BMW’s 2015 X5 has two airbag-related recalls and an open investigation for a defective airbag inflator. It also has complaints and recalls about engine problems caused by a faulty fuel system, and a coolant leak on diesel models that could melt internal components.
Key Points
- As per the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the 2015 BMW X5 has one ongoing investigation, over 70 consumer complaints, and six recalls.
- Most complaints concern the powertrain and include the engine failing due to a faulty fuel pump, and the intake manifold melting because of a bad EGR module.
- The X5’s malfunctioning airbag components led to several complaints and two recalls. One of the recalls involves caustic propellants that can make the airbag inflator explode in a crash and send shrapnel toward occupants.
- Electrical issues also make up some of the complaints. Problems include a glitchy backup camera and water leaks that can damage the car’s electrical components.
- In terms of reliability, the 2015 X5 is above average. However, its recalls and complaints point to a few notable problems, defects, and design flaws.
Many of 2015 X5’s Complaints Covering Engine Problems Point to the Fuel System and EGR Valve as the Causes
One of the biggest problems with the 2015 X5, which prompted one of vehicle’s six recalls and many complaints, is its faulty high-pressure fuel pump.
In July 2021, BMW recalled several 2014–2018 models, including the X5, over a faulty fuel pump that could cause the engine to stall.
The NHTSA also has on file several reports of failing injectors that caused the smell of gas fumes in the cabin and engine stall.
BMW recalled certain 2013-2018 diesel X5s equipped with an EGR module with an integrated cooler in November 2021 due to a fire risk. This is because the EGR cooler may leak internally, causing coolant to mix with diesel engine soot, resulting in a melting intake manifold.
2015 BMW X5’s Defective Airbags Led to Two Recalls and One Open Investigation
The NHTSA has nine complaints and two recalls on file over the 2015 X5’s airbags.
The first recall involves vehicles with a driver airbag inflator that was welded incorrectly, which led to BMW replacing the airbag altogether.
The second recall was caused by improper inflation of the airbag’s head protection system, which could cause the airbags to have insufficient inflation during a crash. BMW addressed the problem by replacing the head protection system.
The ongoing investigation at the NHTSA covers the potential rupture of the airbag inflator in the 2015 X5. The airbag inflator’s propellant can degrade, causing the inflator to rupture during deployment and possibly emit sharp metal shrapnel in the cabin.
Multiple Electrical Issues Top Off the List of Problems for the 2015 BMW X5
The 2015 X5 also has several complaints on file with the NHTSA over electrical problems and glitchy tech.
For example, owners have reported electrical components overheating, resulting in a smell of burning plastic or rubber, smoke coming from inside the car, and even catching fire in a few cases.
There are also complaints about the head-up display randomly malfunctioning. The display projects driver and multimedia information onto the car’s front windshield. The malfunction requires a software update to fix.
Water Damage May Result in Mold and Ruined Electrical Components
Another issue some drivers have complained about is water leaks from rain and snow, possibly because of clogged sunroof drainage tubes. Others report the sunroof takes in water when running the vehicle through a car wash, and blame it on poor seals.
These leak problem has caused mold and damaged electrical components. Since it’s considered an “outside force,” the repair cost is not covered under warranty.
A glitchy backup camera also makes up for some of the electrical problems, with reports of the camera image not displaying when the car is shifted into reverse.
Finally, a few owners reported the transmission shifting into “neutral” when they intended to shift into “park.” Other reports show the transmission would shift into “park” inadvertently while driving, causing the engine to stall.
BMW’s X5 is a Mostly Dependable SUV With a Few Serious Problems
On paper, the 2015 X5 looks to be a reliable SUV with an average number of recalls and complaints. Still, it has some worrying flaws in safety and design.
Overall, the X5 scored “Great” reliability ratings from J.D. Power with a score of 80 out of 100.
The 2015 X5 can last between 150,000 to 200,000 miles with reasonable care and maintenance. Still, there are reports of X5s reaching 250,000 miles, but not without some hiccups once you cross the 200k mark.
You can expect some expensive repair bills and an annual maintenance cost of $1,166 on average, according to Repair Pal.
Photos: BMW
