2011 BMW X5 Diesel SAV
Not enough comparison years on file yet for a fair verdict.
This verdict reflects complaint volume compared to this model's typical year. Recalls and safety issues below apply regardless of the verdict — always check them.
- Complaints
- 44
- Recalls
- 2
- Investigations
- 1
- Top problem
- Engine
Campaigns on file for 2011
Opened by NHTSA
41% of complaints
Complaints per year
2011: 44 complaints
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 2011 | 44 |
Known problem areas
Percentages can add to more than 100% — a complaint can name more than one system.
Engine
41% · 18 reportsShow complaint excerpts
This car has been taken in 3 times now for the same issues. Engine light came on and smell of exhaust in cabin. This smell started at around 30,000 miles, but at that time it was minor, and would go away quickly.
NHTSA ODI report, 2013-10-22
Engine drive belt idler pulley bolt snapped while vehicle was idling. Lost power steering, water pump, and alternator due to drive belt being disconnected. This bolt was replaced as part of recall campaign #12V550.
NHTSA ODI report, 2017-11-01
Air bags
23% · 10 reportsShow complaint excerpts
I have received several letters about the airbag recall in the past year a couple of months ago jackie cooper of edmond ok said they had the part I took my X5D in for 3 days but when I picked it up they had not replaced either airbag.
NHTSA ODI report, 2017-11-07
Recall has been in affect since May 2016 and I still have not received a passenger air bag May 25, 2016 | recall campaign No. 16V-364. I've been to two local dealerships and added my name to a list but nothing.
NHTSA ODI report, 2017-11-07
Fuel/propulsion system
20% · 9 reportsPower train
11% · 5 reportsSteering
7% · 3 reportsShow complaint excerpts
When making a right hand turn the steering wheel locked and the steering wheel could not be turned, I crashed into a tree, sustaining minor injuries. Please note the BMW assist did not work properly either!
NHTSA ODI report, 2012-12-11
Safety timeline
2 recalls · 1 investigation · oldest first
To check one car, enter its VIN on the NHTSA recall page. Check a VIN →
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R
2011-08-10Engine and engine cooling11V332000 BMW is recalling certain model year 2011, X5 diesel sports activity vehicles (Sav) manufactured from March 31, 2011, through May 19, 2011. Due to a component manufacturing error at the supplier…
Remedy: Dealers will replace the engine belt tensioner free of charge. The safety recall is expected to begin during August 2011. Owners may contact BMW customer relations and services at 1-800-525-7417…
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R
2016-07-08Power train16V311000 BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain model year 2011 X5 xDrive 35i, xDrive50i, X5 M, X6 xDrive35i, X6 xDrive50i, and X6 M vehicles manufactured April 5, 2010, to November 20, 2010, 2011 X5 xDrive35d diesel vehicles manufactured April...
Remedy: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the front driveshaft, free of charge. The recall began on July 8, 2016. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
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I
2018-04-18Recall queryClosed 2018-12-01 Idler Pulley Bolt Failure
Buy-smart checklist
2011 BMW X5 Diesel SAV — pre-purchase inspection
Inspect
- Engine: 18 reports on file for this year.
- Air bags: 10 reports on file for this year.
- Fuel/propulsion system: 9 reports on file for this year.
Verify these recalls were completed
- Recall 11V332000 · Engine and engine cooling
- Recall 16V311000 · Power train
FAQ
- Is the 2011 BMW X5 Diesel SAV reliable?
- There isn't enough NHTSA complaint data on file yet to give this model year a verdict.
- What are the most common problems with the 2011 BMW X5 Diesel SAV?
- The most-reported component is engine, accounting for 41% of complaints on file.
- How many recalls does the 2011 BMW X5 Diesel SAV have?
- 2 recalls on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-11-01 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.