaced. The contact related the failures to NHTSA Campaign Numbers: 13V045000 (SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC, SERVICE BRAKES) and 12E029000 (ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING); however, the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 112,000.
NHTSA complaint #11690001 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 112,000 milesDistrict Heights, MD
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
The contact owns a 2007 BMW X5. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle lost power steering functionality. The contact used force to pull over to the side of the road. The messages "Active Steering Inactive" and "Change of Steering Wheel and 4WD Malfunction" were displayed. The braking system warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, where it was diagnosed and determined that the foot module had failed. The foot pedal was replaced; however, the failure persisted. The vehicle was taken back to the dealer three times. The contact stated that on a separate occasion, the vehicle failed to accelerate as intended while depressing the accelerator pedal and the vehicle stalled. The vehicle was taken back to the dealer, where it was diagnosed with an unknown failure. The cooling system was replaced. The contact related the failures to NHTSA Campaign Numbers: 13V045000 (SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC, SERVICE BRAKES) and 12E029000 (ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING); however, the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 112,000.
NHTSA complaint #11690001 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 112,000 milesDistrict Heights, MD
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
The contact owns a 2007 BMW X5. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle lost power steering functionality. The contact used force to pull over to the side of the road. The messages "Active Steering Inactive" and "Change of Steering Wheel and 4WD Malfunction" were displayed. The braking system warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, where it was diagnosed and determined that the foot module had failed. The foot pedal was replaced; however, the failure persisted. The vehicle was taken back to the dealer three times. The contact stated that on a separate occasion, the vehicle failed to accelerate as intended while depressing the accelerator pedal and the vehicle stalled. The vehicle was taken back to the dealer, where it was diagnosed with an unknown failure. The cooling system was replaced. The contact related the failures to NHTSA Campaign Numbers: 13V045000 (SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC, SERVICE BRAKES) and 12E029000 (ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING); however, the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 112,000.
NHTSA complaint #11690001 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 217,000 milesUnion, NJ
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
The contact owns a 2007 BMW X5. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the brake pedal was depressed, and the brakes delayed in responding. The failure had occurred on several occasions. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed that the secondary hydraulic pump needed to be replaced. The contact researched and was made aware of an unknown NHTSA Campaign Number; however, the VIN was not included. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline to report the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 217,000.
NHTSA complaint #11657294 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 149,000 milesBronx, NY
AIR BAGS
The contact owns a 2007 BMW X5. The contact stated the passenger’s side air bag warning light was illuminated. The contact took the vehicle to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed with needing the passenger’s side air bag to be replaced. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. A dealer was not contacted. The manufacturer had been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 149,000.
NHTSA complaint #11488213 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Sutherlin, OR
ENGINE
I have water leaking out of myBMW on a regular basis. I have to put a gallon of water every time I want to drive it. The oil is constantly needing to be filled. I go through a qt a day in oil. There is oil leaking all over the ground. Not sure if the water is leaking as well.
NHTSA complaint #11482833 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 180,000 milesPark City, UT
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
The contact owns a 2007 BMW X5. The contact stated while he was cleaning the vehicle, he noticed an oil leak on the valve and an unknown odor around the location. The contact stated no warning light was illuminated. The contact called the local dealer and made them aware of the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer had not been informed of the failure. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V119000 (Engine and Engine Cooling) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The failure mileage was approximately 180,000.
NHTSA complaint #11465893 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Rogersville, MOCrash2 injured
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
Unintended acceleration with loss of braking effectiveness. We hit a tree head on going at least 50 by the time we struck it. The vehicle was inspected before we bought it and we only bought it 3 days before the accident occurred. The check engine light came on that afternoon and we were going to get it checked out on Monday.
NHTSA complaint #11439687 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Rogersville, MOCrash2 injured
SERVICE BRAKES
Unintended acceleration with loss of braking effectiveness. We hit a tree head on going at least 50 by the time we struck it. The vehicle was inspected before we bought it and we only bought it 3 days before the accident occurred. The check engine light came on that afternoon and we were going to get it checked out on Monday.
