2010 BMW X5 Problems & Owner Complaints

Engine 49 2 fire

“TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2010 BMW X5. WHILE DRIVING 35 MPH, THE CONTACT OBSERVED AND SMELLED SMOKE. THE CONTACT PULLED THE VEHICLE INTO A PARKING LOT WHERE IT CAUGHT FIRE. THERE WERE NO WARNING INDICATORS ILLUMINATED PRIOR TO THE FAILURE. THERE WERE NO INJURIES. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT EXTINGUISHED THE FIRE. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 17V683000 (ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING) AND WAS INFORMED PARTS WERE NOT AVAILABLE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 47,000. VIN TOOL CONFIRMS PARTS NOT AVAI…”
NHTSA complaint #11071587, 2018 · fire

“TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2010 BMW X5. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE FAILED TO START AND A FUEL AND SMOKE ODOR WAS PRESENT. IN ADDITION, BLACK SMOKE EMITTED FROM THE EXHAUST PIPE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 89,000.”
NHTSA complaint #10940121, 2016 · fire

“My husband and I brought our 2010 X5 (VIN ), mileage: to BMW of El Cajon on 09/29/2025 for a recall service. Before the recall repaire, the vehicale was in normal working condition: -No check engine lights or warning indicators -No unusual noises -Fully drivable on a daily basis After the recall was completed, the dealership informed me that: -multiple check engine/warning lights appeared -The vehicle developed a very loud/high pitch noise -They do not recommend driving the vehicle in its currently condition. They did not warn us about his initial, they did after informed them we do not feel…”
NHTSA complaint #11690652, 2025

Air Bags 40 1 crash 1 injury

“TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2010 BMW X5. WHILE DRIVING AT APPROXIMATELY 40 MPH, THE CONTACT CRASHED INTO ANOTHER VEHICLE. THE AIR BAGS FAILED TO DEPLOY. AS A RESULT, THE CONTACT SUSTAINED CHEST, NECK, AND ARM INJURIES THAT REQUIRED MEDICAL ATTENTION. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 60,000.”
NHTSA complaint #10722636, 2015 · crash · 1 injury(ies)

“Front passenger seat occupancy mat (OC3) problem safety code. Supplemental Restraint System (SRS/AIR BAG SYSTEM) I contacted BMW OF NORTH AMERICA and they stated my 2010 BMW X5 is to old, one way to look at it. I requested assistance and BMW will not help out. I am the original owner and MY VEHICLE is garage kept. This air bag will not deploy and the passenger could be killed and or injured in a accident.”
NHTSA complaint #11421568, 2021

“TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2010 BMW X5. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED UNDER AN UNKNOWN AIR BAG RECALL. AFTER THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED, THE AIR BAG WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED AND REMAINED ILLUMINATED. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THERE WAS AN UNKNOWN AIR BAG RECALL HOWEVER, THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC TO BE DIAGNOSED. THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE AIR BAG MODULE AND SEAT SENSOR NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 150,000.”
NHTSA complaint #11328567, 2020

Electrical System 27 2 fire

“I DROVE MY BMW X5 TO WORK WAS THERE FROM 1045 AM TO AROUND 730PM DROVE TO THE STORE ABOUT A MILE AWAY THEN DROVE TO THE GAS STATION PUT GAS IN, THEN DRIVE TO A NEAR BY OUTSIDE MALL. WENT IN FOR ABOUT 15 MINS CAME OUT MY WINDOWS WERE COMPLETELY "FOGGED" OPEN THE DOOR AND SMOKE CAME ROLLING OUT. OPEN ALL THE DOORS TO LOCATE THE FIRE OPEN THE BACK AND FLAMES CAME SHOOTING OUT FROM UNDER THE BACK PANEL. I OPEN IT AND TRIED TO PUT OUT THE FIRE WITH SOME NEAR BY CLOTHES. A BYSTANDER RAN INTO THE STORE TO GET A FIRE EXTINGUISHER AND PUT OUT THE FIRE. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT WAS CALLED. TOOK PICTURES AND…”
NHTSA complaint #11286658, 2019 · fire

