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2007 BMW X5

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By Research the Car 5 min read

The 2007 BMW X5 (E70) marked a significant shift in BMW’s SUV design language, offering more space and luxury compared to its predecessor. This model year offered a blend of performance and practicality, making it a popular choice. Available engine options included a 3.0-liter inline-6 (N52), producing around 260 horsepower and 225 lb-ft of torque, a 4.8-liter V8 (N62) delivering approximately 350 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque. All engines were paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Owners generally appreciate the X5’s spacious interior, comfortable ride, and powerful engine options. However, common complaints often revolve around the vehicle’s higher maintenance costs, complex electronics, and potential for various mechanical issues.

Engine

3.0L Inline-6 (N52)

  • Oil Leaks
    • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks often originate from the valve cover gasket, oil filter housing gasket, or oil pan gasket. Symptoms include visible oil leaks, burning oil smell, and low oil levels.
    • Solution: Replacing the faulty gasket is usually the remedy.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+ depending on the location of the leak and labor rates.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • VANOS Solenoid Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Faulty VANOS solenoids can cause rough idling, decreased engine performance, and potentially a check engine light.
    • Solution: Replacing the affected VANOS solenoid(s).
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ depending on labor rates.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • DISA Valve Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The DISA valve (Dynamic Intake System Actuator) can fail, causing a rattling noise, poor engine performance, and potentially a check engine light.
    • Solution: Replacing the DISA valve.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ depending on labor rates.
    • Recalls: None Found

4.8L V8 (N62)

  • Valve Stem Seal Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Excessive oil consumption, blue smoke from the exhaust, especially after starting the engine after it has been sitting overnight.
    • Solution: Replacing the valve stem seals. This is a labor-intensive job.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Coolant Transfer Pipe Leak
    • Description/Symptoms: Internal coolant leak from a pipe that runs between the cylinder heads. Can lead to overheating.
    • Solution: Replacing the coolant transfer pipe (often requires significant engine disassembly).
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,500+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Oil Leaks
    • Description/Symptoms: Similar to the N52, oil leaks from valve cover gaskets, oil pan gasket, and potentially timing cover gaskets. Visible oil leaks and low oil levels.
    • Solution: Replacing the leaking gaskets.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ depending on the location of the leak and labor rates.
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic (GA6HP26Z)

  • Slipping or Harsh Shifting
    • Description/Symptoms: Slipping between gears, delayed engagement, or harsh, jerky shifts. This can be caused by worn valve body components or low transmission fluid.
    • Solution: Transmission fluid flush and filter change, valve body repair or replacement, or a complete transmission rebuild or replacement.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 (fluid flush) - $4,000+ (transmission rebuild/replacement)
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Mechatronic Sleeve Leak
    • Description/Symptoms: Transmission fluid leak from the electrical connector sleeve (mechatronic sleeve) on the transmission.
    • Solution: Replacing the mechatronic sleeve and refilling the transmission fluid.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ depending on labor rates.
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

  • Air Suspension Issues (If Equipped)
    • Description/Symptoms: Sagging suspension, failure to level, air compressor malfunctions, error messages on the dashboard.
    • Solution: Replacing the air struts, air compressor, or ride height sensors.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+ depending on the specific component and labor rates.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Control Arm Bushing Wear
    • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the front suspension, especially over bumps, along with vague steering.
    • Solution: Replacing the worn control arm bushings or the entire control arm assembly.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+ per side, depending on whether just the bushings or the entire control arm is replaced.
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

  • Battery Drain
    • Description/Symptoms: The battery drains quickly, especially if the vehicle sits for a few days.
    • Solution: Diagnosing and repairing the parasitic draw, which could be caused by a faulty module or accessory.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the complexity of the issue.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Xenon Headlight Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Flickering, dimming, or complete failure of the xenon headlights.
    • Solution: Replacing the headlight bulbs, ballasts, or igniters.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $800+ per headlight, depending on the component needing replacement.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Central Locking System Malfunctions
    • Description/Symptoms: Doors not locking/unlocking properly, remote key failure.
    • Solution: Diagnosing and repairing or replacing the central locking module or door lock actuators.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

  • Panoramic Sunroof Issues (If Equipped)
    • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof not opening or closing properly, binding, or excessive noise during operation.
    • Solution: Repairing or replacing the sunroof motor, tracks, or cables.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Interior

  • Door Handle Cables Breaking
    • Description/Symptoms: The interior door handle no longer operates the door.
    • Solution: Replacing the broken cable.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $350+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Navigation System/iDrive Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Screen freezing, system reboots, inability to control functions.
    • Solution: Software updates, replacement of the iDrive controller or navigation unit.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2007 BMW X5, while offering a luxurious driving experience, is prone to a range of issues that can lead to significant repair costs. Engine issues, particularly those affecting the V8 model, can be expensive to address. Transmission problems, especially those related to the valve body, are also common. Suspension issues, notably with the air suspension, can add to the ownership costs. Electrical gremlins and interior component failures contribute to the overall maintenance burden. While some issues are relatively minor, others can be quite severe, potentially resulting in repair bills ranging from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars. Prospective buyers should be aware of these potential issues and consider a thorough inspection by a qualified mechanic before purchasing a 2007 BMW X5.

BMW, X5
BMW X5 2007
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