NHTSA complaint #11439687 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Dallas, TX
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
When purchased, it was discovered that the OE Passenger Side (Right) brake light/indicator housing of this vehicle had melted from the heat of the standard OE halogen brake bulb, causing the brake light to fall out of its placement in the housing. This results in the brake light indicator to emit little or no visible warning to other drivers, since the indicator bulb has fallen down outside of the casing. Because the indicator may not be visible to other drivers, it presents a hazard of others not being warned that I am braking and could result in drivers of other vehicles not being prepared to brake and therefore could result in a collision that can vary from minor fender bender to fatal collision. It could also result in a more devastating vehicle fire that could destroy more than just the indicator housing. It is visible and is reproduced every time vehicle brake pedal is depressed and brake indicators are engaged. Problem has been confirmed by BMW of South Austin. This specific vehicle has yet to be inspected by insurance, police, manufacturer or others, but is a known problem with these rear indicator housing assemblies that are present on both sides of the vehicle. No warning chimes or signals were present before, during, or after incident, and to this day, there are still no warning signals, signs, chimes, or indicators present.
NHTSA complaint #11417551 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Dallas, TX
SERVICE BRAKES
When purchased, it was discovered that the OE Passenger Side (Right) brake light/indicator housing of this vehicle had melted from the heat of the standard OE halogen brake bulb, causing the brake light to fall out of its placement in the housing. This results in the brake light indicator to emit little or no visible warning to other drivers, since the indicator bulb has fallen down outside of the casing. Because the indicator may not be visible to other drivers, it presents a hazard of others not being warned that I am braking and could result in drivers of other vehicles not being prepared to brake and therefore could result in a collision that can vary from minor fender bender to fatal collision. It could also result in a more devastating vehicle fire that could destroy more than just the indicator housing. It is visible and is reproduced every time vehicle brake pedal is depressed and brake indicators are engaged. Problem has been confirmed by BMW of South Austin. This specific vehicle has yet to be inspected by insurance, police, manufacturer or others, but is a known problem with these rear indicator housing assemblies that are present on both sides of the vehicle. No warning chimes or signals were present before, during, or after incident, and to this day, there are still no warning signals, signs, chimes, or indicators present.
NHTSA complaint #11417551 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 43,000 milesWashington, IL
AIR BAGS
2007 X5 4.8 WITH PANORAMIC SUNROOF, SUNROOF TRAY OVERFLOWS AND LEAKS INTO INTERIOR ELECTRICAL, AIRBAGS, AND CARPET DUE TO DEFECTIVE DESIGN/ASSEMBLY (BOTH WHEN STATIONARY AND IN MOTION). SUNROOF DRAINS BOTH FRONT AND REAR HAVE DRAIN TUBES WHICH ARE PRONE TO KINK AND BACK UP WATER INTO THE SUNROOF TRAY, WHICH THEN SPILLS OVER ONTO THE TOPSIDE OF THE HEADLINER AND FROM THERE ONTO JUST ABOUT EVERY ELECTRONIC ITEM IN THE CAR INCLUDING AIR BAGS AND CONTROLLERS, LIGHTING CONTROLS, AND ELECTRICAL BOXES ON THE FLOOR AND TRUNK AREA. SOME HAVE REPORTED ARCS AND CAR FIRES DUE TO THE WATER DAMAGE; BMW SAYS IT IS A MAINTENANCE ISSUE ALTHOUGH HAS ZERO LISTED FOR SUNROOF MAINTENANCE, AND NO AMOUNT OF CLEANING IS GOING TO FIX THE SUNROOF DRAIN LINES THAT I FOUND TWISTED...LIKELY BEEN THAT WAY SINCE INITIAL ASSEMBLY, BUT ROUTING DOWN INSIDE THE APILLARS MAKES IT NEARLY IMPOSSIBLE TO GET TO TRY TO FIX IT, MUCH LESS SEE IT. I CAN'T BELIEVE THIS DEFECT HASN'T INVOLVED NHTSA RECALL SINCE IT CAN VERY EASILY LEAD TO AN IN-USE ELECTRICAL FIRE AT WORST, OR AT BEST FAILURE OF AIRBAGS TO DEPLOY WHEN NEEDED DUE TO WATER/CORROSION ISSUES, AS WELL AS THOUSANDS OF DOLLARS IN ELECTRICAL DAMAGE FOR EACH OCCURRENCE.
