Models · BMW
BMW X5 F15 buying guide
The third BMW X5, built from late 2013 to 2018. Most UK cars are diesels, from the four-cylinder 25d to the tri-turbo M50d, with an eight-speed automatic on every version.
The versions
- 25d: 2.0 four-cylinder diesel, 218PS or 231PS depending on year; offered as rear-drive sDrive or xDrive four-wheel drive
- xDrive30d (258PS) and xDrive40d (313PS): 3.0 straight-six diesel (N57)
- M50d: tri-turbo 3.0 straight-six diesel (N57S), 381PS
- xDrive50i: 4.4 twin-turbo V8 petrol (N63), 450PS
- Eight-speed automatic on all models; five seats, or seven as an option
- A plug-in hybrid xDrive40e was also sold and isn't covered here; the X5 M has its own page
What to check on a F15 X5
3 model-specific things to look at when you view one. They're a starting point, not the full inspection.
The diesel EGR cooler recall
What to look for: Before you travel, give the chassis number to a BMW dealer, or use BMW's online recall check, and ask whether any recall is outstanding. Ask for the paperwork if the seller says it's been done.
Why it matters: The 25d, 30d and 40d built from April 2013 to June 2017 were recalled because coolant could leak from the exhaust gas recirculation cooler, creating a fire risk. Other F15 recalls covered child locks, seat belt mountings, the power steering and an idler pulley's bolts. Most have been done by now, but confirming it is quick.
Shudder on tight turns
What to look for: In a car park, drive slowly at full lock in both directions. The car should turn smoothly with no judder, hopping or binding through the floor, and no drivetrain warning message.
Why it matters: Judder at low speed on tight turns is the usual sign of a worn xDrive transfer box, and the transfer case fluid can age quickly. BMW doesn't schedule a fluid change, but independent specialists recommend one, and four matching tyres help. Rear-drive sDrive25d cars don't have a transfer box.
AdBlue system on the diesels
What to look for: On a diesel, check the AdBlue level reads sensibly on the dashboard and look in the iDrive messages for any AdBlue or emissions warnings.
Why it matters: The diesels use AdBlue to cut emissions, which brings NOx sensors, the tank and level sensors into play. A fault brings up warnings, and a diagnostic read shows any stored faults.
Also in the full guide
- Oil level on the diesels
- xDrive50i: coolant leaks from the top of the V8
- The cold start, test drive and paperwork checks for the exact version you're viewing
The full guide to the F15 X5
The CrankSight guide walks you round the car on your phone at the viewing, with every check for the exact version you're looking at: what to look for, where to find it, and what anything you find is likely to cost. As you go it builds an assessment of that car, and if you view more than one, it lines them up side by side.
£29 for the model, used on as many cars as you like, delivered within 72 hours or your money back.
Other generations
General points for the model, last checked October 2026. Every car is different, so treat this as a guide to what to look at, not a verdict on any car. CrankSight is independent and has no connection with BMW.