2017 BMW X5

The 2017 BMW X5 is a luxury mid-size SUV that offers a blend of performance, comfort, and technology. Engine options include a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-6, a 4.4-liter turbocharged V8, and a plug-in hybrid variant. The 3.0-liter turbo inline-6 produces 300 horsepower and 300 lb-ft of torque. The X5 is generally praised for its spacious interior, refined driving experience, and user-friendly iDrive infotainment system. Some common complaints include the high cost of maintenance and repairs, as well as some reported issues with reliability.

Engine

3.0L Turbocharged Inline-6 (N55 Engine)

• Oil Filter Housing Gasket Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leak from the oil filter housing, causing a burning smell and potential low oil level.
  • Solution: Replace the oil filter housing gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coolant Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks from various locations, including the water pump, hoses, and expansion tank. Can lead to overheating.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty components (water pump, hoses, expansion tank).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+ depending on component
  • Recalls: None Found

4.4L Turbocharged V8 (N63 Engine)

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Notorious for oil leaks, specifically from the valve stem seals, turbocharger oil lines, and the oil pan gasket.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking gaskets and seals. This can be labor-intensive.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $5,000+, depending on the source of the leak. Valve stem seals are at the higher end of this range.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Turbocharger Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Turbocharger failure, causing reduced power, excessive smoke, and potential engine damage.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty turbocharger(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coolant Transfer Pipe Leak (Valley Pan Leak)
  • Description/Symptoms: Internal coolant leak located between the cylinder banks, making diagnosis difficult. Can cause overheating and misfires.
  • Solution: Replace the coolant transfer pipe (often referred to as the valley pan). This is a very labor-intensive job.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,500 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

2.0L Turbocharged Inline-4 + Electric Motor (N20 Engine)

• Timing Chain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The timing chain guides are prone to wear and breakage, leading to timing chain stretch and potential engine damage. Symptoms include a rattling noise, especially on startup.
  • Solution: Replace the timing chain, chain guides, and tensioner.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

All Models: 8-Speed Automatic (ZF 8HP)

• Valve Body Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough or delayed shifting, slipping between gears, or complete transmission failure.
  • Solution: Replace or rebuild the valve body. In some cases, a transmission replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Mechatronic Sleeve Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission fluid leak from the mechatronic sleeve (electrical connector sleeve).
  • Solution: Replace the mechatronic sleeve and fluid.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Problems (If Equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: The air suspension system can experience issues with the air compressor, air struts, or ride height sensors, leading to a saggy suspension, rough ride, or error messages.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty components (air compressor, air struts, ride height sensors).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+ per component.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery drains quickly, especially when the car is parked, leading to starting problems. Can be caused by a faulty module or parasitic drain.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the source of the battery drain (module replacement, wiring repair).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+ (can be difficult to diagnose).
  • Recalls: None Found
• iDrive System Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: iDrive system freezes, crashes, or experiences intermittent malfunctions.
  • Solution: Software update or replacement of the iDrive control unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Tail Light Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported issues with the LED tail lights failing or flickering.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty tail light assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per light
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Panorama Sunroof Issues (If Equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof motor failure or glass pane breakage.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the sunroof motor or glass pane.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Seat Heater Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Seat heaters stop working or only work intermittently.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty seat heater element or control module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per seat.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: The dashboard on some 2017 X5 models can develop cracks.
  • Solution: Replacement of the dashboard.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2017 BMW X5, while a luxurious and capable SUV, has some common issues owners should be aware of. The V8 engine, in particular, is prone to oil leaks and turbocharger problems, which can be very expensive to repair. The 8-speed automatic transmission can also experience valve body issues. Electrical problems, such as battery drain and iDrive malfunctions, are also relatively common. The severity and cost of these issues can vary widely, but potential buyers should factor in the possibility of expensive repairs when considering a used 2017 BMW X5.