2018 BMW X5

72 complaints on file, page 1 of 4.

1. Filed Sep 18, 2026Failure Sep 8, 2026San Jose, CAElectrical systemFire

   TWO INCIDENTS ACCURED WITH 24HRS. MY WIFE CALLED ME INFORMING THAT THE 2018 X5 WAS SMOKING FROM THE FRONT AND MAKING A WEIRD NOISE, SHE STOPPED THE VEHICLE AND THE VEHICLE STARTED AGAIN. WHEN SHE GOT HOME, I CHECKED THE UNDER THE HOOD, BUT COULD NOT SEE ANYTHING. BUT, CAN SMELL LIKE BURNED WIRING, BUT NOT VISIBLE. I CONNECTED EV WIRE TO THE VEHICLE AND NEXT MORNING DISCONNECTED THE CABLE AND WHEN I STARTED THE VEHICLE, I SAW SMOKE COMING OUT OF THE INSIDE BOTTOM OF THE REAR WHERE THE BATTERIES ARE LOCATED. I OPENED THE REAR DOOR AND RAISED THE COVER TO SEE SMOKE COMING FROM MELTED WIRING. I IMMEDIATELLY DISCONNECTED ONE OF THE BATTERY WIRES.

   NHTSA complaint 11765364
2. Filed Sep 4, 2026Failure Aug 14, 2026Greensboro, NCVisibility/wiper

   The windshield wiper reservoir leaks fluid. The reservoir has been filled by the dealership and I was informed it is a safety hazard to not have it repaired. After some research, this is a common issue in 2016-2018 BMW X5 models.

   NHTSA complaint 11762172
3. Filed Aug 21, 2026Failure Aug 3, 2026Mesa, IAPower train

   The driveshaft malfunctioned which caused the vehicle to lose control. Yes, it is available at the repair shop. Wife was driving with mother-in-law and [XXX] child at highway speeds (55) requiring her to maintain control and pull over without getting hit by other cars. Independent repair shop confirmed the driveshaft failed and took out the transmission and transfer case. No warning/engine lights or other indications of any issues. Reading online confirms this to be a case for these vehicles - here is one example [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

   NHTSA complaint 11758546
4. Filed Aug 13, 2026Failure Aug 4, 2026Clarksville, TNAir bagsCrash3 injured

   On August 4, 2026, my vehicle was involved in a direct frontal collision with a brick wall. I was driving with two minor passengers, one seated in the front passenger seat and one seated in the rear passenger seat. The collision resulted in significant front-end damage and a total loss determination by USAA. Despite the frontal impact, none of the vehicle's airbags deployed. Prior to the collision, I observed no Airbag/SRS warning lights, Check Control warnings, or other indications of a restraint-system malfunction. I respectfully request that NHTSA review this incident for a potential Supplemental Restraint System safety issue involving the airbag control module, front impact sensors, deployment logic, passenger occupancy system, seat-belt pretensioners, or related SRS components. I am specifically requesting review of whether similar airbag non-deployment complaints, manufacturer communications, technical service bulletins, field reports, investigations, or other defect information exist for the 2018 BMW X5 or related F15-generation vehicles. I am a disabled military veteran and experienced injuries and aggravation of pre-existing service-connected disabilities following the collision. Two minor passengers were also involved. The attached complaint contains the complete incident description, vehicle information, insurance claim information, and requested safety investigation. Please confirm receipt of this complaint and advise if any additional documentation would assist NHTSA's review. I can provide accident photographs, insurance records, vehicle inspection information, medical documentation, and other supporting evidence. Because the vehicle has been declared a total loss, preservation of the vehicle and its safety-system data may be time-sensitive. Thank you for reviewing this serious safety concern.