“MY BMW 2010 X5 DIESEL CAUGHT ON FIRE IN THE CENTER CONSOLE AREA AFTER ONLY A FEW MINUTES AFTER DRIVING CAR. THE SOURCE OF THE FIRE SEEMED TO ORIGINATE UNDER THE CENTER CONSOLE CARGO AREA AS A HOLE ABOUT THE SIZE OF THE QUARTER WAS BURNED UP THOUGH THE BOTTOM OF THE CARGO AREA. THE INITIAL INDICATOR OF THE PROBLEM INCLUDED SMOKE COMING THROUGH VENTS. ADDITIONAL PROBLEMS OCCURRED WHEN ATTEMPTING TO STOP THE CAR AS IT WAS DIFFICULT TO PUT IT IN PARK WHILE IT WAS ON FIRE. WHEN EXITING THE VEHICLE FLAMES WERE COMING OUT OF THE CARGO AREA. THE CAR WAS VERY GOOD SHAPE OTHERWISE WITH NO PROBLEMS…”
NHTSA complaint #10537589, 2013 · fire

“My husband and I brought our 2010 X5 (VIN ), mileage: to BMW of El Cajon on 09/29/2025 for a recall service. Before the recall repaire, the vehicale was in normal working condition: -No check engine lights or warning indicators -No unusual noises -Fully drivable on a daily basis After the recall was completed, the dealership informed me that: -multiple check engine/warning lights appeared -The vehicle developed a very loud/high pitch noise -They do not recommend driving the vehicle in its currently condition. They did not warn us about his initial, they did after informed them we do not feel…”
NHTSA complaint #11690652, 2025

Fuel/Propulsion System 24 1 fire

“TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2010 BMW X5. WHILE DRIVING 30 MPH, THE ENGINE SHOOK, SMOKE APPEARED, AND THE ENGINE STALLED. THERE WAS NO FIRE. THE ENGINE MALFUNCTION INDICATOR ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO BMW OF DENVER DOWNTOWN (1040 S COLORADO BLVD, DENVER, CO 80246 (303) 954-4856) WHERE IT DIAGNOSED THAT THE SECONDARY FUEL PUMP AND THE FUEL INJECTORS NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 53,220.”
NHTSA complaint #11029977, 2013 · fire

“My husband and I brought our 2010 X5 (VIN ), mileage: to BMW of El Cajon on 09/29/2025 for a recall service. Before the recall repaire, the vehicale was in normal working condition: -No check engine lights or warning indicators -No unusual noises -Fully drivable on a daily basis After the recall was completed, the dealership informed me that: -multiple check engine/warning lights appeared -The vehicle developed a very loud/high pitch noise -They do not recommend driving the vehicle in its currently condition. They did not warn us about his initial, they did after informed them we do not feel…”
NHTSA complaint #11690652, 2025

“Been having issues with the car for over a month, changed water pump thermostat fuel pump, but it still would crank, got another diagnostic and now I have an engine leak, and FRM ) a serious electrical problem, I feel like some of these things should have been done before the dealer sold the car, I’m asking for help, with getting my car fixed or replaced”
NHTSA complaint #11531143, 2023

Unknown Or Other 14 1 fire

“I DROVE MY BMW X5 TO WORK WAS THERE FROM 1045 AM TO AROUND 730PM DROVE TO THE STORE ABOUT A MILE AWAY THEN DROVE TO THE GAS STATION PUT GAS IN, THEN DRIVE TO A NEAR BY OUTSIDE MALL. WENT IN FOR ABOUT 15 MINS CAME OUT MY WINDOWS WERE COMPLETELY "FOGGED" OPEN THE DOOR AND SMOKE CAME ROLLING OUT. OPEN ALL THE DOORS TO LOCATE THE FIRE OPEN THE BACK AND FLAMES CAME SHOOTING OUT FROM UNDER THE BACK PANEL. I OPEN IT AND TRIED TO PUT OUT THE FIRE WITH SOME NEAR BY CLOTHES. A BYSTANDER RAN INTO THE STORE TO GET A FIRE EXTINGUISHER AND PUT OUT THE FIRE. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT WAS CALLED. TOOK PICTURES AND…”
NHTSA complaint #11286658, 2019 · fire

