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Used 2011 BMW X5 SUV Consumer Reviews

3.9 out of 5 stars
60 reviews

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Pros
Cons
4 out of 5 stars

Awesome machine

Joey, 08/03/2015
2011 BMW X5 xDrive35i 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 8A)
26 of 26 people found this review helpful

This thing is a blast to drive, and a really good option for families with one or two kids. You can't beat the safety features; this thing's a tank. The only real concern with the X5 35d is the upkeep cost. If you consider the fuel economy, maybe it evens out...but doubtful. I can't say the repair cost is high, because we haven't had to actually have any repairs done (60k miles). The warranty covered a few sensors that needed to be replaced, but everything else has been routine. Don't bother with a dealership for oil changes. They will straight up lie to you. I had two local BMW shops tell me it's over $300 to change the oil and fill the DEF on my 35d. Order the Castrol oil, a filter and some DEF and do it in the driveway, or take it to a small shop and pay 15 bucks. Total cost for me was less than $100. If we can afford it in the future, we will certainly invest in another X-model. Let's hope we can squeeze 150k out of this one.

Safety
5 out of 5 stars
Technology
5 out of 5 stars
Performance
5 out of 5 stars
Interior
4 out of 5 stars
Comfort
3 out of 5 stars
Reliability
4 out of 5 stars
Value
3 out of 5 stars
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4.25 out of 5 stars

X5 50i 9K mile whine update

x5, 10/22/2010
2011 BMW X5 xDrive50i 4dr SUV AWD (4.4L 8cyl Turbo 8A)
25 of 27 people found this review helpful

My X5 50i is now 4 months old, has 9,000 miles and still whines at around 2,000 rpm, badly enough to embarrass a Lada driver. Apparently BMW is OK with that. However, if you complain enough you will discover that this problem is common to the X5 50i and the 750i which both have the same power train. Apparently BMW has now determined that the cause is a defective engine oil pump. The repair requires removing the front differential and axles, the front subframe, lifting the engine and removing 2 oil pans in order to replace the pump. This is documented on the Bimmerfest website, so I was not alone with this problem. Now, do I trust my Dealership to do this without screwing up my car?

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1 out of 5 stars

Nice drive but very unreliable. Beware.

Steve, 01/06/2018
2011 BMW X5 xDrive35i Premium 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 8A)
62 of 70 people found this review helpful

I bought my X5 new in 2011. It has had light use, only 67,000 miles. I have thousands on repairs, plus more than $4000 on regular service items post warranty. The warranty ran out in four years at 30,000. My only complaint during the warranty was the battery getting low in cold weather. BMW did not fix this problem. See the current list of repairs needed after the warranty: 1) Comfort door handles replaced $1200. Flat battery issue. 2) Battery replaced $480 including programming. (Before the item above). 3) Leaking casing on oil filter mount $400 4) Steering rack $6,800 5) Valvetronic motor and shaft $3500 6) Timing gear pulleys (3) $240. These are plastic and whine after 50’000. 7) Thrust arm bushings $720. 8) Hand brake electronic switch $250. 9) Water pump $500. (55,000) 10) Replacement comfort entry key plus programming $500. Tires (run flats) last around 20’000 miles and are $1400 each time. They get very noisy when replacement is getting near. If you get a puncture the tire cannot be repaired (officially) and they must be replaced in pairs, due to the Xdrive system. BMW will not replace break pads without rotors. Front is $820 and rear is $340. Drive Transfer box oil and filter change is $240 Note: 60’000 miles service was $2,200 including the spark plugs and timing belts. The spark plugs are $120 each without labor. The ultimate driving machine? Not quite. Maybe if you are in the BMW service business. Depreciation is shocking. $75,000 to $25,000 in four years, even with low miles. After six years you cannot give it away. My advice is, if you must have the BMW X5 make sure to sell it before the manufacturers warranty runs out. It’s actually is a great drive but not worth the hassle or high cost of ownership.

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1 out of 5 stars

By all means, stay away from the x5 50i.

Marvin, 03/26/2016
2011 BMW X5 xDrive50i 4dr SUV AWD (4.4L 8cyl Turbo 8A)
57 of 67 people found this review helpful

