2017 BMW X6

The 2017 BMW X6 is a mid-size luxury crossover SUV that combines the styling of a coupe with the practicality of an SUV. It was available with a few engine options: a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-6 (300 hp and 300 lb-ft of torque), and a 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 (445 hp and 480 lb-ft of torque). All engines were paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Many owners appreciate the X6’s sporty handling, powerful engine options, and luxurious interior. However, some dislike the compromised rear headroom and cargo space due to its sloping roofline, as well as the higher price compared to more traditional SUVs.

Engine

3.0L Turbocharged Inline-6 (N55)

• Oil Filter Housing Gasket Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leak originating from the oil filter housing. Symptoms include oil drips under the car, burning oil smell, and low oil level warning.
  • Solution: Replace the oil filter housing gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• VANOS Solenoid Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idle, reduced power, and check engine light. Diagnostic codes may indicate VANOS system issues.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty VANOS solenoid(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

4.4L Twin-Turbo V8 (N63)

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: The N63 engine is known for various oil leaks, including valve stem seals, turbo oil lines, and oil pan gasket. Symptoms include oil drips, burning oil smell, and low oil level.
  • Solution: Identify the source of the leak and replace the appropriate gasket or seal. Valve stem seal replacement is a more extensive repair.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $2000+ depending on the leak’s location
  • Recalls: None Found
• Turbocharger Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Whining noise from the turbochargers, reduced power, and check engine light.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair or replace the faulty turbocharger(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

8-Speed Automatic (GA8HP)

• Mechatronic Sleeve Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission fluid leak from the mechatronic unit sleeve where the wiring harness enters the transmission. May also cause shifting issues if fluid level drops significantly.
  • Solution: Replace the mechatronic sleeve and refill the transmission fluid.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rough Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Hesitation or jerking during gear changes.
  • Solution: Transmission fluid flush and software update may resolve minor issues. More severe cases may require valve body repair or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (flush) - $2,000+ (valve body)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Issues (if equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: Sagging of the vehicle, especially overnight. Air compressor running excessively or not at all. “Self-leveling suspension inactive” warning.
  • Solution: Diagnose for leaks in the air springs (bags), air lines, or compressor. Replace faulty components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+ per air spring; $500 - $1000+ for the compressor.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Dead battery after short periods of inactivity. May be caused by a faulty module not shutting down properly.
  • Solution: Diagnose parasitic draw with a multimeter. Identify and replace the faulty module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+ depending on the cause
  • Recalls: None Found
• iDrive System Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Freezing, crashing, or intermittent functionality of the iDrive infotainment system.
  • Solution: Software update, or replacement of the iDrive control unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (Software Update) - $1500+ (Control Unit)
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Adaptive Headlight Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Adaptive headlights not working properly or throwing error messages on the dash.
  • Solution: May require software update or module replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof not opening/closing properly or making excessive noise.
  • Solution: Lubricate the tracks or replace broken parts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2017 BMW X6 has potential issues across various systems, ranging from common oil leaks to more complex electrical and suspension problems. The V8 engine option appears to have more potentially costly issues than the inline-6. While many issues can be addressed with relatively inexpensive repairs, some, like turbocharger or air suspension replacements, can be significantly more expensive. Potential buyers should carefully inspect the vehicle’s maintenance history and consider a pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic familiar with BMWs.