2013 BMW X5 engine problems

The 2013 BMW X5 has 50 engine complaints filed with NHTSA — 23% of the year's total, and down from the prior model year.

Engine complaints

23%

Share of year

Crash-involved

Related recalls

Engine complaints by year

X5 engine complaints by model year. Red bars are years to avoid.

Related recalls

18V336000EngineMay 23, 2018 · 33,214 units

Defect

BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2009-2013 X5 xDrive 35d diesel vehicles. The engine idler pulley bolt may loosen over time and break.

Consequence

If the idler pulley bolt breaks, the vehicle may unexpectedly lose power-assisted steering, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy

BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the idler pulley bolt with an improved part, free of charge. The recall began March 11, 2019. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.

What owners report

“After driving for an hour I noticed smoke coming from under the hood of the car, I opened the hood to and noticed the smoke coming from under the plastic cover which covers the turbo and catalytic converter In That area. After removing the cover I saw a bright flame coming from under the hood. ”
Complaint filed with NHTSA · Engine · August 31, 2024 · fire

Common questions

How many engine complaints does the 2013 BMW X5 have?

NHTSA has 50 complaints about the 2013 BMW X5 engine — 23% of all complaints filed for that model year.

Are there recalls for the 2013 BMW X5 engine?

Yes — 1 NHTSA recall campaign for this model year is tied to the engine: 18V336000.

Based on NHTSA ODI data through June 2026. Complaints are consumer-reported and unverified. Updated July 5, 2026.

Compiled by Sharon Ben-Moshe, Founder.