2017 BMW X5 Complaints

SEATS — Filed 08/01/2026

2016 BMW X5 — Driver’s seat unexpectedly moves forward toward the steering wheel while driving. The seat moves without activation of the seat adjustment controls. This creates a safety hazard because the driver’s position can suddenly change while the vehicle is in motion, potentially interfering with steering and pedal control.

POWER TRAIN — Filed 06/05/2026

The component experiencing the malfunction is the transfer case on my BMW X5. The transfer case has already been serviced in an attempt to correct the problem; however, the vehicle continues to experience issues related to the transfer case even after the service was completed. The vehicle and transfer case are available for inspection upon request. This issue is a safety concern because the transfer case is an important part of the vehicle’s drivetrain and all-wheel-drive system. The continuing malfunction affects my confidence in the vehicle’s ability to operate and transfer power properly, particularly during acceleration, turning, or changing road conditions. I am concerned that the problem could worsen or result in an unexpected loss or interruption of power to the wheels while the vehicle is being driven, potentially putting me, my passengers, and other motorists at risk. The problem has continued after the transfer case was serviced, indicating that the original repair or service did not fully resolve the underlying issue. The vehicle has already been evaluated and serviced for the transfer case concern, but I am still experiencing symptoms afterward. I am requesting that the continuing transfer case problem be properly diagnosed and corrected, as the previous service did not resolve the issue.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SERVICE BRAKES — Filed 01/16/2026

While driving, the electronic parking brake (EPB) system malfunctioned. The vehicle was stopped in DRIVE with Auto Hold active. When the driver door was opened briefly, the vehicle attempted to transition from Auto Hold to applying the electronic parking brake as a safety function. At that moment, the EPB malfunction warning appeared and the parking brake system faulted. There were no prior mechanical brake issues (no dragging brakes, no unusual noises, no brake wear symptoms). The issue appears to be an electronic/control-related failure of the EPB actuator/control unit rather than typical brake wear. A repair facility retrieved multiple diagnostic fault codes related to the electronic parking brake actuator/control unit and recommended replacement of the EPB actuator assembly followed by initialization/calibration and clearing of faults. This creates a potential safety risk because the electronic parking brake may apply unexpectedly or may not apply/release as intended during safety logic events (such as opening the driver door while stopped), potentially immobilizing the vehicle or creating a hazard in traffic or parking situations.

CHILD SEAT — Filed 12/15/2025

The contact owns a Nuna car seat, Model Type: Rava, Model Number: CS05103CVR, Manufactured Date: July 14, 2022. The car seat was being used in a 2017 BMW X5. The contact stated that the left side harness on the safety car seat was loose, preventing the child from being securely restrained in the car seat. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The car seat was not repaired or replaced.

ENGINE — Filed 08/15/2025

The contact owns a 2017 BMW X5. The contact stated that while driving or while the vehicle was parked and occupied, there was an abnormal smoke odor coming from the engine of the vehicle. An independent mechanic was contacted. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic to be diagnosed; however, the diagnostic result was unknown. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the issue. The failure mileage was 60,000.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM — Filed 08/01/2024

No remedy for recall and no plan

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM — Filed 07/19/2025

The contact owns a 2017 BMW X5. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the engine overheated with several unknown warning lights illuminated. In addition, the vehicle lost electrical functions. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed with a failed coolant pump. The contact was informed that the coolant pump needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure but provided no assistance. The contact referenced NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V608000 (Engine and Engine Cooling, Electrical System); however, the VIN was not associated with the recall. The contact was advised to contact the NHTSA Hotline to report the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 78,000.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM — Filed 05/30/2025

Battery overheated and melted plastic cover

ENGINE — Filed 02/01/2023

The contact owns a 2017 BMW X5. The contact stated that the oil drain plug and the oil pan do not have adequate space after being stripped. The metal in the oil pan was very thin. There was oil located on the engine and the ground. The contact was losing a quart of oil every 600 miles driven. The contact added oil to the vehicle as needed. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer where it was diagnosed that the oil pan needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified about the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 30,000.

