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2016 BMW X5 problems, recalls and owner complaints
What the 2016 BMW X5 has been recalled for, how often it fails the UK MOT and what owners report, from official government data. Updated October 25, 2026.
- 5safety recalls
- 74owner complaints
- 3crash reports
- 0fire reports
- 12%fail the UK MOT
74 complaints, against an average of 115 for the other 14 BMW X5 model years.
Every BMW X5 model year with its number of owner complaints. Pick a year to compare.
What goes wrong with the 2016 BMW X5?
The components named most often in the 74 owner complaints. One complaint can name several, so the shares can add up to more than 100%.
What symptoms do 2016 BMW X5 owners describe?
Found by reading the text of all 74 owner complaints. Tap a symptom for the answer, a real owner quote and any related recall.
- Can the sunroof on the 2016 BMW X5 shatter or fail?8 owners · 10.8%
- Why is the check engine light on in my 2016 BMW X5?7 owners · 9.5%
- Why does my 2016 BMW X5 stall, lose power or shut off while driving?6 owners · 8.1%
- Why does my 2016 BMW X5 overheat?6 owners · 8.1% · Recall 21V907000
- Has the 2016 BMW X5 had high-voltage battery or EV system failures?5 owners · 6.8%
- Why does the auto start-stop system act up on my 2016 BMW X5?3 owners · 4.1%
- Why does the battery keep dying on my 2016 BMW X5?3 owners · 4.1%
- Why does water leak into my 2016 BMW X5?3 owners · 4.1%
- Does the 2016 BMW X5 have emissions system or DPF problems?3 owners · 4.1% · Recall 21V907000
Has the 2016 BMW X5 been recalled?
5 U.S. safety recalls. Repairs are free at a franchised dealer; some are done over the air.
Engine And Engine Cooling: Cooling System: Pump BMW of North America, LLC. (BMW) is recalling certain 2012-2015 X1 sDrive28i, X1 xDrive28i, 2012-2016 Z4 sDrive28i, 528i, 528i xDrive, 328i, 328xi, 2016-2018 X5 xdrive 40e, 2014-2016 228i, 228xi, 428i, 428i xDrive, 328xi Gran Turismo, 2013-2017 X3 sDrive28i, X3 xDrive28i, 2015-2018 X4 xDrive28i, 2015-2016 428xi vehicles. An improperly sealed electrical connector on the water pump may be exposed to water and short circuit.
Risk: An electrical short increases the risk of a fire.
Fix: Dealers will inspect and replace the water pump and plug connector as necessary, and install a protective shield, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on March 28, 2025. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
Fuel System, Diesel BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2013-2018 328d, 328d xDrive, 2014-2018 328d Sports Wagon, 328d xDrive Sports Wagon, 2014-2016 535d, 535d xDrive, 2015 740Ld xDrive, 2015-2017 X3 xDrive28d SAV, and 2014-2017 X5 xDrive35d SAV diesel vehicles equipped with an Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) module with an integrated cooler. The EGR cooler may leak internally, causing coolant to mix with diesel engine soot, which could result in smoldering particles and a melting intake manifold.
Risk: A melting intake manifold increases the risk of a fire.
Fix: Dealers will replace the EGR cooler and inspect the intake manifold, replacing it as necessary, free of charge. This recall includes all vehicles previously recalled under 18V-755. Vehicles previously recalled under 18V-755 will need to have the new remedy performed for this recall. An interim owner notification letter was mailed on January 18, 2022. The remedy is expected to be available in June 2022. Owner notification letters were mailed on July 6, 2022. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
Fuel System, Diesel: Delivery: Fuel Pump BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2014-2018 328d, 328d xDrive, X5 xDrive35d, 2014-2016 535d, 535d xDrive, 2015 740Ld xDrive, and 2015-2017 X3 xDrive28d vehicles. The high-pressure fuel pump may fail.
