Things to look out for, 2011-12 X5 3.5i...

cohenfive · 07-13-2015, 05:09 PM

So we are thinking about buying an X5 to replace our ancient minivan (1998). I know we'll give up a lot of utility, but we will get more fun and features in return.

I am wondering what we should be looking out for in terms of items that go wrong on the X5 in these years, and other suggestions. These have really come down hard in price which is making me interested.

Thanks!

bmwx5er · 07-14-2015, 01:13 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by cohenfive

So we are thinking about buying an X5 to replace our ancient minivan (1998). I know we'll give up a lot of utility, but we will get more fun and features in return.

I am wondering what we should be looking out for in terms of items that go wrong on the X5 in these years, and other suggestions. These have really come down hard in price which is making me interested.

Thanks!

Model Year 2011 models have the dreaded drive shaft failure problem. BMW has a recall issued, so you might want to check on it before you buy. The 3.5is also have VANOS-related issue (not sure on the details - but nothing that a search on this forum or the other bimmer forums wouldn't yield).

Poppyboy · 07-14-2015, 02:00 PM

I've had no problems with my '11 3.5i with 50k miles. Drive shaft recall inspection was done last November (no guarantee it won't fail anyway, but at least it was looked at), along with VANOS bolt recall. Great car.

07-13-2015, 05:09 PM	#1
cohenfive Lieutenant 108 Rep 480 Posts Drives: 2011 e92 m3 space grey dct Join Date: Nov 2010 Location: sf bay area iTrader: (0)	Things to look out for, 2011-12 X5 3.5i... So we are thinking about buying an X5 to replace our ancient minivan (1998). I know we'll give up a lot of utility, but we will get more fun and features in return. I am wondering what we should be looking out for in terms of items that go wrong on the X5 in these years, and other suggestions. These have really come down hard in price which is making me interested. Thanks! __________________ 2015 M235i, MW/Bl, all packages 2012 x3 m sport, carbon black, prem, tech, conv, etc evil the following 29'er, specialized carbon stumpjumper s works fsr, trek madone 5.2 nikon d500, d810, d750, 14-24, 24-70, 80-400vr, 500vr
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07-14-2015, 02:00 PM	#3
Poppyboy Captain 194 Rep 828 Posts Drives: 2011 X5 3.5i w/ SA Package Join Date: Jul 2014 Location: Lincolnshire, IL iTrader: (0) Garage List 1976 Triumph TR6 [10.00] 1993 Bentley Turbo R [10.00] 2011 X5 [10.00]	I've had no problems with my '11 3.5i with 50k miles. Drive shaft recall inspection was done last November (no guarantee it won't fail anyway, but at least it was looked at), along with VANOS bolt recall. Great car.
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