NHTSA complaint #11384448 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 43,000 milesWashington, IL
STRUCTURE:BODY
2007 X5 4.8 WITH PANORAMIC SUNROOF, SUNROOF TRAY OVERFLOWS AND LEAKS INTO INTERIOR ELECTRICAL, AIRBAGS, AND CARPET DUE TO DEFECTIVE DESIGN/ASSEMBLY (BOTH WHEN STATIONARY AND IN MOTION). SUNROOF DRAINS BOTH FRONT AND REAR HAVE DRAIN TUBES WHICH ARE PRONE TO KINK AND BACK UP WATER INTO THE SUNROOF TRAY, WHICH THEN SPILLS OVER ONTO THE TOPSIDE OF THE HEADLINER AND FROM THERE ONTO JUST ABOUT EVERY ELECTRONIC ITEM IN THE CAR INCLUDING AIR BAGS AND CONTROLLERS, LIGHTING CONTROLS, AND ELECTRICAL BOXES ON THE FLOOR AND TRUNK AREA. SOME HAVE REPORTED ARCS AND CAR FIRES DUE TO THE WATER DAMAGE; BMW SAYS IT IS A MAINTENANCE ISSUE ALTHOUGH HAS ZERO LISTED FOR SUNROOF MAINTENANCE, AND NO AMOUNT OF CLEANING IS GOING TO FIX THE SUNROOF DRAIN LINES THAT I FOUND TWISTED...LIKELY BEEN THAT WAY SINCE INITIAL ASSEMBLY, BUT ROUTING DOWN INSIDE THE APILLARS MAKES IT NEARLY IMPOSSIBLE TO GET TO TRY TO FIX IT, MUCH LESS SEE IT. I CAN'T BELIEVE THIS DEFECT HASN'T INVOLVED NHTSA RECALL SINCE IT CAN VERY EASILY LEAD TO AN IN-USE ELECTRICAL FIRE AT WORST, OR AT BEST FAILURE OF AIRBAGS TO DEPLOY WHEN NEEDED DUE TO WATER/CORROSION ISSUES, AS WELL AS THOUSANDS OF DOLLARS IN ELECTRICAL DAMAGE FOR EACH OCCURRENCE.
NHTSA complaint #11384448 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 43,000 milesWashington, IL
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
2007 X5 4.8 WITH PANORAMIC SUNROOF, SUNROOF TRAY OVERFLOWS AND LEAKS INTO INTERIOR ELECTRICAL, AIRBAGS, AND CARPET DUE TO DEFECTIVE DESIGN/ASSEMBLY (BOTH WHEN STATIONARY AND IN MOTION). SUNROOF DRAINS BOTH FRONT AND REAR HAVE DRAIN TUBES WHICH ARE PRONE TO KINK AND BACK UP WATER INTO THE SUNROOF TRAY, WHICH THEN SPILLS OVER ONTO THE TOPSIDE OF THE HEADLINER AND FROM THERE ONTO JUST ABOUT EVERY ELECTRONIC ITEM IN THE CAR INCLUDING AIR BAGS AND CONTROLLERS, LIGHTING CONTROLS, AND ELECTRICAL BOXES ON THE FLOOR AND TRUNK AREA. SOME HAVE REPORTED ARCS AND CAR FIRES DUE TO THE WATER DAMAGE; BMW SAYS IT IS A MAINTENANCE ISSUE ALTHOUGH HAS ZERO LISTED FOR SUNROOF MAINTENANCE, AND NO AMOUNT OF CLEANING IS GOING TO FIX THE SUNROOF DRAIN LINES THAT I FOUND TWISTED...LIKELY BEEN THAT WAY SINCE INITIAL ASSEMBLY, BUT ROUTING DOWN INSIDE THE APILLARS MAKES IT NEARLY IMPOSSIBLE TO GET TO TRY TO FIX IT, MUCH LESS SEE IT. I CAN'T BELIEVE THIS DEFECT HASN'T INVOLVED NHTSA RECALL SINCE IT CAN VERY EASILY LEAD TO AN IN-USE ELECTRICAL FIRE AT WORST, OR AT BEST FAILURE OF AIRBAGS TO DEPLOY WHEN NEEDED DUE TO WATER/CORROSION ISSUES, AS WELL AS THOUSANDS OF DOLLARS IN ELECTRICAL DAMAGE FOR EACH OCCURRENCE.