Risk: Fuel pump failure can cause an engine stall while driving, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix: Dealers will replace the high-pressure fuel pump, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on January 14, 2022. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
Engine And Engine Cooling: Exhaust System: Emission Control: Gas Recirculation Valve (Egr Valve) BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2013-2018 BMW 328d and 328d xDrive, 2014-2018 328d Sports Wagon and 328d xDrive Sports Wagon, 2014-2016 535d and 535d xDrive, 2015 740Ld xDrive, 2015-2017 X3 xDrive28d SAV and 2014-2017 X5 xDrive35d SAV vehicles equipped with an Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) module with an integrated cooler. If the EGR cooler leaks internally, the coolant can mix with diesel engine soot. The high EGR temperatures may result in these particles possibly smoldering and melting the intake manifold.
Risk: The melting intake manifold can increase the risk of a fire.
Fix: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and replace the EGR cooler as necessary. If a leak has already occurred, the engine intake manifold will also be replaced. These repairs will be made free of charge. The recall began May 13, 2019. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
Electrical System: Wiring BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain model year 2016 X5 xDrive40e vehicles manufactured July 29, 2015, to September 9, 2015. The affected vehicles have a Digital Motor Electronic (DME) control unit that may have a loose electrical ground cable, possibly causing an under-voltage condition which would result in the transmission shifting to neutral.
Risk: If the vehicle unexpectedly shifts to neutral, there would be an increased risk of a crash.
Fix: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will tighten the ground cable, free of charge. The recall began February 6, 2017. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
Is the 2016 BMW X5 recalled in the UK or Europe?
Recalls issued by the UK's DVSA and through the EU's Safety Gate system that cover this model and build period. European models can differ from U.S. ones, and "years estimated" means the recall gave no build dates, so confirm your own car with your registration or VIN.
UK DVSATakata Driver and/or Passenger Airbag Recall (Global VINs)
Risk: Affected vehicles are already included in Safety Recalls within the markets they have previously resided in. The vehicles may be fitted with a driver and/or passenger airbag/s which if deployed may do so with excessive force causing sharp metal fragments to be released this may cause serious injury which could prove fatal to people in the vicinity.
Fix: Vehicles will have the affected airbags checked and if necessary replaced.
UK DVSACheck Driver’s Airbag for Conversion Takata SDI & PSDI-5
Risk: Affected vehicles may have had a retrofit or conversion of the airbag using a previously recalled airbag variant which if deployed may do so with excessive force causing sharp metal fragments to be released this may cause serious injury possibly fatal to people in the vicinity. The original factory fitment airbag for the vehicle is not affected.
Fix: Vehicles will have the airbag checked and if necessary replaced.
UK DVSAA possible degradation of the propellant tablets could lead to an over-aggressive combustion in the event the airbag is activated which…A possible degradation of the propellant tablets could lead to an over-aggressive combustion in the event the airbag is activated which may cause the inflator body to rupture.
Risk: A possible degradation of airbag propellant tablets could lead to an over-aggressive combustion in the event the airbag is activated which may cause the inflator body to rupture.
Fix: On affected vehicles the drivers airbag module will be replaced.
UK DVSAUndetected EGR System leaks may cause thermal activity in the intake manifold
Risk: Undetected EGR System leaks may cause thermal activity in the intake manifold.
Fix: The engine management control unit (DDE) will be programmed with improved software incorporating the latest OBD functionality.
UK DVSAThe exhaust gas recirculation cooler may leak over time and cause thermal incident
Risk: The Exhaust Gas Recirculation cooler may leak over time and cause thermal incident.
Fix: On the affected vehicles the EGR cooler module will be replaced.
UK DVSAThe exhaust gas recirculation cooler could leak over time
Risk: Leaking glycol coolant could create in combination with soot and oil sediments in the EGR module ignitable deposits.
Fix: The EGR cooler will be internally inspected with an endoscope and replaced if evidence of leaking is found.