“I own a 2010 BMW X5 xDrive30i (VIN: [XXX] ) with two active recalls: the VANOS bolt recall (23V-707) and the PCV valve heater recall (22V-119). Despite these being federally mandated safety repairs, Sharpe BMW in Grand Rapids, MI refused to perform the work without a paid diagnostic and potential full repair payment upfront, stating reimbursement would be decided afterward. I was sent home in an unsafe, recalled vehicle that visibly and audibly shakes at startup and frequently stalls. Other engine components have now failed due to the VANOS issue and the vehicle is now inoperable. BMW NA has a…”
NHTSA complaint #11665881, 2024

“Since October 2023, the BMW vehicles of the 2010-2012 1 Series, 3 Series, 5 Series, X3 SAV, X5 SAV, X6 SAC, AND Z4 have an open recall. According to their own acknowledgment, this recall poses a safety risk to the passengers of the vehicle. I am the owner of a BMW X5, and after several emails expressing my fear of using my car, and pointing out that in its current state, the vehicle cannot be sold. Additionally, it has caused me difficulties as I've had to use Uber and rely on my husband for transportation when he's not working. The only response I received was a phone call informing me that…”
NHTSA complaint #11574830, 2024

Engine And Engine Cooling 13

“The contact owns a 2010 BMW X5. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle stalled and was pulled over to the side of the road. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was towed to be repaired under NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V707000 (Engine and Engine Cooling); however, after the recall repair was performed, the vehicle failed to start. The contact stated that the recall repair indicated that a diagnostic test was required to determine that an engine failure was a direct result of a fractured VANOS bolt. The contact stated that the dealer declined a d…”
NHTSA complaint #11752151, 2026

“The contact owns a 2010 BMW X5. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle inadvertently lost motive power. The contact was able to pull over to the shoulder of the roadway, where the vehicle failed to restart. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic, who diagnosed a failure with the fuel pump. The vehicle was not repaired. After investigating the failure, the contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V707000 (Engine and Engine Cooling); was included and the vehicle was repaired by the dealer…”
NHTSA complaint #11654196, 2025

“The contact owns a 2010 BMW X5. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V707000 (Engine and Engine Cooling); however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact stated that when the vehicle wase cold started the vehicle was idling rough and vibrating abnormally. The contact stated that check engine warning light was illuminated. The contact stated while driving approximately 35 MPH, the vehicle was runnin…”
NHTSA complaint #11610879, 2024

Fuel System 13 2 fire

“The contact owns a 2010 BMW X5. The contact stated that the vehicle had been parked and unoccupied for almost twelve hours, upon returning to the vehicle the battery was completely drained. The vehicle was jumpstarted and then driven to the residence. The contact stated that while pulling into the driveway at the residence, he smelled something hot coming from the vehicle. The contact exited the vehicle and saw flames underneath the vehicle. The contact stated that the flames were coming from the fuel filter heater. The contact removed several items from the vehicle before connecting a nearby…”
NHTSA complaint #11628276, 2024 · fire

“TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2010 BMW X5. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE FAILED TO START AND A FUEL AND SMOKE ODOR WAS PRESENT. IN ADDITION, BLACK SMOKE EMITTED FROM THE EXHAUST PIPE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 89,000.”
NHTSA complaint #10940121, 2016 · fire

“The contact owns a 2010 BMW X5. The contact stated while starting the vehicle, after several minutes the vehicle failed to turn off as needed. There was no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed that metal shavings were found in the engine, and the oxygen heat sensor had failed. The vehicle was repaired. The contact advised the previous owner was notified of NHTSA Campaign Number: 16V746000 (FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE). The contact was not aware of the recall notification. The contact stated that the prior owner had the recall repair perf…”
NHTSA complaint #11660377, 2025

Steering 11

“LOST POWER STEERING AS CAR WAS DRIVING APPROX 50 MPH ON GARDEN STATE PARKWAY AT TOP OF BRIDGE OVER THE RARITAN RIVER. BATTERY WARNING CAME ON DASH, CAR LOST POWER AND THEN STOPPED. NO COLLISION OR INJURY. CAR WAS TOWED AND REPAIRED BY C&T TOWING AND AUTO REPAIR, RAHWAY NJ. DAMAGE OBSERVED WAS PARTIALLY MELTED IDLER PULLEY AND SHREDDED DRIVE BELT. REPAIR INCLUDED REPLACEMENT OF DRIVE BELT, A.C. STRETCH BELT, IDLER PULLEY, DRIVE BELT TENSIONER AND SERPENTINE TENSIONER.”
NHTSA complaint #11104935, 2018