Bought this vehicle with only 9K mile on it, and by far has been the worst reliable vehicle I have ever owned. Mind you, this is my wife SUV. Not even a month of owning it and maybe around a thousand mile, my low oil light indicator turns on but there is still another 10k miles until next oil change, so decided to do an additional oil change at my expense since BMW refused to do one for me. At about 2-3k miles again, going to Austin for the weekend from Houston, and my low oil light come back on again. Took it back to the dealer and they added over 2 quarts of oil. I asked them why the oil consumption, and their response was it's normal. A month or two, rolls out and the Aux. Pump goes out. No problem since it's still under warranty and your driving on a brand new loner car for 3 weeks, since they were on backorder from Germany. A couple of month go by without any issues and then the high battery consumption light come. They replaced the battery and a couple of module and returned the vehicle back in a couple of day, no problem. A couple of months go by again, and bam, the battery light come back again, took it back to the dealer, they kept the vehicle for over a month this time, saying they couldn't find the issue and when they finally did, it turned out to be a right front door handle, that would not dormant. Happy to get the vehicle back, when I get a letter from BMW about a big campaign(another word for a RECALL) and to bring the vehicle in to the dealer. Brought the vehicle to the dealer, and they tell me that it will stay in the shop for a couple of weeks since it's a big campaign for Injector, Vacuum system, Etc. So again, they kept vehicle at the dealer for a month. I'm beginning to get aggravated with vehicle already and am thinking of replacing it already. But instead, decided to keep it, after all, it's a very nice SUV, M-packaged with all the bells and whittles. Just about 2 weeks ago we decided to take a road trip for spring break, and drive to California. Long story short, we broke down in between Bakersfield and San Jose, ruined our Vacation and cost me over $2000 in unexpected repairs bill. The Starter went out, the coils went out and this is ONLY with just a little over 30K MILES!!!!! Folks, I LOVE BMW, having and owing 135i, (2) 335i, x5 3.0, and now the X5 50i, By all means , Stay away from the X5 50i.

Safety
3 out of 5 stars
Technology
3 out of 5 stars
Performance
5 out of 5 stars
Interior
2 out of 5 stars
Comfort
3 out of 5 stars
Reliability
1 out of 5 stars
Value
1 out of 5 stars
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2 out of 5 stars

A lot of problems after 60k

Josh, 10/26/2018
2011 BMW X5 xDrive35i Premium 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 8A)
7 of 7 people found this review helpful

Everything starts to break down at 60k and it’s expensive to fix

Safety
5 out of 5 stars
Technology
5 out of 5 stars
Performance
5 out of 5 stars
Interior
5 out of 5 stars
Comfort
5 out of 5 stars
Reliability
1 out of 5 stars
Value
1 out of 5 stars
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4.63 out of 5 stars

My 3rd X5

dborlando1, 11/06/2012
2011 BMW X5 xDrive50i 4dr SUV AWD (4.4L 8cyl Turbo 8A)
19 of 22 people found this review helpful

(Previously leased 2003 4.4 and 2008 4.8 X5 models). By far, this 50i model is my favorite X5. Improved satellite navigation system lets you speak the entire destination at once, instead of bit-by-bit, and is usually accurate. Sound system has both an equalizer and surround sound. Excellent back-up camera that shows not only the rear view, but also view from above, which is great for back-in and parallel parking. 8-speed automatic is noticeably smoother than the earlier X5's 6-speeds transmissions. Fuel economy is slightly better than the earlier X5's (averaging 13.5 to 15.0 MPG). The 19" tires help. The '03 and '08 X5's both had 20" tires (and were more expensive to replace).

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3 out of 5 stars

The Cost To Maintain

Rick, 01/27/2016
2011 BMW X5 xDrive35i 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 8A)
10 of 11 people found this review helpful

I have had multiple repairs to this car. Luckily all were covered under warranty. Don't buy a desiel unless it is certified with a warranty. DEF tank has been replaced 3 times. I have been stuck 4 times with "reduced engine power" because of different sensors. On the he bright side this is a very comfortable car and great to drive. 25+ miles to the gallon.

Safety
5 out of 5 stars
Technology
5 out of 5 stars
Performance
3 out of 5 stars
Interior
4 out of 5 stars
Comfort
4 out of 5 stars
Reliability
1 out of 5 stars
Value
3 out of 5 stars
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3 out of 5 stars

oil field

Dave, 12/05/2015
2011 BMW X5 xDrive35i 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 8A)
10 of 11 people found this review helpful

Bought this car with 39.000 just 2 weeks ago. First issue, minor oil ring seal. Leaked for a bit. Now the issue is its burning oil. Do all bmw cars and trucks have oil issues? Went through this with the 645ci. Ridiculous!

Safety
5 out of 5 stars
Technology
4 out of 5 stars
Performance
5 out of 5 stars
Interior
5 out of 5 stars
Comfort
4 out of 5 stars
Reliability
3 out of 5 stars
Value
3 out of 5 stars
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5 out of 5 stars

X5 50is

mm-etech, 09/28/2010
2011 BMW X5 xDrive50i 4dr SUV AWD (4.4L 8cyl Turbo 8A)
12 of 14 people found this review helpful

Great car. Spacious interior and roomy. Drives great. Excellent handling and very quite despite sports package and large 315 20” tires. Lots of power and torque; one of the fastest SUVs you can get. Good gas millage for 5300+ lb vehicle (depending on driving style). On long trip we averaged 20-21 MPG fully loaded with 5 adults.