UK DVSAExhaust gas recirculation module cooler could leak
Risk: The EGR cooler may leakpresenting a fire risk
Fix: A visual inspection of the EGR cooler to check for leaks and excessive build-up of deposits. The EGR cooler will be replaced on all affected vehicles
UK DVSAExhaust gas recirculation cooler could potentially leak over time
Risk: The EGR cooler may leakpresenting a fire risk.
Fix: The EGR cooler will be replaced with an improved version.
UK DVSAEngine may cut out
Risk: It has been identified that the bolt that connects the ground cable from the wiring harness of the Digital Motor Electronics (DME) to the engine block may not have been tightened/torqued to the correct specification. This can lead to an under voltage supply which can trigger a reset of the DME. This can result in the engine cutting out or depending on vehicle speed to restart/turn on the engine once the reset has been completed.
Fix: Recall all affected vehicles to check and if required retorque the bolt for the ground cable on the engine block.
UK DVSAPower steering may not perform correctly
Risk: The electrical contact of the Electronic Control Unit (ECU) of the Electric Power Steering (EPS) is not sufficiently robust over the service life of the vehicle. As a result the power steering support may fail possibly leading to disconcerting driving situation for the driver. Additionally in a few cases a localised thermal event cannot be excluded.
Fix: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected and replace the steering gear (EPS).
EU Safety GateWater may come into contact with the starter relay and gradually cause corrosion.This could affect the electrical connection inside the relay and make the engine difficult to start. It may also result in a short circuit and could cause the starter to overheat leading to a fire when the vehicle is in motion or when it is parked with the ignition off.
Measures: Type of economic operator taking notified measure(s): Manufacturer; Category of measure(s): Recall of the product from end users; Date of entry into force: Unknown
EU Safety GateThe propellant in the driver airbag may deteriorate over time.If the airbags deploy, it could result in fragments from the inflator injuring the vehicle's occupants.
Measures: Type of economic operator taking notified measure(s): Manufacturer; Category of measure(s): Recall of the product from end users; Date of entry into force: Unknown
EU Safety GateThe propellant in the driver airbag may deteriorate over time.If the airbags deploy, it could result in fragments from the inflator injuring the vehicle's occupants.
Measures: Type of economic operator taking notified measure(s): Manufacturer; Category of measure(s): Recall of the product from end users; Date of entry into force: Unknown
EU Safety GateThe airbag may deteriorate over time, and if deployed, excessive internal pressure may cause the inflator body to burst and metal…The airbag may deteriorate over time, and if deployed, excessive internal pressure may cause the inflator body to burst and metal fragments could pass through the cushion material causing injury to occupants.
Measures: Type of economic operator taking notified measure(s): Manufacturer; Category of measure(s): Recall of the product from end users; Date of entry into force: 30/03/2023
EU Safety GateThe airbag propellant may deteriorate over time, and If deployed, excessive internal pressure may cause the inflator body to burst and…The airbag propellant may deteriorate over time, and If deployed, excessive internal pressure may cause the inflator body to burst and metal fragments could pass through the cushion material causing injury to occupants.
Measures: Type of economic operator taking notified measure(s): Manufacturer; Category of measure(s): Recall of the product from end users; Date of entry into force: Unknown
EU Safety GateThe control unit of the electronic power steering may have been incorrectly manufactured.This may cause a fire even when the vehicle is parked. Furthermore, steering assistance might fail while driving.
Measures: Type of economic operator taking notified measure(s): Manufacturer; Category of measure(s): Recall of the product from end users; Date of entry into force: Unknown
How often does the 2016 BMW X5 fail its MOT?
Why they failed: the share of failed tests with at least one fault in each area (a test can fail on several). Cars first registered in 2016, tested in Great Britain in 2023; first registration is usually, but not always, the model year. Source: DVSA anonymised MOT tests and results, Open Government Licence v3.0.
What do 2016 BMW X5 owners report?
12 of the 74 complaints, the most recent for the most-reported components, as the owners wrote them. NHTSA removes names and VINs; long reports are trimmed. CarHooq has not verified individual claims.