“THE ENGINE BELT IDLER PULLEY BOLT BROKE CAUSING A SUDDEN LOSS OF POWER STEERING WHEN THE SERPENTINE BELT CAME OFF THE ALTERNATOR AND POWER STEERING PUMP. THIS IS THE SAME PROBLEM ASSOCIATED WITH RECALL 12V550000 A FEW YEARS AGO. THE DEALER SAID THE VEHICLE WAS FIXED UNDER THE RECALL BUT IT WAS BEFORE I OWNED IT SO I DON'T KNOW FOR SURE. I BELIEVE THE RECALL SHOULD BE REINSTATED. THE VEHICLE WAS MOVING ON A RESIDENTIAL STREET AT LESS THAN 25 MPH AND MY MOM WAS DRIVING. IF SHE HAD BEEN GOING ANY FASTER SHE WOULD HAVE CRASHED.”
NHTSA complaint #11097562, 2018

“A BOLT CONNECTING THE ALTERNATOR TO THE MOTOR HAS BROKEN OFF CAUSING THE SERPENTINE BELT TO COME OFF RESULTING IN THE LOSS OF POWER STEERING. THIS ISSUE RESULTED IN A RECALL AND THE VEHICLE WAS ALLEGEDLY REPAIRED IN CALIFORNIA BACK IN 2013. HOWEVER, THIS HAS HAPPENED AGAIN AND HAS PUT THE SAFETY OF MY FAMILY AT RISK. I AM AWARE THAT THERE HAS BEEN AN INVESTIGATION THAT HAS BEEN OPENED IN ABOUT APRIL OF 2018 AND WE WANT OUR CIRCUMSTANCES TO BE INCLUDED IN THIS INVESTIGATION. BMW IS CURRENTLY REFUSING TO COVER THE REPAIRS.”
NHTSA complaint #11091513, 2018

Power Train 7 1 fire

“TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2010 BMW X5. WHILE DRIVING 35 MPH, THE CONTACT OBSERVED AND SMELLED SMOKE. THE CONTACT PULLED THE VEHICLE INTO A PARKING LOT WHERE IT CAUGHT FIRE. THERE WERE NO WARNING INDICATORS ILLUMINATED PRIOR TO THE FAILURE. THERE WERE NO INJURIES. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT EXTINGUISHED THE FIRE. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 17V683000 (ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING) AND WAS INFORMED PARTS WERE NOT AVAILABLE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 47,000. VIN TOOL CONFIRMS PARTS NOT AVAI…”
NHTSA complaint #11071587, 2018 · fire

“I own a 2010 BMW X5 xDrive30i (VIN: [XXX] ) with two active recalls: the VANOS bolt recall (23V-707) and the PCV valve heater recall (22V-119). Despite these being federally mandated safety repairs, Sharpe BMW in Grand Rapids, MI refused to perform the work without a paid diagnostic and potential full repair payment upfront, stating reimbursement would be decided afterward. I was sent home in an unsafe, recalled vehicle that visibly and audibly shakes at startup and frequently stalls. Other engine components have now failed due to the VANOS issue and the vehicle is now inoperable. BMW NA has a…”
NHTSA complaint #11665881, 2024

“AS I WAS DRIVING ON A BRIDGE MY CAR COMPLETELY WENT INTO A STOP. BREAKS INSTANTLY LOCKED AND MY CAR WOULD NOT DRIVE, TURN ON, OR GO ON NEUTRAL THE BREAKS STAYED IN LOCK. POLICE OFFERUP EVEN TRIED TO SEE IF IT'S A SIMPLE BREAK BUTTON. NOTHING WORKED I WAS IN THE MIDDLE OF A BRIDGE LUCKY THE CAR BEHIND ME SWERVED RIGHT AWAY AND MYSELF AND MY DAUGHTER WERE SAFE. I CALLED MY SISTER WHO LIVED DOWN THE STREET, SHE CAME RIGHT AWAY AND PARKED BEHIND ME WITH HER EMERGENCY SAFETY LIGHTS ON. THE CAR WENT INTO SHOCK I COULDN'T EVEN PUT IT IN NEUTRAL SO I CAN MOVE IT FROM THE MIDDLE OF THE BRIDGE. TOWED IT…”
NHTSA complaint #11203261, 2019