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM — Filed 12/28/2023

I am writing to formally document two significant incidents involving the complete failure of the high-pressure fuel system in my BMW vehicle, VIN [XXX] , which have raised concerns about the reliability of this component. On [XXX], while navigating city street traffic, my vehicle, with 57,376 miles, experienced a total loss of power, resulting in the vehicle stalling in the left lane. The vehicle was towed to an authorized BMW dealership, where the entire high-pressure fuel system was diagnosed and replaced under warranty. As the second owner of this vehicle, I acquired it from my neighbor, the original owner. Upon reviewing the complete service records provided by the previous owner, I discovered that a nearly identical issue occurred at 39,066 miles. The service documentation states, "Client reports that while driving, the vehicle lost power and stalled." At that time, the high-pressure fuel system was also fully replaced. Further investigation revealed that BMW issued a safety recall notice between these two incidents, acknowledging potential failures in the high-pressure fuel pumps. However, the recall indicated that no remedy was available at the time. I've attached all the service records for both incidents and BMW North America's letter. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

UNKNOWN OR OTHER — Filed 04/18/2025

I am writing to express my concern regarding the recent recall identified under NHTSA Campaign ID: 24V608000 related to BMW vehicles. I own a 2017 BMW X5 with the VIN number [XXX]. Although my vehicle is currently not listed under this recall, it is exhibiting the exact symptoms described, including engine overheating with coolant pump failure warnings. Given the similarities, I am concerned about the safety of my vehicle and would like to know what steps I should take next. I respectfully request that my case be reviewed, and I would appreciate any guidance or assistance you can offer to help ensure my vehicle’s safety. Thank you for your attention to this matter. I look forward to your response. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC — Filed 06/26/2024

The contact owns a 2017 BMW X5. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the brake pedal was heavily depressed for the brakes to engage. No warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a dealer to be diagnosed; however, the cause for the failure was not yet determined. The dealer informed the contact that there was air in the brake lines and that the air needed to be bled from the brake lines to repair the vehicle. The vehicle was repaired; however, the failure persisted. The contact researched and was made aware of an unknown recall; however, the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline to report the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 60,000.

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING — Filed 01/13/2025

The contact owns a 2017 BMW X5. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle lost automotive power and stalled. The contact stated that several unknown warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was towed to the residence, and then to a dealer and was diagnosed with engine failure. The contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V608000 (ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING, ELECTRICAL SYSTEM); however, the VIN was not included in the recall. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and advised the contact to file a complaint with the NHTSA Hotline. The vehicle was towed to the residence and has not been driven since. The failure mileage was approximately 80,000.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE — Filed 10/29/2024

Radiator fan assembly malfunctioning causing engine to overheat. Upon replacing fan assembly vehicle is still overheating. Water pump and thermostat needs to be replaced as well as connectors. Mileage appr 67,000 Vehicle went into safety mode while traveling on highway

POWER TRAIN — Filed 08/19/2024

Radiator Fan assembly connection corroded and water pump failing due to connector exposed to liquid

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM — Filed 09/13/2024

The contact owns a 2017 BMW X5. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the engine overheated message was displayed, and the check engine warning light illuminated. The contact pulled over and restarted the vehicle; however, the vehicle failed to accelerate above 20 MPH. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was determined that the water pump needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V608000 (Engine and Engine Cooling, Electrical System); however, the VIN was not included in the recall. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 62,000.

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM — Filed 08/01/2024

The contact owns a 2017 BMW X5. The contact stated while driving the vehicle, the vehicle suddenly decelerated and failed to exceed 35 MPH. During the failure, a message that the engine had overheated was displayed. The vehicle was towed to the local dealer who diagnosed the vehicle and determined that the water pump had failed and needed to be replaced. The water pump was replaced, and the vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, but no assistance was provided. The contact was informed that the VIN was not included in NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V608000 (Engine and Engine Cooling, Electrical System). The contact stated that the vehicle had experienced the failure listed in the recall. The failure mileage was 55,000.

AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS,SERVICE BRAKES — Filed 02/26/2024

A red light came on in my vehicle that read restraint system. Does that mean the airbags are faulty or is it with the seatbelts.