Vehicle: 2016 BMW X5 xDrive35d VIN: [XXX] My 2016 BMW X5 xDrive35d experienced a failure of the high-pressure fuel pump. The vehicle was inspected and I received a written diagnosis stating: “High pressure fuel pump failed and has contaminated the entire fuel system. Recommend replace all fuel system components.” I am concerned that this failure may be related to the same or a similar defect addressed by NHTSA Safety Recall XXX. That recall included certain 2014–2018 BMW X5 xDrive35d vehicles and concerned failure of the high-pressure fuel pump. BMW's recall documentation submitted to NHTSA…
I am reporting a suspected high-pressure fuel pump safety defect involving my 2016 BMW X5 xDrive35d, VIN [XXX], with approximately 103,186 miles. The check engine light illuminated and BMW Fort Walton diagnosed failed fuel injectors and recommended injector replacement. I subsequently had the vehicle inspected by Techmaster in Fort Walton, Florida, where metallic shavings and debris were discovered within the high-pressure fuel system. After notifying BMW Fort Walton of these findings, I was advised that my VIN is not included in NHTSA Recall 21V-586: High Pressure Fuel Pump. I am concerned…
The High-Pressure Fuel Pump (HPFP) on my vehicle has experienced a catastrophic premature failure for the second time, presenting a severe and immediate safety hazard. This vehicle was previously serviced under NHTSA Recall 21V-586 in 2022 at 66,165 miles, during which the original defective fuel pump was replaced by an authorized BMW dealership. At approximately 123,000 miles, the replacement pump failed while the vehicle was in operation. When these high-pressure fuel pumps fail, they cause sudden engine stalling, a complete loss of propulsion while driving, and a loss of power-assist for…
2016 BMW X5 xDrive40e. Experiencing intermittent/sudden drivetrain malfunction warnings. Vehicle loses power or enters limp mode while driving. Max eDrive / electric drive becomes disabled even with battery charged. Multiple warning lights appear. Issue appears related to the hybrid system (possible EME, SME, Safety Box, or high-voltage battery faults). This creates a safety risk because power can be lost unexpectedly while moving. Mileage at time of most recent occurrence: 126,500. Problem first noticed 118,000.
The contact owns a 2016 BMW X5 PHEV. The vehicle was serviced under NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V608000 (ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING, ELECTRICAL SYSTEM), but the failure persisted. The contact stated that a month after the repairs were completed, the coolant connector would stay on and drain the battery. The contact stated that after the vehicle was turned off at night, the coolant connector overheated and the battery drained. The contact needs to jump-start the battery every day. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, and the dealer refused to repair the vehicle, stating that it was already…
The component that failed appears to be the hybrid propulsion and charging system, including the high-voltage battery management system and/or integrated charging electronics. The vehicle will not accept a charge from any home or public charging source. The high-voltage battery was replaced approximately one year ago; however, the charging failure persists. The vehicle is available for inspection upon request. In addition to the charging failure, the vehicle displayed drivetrain malfunction and start/stop malfunction warnings. While driving on the highway at normal speed, the vehicle lost…
During a recent auto collision my airbags did not deploy. I swerved to avoid another vehicle entering the intersection from my left, he hit my rear left driver's side quarter panel and I subsequently hit a tree. This was noted by the paramedics first on scene as well as by the firemen and police when they arrived. I have notified BMW of North America, USAA insurance (my insurance company), and now you. The vehicle is a total loss and was towed to Leesburg Virginia by roadrunner wrecker service.com
Subject: Consequential Damage and Failure of Remedy regarding Recall 24V-608 Incident Description: "I am reporting a failure of the manufacturer to provide an effective remedy for Safety Recall 24V-608 (Electric Water Pump) and subsequent consequential damage to the High-Voltage battery system. In September 2023, at approximately 78,000 miles, this vehicle exhibited 'Drivetrain Malfunctions' including Fault Code 0x222626 (EME: internal fault - active short circuit requested) and 0x22271C (Overvoltage in intermediate circuit). The BMW dealer (Fields BMW) failed to diagnose the root cause and…
The contact owns a 2016 BMW X5. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the transmission unexpectedly downshifted, and the contact discovered an unknown liquid leaking underneath of the vehicle. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V608000 (Engine and Engine Cooling; Electrical System); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted however, the vehicle was not diagnosed. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of…
Fuel injectors, transfer case prop shaft
The contact owns a 2016 BMW X5. The contact stated while driving approximately 20 MPH, the vehicle was making an abnormal banging sound. The contact stated that the vehicle was losing motive power. The contact depressed the accelerator pedal and the vehicle failed to respond. The contact pulled into a parking lot and turned off the vehicle. The contact stated that there was no warning light illuminated. The contact had the vehicle towed to a local dealer who diagnosed and determined that front drive shaft and u-joint had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The…
WHILE DRIVING ON A HIGHWAY, THE SUNROOF EXPLODED. NOTHING HIT THE CAR TO CAUSE IT TO BUST.