Seat Belts 4

“FRONT PASSENGER SEAT MAT SENSOR FAULTY LEAVING THE FRONT PASSENGER WITHOUT AIRBAG PROTECTION. I'LL INSTALL A BYPASS DEVICE BECAUSE THEY ARE COMMON AND INEXPENSIVE AND AVAILABLE BECAUSE SO MANY BMWS HAVE THIS ISSUE. THE BYPASS DEVICE WILL ALLOW THE PASSENGER AIRBAGS TO DEPLOY WHETHER A PASSENGER IS IN THE SEAT OR NOT. THE YEARS 2006 AND 2007 SAW RECALL ON THE PASSENGER SEAT SENSOR. THIS NEEDS TO BE ADDRESSED.”
NHTSA complaint #11179731, 2019

“TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2010 BMW X5. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE AIR BAG WARNING LIGHT AND PASSENGER RESTRAINT SYSTEM INDICATORS WERE ILLUMINATED ON THE INSTRUMENT PANEL. THE DEALER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED IN A RECALL. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 36,000.”
NHTSA complaint #10762565, 2015

“TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2010 BMW X5 DIESEL. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE DRIVER SIDE SEAT BELT WOULD NOT RETRACT AND TWIST WHEN SECURING THE SEAT BELT. THE CONTACT STATED THAT HE WOULD HAVE TO DRIVE WITHOUT THE SEAT BELT SECURED. THE FAILURE OCCURRED ON AN INTERMITTENT BASIS FOR FOUR MONTHS. THE VEHICLE WAS INSPECTED BY A DEALER WHO INFORMED THE CONTACT THAT HE WOULD NEED TO REPLACE THE SEAT BELT. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 4,000. UPDATED 2/23/11 *CN THE CONSUMER STATED OVER TIME, HE WAS UNABLE TO USE THE SEAT BELT BECAUSE IT WOULD NOT RELEASE FROM TH…”
NHTSA complaint #10376725, 2010

Structure 4 1 crash 1 injury

“MY WIFE WAS DRIVING 40 MPH HIT AN ON COMING VEHICLE IN THE FRONT AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. ENTIRE FRONT OF TRUCK IS DESTROYED VEHICLE CAN NOT BE DRIVEN.”
NHTSA complaint #10722426, 2015 · crash · 1 injury(ies)

“Sunroof drains - front and back overflow and drone down the pillars into the front and rear electronic boxes. A KNOW PROBLEM for this BMW. I want BMW to repair and fix this problem. Water damaged control boxes are thousands of dollars. This problem should be a recall! BMW was sued in 2018 and settled the case. I am unable to file a claim for this now. I recently moved from Southern CA to New Orleans LA. There is a lot mor torrential rain here. Never had a problem in Southern CA.”
NHTSA complaint #11495482, 2022

“PASSENGER DOOR GOT LOCKED - UNABLE TO OPEN. DELER HAD TO TAKE DOOR OUT TO FIX. THIS MAJOR SAFETY ISSUE WITH VERY EXPENSIVE REPAIR FROM BMW DEALER. GOT ENGINE LIGHT FOR DIESEL FUEL TANK SENSOR. BMW TOLD ME TO TAKE TWO MONTH TO GET PART FROM GERMANY. WAITING FOR PART AND HIGH REPAIR BILL. AGAIN GOT ENGINE LIGHT FOR OTHER REASON. I AM COM EARN ABOUT SAFEST OF MY 2010 BMW X5 DIESEL MODEL AND LIKE HELP FROM NHTSA. THANKS.”
NHTSA complaint #10778545, 2015

Seats 3

“Front passenger seat occupancy mat (OC3) problem safety code. Supplemental Restraint System (SRS/AIR BAG SYSTEM) I contacted BMW OF NORTH AMERICA and they stated my 2010 BMW X5 is to old, one way to look at it. I requested assistance and BMW will not help out. I am the original owner and MY VEHICLE is garage kept. This air bag will not deploy and the passenger could be killed and or injured in a accident.”
NHTSA complaint #11421568, 2021

