IsItAGoodCar

Common Problems with the
2018–2022 BMW X5 (G05)

We've identified 4 known issues that can affect the 2018–2022 BMW X5 (G05). 3 of these are serious faults that could be expensive to repair.

4
Known Issues
3
Serious
1
Moderate
0
Minor

The 2018–2022 period has 2 more issues than the BMW X5 (G05) average across all year periods.

All Known Issues

Air Suspension Bellows & Compressor

SeriousSuspension & Chassis

The air springs can develop hairline cracks, causing slow leaks. If ignored, the compressor burns out trying to compensate.

Most affected: Most UK models, especially 45e/50e and M Sport

Estimated cost: £600–£1,500Affects: 2018–2024Often appears around: 40,000–70,000 miles

Typical symptoms

  • •Car sagging on one corner after being parked
  • •Unusually loud compressor noise
  • •Chassis restricted warning on the iDrive

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Measure the gap between tyre and arch on all four corners after the car has sat
  • ✓Cycle the ride height through all levels and check for speed and smooth transition

xDrive Transfer Case Shudder

SeriousGearbox & Transmission

A well-known issue where the transfer case fluid degrades, causing a shuddering or "binding" sensation during tight, low-speed turns.

Most affected: 30d, 40i, M50i, 45e

Estimated cost: £300 (Fluid) – £3,000 (Unit)Affects: 2018–2022Often appears around: 30,000–60,000 miles

Typical symptoms

  • •Shuddering or vibration when pulling away on full lock
  • •Hesitation under hard acceleration from a standstill

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Perform several tight figure-of-eight turns in a car park
  • ✓Ensure all four tyres are the same brand and have similar tread depths

Integrated Braking System (IBS) Recall

SeriousBrakes

A major safety recall affects the braking assistance unit. Failure can result in a loss of power braking, requiring significant physical effort to stop the vehicle.

Most affected: All models

Estimated cost: £0 (Recall)Affects: 2018–2024Often appears around: Any mileage

Typical symptoms

  • •Brake warning light (yellow or red)
  • •Hard brake pedal
  • •ABS and stability control failure messages

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Check the recall status via the UK Gov or BMW websites
  • ✓Look for dealer stamps confirming the "Integrated Brake" campaign is closed

Lower Tailgate Spindle Drive Failure

ModerateBodywork & Rust

The electric motors for the lower half of the split tailgate can fail or lose synchronization, preventing the boot from closing properly.

Most affected: All models with powered tailgate

Estimated cost: £300–£600Affects: 2018–2022Often appears around: Age-related

Typical symptoms

  • •Lower tailgate refusing to move
  • •Clicking or grinding noise when the boot opens
  • •Boot open warning on the dash despite being closed

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Operate the split tailgate several times using the button and the key fob
  • ✓Check for any obstructions or damage to the spindle covers

Buying Tips for the 2018 BMW X5 (G05)

  • ✓Check the air suspension on all four corners; the car should sit perfectly level after standing
  • ✓Verify that the IBS (Integrated Braking System) recall has been performed, as it affects most G05 models
  • ✓Inspect the inner edges of the rear tyres, as the X5 can consume them rapidly if the alignment is out
  • ✓Test the split tailgate and the luggage cover motor (if fitted) for smooth operation
2023–2024 BMW X5 (G05)

Browse 2018–2022 BMW X5 (G05) in our Directory

View MOT history, registration data, and reliability scores for 2018–2022 BMW X5 (G05) vehicles.

View 2018–2022 Directory

Other BMW X5 (G05) Year Periods

2018–20222023–2024

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