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2 out of 5 stars

Run don’t walk away from this car!

Sean, 08/30/2018
2011 BMW X5 xDrive35i Premium 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 8A)
14 of 17 people found this review helpful

Bought this car pre owned, 50k miles great condition, looked and drove like brand new. Within the first 6 months I had put $3k in repairs into the car, it’s been none stop repairs and maintainace ever since. Requires around $4k minimally a year in general upkeep. Horrible on gas, always in the shop, electronic issues-radio comes and goes, lock chime comes and goes, comfort access works half the time. Always an issue, leak, repair, won’t start, I mean the list is endless. Beautiful car drives like a dream, amazing in the snow, beautiful to look at but cost of ownership is out of control. Will be going back to a Mercedes truck next time around.

Safety
5 out of 5 stars
Technology
3 out of 5 stars
Performance
5 out of 5 stars
Interior
5 out of 5 stars
Comfort
4 out of 5 stars
Reliability
1 out of 5 stars
Value
1 out of 5 stars
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4 out of 5 stars

Great car, Poor service. Cannot get them to do an oil change

bodomo, 05/14/2011
2011 BMW X5 xDrive35i Premium 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 8A)
23 of 29 people found this review helpful

This is an update on my previous review titled so far so good. Actually not so good anymore. I currently have 15500 and BMW still refuses to do an oil change. I called for my first oil change at 10000 miles and made an appointment for an oil change and some minor work. After a couple of hours, I get the news that my car does NOT need an oil change, I have to come back at 15000 miles. Crap, why waste my time for this? So recently I made another appointment for an oil change at 15000 and again after another couple of hours of waiting they tell me that again they will not do an oil change because in oil is in good shape and I need to come back in another 5000 miles. This is not worth my time.

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1 out of 5 stars

Buyer Beware

Lisa, 04/29/2017
2011 BMW X5 xDrive35i Premium 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 8A)
16 of 20 people found this review helpful

This car is the biggest piece of garbage available at this time. If you like driving loaner cars and having your vehicle in the shop for extended periods of time then this is the vehicle for you. BMW should be ashamed of themselves!! Even the employees agree that this vehicle is a POS!! I have owned it for 14 months and in that time it has been in the shop for 4 months, over $15,000 later and I now feel safe to get rid of it, prior to this I could not in good faith have turned this vehicle over to anybody as it was not roadworthy and it took 3+months to get it to where it wouldn't lose power when accelerating. I was almost killed in this POS. BMW you need to get your act together and recall all of the X5's, fix them so they are safe at your cost. I have spoken to 10+ owners of this POS and they have all had the exact same problems. Looking into class action suit against BMW. For the safety or you and your family do not even consider buying this vehicle. With all this said buyer beware of Grubbs Infiniti Grapevine, they will promise you anything and never follow through, NEVER PURCHASE A VEHICLE FROM AND THIS DEALERSHIP THEY ARE DISHONEST, WILL SELL YOU AN UNSAFE, UNROADWORTHY CARE WITHOUT A THOUGHT, ABUSE WOMEN THINKING THEY HAVE NO BRAIN AND NO INSIGHT TO THE BUYING A VEHICLE OR THE MAINTENANCE OF.

Safety
1 out of 5 stars
Technology
1 out of 5 stars
Performance
1 out of 5 stars
Interior
2 out of 5 stars
Comfort
2 out of 5 stars
Reliability
1 out of 5 stars
Value
1 out of 5 stars
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4.63 out of 5 stars

My 3rd X5 SAV

dborlando1, 05/23/2011
2011 BMW X5 xDrive50i 4dr SUV AWD (4.4L 8cyl Turbo 8A)
13 of 16 people found this review helpful

(Previously leased a 2003 X5 and 2008 X5 4.8i). By far, this is my favorite X5, except for the inferior premium sound system compared to my 2008 X5. Improved NAV system, but takes getting used to. Cargo space is decent. Fuel economy at 13.5 MPG average is unacceptable. Although the 8-speed automatic transmission is smooth, lower engine acceleration for city driving is annoying sluggish. Great back-up camera that shows actual image of vehicle from above and in the rear.