2016 BMW X5: questions owners ask
Is the 2016 BMW X5 reliable?
NHTSA data alone cannot rate reliability, but it shows what owners reported. Owners filed 74 complaints with NHTSA about the 2016 BMW X5; the most common categories were electrical system (23, 31.1%), engine (14, 18.9%), power train (13, 17.6%). There are 5 safety recalls. 3 complaints mention a crash, 2 injuries were reported.
What are the most common problems with the 2016 BMW X5?
Across 74 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the categories mentioned most often are electrical system (31.1% of complaints), engine (18.9% of complaints), power train (17.6% of complaints), fuel/propulsion system (12.2% of complaints), engine and engine cooling (9.5% of complaints). One complaint can name several components.
Does the 2016 BMW X5 have any recalls?
Yes. NHTSA lists 5 recalls for the 2016 BMW X5; the most recent (campaign 24V608000, 2024-08-13) concerns Engine And Engine Cooling: Cooling System: Pump. Recall repairs are free at a franchised dealer; check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Can the sunroof on the 2016 BMW X5 shatter or fail?
8 of the 74 owner complaints NHTSA has on file for the 2016 BMW X5 (10.8%) describe the sunroof or panoramic roof shattering, exploding or failing. One owner wrote: "I was driving down the highway going about 70 mph on a clear day and there was a loud explosion sound from the roof. i then heard air and glass. at that time i figured out the sunroof broke. when i was able to stop i found a huge hole in the sunroof." (NHTSA complaint 11394370, February 2021). If it happens to your car, check your VIN for open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls and report the problem to NHTSA; complaints are what trigger investigations.
Why is the check engine light on in my 2016 BMW X5?
7 of the 74 owner complaints NHTSA has on file for the 2016 BMW X5 (9.5%) describe the check engine light coming on. One owner wrote: "1) Crankshaft Sensor MIL Light 2) Drive train malfunction, 3) Start and Stop malfunction, 3) MIL for Catalytic convertor 4) MIL light for Catalytic Convertor & O2 sensor failure. The Vehicle has (97,000 K), and the BMW dealer would not cover the costs." (NHTSA complaint 11677028, July 2025). If it happens to your car, check your VIN for open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls and report the problem to NHTSA; complaints are what trigger investigations.
Why does my 2016 BMW X5 stall, lose power or shut off while driving?
6 of the 74 owner complaints NHTSA has on file for the 2016 BMW X5 (8.1%) describe the engine stalling, losing power or shutting off while driving. One owner wrote: "The High-Pressure Fuel Pump (HPFP) on my vehicle has experienced a catastrophic premature failure for the second time, presenting a severe and immediate safety hazard." (NHTSA complaint 11761597, September 2026). If it happens to your car, check your VIN for open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls and report the problem to NHTSA; complaints are what trigger investigations.
Why does my 2016 BMW X5 overheat?
