2015 BMW X4
The 2015 BMW X4 is a compact luxury crossover coupe that blends the practicality of an SUV with the sporty styling of a coupe. Engine options include a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder (28i models) producing 240 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque and a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six (35i models) generating 300 horsepower and 300 lb-ft of torque. All models are equipped with an 8-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive (xDrive). Owners generally praise the X4 for its engaging driving dynamics, stylish design, and comfortable interior. Common complaints include the limited rear headroom due to the sloping roofline, the firm ride, and the higher price compared to more traditionally shaped SUVs.
Engine
2.0L Turbocharged Four-Cylinder (28i)
- Oil Leaks
- Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks, often originating from the valve cover gasket or oil filter housing gasket. This can lead to low oil levels and, if left unaddressed, potential engine damage. Common symptoms include visible oil leaks on the engine or driveway, and the smell of burning oil.
- Solution: Replacement of the leaking gasket(s). Thorough cleaning of the affected area is also recommended.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
- Recalls: None Found
- Timing Chain Issues
- Description/Symptoms: The timing chain on some N20 engines can stretch or fail, leading to engine noise (rattling), rough running, and potential engine damage. This issue is more prevalent in earlier production years of the N20 engine.
- Solution: Replacement of the timing chain, guides, and tensioner.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
- Recalls: None Found
3.0L Turbocharged Inline-Six (35i)
- Oil Filter Housing Gasket Leak
- Description/Symptoms: Leaking oil from the oil filter housing gasket. This can lead to low oil levels and, if left unaddressed, potential engine damage. Common symptoms include visible oil leaks on the engine or driveway, and the smell of burning oil.
- Solution: Replacement of the oil filter housing gasket. Thorough cleaning of the affected area is also recommended.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
8-Speed Automatic (All Models)
- Rough Shifting
- Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported rough or delayed shifting, particularly at lower speeds. This can be caused by worn valve body components or low transmission fluid levels.
- Solution: Transmission fluid flush and filter replacement. If the problem persists, valve body replacement or transmission rebuild/replacement may be necessary.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $4,000+
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Front Strut Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Premature failure of front struts, leading to a bouncy ride, poor handling, and uneven tire wear.
- Solution: Replacement of the front struts.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1,200+
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Faulty Comfort Access System
- Description/Symptoms: Intermittent or complete failure of the comfort access system (keyless entry and start), where the doors won’t unlock when approaching the vehicle, or the car won’t start without the key fob being physically present in the ignition slot.
- Solution: Diagnosis to determine the faulty component (door handle sensor, key fob, or control module) and replacement of the affected part.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Battery Drain
- Description/Symptoms: Excessive battery drain, leading to a dead battery, especially if the vehicle sits unused for several days. This can be caused by a faulty module not entering sleep mode or a parasitic draw from an aftermarket accessory.
- Solution: Diagnose and repair the source of the parasitic draw. This may involve software updates, replacement of a faulty module, or removal of aftermarket accessories.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $800+
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Sunroof Issues
- Description/Symptoms: The sunroof can sometimes become stuck, make excessive noise during operation, or leak. These issues can be caused by debris in the tracks, a faulty motor, or damaged seals.
- Solution: Cleaning and lubrication of the sunroof tracks, repair or replacement of the sunroof motor, or replacement of the sunroof seals.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- No Issues Found
Summary
The 2015 BMW X4 is a generally reliable vehicle, but some owners have reported issues with the engine, transmission, suspension, and electrical systems. The severity of these issues varies, but some, such as timing chain problems, can be costly to repair. Potential buyers should be aware of these potential problems and have a pre-purchase inspection performed by a qualified mechanic. The cost to repair the common issues ranges from a few hundred dollars to several thousand, depending on the specific problem.