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2 out of 5 stars

Nice looking but......wouldn't buy another one

Retired Fireman, 10/14/2017
updated 10/21/2019
2011 BMW X5 xDrive35i Premium 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 8A)
7 of 8 people found this review helpful

We bought this used CPO. Nice to have factory paid service 4 yr 50k miles, but BMW won't give you a free maintenance oil change till 15k miles This oil change interval is not good for a hard working 6 cylinder Turbo engine. I ended up paying for the oil changes every 7500 miles, as I felt necessary for a $70k vehicle. Brake service under BMW dime doesn't replace rotors, just pads. Yet try to have a brake service performed by BMW, just changing pads is NOT allowed?? They won't! OK lets go to reliability, absolutely horrific. I have owned over 50 cars in my lifetime, this being the worst. The car was in the shop last year over 4 months, from transmission issues to other things. The front suspension is designed to fail at 60k miles, so plan on putting money in to it. Thankfully we purchased an extended warranty for 48 months and additional 4 yrs. The NAV must be updated yearly, RUN FLAT TIRES don't last more than 20K miles, at a cost of $1400, every 18 months. The ride is stiff, even when switching from RUN FLATS to conventional tires. I get so many compliments on this SAV but OMG, what a maintenance nightmare. BMW hourly repair rate is $243 per hour. Won't buy another one....

Safety
5 out of 5 stars
Technology
1 out of 5 stars
Performance
4 out of 5 stars
Interior
4 out of 5 stars
Comfort
3 out of 5 stars
Reliability
1 out of 5 stars
Value
1 out of 5 stars
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1 out of 5 stars

Sudden Untimely Death

Roger Clark, 05/29/2018
2011 BMW X5 xDrive35i 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 8A)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful

We purchased our 2011 BMW X5 SUV in 2013 with 12,650 miles and maintained it meticulously to approximately 95,000 miles when the engine had a total catastrophic failure in Long Boat Key, Florida. The vehicle was towed initially to a BMW repair shop (Tuffy's - kudos to them) and then BMW of Sarasota where it sits today. Total catastrophic failure (suddenly wheels locked, engine died, could not be restarted) was completely unexpected for a well maintained luxury vehicle with only 95,000 miles.

Performance
1 out of 5 stars
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5 out of 5 stars

BMW Slots in the Lots

In Memory of Enoch, 11/26/2022
2011 BMW X5 xDrive35i Sport Activity 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 8A)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful

New casino in the city - new to the state - slot machine - I sat next to plenty of losers and those who sat next to me could say the same - but one time I sat next to guy from Iraq and he hit the mega jackpot of 26000 bucks - and he says to me - what does this mean - and I said "You better ask for armed guard for your walk back to your car. --- Point is - every car is different - I bought my premium sport activity used in 2015 - after I traded a dodge hemi truck for a cadillac srx and found out --- blind spots blind spots - this bmw had just come on the lot to where I had bought the cad - so with some cash I drove it off = 39000 bucks have put 11000 miles on - its a long distance driver - helps to have a few other vehicles - but all I have had to do is change oil and take to recall for airbags and got a loaner - bx 1 - gee what a whippy little vw that thing was - anyway back the main theme slots is a gamble as cars are a gamble - and wives too - it seems like the theme of life - count on nothing - accept that your going to lose but hope you will win -- and sometimes magic happens and you do win - I would like to trade the BMW - because I am old - but you see they lowered the value to about 13000 now - that I could get on good day -- so then I take it out and when I am going through 45 mph curve at 70 mph I fall in love all over again - logic wins over and I just can't see trading off a 39000 car to me for 13000 with only 34000 miles on it - and for all the dog about 2011 being a dog - I see so many with 150000 or there abouts - which means - there is more life left in that car than there is in me - it's an old story - had to drive junk in my young years and finally made it and had the money to buy good stuff but was too used up and tired to take on travel adventures and now the world is falling apart - gee where you gonna go that is safe anymore? But back on point - some times you get a real good BMW 2011 - x5 - and you keep it seven years and enjoy every drive you ever have in it and no money spent on any repairs - although I did get rid of the run flats the first month and put on some sport tires --- still does great in snow and ice - when I really have to use it like that - mostly lives in heated and air conditioned garage - still a special car to me - and I am sorry for all you others who sat at bad slot machines and have to listen to my machine pay off with the flashing red light and two casino employees taking pictures --etc - lol

Safety
5 out of 5 stars
Technology
4 out of 5 stars
Performance
5 out of 5 stars
Interior
5 out of 5 stars
Comfort
4 out of 5 stars
Reliability
5 out of 5 stars
Value
4 out of 5 stars
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1 out of 5 stars

Maintenance NIGHTMARE!!!

Chris - FL, 03/01/2018
2011 BMW X5 xDrive35i Premium 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 8A)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful

List is long, over $18k is OEM part failures. Only one item (because it was under a factory recall was the $11,000 transmission). My favorite is when I start to describe the problem and the service manager finishes my statement with the issue and has a quote to repair it before he ends his statement. What a joke! I moved away from the dealer and to a certified aftermarket service shop. They are not much better. General where and tear items I understand, however to get too those general where and tear items, like a oil pump seal ($35) fixed for $700 or shock/strut mount bushings ($118 pr) $2100 because of the dis-assembly required is BS. I have had friends, quite a few actually who like the car, looked into them and were actually going to buy them until I gave them my list of repairs. Not one purchased. I feel in doing so I am doing a customer service for them every single time. All I do is lay out my receipt book, the feedback on the issues I get in writing from the "customer" service managers and lead techs and let BMW do their own sales pitch.