“FRONT PASSENGER SEAT MAT SENSOR FAULTY LEAVING THE FRONT PASSENGER WITHOUT AIRBAG PROTECTION. I'LL INSTALL A BYPASS DEVICE BECAUSE THEY ARE COMMON AND INEXPENSIVE AND AVAILABLE BECAUSE SO MANY BMWS HAVE THIS ISSUE. THE BYPASS DEVICE WILL ALLOW THE PASSENGER AIRBAGS TO DEPLOY WHETHER A PASSENGER IS IN THE SEAT OR NOT. THE YEARS 2006 AND 2007 SAW RECALL ON THE PASSENGER SEAT SENSOR. THIS NEEDS TO BE ADDRESSED.”
NHTSA complaint #11179731, 2019

“I AM THE OWNER OF THE BMW X5 2010 WITH SPORT SEAT, I HARDLY SEAT ANY PASSENGER IN THERE, AND A COUPLE MONTHS AGO THE PASSENGER SEAT TRIGGER THE SCREEN TO SHOW MESSAGE OF RESTRAIN AIRBAG ERROR ON SCREEN, HOWEVER I THOUGH THIS HAVE SOMETHING TO DO WITH THE AIRBAG RECALL, I DIAGNOSE MY CAR WITH MY MECHANIC, THE CONCLUSION WAS THE "SEAT MAT SENSOR PASSENGER DEFECTIVE", THIS CAR AS YOUR RECALL AT THE BOTTON SHOWS THAT WAS A PREVIOUS RECALL WITH THIS TYPE OF SEAT "SPORT" SAME AS I HAVE, I CALL BMW, THEY SAID MY CAR IS NOT AFFECTED AND THEY CAN NOT HONOR THIS RECALL, I HOPE YOU GET MORE ISSUES SIMILA…”
NHTSA complaint #10926802, 2016

Service Brakes 3

“AS I WAS DRIVING ON A BRIDGE MY CAR COMPLETELY WENT INTO A STOP. BREAKS INSTANTLY LOCKED AND MY CAR WOULD NOT DRIVE, TURN ON, OR GO ON NEUTRAL THE BREAKS STAYED IN LOCK. POLICE OFFERUP EVEN TRIED TO SEE IF IT'S A SIMPLE BREAK BUTTON. NOTHING WORKED I WAS IN THE MIDDLE OF A BRIDGE LUCKY THE CAR BEHIND ME SWERVED RIGHT AWAY AND MYSELF AND MY DAUGHTER WERE SAFE. I CALLED MY SISTER WHO LIVED DOWN THE STREET, SHE CAME RIGHT AWAY AND PARKED BEHIND ME WITH HER EMERGENCY SAFETY LIGHTS ON. THE CAR WENT INTO SHOCK I COULDN'T EVEN PUT IT IN NEUTRAL SO I CAN MOVE IT FROM THE MIDDLE OF THE BRIDGE. TOWED IT…”
NHTSA complaint #11203261, 2019

“MAY 10, 2017 WE PURCHASED A 2010 BMW X5 WITH APPROX 70KMILES FROM EAST PROVIDENCE AUTO FOR $16,000. TWO DAYS LATER WE BROUGHT THE VEHICLE BACK BECAUSE THE WINDSHIELD WIPER FLUID LEAKED ONTO THE DRIVER SIDE FLOOR, THE SUNROOF WOULDN'T CLOSE AND A BURNING OIL SMELL WAS COMING FROM THE INSIDE OF THE VEHICLE. AFTER INSPECTING, THE MECHANIC SAID THE HOSE FROM THE WINDSHIELD WIPER TANK WAS NEEDED REPLACEMENT, HE UNJAMMED THE SUNROOF AND ADDED 2 QUARTS OF OIL; HOWEVER, HE COULDN'T FIX ANYTHING. MAY 22 WE RETURNED B/C THE OIL LIGHT WAS ON AND THE BURNING OIL SMELL STILL EXISTED. BUT THE GARAGE WAS LO…”
NHTSA complaint #11020720, 2017