   NHTSA complaint 11756854
5. Filed Aug 11, 2026Failure Jul 28, 2026Oakland, CAEngine, Fuel/propulsion system

   I am reporting a recurring catastrophic high-pressure fuel-pump/fuel-system failure in my 2018 BMW X5 after BMW previously repaired the same type of failure, and subsequently performed the NHTSA HPFP recall on my vehicle. I am a 71 year old driver. This was a repeat catastrophic failure after Recall 21V-586 was performed and the loss of propulsion on the freeway was terrifying, and I almost crashed into other cars! At 42,763 miles, the vehicle experienced a catastrophic failure while being driven. The vehicle shut off while driving and would not restart. Santa Monica BMW documented a “HIGH PRESSURE FUEL PUMP MALFUNCTION” and fault codes. BMW's technician followed the fuel-system test plan and reported that the fuel quality control valve had metal shavings. See Invoice 42,763.pdf BMW subsequently issued NHTSA Recall 21V-586 concerning the HPFP on affected BMW diesel vehicles, including my vehicle. BMW performed the recall repair at Weatherford BMW at approximately 58,292 miles. The repair order identifies the work as “PERFORM RECALL B130121 HIGH PRESSURE FUEL PUMP” and documents replacement of the high-pressure fuel pump. See Invoice 58,292. At 120,945 miles, the vehicle experienced another, similar catastrophic failure while I was again driving on a freeway. Weatherford BMW subsequently diagnosed multiple fuel/rail-pressure faults. The technician removed the fuel quantity control valve to check for swarf and found magnetic metal shavings in the fuel system. See Invoice 120,945 These failures are particularly concerning to my safety. I am submitting this complaint to the NHTSA because I believe the recurrence of a catastrophic system failure, including metal contamination and loss of propulsion, after BMW previously replaced the complete fuel system under warranty and subsequently performed the HPFP recall remedy, warrants investigation to determine whether the recall remedy or the underlying HPFP/fuel-system defect can cause a subsequent failure of this nature.

   NHTSA complaint 11756344
6. Filed May 22, 2026Failure May 21, 2026Bixby, OKBody, Suspension

   The attaching nut and bolt holding the left suspension to the rear subframe worked itself lose. The nut had completely fallen off. The corresponding bolt was merely hanging on but was about to fall off too. The vehicle was behaving weirdly and unstable even at slower speeds.

   NHTSA complaint 11739474
7. Filed Apr 30, 2026Failure Mar 9, 2026Fairfax, VAElectrical system, Engine, Fuel/propulsion system

   On March 9, 2026, I brought the vehicle to BMW of Fairfax for a scheduled appointment. In the week leading up to the visit, the vehicle intermittently failed to start and required jump-starting using a portable battery starter. Despite this issue, the car drove normally, showed no warning lights or error messages, and had approximately 69,000 miles on the odometer at the time. After jump-starting the vehicle, I personally drove it to the dealership. I paid for a diagnostic evaluation and also authorized completion of a minor recall. Two days later, I was informed that the vehicle was no longer able to shift into gear and was now completely inoperable. I was told I would be responsible for towing the vehicle off their premises. According to the service department, the vehicle now requires replacement of the EME module, at an estimated cost of $12,000. This assessment was particularly troubling because the vehicle was fully drivable when it arrived at the dealership. At no point prior to service did the car have difficulty shifting into gear. It is deeply concerning that the vehicle became a “brick” while under the care of an authorized BMW service center, with no accountability taken for what occurred during their diagnostic process.

   NHTSA complaint 11734949
8. Filed Apr 21, 2026Failure Apr 21, 2026Katy, TXEngine

   EGR system coolant leak and white smoke from exhaust

   NHTSA complaint 11732848
9. Filed Apr 16, 2026Failure Apr 8, 2026Potomac, MDSuspension

   I experienced a complete failure of the rear pneumatic (air) suspension system on my vehicle. This system uses rubber air springs (“airbags”) rather than conventional coil springs. When it failed, the rear of the vehicle dropped significantly, causing metal-to-metal contact, an extreme upward pitch of the front end, and pronounced instability. The vehicle became difficult to control, with excessive rear sway creating an unsafe driving condition. Based on my experience and publicly available information, this appears to be a known and recurring issue affecting BMW X5 and X6 models (E70, F15, and G05). The failure is commonly attributed to degradation of the rubber air springs, which can dry out, crack, or leak. When leaks develop, the compressor runs excessively and may fail, resulting in sudden loss of suspension support. While these components may be considered wear items, the frequency and relatively early occurrence of these failures suggest a design or engineering vulnerability rather than typical maintenance. Failures are widely reported between approximately 50,000 and 100,000 miles or within 4–7 years, indicating a pattern of premature degradation. This condition can occur without clear warning, including after the vehicle has been parked, meaning drivers may not recognize the issue until the vehicle is unsafe to operate. Once the system fails, handling is severely compromised, increasing the risk of loss of control. Repair costs often exceed $5,000, which may discourage timely repairs and leave vehicles in unsafe condition. BMW characterized this as a maintenance issue despite the apparent pattern. I am submitting this complaint because this condition poses a serious safety risk. A sudden loss of rear suspension support at speed could result in loss of control, increasing the risk of a crash, injury, or fatality.