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1.5 out of 5 stars

BMW are terrible especially if buying from Peoria

terrible, 02/25/2011
2011 BMW X5 xDrive35i 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 8A)
16 of 21 people found this review helpful

Very expensive to maintain, especially if you buy it from Peoria, il. Cheaters. They'll stab you as they did it on me. Bmw looks good but, it's not worth it, trust me, that was my second x5. I will never buy it again. It was 2011 and now we are in Feb. 2011 and I sold it finally. Hate bmw and hate bmw Peoria , illinois.

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1 out of 5 stars

BMW = Bring Money With

Swede798, 04/17/2019
updated 04/20/2020
2011 BMW X5 xDrive35i Premium 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 8A)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful

The repairs on my bwm before 86,000 miles were crazy. Starter, water pump, front suspension, ac nozzle, gaskets. The cams on the car are now shot and the engine needs to be replaced. This gets even worse. I found tools left in my engine from the BWM repair shop.

Safety
3 out of 5 stars
Technology
3 out of 5 stars
Performance
3 out of 5 stars
Interior
3 out of 5 stars
Comfort
3 out of 5 stars
Reliability
1 out of 5 stars
Value
2 out of 5 stars
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3 out of 5 stars

Transfer Case problem of the 2011 BMW X5

geo, 06/01/2017
updated 12/04/2017
2011 BMW X5 xDrive35i 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 8A)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful

My BMW X5 2011 mileage only 25000. I went to the dealer for driveshaft recall fix. Dealer told me that in my BMW transfer case leak oil and needs replacement seal soon. Cost is $600+, and I accepted. They also told me when they removed the seals to replace the seals they saw that the leak was coming from the transfer box control unit not just the seals. The root cause of the excessive leak is the control unit. this repair would be $2134 and up. I am wounding is that car is the biggest piece of garbage available at this time?

Technology
1 out of 5 stars
Performance
3 out of 5 stars
Interior
3 out of 5 stars
Comfort
3 out of 5 stars
Reliability
1 out of 5 stars
Value
1 out of 5 stars
Report Abuse
4 out of 5 stars

Great looking car, but costs.

Daniel o sarabia, 02/27/2016
2011 BMW X5 xDrive50i 4dr SUV AWD (4.4L 8cyl Turbo 8A)
6 of 8 people found this review helpful

Gas mileage is terrible. Great power and handling, but for the money spent, they should have better multimedia.

Safety
5 out of 5 stars
Technology
3 out of 5 stars
Performance
5 out of 5 stars
Interior
5 out of 5 stars
Comfort
4 out of 5 stars
Reliability
4 out of 5 stars
Value
2 out of 5 stars
Report Abuse
4.88 out of 5 stars

Wow What a vehicle

guido, 07/21/2010
2011 BMW X5 xDrive50i 4dr SUV AWD (4.4L 8cyl Turbo 8A)
4 of 5 people found this review helpful

Took delivery of my 5.0 with the M package and let me tell you it's a beast. Disregard the 5.3 0 - 60 time, in manual mode it's faster. What a dream to drive, as comfortable as a 750. And the best part is the lease payments are low because the residual is 62% (36 months) Get one, you won't be disappointed

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3.38 out of 5 stars

Bye Bye X5

rakundig, 02/07/2012
2011 BMW X5 xDrive35i Premium 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 8A)
5 of 7 people found this review helpful

Bought my X5, custom built, in 2010, delivered Aug 2010. I put just about every option into it except that suspension option. I don't plan to offroad in my BMW so I didn't see the point. Sales experience was horrible. Performance is sub-par. It suffers from horrible performance below 50 mph. Hesitation off the line and if you give it gas to accelerate it waits for about a second before kicking you in the shorts. I assume this is because it is in 6th gear at 40mph. After a 1.5 years of driving it I have had enough. It has nice polish but the engine/tranny is junk. Just traded it for a Volvo which isn't as polished but actually goes when I give it gas.

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5 out of 5 stars

2011 BMW X5 50i

Accolades, 06/24/2016
2011 BMW X5 xDrive50i 4dr SUV AWD (4.4L 8cyl Turbo 8A)
6 of 9 people found this review helpful

Has been a great SAV so far. Apart from regular maintenance, no issues (knock on wood).