“THE EMERGENCY/PARKING BRAKE HAS FAILED ON THE VEHICLE. THE MODULE (EMF) WAS REPLACED ONCE 2012 BY BMW UNDER WARRANTY. IT APPEARS TO HAVE FAILED AGAIN. THIS IS A SAFETY CONCERN. THE EMERGENCY BRAKE SHOULD NOT BE FAILING THIS OFTEN. BMW WENT TO THE ELECTRONIC EMERGENCY BRAKE AND JUDGING FROM OTHER COMPLAINS ONLINE, THE MODULES AND OTHER COMPONENT FAIL FREQUENTLY.”
NHTSA complaint #10855687, 2016

Visibility/Wiper 3

“Headlight wiring loom insulation on both passenger and driver sides degrading heavily to the point of disintegration on touch. My driver side headlights have stopped working despite best attempts at isolating wires. I have received multiple headlight(low/DRL) warnings and errors because of this issue. It has been verified by countless independent mechanics and hobbyists on this generation of car with no aftermarket or OE solutions. I have since almost collided with objects in the road while driving at night due to this faulty manufacturing. I also fear for an electrical fire which is bound to…”
NHTSA complaint #11441212, 2021

“MAY 10, 2017 WE PURCHASED A 2010 BMW X5 WITH APPROX 70KMILES FROM EAST PROVIDENCE AUTO FOR $16,000. TWO DAYS LATER WE BROUGHT THE VEHICLE BACK BECAUSE THE WINDSHIELD WIPER FLUID LEAKED ONTO THE DRIVER SIDE FLOOR, THE SUNROOF WOULDN'T CLOSE AND A BURNING OIL SMELL WAS COMING FROM THE INSIDE OF THE VEHICLE. AFTER INSPECTING, THE MECHANIC SAID THE HOSE FROM THE WINDSHIELD WIPER TANK WAS NEEDED REPLACEMENT, HE UNJAMMED THE SUNROOF AND ADDED 2 QUARTS OF OIL; HOWEVER, HE COULDN'T FIX ANYTHING. MAY 22 WE RETURNED B/C THE OIL LIGHT WAS ON AND THE BURNING OIL SMELL STILL EXISTED. BUT THE GARAGE WAS LO…”
NHTSA complaint #11020720, 2017

“I'M REPORTING A QUALITY ESCAPED ISSUE ON MOST OF BMW CARS EQUIPPED WITH REAR VIEW CAMERA SYSTEM. I'M MILD TO HOT DAYS, THE CAMERA STARTS TO FLICKER RAPIDLY AND SHORTLY IT BLANKS OFF INTERMITTENTLY. IT'S MORE NOTICEABLE ON HOT DAYS BUT NORMAL DURING COLD DAYS. THIS ISSUE IS ALSO ON MOST OF BMW CARS AND YET TO BE RECOGNIZED NOR RECALLED BY THE MANUFACTURER. IT'S UNFAIR FOR A CONSUMER TO PAY SO MUCH MONEY AND CAN'T CAN'T BE REIMBURSED FOR THE FIX THIS DISCREPANCY. I BELIEVE THE COST OF THIS PROBLEM SHOULD BE COVERED BY A BMW DEALER. I FELL LIKE I'VE BEEN ROBBED OUT OF MY WALLET PAYING SO MUC…”
NHTSA complaint #10874468, 2014

Exterior Lighting 2

“Headlight wiring loom insulation on both passenger and driver sides degrading heavily to the point of disintegration on touch. My driver side headlights have stopped working despite best attempts at isolating wires. I have received multiple headlight(low/DRL) warnings and errors because of this issue. It has been verified by countless independent mechanics and hobbyists on this generation of car with no aftermarket or OE solutions. I have since almost collided with objects in the road while driving at night due to this faulty manufacturing. I also fear for an electrical fire which is bound to…”
NHTSA complaint #11441212, 2021

“AFTER CHANGING THE BATTERY, THE VEHICLE HAS NO OPERATING DASH LIGHTS, GAUGE INDICATIONS, TURN SIGNALS, OR BRIGHT LIGHTS. ADDITIONALLY, THE WINDSHIELD WIPER CONTINUOUSLY SWIPES, BUT HAS NO ABILITY TO SPRAY WASHER FLUID OR CHANGE THE SPEED OF THE SWIPE. THESE CONDITIONS RENDER IT DIFFICULT TO DRIVE AND SEE THROUGH THE WINDSHIELD, ESPECIALLY AT NIGHT, AND PREVENTS THE OPERATOR FROM MONITORING THE VEHICLE, IDENTIFYING ONES SPEED, OR SIGNALING A TURN. MOREOVER, THE CONTINUOUS WINDSHIELD WIPER ACTION IMPAIRS ONE'S ABILITY TO SEE AND IS ALSO DISTRACTING; MAKING IT DANGEROUS TO DRIVE THE VEHICLE.…”
NHTSA complaint #10691693, 2015