NHTSA complaint #11384448 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 96,871 milesSpringfield, MO
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2007 BMW X5. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AND APPLYING THE BRAKES, THE VEHICLE FAILED TO STOP IN A TIMELY MANNER CAUSING THE BRAKING DISTANCE TO BE EXTENDED 60-70 FEET. BMW OF NORTHWEST ARKANSAS (2500 SE MOBERLY LN, BENTONVILLE, AR 72712; (479) 286-3012) WAS CONTACTED AND INFORMED OF THE FAILURE. THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE VIN WAS NOT UNDER RECALL. THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 13V045000 (SERVICE BRAKES HYDRAULIC, SERVICE BRAKES). THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 96,871.
NHTSA complaint #11375946 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 90,000 milesBreckenridge, CO
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
ON MULTIPLE OCCASIONS WHILE DRIVING THE CAR, FIRST THE ABS LIGHT WOULD COME ON, THEN MOST OTHER WARNING LIGHTS, THEN THE CAR WOULD LOSE ALL POWER, ENGINE WOULD STOP, CAN'T SHIFT TRANSMISSION, BASICALLY DID ON THE ROAD. HAD BATTERY REPLACED AND REGISTERED. HAPPENED MULTIPLE TIMES AGAIN. SEEMS TO BE A COMMON PROBLEM HTTPS://WWW.BIMMERFEST.COM/FORUMS/SHOWTHREAD.PHP?T=888938 ONE LINK IN THERE SENT ME TO HTTPS://WWW.EBAY.COM/ITM/BMW-135I-335I-435I-535I-X4-X5-X6-ENGINE-WIRING-HARNESS-12517592511-7592511-OEM/123598545546?HASH=ITEM1CC70C228A:G:PUEAAOSWPYXCP-MK ALL HAPPENED WHEN CAR WAS IN MOTION DRIVING, TYPICALLY ON A HIGHWAY IN TRAFFIC.
NHTSA complaint #11365128 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 90,000 milesBreckenridge, CO
STEERING
ON MULTIPLE OCCASIONS WHILE DRIVING THE CAR, FIRST THE ABS LIGHT WOULD COME ON, THEN MOST OTHER WARNING LIGHTS, THEN THE CAR WOULD LOSE ALL POWER, ENGINE WOULD STOP, CAN'T SHIFT TRANSMISSION, BASICALLY DID ON THE ROAD. HAD BATTERY REPLACED AND REGISTERED. HAPPENED MULTIPLE TIMES AGAIN. SEEMS TO BE A COMMON PROBLEM HTTPS://WWW.BIMMERFEST.COM/FORUMS/SHOWTHREAD.PHP?T=888938 ONE LINK IN THERE SENT ME TO HTTPS://WWW.EBAY.COM/ITM/BMW-135I-335I-435I-535I-X4-X5-X6-ENGINE-WIRING-HARNESS-12517592511-7592511-OEM/123598545546?HASH=ITEM1CC70C228A:G:PUEAAOSWPYXCP-MK ALL HAPPENED WHEN CAR WAS IN MOTION DRIVING, TYPICALLY ON A HIGHWAY IN TRAFFIC.