Safety
5 out of 5 stars
Technology
5 out of 5 stars
Performance
5 out of 5 stars
Interior
5 out of 5 stars
Comfort
5 out of 5 stars
Reliability
5 out of 5 stars
Value
5 out of 5 stars
Report Abuse
2.75 out of 5 stars

Buyer Beware

njbmw1, 01/14/2011
2011 BMW X5 xDrive50i 4dr SUV AWD (4.4L 8cyl Turbo 8A)
7 of 11 people found this review helpful

Bought a X5 5.0 and it has been a disaster. Car has gone down (literally wouldn't start or drive) 3 times in under the first 7,000 miles. First time it was the battery/alternator. Second time it was an engine coil and now they claim my spark plugs went bad. This is not to mention a defective DVD player that had to be replaced. Also, one thing your salesperson won't tell you but every service guy knows right away is that Verizon Blackberrys do not work with the Idrive system. The Idrive will go down about every two months. You then have to unpair your phone, take the battery out and reset up the phone. They should tell people this before they buy the cars but they don't.

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4.63 out of 5 stars

It's a keeper!

tinfoil, 09/21/2010
2011 BMW X5 xDrive50i 4dr SUV AWD (4.4L 8cyl Turbo 8A)
3 of 4 people found this review helpful

I've had a X5 4.4 for little over ten years (one of the very first). It still looks and drives like brand new at 7ok, so I didn't want to sell it to a stranger who wouldn't appreciate its condition and gave it to my daughter. I replaced it with a 5.0 which I feel I'll be happy with for another ten years or so. Performance is great, ride is firm with the M sport package and 20" wheels, but that's how I like it. Build quality is excellent.Transmission is smooth and fun in manual mode, though with eight gears you can't take your hand off the shift knob, you're constantly busy. It is very forgiving though if you get lazy, as it has lots of torque almost regardless of the gear you are in.

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3.75 out of 5 stars

Whinny noise

jerman, 10/05/2010
2011 BMW X5 xDrive50i 4dr SUV AWD (4.4L 8cyl Turbo 8A)
3 of 4 people found this review helpful

As with a prior review, my 2011 X5 5.0 also makes a whinny noise akin to a golf cart when engine is hot and when upshifting from 1st to 3rd gears. Getting worse as mileage adds up. 2x to the dealership and nothing can be done as it is the alternator? Give me my 2007 4.8 back please. Heard the 2011 7 series is also having this problem. Not acceptable for 75k cars

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4.25 out of 5 stars

NOT PERFECT BUT GOOD

jasunlaw, 02/16/2011
2011 BMW X5 xDrive35i Premium 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 8A)
4 of 6 people found this review helpful

Build quality and driving experience are top notch. Here are my issues; (i) because it handles so well, it is not that great in the snow; (ii) it is vault tight but there quite a few rattles in the back which started after 5000 miles; (iii) there could have been a bigger cargo area-my corvette has almost as much room; (iv) very sensitive check engine light warning system and not all deales know how to fix it-one dealer said my car need a full day of re-programming... a second simply reset it minutes after I arrived for service. Do not open gas cap while engine is running.

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5 out of 5 stars

Great ride

Amr Zidan, 10/18/2016
2011 BMW X5 xDrive35i Premium 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 8A)
4 of 6 people found this review helpful

Excellent car, expensive repair

Safety
5 out of 5 stars
Technology
5 out of 5 stars
Performance
5 out of 5 stars
Interior
5 out of 5 stars
Comfort
5 out of 5 stars
Reliability
5 out of 5 stars
Report Abuse
1 out of 5 stars

wrost car, do not buy !!!

dave woo, 07/25/2018
2011 BMW X5 xDrive35i 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 8A)
5 of 8 people found this review helpful

I bought new car 2011 x-5, around 30000 miles water plump replaced , yesterday, transmission soddenly died , friends own x-5 all have similarly issues . one words---do not buy BMW , it is junk!!!!!!!

Safety
3 out of 5 stars
Technology
1 out of 5 stars
Performance
1 out of 5 stars
Comfort
3 out of 5 stars
Reliability
1 out of 5 stars
Value
1 out of 5 stars
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5 out of 5 stars

X5 50i

RN, 07/07/2010
2011 BMW X5 xDrive50i 4dr SUV AWD (4.4L 8cyl Turbo 8A)
42 of 99 people found this review helpful

The twin-turbo 400 hp V8 in the 50i performs very well, providing plenty of power and torque, yet I am getting 18.5 mpg with a 50:50 mix of highway and city. The X5 feels almost as quick as my 2008 550i I turned in (end of lease) for the X5. Very quiet ride, 19" run flats make very little road noise and the upgraded stereo is incredible. Handling is excellent, and steering and brakes are very responsive.