VISIBILITY — Filed 10/29/2023

The contact owns a 2017 BMW X5. The contact stated while driving 55 MPH, the sunroof shattered without impact. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where the sunroof was repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure but offered no assistance. The vehicle was repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 56,000.

STEERING,SEAT BELTS,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM — Filed 12/06/2023

I was driving approximately 30 mph. As I continued to accelerate the fuel system light came on and the car shut off in the road. I had to have it towed to the dealership as it would not start. Gas fumes could also be smelled coming from the car. Once looked at by BMW service center I was told “ EKPS and the fuel pump are intermittently failing. I was able to able to verify the concern briefly. Vehicle may lose fuel pressure randomly. Upon removing rear seats and inspecting harness, I found the wires going into the EKPS to be burnt. The wires from the EKPS to the low pressure fuel pump will also need to be replaced.” I did research and saw that this was recall on other years of this model. Also the middle back seatbelt does not work. Also even after multiple alignments my car still pulls aggressively to the right causing near collisions and off roaring.

AIR BAGS — Filed 11/25/2023

Water possibly from moonroof getting into the car and warning messages about passenger airbags. I discussed matter with dealer and they want me to pay for diagnostic. I think they reset computer after service.

STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE — Filed 06/17/2017

WIFE WAS REAR ENDED CAUSING LOSS OF POWER AND CONTROL TO VEHICLE PUSHING HER OVER TRAIN TRACKS IN THE VEHICLE WITH NO CONTROL.

STRUCTURE — Filed 01/21/2018

BMW X5 HAS A STORAGE PACKAGE, IT ADDS TWO LASHING RAILS AND 4 LASHING EYES IN CARGO/TRUNK. THE FINISH OF THIS LASHING RAILS IS LIKE A RAZOR. I WAS UNLOADING A BOX AND MY PINKY FINGER GOT TRAPPED INSIDE THIS LASHING RAIL AND IT SLICED THE FINGER SKIN. IT TOOK ABOUT 30 MINUTES TO CONTROL THE BLEEDING FROM FINGER AS LASHING RAILS HAD SLICED GOOD CHUNK OF PINKY FINGER.

SERVICE BRAKES — Filed 07/22/2017

WHILE BACKING INTO A PARKING SPACE, AT A VERY SLOW SPEED, THE BRAKES FAILED AND THE CAR HIT THE BUILDING BEHIND THE PARKING SPOT. NEXT DAY, WHILE PARKING AT A CONVENIENCE STORE, ALSO AT A VERY SLOW SPEED, THE BRAKES FAILED AGAIN AND HIT A POST. BOTH TIMES THE BRAKE PEDAL WENT ALL THE WAY TO THE FLOOR. THE FIRST TIME, I THOUGHT I HAD MADE A MISTAKE, BUT AFTER THE SECOND INCIDENT I REALIZED THE BRAKES FAILED. ON THE WAY HOME, I FOUND THAT I COULD DUPLICATE THE PROBLEM AT WILL WHILE AT A VERY SLOW SPEED (SIMULATED PARKING SITUATION). I CONTACTED THE DEALER AND THEY PICKED THE CAR UP FOR DIAGNOSTICS AND REPAIR. BOTH PARKING INCIDENTS CAUSED BODY DAMAGE. I AM GRATEFUL THERE WERE NO INJURIES TO OTHERS OR NO DAMAGE TO PROPERTY OTHER THAN MY CAR.

AIR BAGS,STRUCTURE — Filed 12/20/2016

OUR 2017 BMW X5 WAS INVOLVED IN A FATAL CAR ACCIDENT AND THE DRIVER'S SIDE AIR BAG DID NOT DEPLOY CAUSING A HEAD INJURY. A DRIVER WAS DRIVING SOUTHBOUND LOST CONTROL ON ICE AND WENT INTO THE NORTHBOUND LANE WHERE ANOTHER VEHICLE STRUCK THE OUT OF CONTROL CAR CAUSING THOSE VEHICLES TO HIT OUR BMW AND PUSHING OUR VEHICLE OFF THE ROAD. *TR