Vehicle Speed Control 2

“AFTER CHANGING THE BATTERY, THE VEHICLE HAS NO OPERATING DASH LIGHTS, GAUGE INDICATIONS, TURN SIGNALS, OR BRIGHT LIGHTS. ADDITIONALLY, THE WINDSHIELD WIPER CONTINUOUSLY SWIPES, BUT HAS NO ABILITY TO SPRAY WASHER FLUID OR CHANGE THE SPEED OF THE SWIPE. THESE CONDITIONS RENDER IT DIFFICULT TO DRIVE AND SEE THROUGH THE WINDSHIELD, ESPECIALLY AT NIGHT, AND PREVENTS THE OPERATOR FROM MONITORING THE VEHICLE, IDENTIFYING ONES SPEED, OR SIGNALING A TURN. MOREOVER, THE CONTINUOUS WINDSHIELD WIPER ACTION IMPAIRS ONE'S ABILITY TO SEE AND IS ALSO DISTRACTING; MAKING IT DANGEROUS TO DRIVE THE VEHICLE.…”
NHTSA complaint #10691693, 2015

“CONTINUAL PROBLEM - CAR HESITATES WHEN ACCELERATING FROM A STOP OR LOW SPEED. THERE IS A PAUSE BETWEEN STEPPING ON THE ACCELERATOR AND RESPONSE FROM THE ENGINE. COMPLAINED NUMEROUS TIMES OVER THE YEARS TO SEVERAL DEALERS - SOME ACKNOWLEDGED THE PROBLEM BUT STATED THAT IT WAS NORMAL FOR THAT ENGINE. THEY SEEMED TO HAVE FIXED THE PROBLEM IN LATER MODELS BUT DID NOT EVEN TRY IN THE EARLIER ONES. IT CAN BE A SERIOUS SAFETY ISSUE WHEN ACCELERATION IS NEEDED. *TR”
NHTSA complaint #10659078, 2009

Back Over Prevention 1

“Sunroof drains - front and back overflow and drone down the pillars into the front and rear electronic boxes. A KNOW PROBLEM for this BMW. I want BMW to repair and fix this problem. Water damaged control boxes are thousands of dollars. This problem should be a recall! BMW was sued in 2018 and settled the case. I am unable to file a claim for this now. I recently moved from Southern CA to New Orleans LA. There is a lot mor torrential rain here. Never had a problem in Southern CA.”
NHTSA complaint #11495482, 2022

Tires 1

“Bridgestone Dueler 255/50R19 107H runflat, DOT EJVUDJE2013 Tire failure: local tread separation in a valley between road contact ridges. Tread separation from underlying belts suggest manufacturing defect. No human life was in danger due to early detection of the fault”
NHTSA complaint #11432658, 2021

Visibility 1

“I WAS TRAVELING ON FREEWAY TO THE AIRPORT WHEN MY WIFE AND I HEARD A LOUD BOOM AND SUDDENLY HEARD LOUD AIRFLOW. I PULLED OFF TO SIDE OF ROAD AND INSPECTED CAR. THE SUNROOF HAD EXPLODED AND SHATTERED. THE CAR TRAVELING BEHIND ME ALSO STOPPED TO INSPECT HIS VEHICLE BECAUSE OF FLYING GLASS. THE CABIN DOOR TO THE SUNROOF HAD LUCKILY HAD BEEN CLOSED SO AS MY WIFE AND I AVOIDED THE FLYING GLASS. WHEN WE RETURNED FROM OUR TRIP I TOOK VEHICLE TO DEALER, THE VEHICLE WAS UNDER WARRANTY. THE DEALER SAID THIS PART WAS NOT COVERED AND WOULD COST $3600 TO REPAIR. WE GOGGLED BMW5 SERIES EXPLODING SUNROOFS AN…”
NHTSA complaint #10617626, 2014