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5 out of 5 stars

Fantastic Car So Far

iowabp, 05/08/2011
2011 BMW X5 xDrive35i Premium 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 8A)
2 of 3 people found this review helpful

I purchased this vehicle in November 2010 after a six month new car search. I previously owned a 2003 Nissan XTerra and was searching for a vehicle that provided the space I was used to, as well as a feeling of comfort and fun. I'm still surprised by how much I have enjoyed this BMW. The SUV is fun to drive and has all the bells and whistles you could ask for. I'm constantly finding new things that make life easier. From sending Google Maps directions directly to my Navigation to the impressive music hard drive, it's just an easy vehicle to love.

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4.13 out of 5 stars

2011 BMW x5-35i need further work

ikalajmi, 07/09/2011
2011 BMW X5 xDrive35i 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 8A)
16 of 44 people found this review helpful

I have recently purchased the new 2011 X5-35i and So Far So Good. I was previously driving a 2010 lexus RX 350. Bought this X5 after much research comparing it with 2010 RX350 and 2011 VW Touareg

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4.75 out of 5 stars

Everything I wanted and More

AX5, 08/03/2010
2011 BMW X5 xDrive35i Premium 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 8A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

The X5 is a great Sport Activity Vehicle. It is a bit on the expensive side compared to Ford, Chevy and other big named SUV manufacturers, but they aren't as thrilling to drive as the X5. Performance is spot on, like many other BMW's, and the new Twin-Scroll Turbo provides even more thrills. Coming from a 335xi (Twin Turbo) the X5 provides the same excitement during driving that the 335 did. Also the interior space is massive, and provides enough comfort for me and my occasional passengers. I do not regret this purchase.

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4.75 out of 5 stars

Great vehicle!

emedway, 09/30/2010
2011 BMW X5 xDrive35i Premium 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 8A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

Less than 1k miles so far. iDrive and Nav much improved compared to my 2009 5-series, which really wasn't that bad. The 8-speed automatic is super smooth and interior noise while driving is quite muted.. The new engine really has a lot of power. The new oyster leather interior color is very classy. I noticed the wind deflector on the sunroof was misaligned during the delivery process, but have had to wait for a replacement to come into stock. Two weeks after delivery, noticed one front fog light was out, but has since been working, so will need dealer to look it over next time in for service.

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4.63 out of 5 stars

Better than expected

bgm, 10/18/2010
2011 BMW X5 xDrive35i Premium 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 8A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

We have always been Volvo owners. My wife wanted a SUV we tested Volvo, Mercedes and BMW. The BMW handled much better than the Mercedes. I thought the ride would be harsh but it is not. We took delivery at the BMW Performance Center in South Carolina. Excellent program and an excellent vehicle. I have never owned BMW but now I am considering purchasing another one for myself next year. We are averaging 22 mpg. Handles like my old Volvo S80 V8.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Great Machine

Bryan, 11/12/2010
2011 BMW X5 xDrive35i Sport Activity 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 8A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

I bought the X5 35i with the M Sports package. I love this machine. It's almost as fun to drive as my corvette. It handles more like a sedan than a nearly two ton SUV. It's my new favorite toy.

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4.63 out of 5 stars

So far so good

bodox5, 09/21/2010
2011 BMW X5 xDrive35i Premium 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 8A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

I just got this about a couple of weeks ago and already went to a trip out of town and put in over 1500 miles. So far, so good. I am very concerned about reliability with my previous experiences with BMWs but hopefully this one will be much better. The fit and finish seems good and i do love the panoramic roof. It is a nice car to take on a road-trip, I really enjoy it, we will see about reliability.

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4.38 out of 5 stars

Update on my Original Review

AX5, 11/26/2010
2011 BMW X5 xDrive35i Premium 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 8A)
2 of 5 people found this review helpful

I still think the X5 and all BMW's are a blast to drive, but I'm starting to have the High Pressure Fuel Pump issues. It takes longer to start up (anywhere from 4-5 seconds) and I'm starting to see re-occurring error codes whenever I hook up my diagnostic system. BMW went public on there HPFP issue, but only for 2007- 2010 model years. They need to include 2011 models in their recall, as my X5 and several other 2011 model year cars are having HPFP issues

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1 out of 5 stars

This car is not very good to my liking

john denny, 11/24/2010
2011 BMW X5 xDrive35i 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 8A)
3 of 11 people found this review helpful

The car was stiff, I had to fill it up 4 times a week just doing my job showing homes on the mainline, I thought it was overpriced for what you got and I myself spent over 60k on mine and I still do not see my investment coming back, I had gotten the gps system in my vehicle and I thought it was very difficult to use and my widget would get stuck very often and that was annoying, then it was the trunk it was super heavy to open and sometimes it would get stuck and there is 2 parts to it to get it open fully, the back seats were very uncomfortable to ride in because they were hard as a rock and very stiff. The 4x4 is one of the most awful terrain vehicles I have ever driven.

