BMW X5 E70 buying guide

2007 to 2013. An E70 X5 suits a buyer who wants a big, capable SUV and is ready for BMW repair costs, with an inspection first.

Big jobs

Diesel injectors, turbo actuator, swirl flaps and DPF. Poor starting and rough running may be failing injectors, smoke may be a failing electronic turbo actuator, early diesel swirl flaps can break up, and high km diesels can suffer expensive DPF failure.
Timing chain. Listen for timing chain rattle from cold on the later engines, and chain trouble is linked to very high km.
Cooling system leaks (V8). The cooling system often needs an overhaul at high km, and V8 leaks often come from a water pipe under the intake.
Automatic gearbox. The gearbox thrives on software updates, and early 6 speed boxes had torque converter, mechatronic and clutch pack problems. Fluid is sold as lifetime but many owners change it.
Rear air suspension. Rear air bags perish and the air pump can burn out, while the car may still look level.

Handbrake, wheels and brakes. The electronic handbrake can lock on, run flat tyres are hard on the alloys, and brakes and tyres are expensive.
Panoramic sunroof and windows. The panoramic sunroof is described as very unreliable, and window and sunroof faults are costly.

Front propshaft recall. Early cars had a front propshaft recall, because a failure could damage the joint and puncture the sump.

Researched 2026-11-04. General guidance from owner and specialist sources. Check the specific car with an independent inspection.