   NHTSA complaint 11731591
10. Filed Feb 17, 2026Failure Oct 1, 2025Leander, TXElectrical system, Engine, Power train

    Vehicle: 2018 BMW X5 xDrive40e Recall: NHTSA Safety Recall 24V-608 Complaint Description: My 2018 BMW X5 xDrive40e experienced a sudden Electric Motor Electronics (EME) failure that rendered the vehicle inoperable. This occurred before the recall remedy for NHTSA Safety Recall 24V-608 was completed. It is available for inspection upon request. Recall 24V-608 addresses fluid intrusion into the electric coolant water pump electrical connector, which can cause electrical shorts, overcurrent conditions, and power instability. The EME is directly dependent on stable electrical conditions. After the vehicle failed, the recall repair was performed; however, completion of the recall does not reverse electrical damage that may have occurred prior to the repair. Prior to the EME failure, I made multiple attempts to have the recall addressed by contact BMW authorized dealers, but the recall condition remained unresolved. Following the failure, BMW of North America denied responsibility in writing, closed my case, and did not identify any alternative root cause or provide technical findings explaining the EME failure. The vehicle is not drivable and requires approximately $12,000 in repairs. I also incurred rental vehicle expenses as a result of BMW’s refusal to repair. This appears to be recall-related electrical damage affecting a critical control module, creating a safety concern due to sudden loss of vehicle function putting safety of myself and others at risk. I am submitting this complaint to document a safety-related electrical failure associated with Recall 24V-608 and BMW of North America’s refusal to remedy the resulting damage.

    NHTSA complaint 11718491
11. Filed Oct 16, 2025Failure Apr 25, 2024Powder Springs, GAElectrical system

    I replaced an Electric Auxillary Heater on my vehicle in 2024 part that was subsequently offered an warranty extension on 8/1/2025 by BMW in Service bulletin SIB 01 10 25. The bulletin had a provision for customer reimbursement of repairs and they are refusing to honor my claim. I think they should be forced to place this part into a recall by NHTSA. These vehicles are lemons. A High Voltage AC compressor, Electric Auxillary Heater Issues, High Voltage power supply cables, Turbocharger, Electric Suspension compressor, Air suspesion Springs, Evaporative Emissions Purge Valve all had to be replaced before the vehicle hit 90,000 miles.

    NHTSA complaint 11693892
12. Filed Sep 30, 2025Failure Sep 30, 2024Peterman, ALFuel/propulsion system, Unknown or other

    Driving the vehicle a short distance, I can smell oil burning after the car is stopped. I have had to put oil in the car twice because the warning light came on suggesting that a quart of oil is needed. The vehicle has less than 122,000 miles. Also, the car idles a lot before I put it in gear. I was told at the last oil change that I need spark plugs. The battery and tires were replaced by a BMW dealership over a year ago.

    NHTSA complaint 11690659
13. Filed Sep 8, 2025Failure Sep 5, 2025The Colony, TXService brakes

    I am writing to formally report an issue with my vehicle involving a persistent parking brake malfunction. The yellow parking brake indicator light remains on and will not reset. After researching the issue, I’ve found that this is a common problem among other vehicle owners of the same make and model. The malfunction appears to be related either to a faulty sensor or the entire parking brake module assembly, and the cost to diagnose and repair can exceed $2,000, which places a significant burden on owners for what appears to be a widespread defect. Given the importance of the parking brake system for vehicle safety and reliability, I believe this issue warrants further investigation and potentially a recall or service campaign.