NHTSA complaint #11365128 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 90,000 milesBreckenridge, CO
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
ON MULTIPLE OCCASIONS WHILE DRIVING THE CAR, FIRST THE ABS LIGHT WOULD COME ON, THEN MOST OTHER WARNING LIGHTS, THEN THE CAR WOULD LOSE ALL POWER, ENGINE WOULD STOP, CAN'T SHIFT TRANSMISSION, BASICALLY DID ON THE ROAD. HAD BATTERY REPLACED AND REGISTERED. HAPPENED MULTIPLE TIMES AGAIN. SEEMS TO BE A COMMON PROBLEM HTTPS://WWW.BIMMERFEST.COM/FORUMS/SHOWTHREAD.PHP?T=888938 ONE LINK IN THERE SENT ME TO HTTPS://WWW.EBAY.COM/ITM/BMW-135I-335I-435I-535I-X4-X5-X6-ENGINE-WIRING-HARNESS-12517592511-7592511-OEM/123598545546?HASH=ITEM1CC70C228A:G:PUEAAOSWPYXCP-MK ALL HAPPENED WHEN CAR WAS IN MOTION DRIVING, TYPICALLY ON A HIGHWAY IN TRAFFIC.
NHTSA complaint #11365128 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 199,000 milesSnyder, TX
WHEELS
TIRE BLEW OUT. SPEED LESS THAN 10MPH. I DID NOT RUN OVER ANYTHING
NHTSA complaint #11339565 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Bloomfield, CT
AIR BAGS
PASSENGER LIGHT AIRBAG CAME ON. CALLED BMW OF HARTFORD AND THEY STATED THEY HAVE NO RECALL ON AIRBAGS. I PREVIOUSLY GOT AN EMAIL THAT MY PASSENGER AIRBAG CAN EXPLODE AND MY CAR IS UP FOR RECALL
NHTSA complaint #11339063 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 129,000 milesDallas, TX
AIR BAGS
AIR BAG LIGHT STAY ON ALL THE TIME CANT ACCESS ANYTHING ON THE DASH , SPEED DONT PICK WHENI PUSH THE GAS ONLY WHEN I PUSH THE PEDAL PUSH IT TO THE FLOOR
NHTSA complaint #11322100 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 129,000 milesDallas, TX
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
AIR BAG LIGHT STAY ON ALL THE TIME CANT ACCESS ANYTHING ON THE DASH , SPEED DONT PICK WHENI PUSH THE GAS ONLY WHEN I PUSH THE PEDAL PUSH IT TO THE FLOOR
NHTSA complaint #11322100 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Hepzibah, GA
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
MY ALARM GOES OFF WITH THE CAR RUNNING, GOES OFF IF I HIT THE LOCK BUTTON AND WILL NOT TURN OFF I HAVE TO UNPLUG THE BATTERY AND IT STILL GOES OF WITH NO POWER CONNECTION STAYS ON ABOUT 15MIN BEFORE IT COMPLETELY DIES AFTER POWER CONNECTION IS BACK IT GOES OFF AGAIN AND IS DRAINING BRAND NEW BATTERY
NHTSA complaint #11320224 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Hepzibah, GA
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
MY ALARM GOES OFF WITH THE CAR RUNNING, GOES OFF IF I HIT THE LOCK BUTTON AND WILL NOT TURN OFF I HAVE TO UNPLUG THE BATTERY AND IT STILL GOES OF WITH NO POWER CONNECTION STAYS ON ABOUT 15MIN BEFORE IT COMPLETELY DIES AFTER POWER CONNECTION IS BACK IT GOES OFF AGAIN AND IS DRAINING BRAND NEW BATTERY
NHTSA complaint #11320224 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.