6 of the 74 owner complaints NHTSA has on file for the 2016 BMW X5 (8.1%) describe the engine overheating or coolant loss. 2 related recalls exist: campaign 21V907000 (fuel system, diesel). The fix: Dealers will replace the EGR cooler and inspect the intake manifold, replacing it as necessary, free of charge. One owner wrote: "The electronic A/C compressor destroys itself internally on BMW hybrid and electric vehicles and should be considered defective." (NHTSA complaint 11544290, September 2023). Recall repairs are free at a dealer; check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Has the 2016 BMW X5 had high-voltage battery or EV system failures?
5 of the 74 owner complaints NHTSA has on file for the 2016 BMW X5 (6.8%) describe high-voltage battery or electric drive system failures. One owner wrote: "2016 BMW X5 xDrive40e. Experiencing intermittent/sudden drivetrain malfunction warnings. Vehicle loses power or enters limp mode while driving. Max eDrive / electric drive becomes disabled even with battery charged. Multiple warning lights appear." (NHTSA complaint 11757231, August 2026). If it happens to your car, check your VIN for open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls and report the problem to NHTSA; complaints are what trigger investigations.
Why does the auto start-stop system act up on my 2016 BMW X5?
3 of the 74 owner complaints NHTSA has on file for the 2016 BMW X5 (4.1%) describe problems with the automatic start-stop system. One owner wrote: "I stopped at the entrance of an apartment complex and was waiting for the security gate to open. once i came to a complete stop the auto start stop function turned the engine off." (NHTSA complaint 10966356, March 2017). If it happens to your car, check your VIN for open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls and report the problem to NHTSA; complaints are what trigger investigations.
Why does the battery keep dying on my 2016 BMW X5?
3 of the 74 owner complaints NHTSA has on file for the 2016 BMW X5 (4.1%) describe a dead or draining battery. One owner wrote: "Vehicle looses power with " Powertrain Malfunction' displaying on the dashboard. Several codes for the Hybrid Battery failure. Per BMW USA, Hybrid System has 8 years 80000 mile warranty." (NHTSA complaint 11585426, April 2024). If it happens to your car, check your VIN for open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls and report the problem to NHTSA; complaints are what trigger investigations.
Why does water leak into my 2016 BMW X5?
3 of the 74 owner complaints NHTSA has on file for the 2016 BMW X5 (4.1%) describe water leaks into the cabin, sunroof or trunk. One owner wrote: "BMW NA is aware of this problem with the sunroof leaking water on the dashboard and damaging the electrical of the car. BMW NA is colluding with the dealers to inform customers they are clogged to charge them money for a clog that is non existent." (NHTSA complaint 11479374, August 2022). If it happens to your car, check your VIN for open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls and report the problem to NHTSA; complaints are what trigger investigations.
Does the 2016 BMW X5 have emissions system or DPF problems?
3 of the 74 owner complaints NHTSA has on file for the 2016 BMW X5 (4.1%) describe emissions faults such as DPF, EGR, catalytic converter, AdBlue/DEF or NOx sensor problems. 2 related recalls exist: campaign 21V907000 (fuel system, diesel). The fix: Dealers will replace the EGR cooler and inspect the intake manifold, replacing it as necessary, free of charge. One owner wrote: "I am reporting a safety issue related to the BMW recall 18V-755 affecting the EGR cooler on my 2016 BMW X5 diesel. My vehicle experienced symptoms consistent with a failing EGR cooler, including coolant loss and engine warning lights." (NHTSA complaint 11677407, July 2025). Recall repairs are free at a dealer; check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Check your own X5
Counts are a starting point, not a verdict: popular models collect more complaints because more of them are on the road, and NHTSA does not verify individual reports. To see whether a recall is still open on your car, enter your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls (U.S.) or your registration at check-vehicle-recalls.service.gov.uk (UK). Had a safety problem? Report it to NHTSA; complaints are what trigger investigations and recalls.
Data: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation recall and complaint databases (public domain), DVSA anonymised MOT results (Open Government Licence v3.0), DVSA vehicle recalls (Open Government Licence v3.0), EU Safety Gate alerts (© European Union), retrieved October 25, 2026. Model year 2016 only.