Looking into X5; any problem areas? - The Unofficial BMW M5 Messageboard (m5board.com)

TCM · 28th October 2002, 23:19

Hey guys, my family is looking into purchasing a used X5 4.4 Sport or 4.6 (most likely 4.4). I was wondering what problems are common on the '01 X5s. I have heard of some electrical gremlins and such but any other mechanicl failures? Also, do owners think that the driveline can take towing a 30' trailer/boat (7,000lbs) twice a year for 150 miles? Thanks for the input.

Chris Foote · 29th October 2002, 00:09

Hey TCM,

I'm not sure on the towing guidelines, so I'll leave someone who is familiar with that. However, I don't forsee a 4.4 having any problems with it. HOWEVER, I do believe there were some questions about rigging up a Electronic Brake Control Unit for the trailer with the X5. You should look into whether this can be done, as obviously thats a very important box to have with such a heavy boat!

The early models had some issues -- however the 4.4 drivetrain is solid as a rock. On any vehicle you check out, if it drives properly and doesn't look abused, I'd say go for it. Obviously you know that if you buy from a dealer you can get it CPO'ed and that in and of itself is nice to have on a used car.

The only electrical glitches that I can think of are common on BMW's -- DSP problems (try to avoid a X5 with the DSP stereo, although others have had no problems to report), the mirrors going in strange directions when unlocking the car (replace the door modules, a fix came out 1 month ago), and just the typical BMW stuff -- random check engine lights, fault 'final stage resistor' unit in the A/C controls, etc etc.

There were a fair amount of recalls on the early '01s, so be sure to have a dealer (whether you buy it from them or not) run the VIN to verify that all recalls have been tended to. Some are quite serious, like the fan problem (remember that fiasco?)

I've had a late model (09/01) 2001 without any issues thus far.

-Chris

DaveS · 29th October 2002, 20:25

My neighbor has a 2001 white 4.4 with the sport seats and he had to get it checked by the dealership to make sure that it didn't suddenly slip into reverse while driving. I'm sure that it was just a precautionary measure but as far as I know its been trouble free since then. My friends mom also has a 2001 white 4.4 and it has been perfect since the day they bought it, up until someone T-boned it, but its back and better than ever now.

ycchan · 31st October 2002, 09:36

According to Consumer Guide 2002, the BMW X5 is rated "poor" in reliability. Its not alone, the Mercedes ML is poor also.

Gas Guzzler....

Either than that, its a great SUV

Tim W · 31st October 2002, 16:14

I have owned a few BMW's in my day. The X5 is the best ALL AROUND BMW I have ever owned.

My 4.4 is a very early production 12/99 and has been great. Some rattles and squeaks but no real failures. It has been in the shop less than my M Cars.

Vigilant · 1st November 2002, 17:51

TC: X5 may have the power, but the wheel base may be too short to comfortably pull such a boat. Go see your local boat dealer and get the specs on the boat and trailer, ie tongue weight, electric trailer brakes vs. surge brakes.

TCM · 2nd November 2002, 17:19

Thanks for the inputs guys, I appreciate all the helpful feedback. I think we have pretty much decided that a 4.4 would be more useful for us as we do not need the 4.6. While searching, we will definately keep the opinions mentioned here in mind.

Vigilant:

Thanks for your input on the trailer. As you stated I was not so much worried about pulling the boat as much as if the driveline can take the load and if it can control the trailer properly while driving. The trailer has surge brakes(the ones that go on when the tongue compresses) that work well. We actually usually end up having to PULL the trailer down hills!! Since the trailer is 32', it is quite composed while pulling (no swaying). Although, most of the weight is on the rear of the trailer, the tongue weight is fairly significant. Unfortunately, no dealer or manufacturer can help us out on specs as we have an old off shore racer that was built by Bertram. No one has any info on them including Bertram. Thanks again for your help.

2001's X5/Z8 · 8th November 2002, 20:35

Quote:

Originally posted by Tim W
I have owned a few BMW's in my day. The X5 is the best ALL AROUND BMW I have ever owned.

My 4.4 is a very early production 12/99 and has been great. Some rattles and squeaks but no real failures. It has been in the shop less than my M Cars.

Same minor issues here....I have had my X5 for about a year and 1/2...The only problem I have had is with minor rattles coming from the cargo area....But BMW fixes anytime I have had a problem...They jost tighten a few bolts........

Great Truck/Car.....And rated the safest VEHICLE in the world.....

ano0oj · 9th March 2003, 22:22

ive had a 4.4 for about a month rite now and not a single problem yet! im sure the only thing were gonna have to go to the dealer is for the check-up......4.4 is a great car