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4.63 out of 5 stars

2011 X5 35i

dhk, 06/22/2010
2011 BMW X5 xDrive35i Premium 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 8A)
1 of 3 people found this review helpful

Traded in my 2005 Porsche Cayenne s for new x5 35i. Test drove x5 35d but felt the gas version was more refined and still got decent mileage, though the diesel had great torque. It is very smooth and ride quality is great. Firm ride and it's very luxurious. Cayenne had much better handling, cornering and shorter turning circle. New 8 speed automatic transmission is very smooth but doesn't really downshift like my Infiniti and Porsche.

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4.75 out of 5 stars

New improved bmw x5

mike sab, 12/01/2010
2011 BMW X5 xDrive35i Premium 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 8A)
1 of 3 people found this review helpful

Vehicle has plenty of power and handles very well. My only two complaints are steering is a little stiff in parking lots and I having a resonating noise out of the exhaust between gears 1-3. My two previous BMWs did not have those issues.

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3.75 out of 5 stars

X5 50i Very Disappointing

x5, 08/11/2010
2011 BMW X5 xDrive50i 4dr SUV AWD (4.4L 8cyl Turbo 8A)
2 of 13 people found this review helpful

I now have about 3000 miles on my 2011 X5 50i. I had high expectations for a vehicle that I paid almost $80K for. However, there is a persistent and annoying engine whine at slower speeds in the lower gears. It increases and decreases with engine speed and can be reproduced at about 2000 rpm while stationary and in neutral. I think that it could be the clutch in the alternator. However, two Dealerships have told me that it's normal for the 4.4 twin turbo, get used to it, or turn up the radio. I liked the car but this is unacceptable. I need to get rid of this car. I can't believe that any car manufacturer would approve this situation.

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4.38 out of 5 stars

Like it so far

Dr. G, 07/13/2010
2011 BMW X5 xDrive35i Premium 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 8A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Test drove both the premium and diesel versions. Diesel felt heavy and did not have the quickness the premium X5 had. Overall, ride is firm, handles well, and gas mileage early on is not bad, about 17 mpg in city driving. Like the punch the turbo delivers when you press the accelerator. Had some issues with the power windows but since have corrected. I-drive is fairly easy to use and like the fact that you can store music. Power liftgate is a nice option. Plenty of other good suvs out there but this one is one of the best inside and out.

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5 out of 5 stars

Super SUV

Frank, 09/01/2010
2011 BMW X5 xDrive35i Sport Activity 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 8A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I choose another BMW after purchasing a 2009 M3 convertible. This SUV combines refinement, luxury and agility. It's fun too drive and gets good fuel economy. I upgraded from a 2008 Toyota Highlander which is a great SUV in itself. I choose this SUV over the M series Mercedes which in my opinion didn't compare. If you have the means and are looking for a great SUV check out the X5.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Helluva Machine

Mel Keezadec, 09/09/2010
2011 BMW X5 xDrive35i Premium 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 8A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

This is a " real machine " to be proud of. It's fun to drive , well- built, and performs very well. Classy, stylish, and muscular.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

2011 BMW X5 Outperforms

richard, 10/23/2010
2011 BMW X5 xDrive35i Premium 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 8A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

This is my 3rd BMW and by far the best. The performance is awesome and the panoramic glass roof is unparalleled. I am averaging 18 and 22 miles per gallon. Sound system is great and the you hear no noise from outside. Suspension is great and the power of the twin turbo is incredible. Handling is awesome too. takes curves with ease and does not drive like a typical SUV, more like a sedan.

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5 out of 5 stars

Nice change

KKinAZ, 10/24/2010
2011 BMW X5 xDrive35i Sport Activity 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 8A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I recently purchased a new 2011 X5 Sport model and have to say I love it. I was previously driving a Range Rover Sport HSE and have to say it's a nice change. Comfort, quality and great handling put my old RRS to shame. With the new turbo engine this thing is fast and has the handling of a coupe.

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5 out of 5 stars

BMW with Diesel

JF, 06/27/2010
2011 BMW X5 xDrive35i 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 8A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

It's very powerful when starting to move, and also is very smooth. Fuel economy is about 22~24 mpg on average so far. Excellent on-road performance and handling, with comfortable seating for the driver and rear passengers. This SUV is what we expected.

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5 out of 5 stars

Excellent

Frank, 09/11/2010
2011 BMW X5 xDrive35i Sport Activity 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 8A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I went from a Toyota Highlander to the new X5. The ride quality is excellent as well as build & sight lines. BMW has done a great job in listening to consumers recommendations and incorporating them into an terrific vehicle.

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