BMW X5 (E53)

Engines

Click the links below to see common problems specific to the engines available on this vehicle.

BMW M54B30 (3.0i)
BMW M62B46 (4.6is) – Despite the nomenclature, this engine is still considered part of the “M62TU” family
BMW M62TUB44 (4.4i MY00-03)
BMW N62B44 (4.4i MY04+)
BMW N62B48 (4.8is)

Window regulators (easy to replace)
Automatic transmissions can fail if fluid is not changed every 60k miles (despite BMW’s claim that they have “lifetime” transmission fluid)
Dead pixels on gauge cluster, radio, and climate control displays
Front control arm bushings
Transfer case actuator
“Check oil” light when engine is off even though dipstick gives full reading – requires reprogramming of the control module
Manual transmissions may stick in 5th gear or reverse and/or may have a lack of shifter feel (subject to TSB) – attributed to gear selector shaft pins sticking due to a defective bushing

Vehicles with the ZF automatic transmission: TSB – transmission fluid may seep through the Mechatronic sealing’s O-ring
MY02-03 with automatic transmissions: TSB – may experience a delay of 2-30 seconds in shifting out of park – simply requires reprogramming of Electronic Gearbox Control module using the “manual entry” method
Early vehicles: water may leak into the A-pillar and corrode electrical connectors, rendering locks and mirrors inoperative; requires sealing the leak and replacing the connectors
Early vehicles with 3.0L engines and automatic transmissions: may encounter steering wheel vibrations; this can be corrected with a countermeasure vibration dampener