    NHTSA complaint 11685697
14. Filed Jul 21, 2025Failure Jul 9, 2025Suisun City, CAFuel/propulsion system

    On July 9, while accelerating on a busy freeway during rush hour, the car stalled in the middle lane and was unable to be driven off to the side. I called 911 and a tow truck came to tow the vehicle. The problem was diagnosed by BMW as the high pressure fuel pump, which was determined to have blown out and sent metal into the entire fuel system - with a repair estimate of $26k. The high pressure fuel pump had already been replaced by BMW under a recall and the remedy was to replace it with the same faulty component, which failed again. There was no warning or signs of impending failure. The 2018 BMW X5 has been serviced solely by BMW and inspected multiple times with no suggestion there were any issues. I called BMW after the incident, and since the car is 3k miles over the extended warranty on this part, they have denied any help in remedying this issue.

    NHTSA complaint 11675079
15. Filed Jun 9, 2025Failure Aug 13, 2024Alexandria, VAElectrical system, Engine and engine cooling

    The contact owns a 2018 BMW X5. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V608000 (Engine and Engine Cooling, Electrical System); 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 had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.

    NHTSA complaint 11665879
16. Filed Jun 3, 2025Failure Jun 3, 202566,000 milesBoise, IDFuel system, Diesel

    The contact owns a 2018 BMW X5. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle inadvertently lost motive power. The contact was able to pull to the shoulder of the roadway, where the vehicle was able to restart. After restarting the vehicle, the contact observed white smoke and embers coming from the EGR cooler and intake manifold. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer but was not diagnosed. The vehicle was not repaired. After investigating the failure, the contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V907000 (Fuel System, Diesel); the VIN was included, but the vehicle was already repaired in 2022. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, a case was opened, and the contact was referred to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was 66,000.

    NHTSA complaint 11664699
17. Filed May 7, 2025Failure May 7, 2025Fresno, CAElectrical system, Engine and engine cooling

    The contact owns a 2018 BMW X5. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V608000 (Engine and Engine Cooling, Electrical System); 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 had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.

    NHTSA complaint 11659599
18. Filed Apr 17, 2025Failure Jan 17, 2025Ocean City, NJElectrical system, Engine and engine cooling

    The contact owns a 2018 BMW X5. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V608000 (ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING, ELECTRICAL SYSTEM); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.

    NHTSA complaint 11655205
19. Filed Apr 14, 2025Failure Apr 14, 2025Saratoga, CAElectrical system, Engine and engine cooling

    The contact owns a 2018 BMW X5. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V608000 (Engine and Engine Cooling, Electrical System); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The dealer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.

    NHTSA complaint 11654592
20. Filed Mar 24, 2025Failure Mar 24, 2025Secaucus, NJElectrical system, Engine, Power train

    BMW issued a recall in October 2024 regarding the engine coolant pump electrical connector on my 2018 BMW X5 xDrive40e, warning of electrical shorts and fire risks. It's now late March 2025—approximately six later—and BMW dealerships still state explicitly they have no available remedy and no timeline for repair. Recently, my vehicle showed a drivetrain warning message, which I suspect is recall-related. I called BMW corporate recall hotline and my local BMW dealership (BMW of Tenafly) today (March 24, 2025). The dealership explicitly stated that they can only perform diagnostics, and even if their diagnostics confirm my drivetrain issue is recall-related, they 'cannot do anything' due to BMW's lack of available recall remedy. When I expressed concern to BMW of Tenafly representative that this recall involves serious safety risks (electrical shorts and potential fire), the dealership representative dismissed my concern by simply saying, 'every recall is urgent.' This response underscores my concern that BMW and its dealerships are not treating this recall issue with adequate seriousness or urgency, leaving consumers like myself at ongoing safety risk. They also mentioned charging $150/day storage if I leave my vehicle at their facility beyond diagnostics, which discourages vehicle owners from having their recall-related safety issues adequately addressed. I’m escalating to NHTSA now because BMW has not provided a recall remedy within a reasonable period, and I'm concerned about ongoing safety issue.

    NHTSA complaint 11650364